5 Facts About the Founding of Half Japanese

Brothers Jad Fair and David Fair founded Half Japanese in the mid-1970s. The band started in their Maryland home.

The Fair brothers were the core members, with Jad on vocals and guitar and David on drums. They initially played with a rotating cast of friends.

Half Japanese’s early sound was deliberately raw and lo-fi. The band rejected conventional musicianship in favor of energy and enthusiasm.

The band’s first release was the 1980 single “Calling All Girls.” It was followed by their debut album “Half Gentlemen/Not Beasts” in 1980.

Half Japanese became influential in the underground and indie rock scenes. Their DIY approach inspired later lo-fi and alternative acts.