Dead Kennedys Members Cite Jello Biafra for Reunion Refusals

The Dead Kennedys, a seminal San Francisco punk band, are unlikely to reunite with original frontman Jello Biafra due to ongoing tensions and legal disputes. Guitarist East Bay Ray and bassist Klaus Flouride have expressed openness to a reunion, but Biafra has consistently turned down offers, including a notable invitation from Riot Fest in 2017. The discord stems from a 1998 lawsuit where Biafra was found guilty of withholding royalties and ordered to pay damages to Ray, Flouride, and late drummer D.H. Peligro. Ray refutes Biafra's claims of sole songwriting credit, emphasizing the band's collaborative creative process and questioning Biafra's lack of significant solo work post-Dead Kennedys. Despite the animosity, Biafra continues to perform and uphold the band's legacy through solo appearances and updated renditions of their songs. As Ray and Flouride plan to reduce touring, the possibility of a classic lineup reunion appears increasingly remote.