David Johansen and the Harry Smiths

Biography

David Johansen, a multifaceted artist, embraced his passion for music from an early age, growing up in Staten Island, New York. With roots planted deeply in rhythm and blues, Johansen first found success in the mid-1970s as the charismatic frontman of the avant-garde punk rock band, the New York Dolls. His unique blend of glam rock and punk swagger set the stage for a deeply influential career ahead. After the New York Dolls disbanded in the late 1970s, Johansen continued to hone his craft, exploring various musical directions while establishing himself as a solo artist and contributing to multiple musical projects over the years. In 2009, he formed the band David Johansen and the Harry Smiths, named after the folklorist and archivist known for his influential anthology of American folk music, which notably shaped the band's direction.