The Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo
| Company type | Theatre ensemble, musical theatre group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Performing arts, music |
| Founded | 1972 |
| Founder | Richard Elfman |
| Fate | Transformed into rock band Oingo Boingo in 1979 |
Area served | United States (notably Los Angeles) |
Key people | Richard Elfman, Danny Elfman, Steve Bartek, Leon Schneiderman, Dale Turner, Sam "Sluggo" Phipps, Johnny "Vatos" Hernandez |
| Products | Live theatrical performances, music recordings, film appearances |
The Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo was a surrealist street theatre ensemble from the United States, established in 1972 by performer and director Richard Elfman. Richard remained at the helm until 1976, when his brother Danny Elfman assumed leadership and transformed the troupe into an avant-garde musical theatre group that performed a mix of 1930s-40s standards alongside original works.
In 1979, Danny Elfman redefined the ensemble as a full-time rock band, renaming it Oingo Boingo. Several original members from The Mystic Knights, including Steve Bartek, Leon Schneiderman, Dale Turner, Sam "Sluggo" Phipps, and Johnny "Vatos" Hernandez, continued their involvement with the new formation.
History
The Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo originated in late 1972 under Richard Elfman's direction as a musical theatre company inspired by performers such as Spike Jones and Frank Zappa. Their eclectic repertoire spanned from covers of Cab Calloway to Balinese gamelan and Russian ballet compositions. The group's name was derived from a fictional secret society featured in Amos 'n' Andy. Performers frequently appeared in whiteface and clown makeup, presenting shows that combined music dating from the 1890s through the 1950s with original pieces. The ensemble included up to fifteen musicians who played more than thirty different instruments, some of which were custom-made. Under Richard’s guidance, the focus remained on live performances without official recordings; however, demo recordings such as "Chedranian National Anthem" and an Irving Berlin cover titled "Monkey Doodle Doo" were aired on the Dr. Demento radio program in 1974.
As Richard turned his attention toward filmmaking, leadership passed to Danny Elfman—who had recently returned from Africa with skills in violin and percussion. The group gained popularity within Los Angeles and secured a win on their episode of The Gong Show in 1976 by performing with accordion and theatrical props.
In 1976, the troupe released a novelty single in doo-wop style called "You Got Your Baby Back," written and performed by Danny Elfman; the song referenced Patty Hearst’s kidnapping. The B-side featured "Ballad of the Caveman." Additionally, they appeared in Martin Brest’s film Hot Tomorrows, performing renditions of "St. James Infirmary" and "42nd Street."
From 1977 onward, under Danny's direction, the troupe evolved into a multimedia theatrical production showcased in Los Angeles venues such as theaters and clubs. Their performances combined music with skits, costume changes, and projected short films like "Tender Lumplings," which was later revived during Oingo Boingo’s career.
Danny Elfman identified early 20th-century music as a major influence during this period. This inspiration was evident in original compositions influenced by artists like Duke Ellington and Django Reinhardt, including tracks such as "Because of You (Hold Tight)" and "I Must Be Dreaming," demoed in 1978. Guitarist Steve Bartek joined the group in 1975 partly because of his Django Reinhardt-inspired guitar style. Early versions of future Oingo Boingo songs like "Goodbye, Goodbye" and a cover of Willie Dixon's "Violent Love" also emerged during this time. Covers of Cab Calloway classics such as "Minnie The Moocher" remained central to their repertoire; notably, this song briefly reappeared in Oingo Boingo’s setlist during 1989-90.
Richard Elfman produced the film Forbidden Zone (filmed between 1977-78; released in 1980), featuring members of the band among its cast. Danny performed a rendition of "Minnie the Moocher" adapted to fit the film’s narrative. The movie went on to achieve cult classic status. Its theme song marked Danny's first composition deliberately arranged for electric instruments, signaling a new creative direction.
Between 1978 and 1979, Danny introduced an increasing number of original songs incorporating stronger rock elements while occasionally billing the group simply as "The Mystic Knights." This new material embraced punk ("Marching In Time"), new wave ("Cruisin"), ska ("Ain't This The Life"), two-tone and highlife influences ("Louise," "Make It Right"), while still maintaining pre-rock characteristics ("Nuclear Babies"). Drummer Johnny "Vatos" Hernandez joined in 1978 and played a key role in this stylistic evolution. By mid-1979, Danny dissolved The Mystic Knights to establish a dedicated rock band under the shortened name Oingo Boingo.
Discography
- "Ballad Of The Caveman" / "You Got Your Baby Back" (Pelican Records, 1976)
Filmography
- I Never Promised You a Rose Garden (1977)
- Hot Tomorrows (1977)
- Forbidden Zone (1980)