Biography
Dirty Heads is an American band from Huntington Beach, California, known for their unique fusion of reggae, hip-hop, and rock. Formed in 2006 by childhood friends Jared 'Dirty J' Watson and Dustin 'Duddy B' Bushnell, the duo met during their first year of high school and bonded over a shared passion for music. Watson, initially with no musical background, was inspired by Bushnell's punk rock band and rap demos, leading them to collaborate and create a sound that blended their diverse influences. They began writing songs in Bushnell's garage, drawing inspiration from the reggae and ska culture prevalent in their Southern California surroundings. The band's name, 'Dirty Heads,' originated from a nickname given to them by their older brothers and family during their youth.
In 2007, they recorded their first demo album, 'Dirty Demo,' which included seven tracks and showcased their emerging style. The addition of percussionist Jon Olazabal, drummer Matt Ochoa, and bassist David Foral completed the lineup, solidifying the band's dynamic sound. Dirty Heads' debut album, 'Any Port in a Storm,' was released in 2008. The album featured the hit single 'Lay Me Down,' a collaboration with Rome Ramirez of Sublime with Rome. This track achieved significant success, reaching number one on Billboard's Alternative Songs chart in May 2010 and setting a record for the longest stint atop the chart for an independently released title.
The band's subsequent albums, including 'Cabin by the Sea' (2012) and 'Sound of Change' (2014), further established their presence in the music industry. 'Sound of Change' debuted at number eight on the Billboard 200 and topped the Independent and Alternative Albums charts, marking a breakthrough in their career. In 2017, their song 'Vacation' from the album 'Swim Team' gained viral popularity through the #VacationTransition challenge on TikTok, amassing over six billion views and streams across social media platforms. This resurgence introduced Dirty Heads to a new generation of fans and highlighted their enduring appeal. Throughout their career, Dirty Heads have been associated with notable acts such as Sublime with Rome, 311, and Pepper, and have toured extensively, sharing stages with bands like O.A.R., Matisyahu, and Slightly Stoopid.
Their ability to blend genres and create feel-good music has earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. In recent years, Dirty Heads have continued to evolve their sound. Their eighth studio album, 'Midnight Control,' released in August 2022, features tracks like 'Life's Been Good,' a cover of Joe Walsh's 1978 hit, and 'Heavy Water,' a collaboration with Common Kings. The album showcases their growth as artists and their commitment to creating music that resonates with listeners. As of May 2025, Dirty Heads remain active in the music scene, performing at festivals and collaborating with other artists.