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The Offspring

The Offspring is an American rock band formed in Garden Grove, California, in 1984.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 10, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Offspring is an American rock band formed in Garden Grove, California, in 1984. They are best known for punk rock and related styles, and are considered one of the best-selling punk bands of all time. The band’s current lineup includes Bryan “Dexter” Holland, Kevin “Noodles” Wasserman, Todd Morse, Jonah Nimoy, and Brandon Pertzborn.

History

The band formed in 1984 in Garden Grove, California, originally performing under the name Manic Subsidal. Over time, they became one of the most commercially successful punk bands, especially after the success of their 1994 album Smash.

Musical style

The Offspring are primarily identified with punk rock. Sources also describe their sound as including skate punk, pop-punk, and alternative rock.

Commercial success

The Offspring have sold more than 45 million records and are among the best-selling punk bands. Their album Smash is repeatedly cited as a major breakthrough release.

Current status

The band is still together and active. Their current lineup features Bryan “Dexter” Holland, Kevin “Noodles” Wasserman, Todd Morse, Jonah Nimoy, and Brandon Pertzborn.

Key facts

  • The Offspring formed in 1984 in Orange County, California.
  • They first performed under the name Manic Subsidal.
  • Bryan “Dexter” Holland is the band’s lead singer and a founding member.
  • Their music is generally classified as punk rock, with skate punk, pop-punk, and alternative rock influences.
  • They have released eleven studio albums and remain active.
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Canadian context

The Offspring have been popular on Canadian rock radio and among Canadian punk audiences, especially during the 1990s punk revival.

Frequently asked questions

Who are The Offspring?
The Offspring are an American rock band from Garden Grove, California, formed in 1984. They are known as one of the best-selling punk rock bands.
What genre is The Offspring?
They are mainly a punk rock band, with skate punk, pop-punk, and alternative rock also used to describe their music.
What is The Offspring's biggest hit?
“Come Out and Play (You Gotta Keep ’Em Separated)” is widely cited as their biggest breakthrough hit and a number-one alternative rock single.
When did The Offspring form?
The Offspring formed in 1984 in Garden Grove, California.
Who is the lead singer of The Offspring?
Bryan “Dexter” Holland is the lead singer and a founding member of The Offspring.
Is The Offspring still together?
Yes. The Offspring are listed as active from 1984 to the present and continue to perform and release music.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Offspring
    Supports: Formed in 1984, origin in Garden Grove, current members, genres, years active, record sales.
  2. Encyclopedia.com — https://encyclopedia.com/people/literature-and-arts/music-popular-and-jazz-biographies/offspring-0
    Supports: Formation in 1984, genre, and major hit songs including “Come Out and Play” and “Self-Esteem”.
  3. Top40Weekly — https://top40weekly.com/the-offspring/
    Supports: Band overview, formation in 1984, genre description, and hit songs such as “Self Esteem,” “Come Out and Play,” and “The Kids Aren’t Alright”.
  4. 104.3 The Fuse — https://www.1043thefuse.com/2023/01/03/the-offspring/
    Supports: Formation in 1984, origin, current activity, members, and continued existence.