Red Rockers were an American musical band from New Orleans, Louisiana, formed in 1979. The original lineup included John Thomas Griffith on rhythm guitar and vocals, James Singletary on lead guitar, Darren Hill on bass guitar, and Patrick Butler Jones on drums. Initially known as The Rat Finks, the group started as a punk rock band influenced by acts like The Clash and The Dils. Their first vinyl record, EP Guns of Revolution, released in 1980, gained cult status. In 1981, Red Rockers released their first full-length album, Condition Red, under 415 Records. This album included a re-recorded version of "Guns of Revolution" and featured a guest appearance by Jello Biafra on the cover of "Folsom Prison Blues." The band toured extensively in support of this album, opening for notable acts like The Clash. In 1983, they released their second album, Good as Gold, which marked a shift towards a smoother, new wave sound. This album included the hit single "China", which became a chart success and received heavy rotation on MTV. Following this commercial breakthrough, Red Rockers toured with major acts including The Cars, The Kinks, and Joan Jett. Their next album, Schizophrenic Circus (1984), featured new guitarist Shawn Paddock and showcased a fragmented musical approach. Internal disagreements led to the departure of James Singletary. The band disbanded in 1986 but reunited in 2023.
