The Humane Society (band)
| Company type | Musical group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1965 |
| Defunct | 1968 |
| Headquarters | Simi Valley , United States |
| Products | Music recordings, singles |
The Humane Society was a garage rock ensemble originating from Simi Valley, active during the years 1965 to 1968. They are primarily recognized for their 1967 proto-punk track, "Knock Knock."
Initially formed in 1965 under the name the Innocents, the group consisted of Danny Wheetman (vocals, rhythm guitar), Jim Pettit (lead guitar), Woody Minnich (rhythm guitar), Richard Majewski (bass), and Bill Schnetzler (drums). Their discovery came when producers Dick Torst and Dick Parker spotted them performing atop a flatbed truck near a local record store. In spring 1967, they released their debut single through Liberty Records, titled "Tiptoe Through the Tulips With Me," which preceded Tiny Tim's popular 1968 rendition. The flip side, "Knock, Knock," stands out as a dark proto-punk composition marked by Wheetman's fervent vocal delivery and rapid instrumental support, ultimately becoming their hallmark song.
Following Liberty Records' decision not to pursue a subsequent release, The Humane Society signed with New World Records and issued "Lorna" in 1968. Despite this effort, the single did not achieve significant radio exposure or commercial success. The band dissolved shortly thereafter. Notably, "Knock Knock" was later featured on the acclaimed Nuggets compilation released in 1998. According to Mike Markesich's Teenbeat Mayhem, which compiles expert evaluations, "Knock Knock" earned a perfect score of ten and ranks #214 among the top 1000 garage rock recordings.
Membership
- Danny Wheetman (vocals, rhythm guitar)
- Jim Pettit (lead guitar)
- Woody Minnich (rhythm guitar)
- Richard Majewski (bass)
- Bill Schnetzler (drums)
Discography
- "Tiptoe Through the Tulips with Me" b/w "Knock, Knock" (Liberty 55968, April 1967)
- "Lorna" b/w "Eternal Prison" (New World 2004, November 1968)