Dirty Heads

Dirty Heads is an American reggae-rock band from Huntington Beach, California, formed in 1996 by Jared “Dirty J” Watson and Dustin “Duddy B” Bushnell. Inspired by Southern California’s reggae, ska, punk, and hip-hop culture, the duo began making music in Bushnell’s garage before evolving into a full band. After years of demos and touring, they released their debut album Any Port in a Storm in 2008, retaining ownership of their recordings despite parting ways with Warner Music. The album helped establish them in the rock-reggae scene and launched their reputation as a strong touring act closely associated with bands like Sublime with Rome, 311, and Pepper. The band’s mainstream breakthrough came with the hit single “Lay Me Down” featuring Rome Ramirez, which topped the Alternative charts and significantly expanded their audience. Subsequent albums such as Cabin by the Sea (2012), Home – Phantoms of Summer (2013), and Sound of Change (2014) showed their growing versatility, blending reggae, rock, hip-hop, and acoustic elements while achieving major chart success. Sound of Change debuted high on the Billboard 200 and Alternative charts, confirming Dirty Heads as leaders in modern American reggae-rock. From 2016 onward, Dirty Heads continued evolving with albums like Swim Team, Super Moon, and Midnight Control, the latter released in 2023 and reflecting nearly two decades of musical growth. They have remained a festival and touring staple, including co-headlining the 2024 Slightly Dirty Tour with Slightly Stoopid. Influenced by acts such as Sublime and The Black Keys yet focused on staying progressive, Dirty Heads have built a lasting career defined by crossover appeal, consistent reinvention, and a strong connection to their fanbase.