A Rad Family Affair Rocking from St. Joseph, Missouri

(Long Form Report)

Journalist | Ginny Gaines

Radkey isn't your average punk rock band. They are from the small midwesteren town of St. Joseph, Missouri, these three brothers – Dee, Isaiah, and Solomon Radke – have carved a unique niche for themselves. Their music is a potent blend of classic punk aggression, garage rock, and catchy pop rock, all delivered with a raw energy that's both electrifying and undeniably fun. The Radkey story is one of family bonds and a shared passion for music. Homeschooled by their parents, the brothers discovered punk rock at a young age, fueled by a healthy dose of School of Rock and the boredom of a small town; their basement became their sanctuary, a place to crank up the amps and jam out their frustrations.

In 2010, at the tender ages of 18, 16, and 14, Radkey formed. With Dee on vocals and guitar, Isaiah on bass, and Solomon pounding the drums, they channeled their youthful energy into a sound that was both ferocious but still playful and catchy. Their first show, opening for punk legends Fishbone in 2011, solidified their commitment to the live scene. However, Radkey wasn't content with just being a local act. Their raw talent and exciting live shows quickly attracted attention beyond St. Joseph. With their father, Matt Radke, acting as their manager, they hit the road, sharing stages with established acts like the Foo Fighters, Offspring, and Black Joe Lewis!

Radkey released their debut album titled Dark Black Makeup in 2015. This album has 13 tracks on it that include "Romance Down," "Best Friends," "Evil Doer," and the album title "Dark Black Makeup." This album was mostly recorded in the UK with famed producer Ross Orton (Arctic Monkeys, The Fall), this album showcased the trio's talent and unfiltered songwriting. In 2016, the band re-released this debut album and renamed it Delicious Rock Noise. They added two additional songs "Marvel" and "Teen Titans Theme" to the album.

In 2019, the trio released their next album titled No Strange Cats. This album has 7 songs on it that include "P.A.W," "Rock & Roll Homeschool," "Basement," and "Not Smart." This album was well received and helped them grow their fanbase. Radkey released their next album titled Green Room. This album has 11 songs on it that include "Seize," "Real Deal," "Stains," and "Ain't No Sunshine." Radkey continues to impress fans and critics alike.

Radkey isn't just a band; they're a testament to the power of family and unwavering dedication. They've claimed their place in the rock n' roll landscape, proving that raw talent, boundless energy, and a healthy dose of brotherly camaraderie can take you from a basement in Missouri to the biggest stages in the world. Their story is far from over, and with each new release and powerful live performance, Radkey continues to prove that rock n' roll is alive and well, and it's being made by a trio of brothers with a whole lot of radness to share.