Jerry Only is an American musician and songwriter, best known as the bassist and vocalist for the influential punk rock band, the Misfits. Born Gerald Caiafa on April 21, 1959, in Lodi, New Jersey, Jerry Only co-founded the Misfits alongside vocalist and guitarist Glenn Danzig in 1977. His stage name, Jerry Only, was adopted to distinguish himself from Jerry Mucci, the band's first drummer.
Jerry Only played a significant role in shaping the Misfits' sound and image. His distinctive bass playing style, characterized by heavy distortion and prominent melodic lines, became a trademark of the band's music. As the vocalist, his unique voice added a raw and aggressive intensity to their songs. Alongside his contributions to the band's music, Jerry Only also played a pivotal role in developing their horror-themed aesthetic, characterized by devilock hairstyles, ghoulish makeup, and macabre imagery.
Despite the Misfits experiencing multiple lineup changes and a hiatus in the 1980s, Jerry Only remained a constant member and the driving force behind the band's enduring popularity. Following the band's reformation in the 1990s, he continued to lead the Misfits, ensuring their legacy continued while taking on various management roles.
Jerry Only's influence within the punk rock genre, particularly in shaping the subgenre of horror punk, is undeniable. His contributions to the Misfits' music and image have resonated with fans worldwide, making Jerry Only an iconic figure in punk rock history.
