Oingo Boingo Members, Gear & Sound

Genre

Rock Jazz New Wave Alternative rock Synthpop Art punk New romantic Punk dance rock new wave pop zolo

Members

Select a Oingo Boingo band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

Danny Elfman

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Drummer Keyboardist Composer Music Producer

Groups:

Le Grand Magic Circus The Mystic Knights Of The Oingo Boingo Majestic Dance Orchestra

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Steve Bartek

Roles:

Guitarist Composer Music Producer

Groups:

Doug & The Mystics The Mystic Knights Of The Oingo Boingo Majestic Dance Orchestra

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Richard Gibbs

Roles:

Keyboardist

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Warren Fitzgerald

Roles:

Guitarist

Groups:

The Vandals Xtra Large

Needs more gear

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John Avila

Roles:

Bassist Music Producer

Groups:

Doug & The Mystics Food for Feet

Needs more gear

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Kerry Hatch

Roles:

Bassist

Needs more gear

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Mike Bacich

Roles:

Keyboardist

Needs more gear

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Sam "Sluggo" Phipps

Roles:

Drummer

Groups:

Doug & The Mystics The Mystic Knights Of The Oingo Boingo Majestic Dance Orchestra

No gear added

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Johnny "Vatos" Hernandez

Roles:

Drummer

Groups:

Tito & Tarantula Doug & The Mystics Food for Feet The Mystic Knights Of The Oingo Boingo

No gear added

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Leon Schneiderman

Roles:

Drummer

Groups:

The Mystic Knights Of The Oingo Boingo Majestic Dance Orchestra

No gear added

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Dale Turner

Roles:

Guitarist

Groups:

The Mystic Knights Of The Oingo Boingo Majestic Dance Orchestra

No gear added

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Carl Graves

Roles:

Keyboardist

No gear added

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Marc Mann

Roles:

Guitarist Keyboardist

Groups:

Electric Light Orchestra

No gear added

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Bruce Fowler

Roles:

Composer

Groups:

Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band The Mothers of Invention The Fowler Brothers Captain Beefheart and His Magic Band The Vinny Golia Large Ensemble Air Pocket

No gear added

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About

Oingo Boingo is a dynamic and eclectic band originating from Los Angeles, California, known for their energetic and theatrical blend of rock, new wave, alternative rock, and synthpop. The group was initially formed in the '70s by movie director Richard Elfman for a film project, eventually evolving into a band led by his brother Danny Elfman (vocals, guitar). The core lineup included Steve Bartek (guitar) and Johnny "Vatos" Hernandez (drums), among others, often expanding for live performances. Oingo Boingo's music is characterized by its quirky, genre-blending style and vibrant stage presence, which helped them cultivate a dedicated fan base.

How to Sound Like Oingo Boingo

Oingo Boingo's sound is marked by its quirky, high-energy rhythms and intricate, layered arrangements. Their music often features a playful yet edgy mix of guitars and synthesizers, with Danny Elfman's theatrical vocals driving the band's unique sonic character. The Hagstrom I Kent PB-24-G Electric Guitar and PRS Custom 24 were key in shaping their vibrant guitar tones, while synthesizers like the Kurzweil PC2x added rich textures and electronic flair. Their music often balances rhythmic complexity with melodic hooks, creating an engaging soundscape that blends the raw energy of punk with the polished sophistication of new wave.

Discography

Nothing To Fear

1982

Good For Your Soul

1983

Dead Man's Party

1985

Boi-Ngo

1987

Boingo Alive

1988

Dark At The End Of The Tunnel

1990

Best O' Boingo

1991

Boingo

1994

Farewell: Live From The Universal Amphitheatre-Halloween 1995

1996

In The Shadows (Live L.A. '84)

2025

Get the Oingo Boingo Sound

Want to sound like Oingo Boingo? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.