Kix Band Members, Albums, Songs, Pictures

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Kix are an American hard rock and hair metal band formed in Hagerstown, Maryland, in 1978, becoming one of the most beloved acts to emerge from the East Coast rock scene. Originally performing under names such as Shooze and The Generators, the group eventually settled on Kix and built a loyal following through years of relentless club performances throughout Maryland and the surrounding region. The classic lineup featured vocalist Steve Whiteman, guitarists Ronnie Younkins and Brian “Damage” Forsythe, bassist Donnie Purnell, and drummer Jimmy “Chocolate” Chalfant. Their self-titled debut album arrived in 1981 through Atlantic Records, followed by Cool Kids in 1983 and Midnite Dynamite in 1985, which helped establish their reputation for energetic performances, catchy songwriting, and a gritty hard rock sound. Kix finally achieved mainstream success with their fourth album, Blow My Fuse (1988), which became their biggest commercial release, earning platinum certification in the United States. The album featured their signature power ballad “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” which reached No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, along with popular rock singles “Cold Blood” and “Blow My Fuse.” Their follow-up, Hot Wire (1991), included “Girl Money,” but the changing musical landscape and rise of grunge prevented the band from maintaining its commercial momentum.

Kix released Show Business in 1995 before initially breaking up in 1996, but the band reunited in 2003 and continued performing for another two decades, developing an especially devoted following in their home state of Maryland. Their comeback included Rock Your Face Off in 2014, their first studio album in nearly 20 years, which demonstrated that their trademark hard rock energy and songwriting remained intact. Steve Whiteman was the band’s charismatic frontman, known for his wild stage presence and distinctive vocals; Brian Forsythe became its principal guitarist and remained a key musical figure throughout its career; Ronnie Younkins contributed the band’s original guitar sound; Jimmy Chalfant was its longtime drummer; and Donnie Purnell was an important founding bassist and songwriter during its classic era. Mark Schenker replaced Purnell during the reunion years and remained the band’s bassist through its farewell. After celebrating 45 years together, Kix officially retired from performing live in 2023, with their final concert, “Walkin’ Away…The Final Show,” taking place September 17 at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland. The band is no longer touring, although its legacy continues through classic rock radio, album reissues, and a loyal fanbase. Kix remain one of the most respected underrated bands of the hair metal era, remembered for their infectious hooks, hard-hitting sound, and the enduring anthems.

KIX on Wikipedia >