The Druds
| Company type | Musical ensemble |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music, Performance art |
| Founded | 1963 |
| Founder | Andy Warhol |
| Defunct | 1963 |
| Headquarters | New York City , United States |
| Products | Avant-garde music performances |
The Druds was a short-lived avant-garde ensemble formed in 1963 by Andy Warhol, incorporating prominent personalities from the nascent New York conceptual art movement.
History
Drums were handled by minimalist sculptor Walter De Maria, while painter Larry Poons took on guitar duties, and composer La Monte Young briefly played saxophone before departing after just two rehearsals. The lead vocalist role was filled by artist and poet Patty Mucha (known then as Patty Oldenburg). Contributions to the group's neodada lyrics came from both Jasper Johns and Warhol, who also occasionally performed vocals and authored tracks such as The Alphabet Song, Movie Stars, Hollywood, and Coca-Cola. Participation also included Happening artists Gloria Graves and Lucas Samaras.
Musically, The Druds' style has drawn comparisons to the work of Henry Flynt as well as the early projects of Lou Reed and John Cale prior to their formation of the Velvet Underground, notably with their band the Primitives.