Disclaimer: We, as humans, like to define things. On these pages, definitions may vary from region to region, but Hella Cliques, through intense research, has tried to bring you the rawest history of each clique. DON'T BE A POSER!
Psychobilly is a high-octane subculture that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a frantic collision between 1950s rockabilly and 1970s punk rock. Characterized by its "campy-creepy" aesthetic, the genre draws heavy inspiration from mid-century horror movies, sci-fi B-movies, and urban legends, often featuring lyrics about monsters, zombies, and the macabre delivered with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. Visually, the scene is instantly recognizable by its distinct "quiff" or "flattop" hairstyles (often paired with shaved sides), leopard prints, and tattoos, while the music is anchored by the rhythmic "slap" of an upright double bass. It is a subculture that thrives on high energy and a DIY spirit, creating a niche where the nostalgia of the Eisenhower era meets the rebellious, chaotic edge of the underground punk scene.