The Fugs
Formed in 1964, the Fugs challenged the status quo by using frequent scatological humor and drug references to push the limits. They were one of the first underground rock bands, and they opened doors for bands that came later, such as the Mothers of Invention. They were formed out of the Peace Eye bookstore in Greenwich Village. The group consisted of Ed Sanders (b. 1939), Tuli Kupferberg (b. 1922), and Ken Weaver. Formally disbanding in 1969, they have occasionally reunited over the years. Their first recording was made for Broadside Records and was produced by Harry Smith. In their early years, they were backed up by Peter Stampfel and Steve Weber, who later formed the Holy Modal Rounders. Sanders currently runs a newspaper in Woodstock, New York. Kupferberg continues to live in New York City.
The Best of Broadside: 22. "Kill for Peace"
A great deal of violence has been perpetrated in the name of peace, and this song highlights the contradictions of war. The Fugs were invited to perform on the Tonight Show but refused to appear unless they were allowed to perform "Kill for Peace." They were not.
Text extracted from the notes by Jeff Place accompanying The Best of Broadside.
Smithsonian Folkways recordings featuring The Fugs:
The Fugs: The Village Fugs (FW05304)
The Harry Smith Connection: A Live Tribute to the Anthology of American Folk Music (SFW40085)