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Tenacious D
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Tenacious D is an American comedy rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1994 by Jack Black and Kyle Gass.[1]

Key Information

The band started performing on the Los Angeles music scene, eventually befriending David Cross who invited them to open for the live version of Mr. Show on HBO.[2] This led the band to have their own variety television series on HBO, produced by Cross and Bob Odenkirk. Towards the end of the 1990s, the duo supported large rock acts such as Tool, Pearl Jam and Beck.[3] The band also befriended Dave Grohl, later appearing in Foo Fighters music video, Learn to Fly.[4]

In 2000, they signed with Epic Records and the year after they released Tenacious D, their debut album featuring a full band that included Grohl on drums.[5] Their second single, Tribute, achieved cult status, contributing to their popularity in the UK, Sweden and Australia.[6] In 2003, the band released The Complete Master Works, a live concert DVD, later certified platinum.[7] In 2006, the duo starred in their own motion-picture, Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny, and released the soundtrack as their second album, The Pick of Destiny.[8] The film was a box office failure and received mixed reviews, but its supporting tour was successful with performances at major arenas, such as Madison Square Garden.[9]

Following years of sporadic festival dates and special appearances, the band released their third album, Rize of the Fenix, in 2012, making light of The Pick of Destiny's commercial failure.[10] In 2013, Tenacious D hosted the comedy music festival Festival Supreme in LA, which would host three more additions. In 2014, the band featured on Ronnie James Dio – This Is Your Life, a compilation album to raise funds for cancer. Their cover of "The Last in Line" won the Grammy Award for best heavy metal performance at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards.[11] In 2018, the band began independently releasing an animated hand-drawn web series, Tenacious D in Post-Apocalypto, and released the soundtrack as their fourth album Post-Apocalypto.[12] In July 2024, the band attracted headlines when they cancelled the remainder of their tour and put all creative work on hold following backlash from a controversial improvised joke from Gass about the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Pennsylvania during a show in Sydney, Australia.[13]

The music of Tenacious D showcases Black's theatrical vocal delivery and Gass's acoustic guitar playing.[14] Critics have described their fusion of vulgar absurdist comedy with rock music as "mock rock".[3][15] Their songs discuss the duo's purported musical and sexual prowess, their friendship and cannabis usage, in a style critics have compared with the storyteller-style lyrics of rock opera.[16][17]

History

[edit]

Formation and early years

[edit]

Jack Black and Kyle Gass met in Los Angeles in 1986 as members of the Actors' Gang theater troupe.[18] They were initially not friendly, as Gass was the main musician for the Actor's Gang and "felt threatened" by Black.[14][19][20] The Actor's Gang travelled to Scotland for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 1989 to perform Tim Robbins' and Adam Simon's[21] play Carnage.[22][23] The two became friends during the trip and climbed Arthur's Seat on a day off.[24] Following the trip, Black and Gass bonded over music. Black did not learn guitar until he was around 23, so would regularly visit Gass' Cochran Avenue studio apartment in the deal that Gass would teach Black to play guitar in return for food, mainly from fast-food chain Jack in the Box.[25][26] They worked together professionally at the Actor's Gang and collaborated in productions.[27]

Black and Gass eventually wrote their first song after Black was dumped by a girlfriend, a non-comedic song. They later said they felt embarrassed about the song, though they occasionally sing it during interviews when telling their story.[28] Their second song came about when Black was listening to the Metallica song "One" and told Gass that it was "the best song in the world". Gass told Black that they could not write the best song in the world, but Black put a twist on it and said they could "write a tribute". Gass played an A-minor chord on his guitar at the apartment and the two spent three days crafting the song. When it was done, Gass said they "knew they had something". The song made the duo realize their comedic potential.[29] The duo briefly called themselves Responsive Chord while rehearsing the comedy act.[30]

Rise to popularity

[edit]

The band's first on-stage appearance was at Highland Grounds in Los Angeles, a coffee shop, where they performed as The Axe Lords Featuring Gorgazon's Mischief, though the production was technically part of a variety event for the Actor's Gang.[24] In the audience was the actor and comedian Harry Shearer.[31]

The band's first performance at an actual music event was a short appearance at Al's Bar in 1994, opening for The Abe Lincoln Story.[32][33] They performed "Tribute", still their only song at the time, and asked the audience to vote for their name.[20][23] Black and Gass gave them the choice between Pets or Meat, Balboa's Biblical Theater and the Axe Lords Featuring Gorgazon's Mischief (Gass's favorite).[20] "Tenacious D"—a basketball term used by commentators to describe robust defensive positioning in basketball — did not get the majority of votes, but according to Black "we forced it through".[20][34] The venue had become a hotbed for upcoming bands, so much so that in attendance was David Cross, who invited Black and Gass to open for the live version of Mr. Show. Black was cast on Mr. Show in 1995.[3][35]

Tenacious D continued to generate momentum on the Los Angeles music scene, notably performing headline shows at Al's Bar, Pedro's, Largo and The Actors' Gang studio. Maynard James Keenan, lead vocalist of the band Tool, had also met Cross on the Los Angeles scene, and therefore had also become involved in Mr. Show. Keenan invited Black and Gass to support three Californian Tool concerts in December 1995.[36][37] Tool was the first large act that Tenacious D were a support act for. Black had previously attended UCLA with director Jason Bloom; therefore, when Bloom was made the director of 1996's Bio-Dome, Black and Gass were invited to perform a short song in the film. The two wrote the song "5 Needs", and this was their first on-screen appearance as Tenacious D.[38]

In 1997, Tenacious D had become a popular act on the Los Angeles music scene and would perform residencies at The Viper Room.[39] Pete Stahl, the vocalist of the band Scream, worked at The Viper Room at the time and became a fan of Black and Gass. Stahl invited friend Dave Grohl to come and visit The Viper Room to see Tenacious D, though Grohl initially did not want to go. Grohl changed his stance and went to see the band perform a couple of weeks later and thoroughly enjoyed it. This would start a relationship between Grohl, Black and Gass.[40]

Tenacious D recorded their songs "Tribute", "Kyle Quit the Band", "Krishna" and "History" and released them in a demo tape called Tenacious Demo in the late 1990s with Andrew Gross. They distributed it to various record companies until HBO offered them a TV show based on the tape and Black's work on Mr. Show.[41]

Television series and Tenacious D (1997–2002)

[edit]
Main article: Tenacious D (TV series)

Cross and his Mr. Show co-writer Bob Odenkirk continued his involvement with Tenacious D by producing three half-hour shows based on the band.[42] The series, entitled Tenacious D, premiered on HBO in 1997, immediately following an episode of Mr. Show.[43] While a total of three episodes consisting of two shorts each, ten to twelve minutes in length,[44] were produced, only the first was aired that year; the final two episodes did not air until 2000.[43] According to Gass, the series was cancelled after HBO requested ten episodes with the stipulation that he and Black would have to relinquish their role as executive producers,[45] and only write songs.[46]

After the series aired, the band continued to perform live. At a show at the Viper Room in Los Angeles, they met Dave Grohl, who remarked that he was impressed with their performance;[47][48] this led to their cameo in the Foo Fighters' "Learn to Fly" music video.[48] They began to open for high-profile acts including Beck, Pearl Jam and Foo Fighters.[3]

In May 2000, Tenacious D signed to Epic Records.[42] As Black's profile increased due to his roles in films such as High Fidelity, the band recorded their first album, Tenacious D, with the producers the Dust Brothers.[3] It was backed by a full band, consisting of Grohl on drums and guitar, keyboardist Page McConnell of Phish, guitarist Warren Fitzgerald of The Vandals, and bassist Steven Shane McDonald of Redd Kross.[49] According to Black, they chose to use a band because "no one's ever heard us with a band".[49] The majority of songs on the album were performed previously on their short-lived television series.[50]

"Tribute"
Clip of "Tribute" from Tenacious D.
Problems playing this file? See media help.

Tencious D reached No. 33 on the Billboard 200 on October 13, 2001.[51][52] Although it received mixed reviews, it went on to garner acclaim and by November 2005 had been certified platinum in the US.[53] Entertainment Weekly described it "hilarious", and "no mere comedy record".[54] AllMusic wrote that it "rocks so damn hard", but lamented the absence of some of the songs from the television show.[55] Flak Magazine criticised the skits between songs, describing them as "distracting" and a "nuisance".[56]The Independent found the album was full of "swearing and scatology" and was "bereft of even the slightest skidmark of humor".[57]

The first single, "Tribute", is a tribute to the "greatest song in the world", which Tenacious D claim they performed to save their souls from a demon.[58] The music video, directed by Liam Lynch,[59] achieved success and was voted the fifth best music video ever by Kerrang! readers.[60] This was followed by the second single, "Wonderboy", with a video directed by Spike Jonze.[61] A third video, an animation depicting Black and Gass as cherubs, was made for "Fuck Her Gently", directed by the Ren and Stimpy creator John Kricfalusi.[49]

The album also included "Dio", a song written as a tribute to rock singer Ronnie James Dio, which mocked him somewhat for being too old.[62] Dio liked the song enough to ask the band to appear in the music video for his song, "Push".[63] An EP entitled D Fun Pak was released in 2002. It featured a skit and acoustic versions of "Jesus Ranch" and "Kyle Quit The Band", as well as a megamix by Mocean Worker. The Complete Master Works, a music DVD featuring the entire run of their TV series, music videos, and a live performance from London's Brixton Academy recorded in 2002, was released on November 9, 2003.[64]

Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny and the album (2003–2007)

[edit]
Main article: Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny

Black and Gass had dreamt of producing a Tenacious D motion-picture since forming the band; archived footage of banter at an early Tenacious D show records Black as saying "a movie - that would be the pinnacle".[65]

The duo conceptualized numerous ideas for a film, though the first actual known draft of a script was published on November 7, 2000. The script was based on many songs that would later be released on the duo's eponymous debut album that would be released the following year. There is little known about the script, other than it being based around the band playing coffee shops and Black becoming fascinated by Atlantis. Black and Gass both fall in love with a girl called Simmeon who has written books about the fictional island. They later meet Ronnie James Dio, and are sent on a road trip to Miami. This concept was later scrapped.[66][67]

At some point prior to 2003, the band were in negotiations with the British studio Working Title Films to write and distribute a Tenacious D film, but Black and Gass were not satisfied with the writers' ideas.[34][68][69] In February 2003, it was announced that the band had signed with New Line Cinema to create a film, with Liam Lynch as the director, and Black, Gass and Lynch writing the script and being producers on the production. There was also speculation that Red Hour Productions would produce the film, which was later confirmed.[70] Later in 2003, Black announced the title as Tenacious D in: The Pick of Destiny and that the script was about the band's search for a sacred guitar pick.[71] Filming had been expected to take place by the end of 2003;[72] however, it was delayed by almost a year due to Black being cast in Peter Jackson's big budget remake of King Kong.[73] In December 2004, Black and Gass performed some songs from the upcoming soundtrack of the film whilst touring Australia, and announced that the film would include cameos from Meat Loaf and Ronnie James Dio.[74]

Principal photography for Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny commenced in 2005, with the production finishing later that year.[75] The film held its first test screening to the press in October 2005.[76] The film held two re-shoots in 2006 and according to Lynch, every crew member from the principal photography came back because they "had such a fun time working on set".[77] Black also stated that the filming on this production was "the most fun I've ever had filming a movie".[78]

"A lot of enthusiastic stoners were like, 'Yeah, du-u-u-de! Just saw it!' I was like, 'Where were you when the movie came out?' 'Sorry, dude, I was hi-i-i-gh!'"

— Jack Black on The Pick of Destiny's disappointing box-office performance.[79]

The film held its British premiere on November 1, 2006, at the Vue West End cinema in London, England.[80] The film's domestic premiere was held at Grauman's Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles on November 9, 2006. Many of the actors who had cameos in the film were in attendance; including Ronnie James Dio, Dave Grohl, and Ben Stiller.[62] The soundtrack for the production was called The Pick of Destiny and featured a returning John King (of The Dust Brothers) producing it.[citation needed] It was released on November 14, 2006, through Epic Records.[81]

The film was released worldwide on November 22. Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny grossed US$8,334,575 in the US and Canada and a total of US$13,426,450 worldwide, falling well short of its US$20 million production budget and US$40 million in estimated marketing costs.[34][82] Financially, it is regarded as a box-office bomb.[83] The soundtrack reached No. 8 on the Billboard 200 in the US as well as topping the iTunes chart,[62][84] and #10 in the UK.[85] The film was released globally on DVD on February 27, 2007. In an interview on the Daily Show on November 30, 2006, Black admitted the film had "bombed",[86] but [when?] said that DVD sales had shown that the film picked up a cult audience.[79]

"POD"
Clip of "POD" from The Pick of Destiny.
Problems playing this file? See media help.

Kevin Crust of the Los Angeles Times said that the film "might best be enjoyed in an enhanced state of consciousness, a herbal supplement, and we aren't talking ginkgo biloba."[87] Stephen Rae of The Philadelphia Inquirer said that the frequent drug-use in the film gives "the term potty humor a new meaning."[88] Michael Phillips criticized the frequency of the drug-use by saying: "This may be the problem. Pot rarely helped anybody's comic timing."[89] Stephen Holden of The New York Times suggested that the film could be viewed as a "jolly rock 'n' roll comedy", but he also described the progression of the film as being a "garish mess."[90]

The soundtrack received less favourable reviews than for the band's first album. Rolling Stone comments that the soundtrack "never quite takes off".[91] It criticises the reliance the album makes on a knowledge of the film, and some songs' existence only to "advance the plot".[91] It summarizes by saying the album is inferior to the band's previous effort.[91] Allmusic also describes the follow-up as less "satisfying" than Tenacious D, noting that the songs feel like "narrative filler".[92] Blender continues the criticism of the songs being plot devices calling them "plot-nudging song-sketches".[93] The Guardian views the album more positively, describing the album as a meeting of "old school riffology" and "schoolboy humour".[94]

Black, Gass, Konesky, Spiker, and Wackerman

To coincide with the release of their new film and album, Tenacious D embarked on The Pick of Destiny Tour, of the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. This tour included the band's first appearance at New York City's Madison Square Garden. Unlike other tours, this one featured a full backing band.[95] Konesky and Spiker resumed their roles from the album, and Brooks Wackerman was added as drummer.[96] Each member used a pseudonym; Konesky as the Antichrist, Spiker as Charlie Chaplin, and Wackerman as Colonel Sanders.[97] JR Reed also toured as Satan, as well as reprising his role as "Lee".[97] Black has said that the band lost money on the tour due to the cost of touring with a full band for the first time.[68][95][98]

Rize of the Fenix (2008–2012)

[edit]
Main article: Rize of the Fenix
Tenacious D performing at the Leeds festival

In November 2006, Black expressed wishes to take a year-long break from acting, though Gass hinted a desire for Tenacious D to end at their current highpoint.[99] However, Black confirmed that a third album would be recorded by announcing that a new song has been written for it entitled "Deth Star". He said that the album would likely be released in 2010,[100] but on other occasions had mentioned the year 2012.[101][102] In early 2008, Black announced that the band was working on a new album, and a DVD titled The Complete Master Works 2. The DVD was released later that year,[103] and included a documentary of their world tour entitled D Tour: A Tenacious Documentary. The film focuses on the tour Tenacious D made in support of the film and soundtrack and the consequences of their film's poor showing at the box office.[104] Kyle has commented that the new album only has "one to one and a half" songs written for it, and would like to write between twelve and fifteen.[105]

Music magazine Billboard quoted Black as revealing that "We just laid down a hot [...] we're calling it the bomb track. It's a very powerful recording called "Deth Starr" [...] so it has nothing to do with the Star Wars [Death Star]," adding that "It's kind of sci-fi, doomsday rock."[106] Jack Black also stated on the Late Show with David Letterman that he had an idea for a song called "Rize of the Fenix", which he described as a "rise from the ashes" workout song similar to "Eye of the Tiger". He performed a vocal sample of the song along with keyboards.[107]

Gass hinted that the band's third album might be called Tenacious D 3-D, reasoning that "It's the third record, so it should probably be 'Tenacious 3-D.' There's going to be a '3' and a 'D,' so you have to connect them."[108] Dave Grohl has confirmed that he will appear as the drummer on the album, after performing on both Tenacious D and The Pick of Destiny.[109] In an interview with Spinner.com in December 2010, Black revealed that the band was "about halfway through the writing process" for its new album, telling fans to expect the release of new material "at the end of 2011".[110] In terms of lyrical themes for the new songs, Black noted that "We're gonna be talking about love, there are gonna be some songs about sex and there's gonna be songs about food".[110]

In a May 2011 interview at Attack of the Show, Black announced that three songs on their upcoming album would be named "Rize of the Fenix", distinguishable by either letter or number.[111] Also in the same interview, he named another song called "Señorita".[112][113] In February 2012 it was revealed that the title of the album would in fact be spelled Rize of the Fenix and would be released on May 15, 2012.[114]

On March 26, 2012, a 6-minute film was uploaded to the Tenacious D channel on YouTube. The mockumentary, titled 'Tenacious D - To Be the Best', documents the uncertain future Tenacious D faced after the box-office failure of The Pick of Destiny, KG's subsequent breakdown and incarceration in "an institution", and Jack's embracing of an indulgent Hollywood lifestyle. The film shows a deranged Kyle escaping the facility and attempting to kill Jack and then himself, before they each realize their importance to each other and revive the band. They produce a new album in 75 minutes in the studio, described as "awful", but try again and emerge with another new album, described at the end of the film as "the greatest album recorded by anyone, ever". The film features numerous cameo appearances, including Maria Menounos, Val Kilmer, Dave Grohl, Yoshiki Hayashi, Josh Groban, Richard Ghagan, Mike White, Tim Robbins and Jimmy Kimmel.[115]

The band released the album on April 28, 2012, in its entirety on their SoundCloud account. Rize of the Fenix was officially released on May 15, 2012, with mostly positive reviews from music critics.[116]

Post-Apocalypto (2012–2022)

[edit]
Main article: Tenacious D in Post-Apocalypto
Tenacious D performing at Rock am Ring 2016

In June 2012, when asked about a sequel to Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny, Black stated that the band had "found a loophole with the internet and animated shorts. That's the world we’re looking to dive into, and not just for money, mainly for art."[117] The band would mention later on in that year that they may make an Internet series "exclusive to YouTube."[118] The project was a fantasy for Black and Gass for a few years, until the Donald Trump presidential campaign inspired them to write a post-apocalyptic comedy in 2016.[119]

In 2018, before performing at Hell & Heaven Metal Fest in Mexico City, the band entered the stage to a short studio snippet of their new song "Post-Apocalypto Theme". The night after this, Black asked the audience at Shaky Knees Music Festival in Atlanta, Georgia whether they had seen The Pick of Destiny and that "part 2 is coming out in October". He went to state that "I don't know where you will be able to see it, but we have decided it's happening and it's coming out. Rocktober".[120] Tenacious D in Post-Apocalypto was released as six individual episodes on YouTube uploaded from September 28 to November 2, with Columbia Records releasing Post-Apocalypto on the last day.[121]

At a live screening of the series at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in New York, Black stated that the two would attempt to speed up their album cycle, jokingly commenting about the duo's age if the current speed continues and their record obligation with Sony. Black stated that the fifth album will take time, and "most likely be released [sometime] after 2020".[122]

On November 29, 2019, for Record Store Day's Black Friday, Tenacious D released a 'Blue Series' 7" Single, featuring the track "Don't Blow It, Kage". The record was produced by Jack White.[123] On October 27, 2020, Tenacious D released a cover of 'Time Warp', available to stream online and also released on 7" vinyl. The song included a music video featuring a string of celebrity guests. The single was used to promote Rock the Vote, which encourages Americans to vote in the 2020 Presidential Election. All proceeds from the vinyl sales of the song were donated to Rock the Vote.[124]

On July 1, 2021, Tenacious D released a tribute to the Beatles in which they cover and mashup two songs from Abbey Road: "You Never Give Me Your Money" and "The End." Similar to "Time Warp", the limited-edition 7" supported charity—this time with all the proceeds going to Doctors Without Borders.[125] In an interview with Variety published in September 2021, Black stated that the band was working on their next album, claiming it is "a very big idea that we've been working on for years". Black predicted the album will be released in 2024.[126] On December 7, 2021, Tenacious D announced a 2022 tour of the United States. This tour was a belated 20th anniversary celebration of their debut album.[127] In March 2022, the tour was extended.[128]

Spicy Meatball Tour, Trump comment and hiatus (2023–2025)

[edit]

On May 6, 2023, the duo began the Spicy Meatball Tour by debuting a new song, "Video Games", at Shaky Knees Music Festival.[129] "Video Games" premiered online on May 11, via a 3D animated music video directed by Adam Paloian and his production company Pinreel Inc., which was the band's first new music video since 2012.[130] In early June, it was announced that the tour would continue, starting with a show in Charlotte, North Carolina.[131] In February 2024, the band announced their first tour of Australia and New Zealand in eleven years, to be held in July 2024.[132] Later in June, the band announced a tour called 'Rock D Vote' performing in five swing states ahead of the 2024 United States elections.[133]

On July 14, 2024, Tenacious D celebrated Gass's 64th birthday during their performance at the ICC Sydney Theater. A birthday cake was brought out and Black encouraged Gass to make a wish. Gass responded, "Don't miss Trump next time," referring to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Pennsylvania the day before.[134] Two days later, Black wrote on social media that he was "blindsided" by Gass's comment and that he did not condone hate speech or political violence "in any form". Tenacious D canceled the rest of their world tour, and Black said their "creative plans are on hold".[135] Gass apologized on social media, calling his comment "highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake", and that he did not condone violence "of any kind, in any form, against anyone", and described the shooting as a "tragedy". He was subsequently dropped by his longtime talent agent, Michael Greene.[136] Gass deleted his apology later that week.[137] At the premiere for the film Borderlands on August 6, Black said he and Gass remained friends and would return "when it feels right".[138]

In February 2025, Tenacious D contributed a cover of REO Speedwagon’s "Keep On Loving You" for the compilation album Good Music To Lift Los Angeles.[139] In August 2025, the band announced the release of their third concert DVD, The Complete Master Works 3. It was released on October 3, 2025.[140]

Musical style, influences, and legacy

[edit]

Tenacious D is a comedy rock band, with the majority of their songs played on acoustic guitars, and a heavy reliance on power chords. Satire and comedy are a major aspect of Tenacious D's lyrical content.[3] Gass said of their approach: "I'd love to do the straight music thing, but that's kind of against our mission, which is to rebel against the serious singer-songwriter mentality."[141] Their songs evoke heavy metal clichés of bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest.[142][143] In particular, the song "Dio" pokes fun at the idea of a torch being passed.[144] Songs like "Friendship" parody the lack of real friendship, as well as point out the [bromance] traits in rock groups with the lyric "As long as there's a record deal, we'll always be friends".[145][146] Their short song structures have been described as punk rock-inspired. Tenacious D also employs the technique of deliberate backmasking on "Karate",[147] a technique employed by other metal bands like Slayer, who recorded a message in Hell Awaits.[148]

Black has said that the first song he enjoyed was ABBA's "Take a Chance on Me".[149] His style was distinctly shaped by "big dinosaurs of rock" such as the Who and Led Zeppelin.[68] In addition, Gass lists his influences as being Tom Waits and Tony Robbins.[99] The band claimed that the inspiration for the song "Tribute" came after Black played Metallica's "One" for Gass, describing it as "the best song in the world",[150][151] leading to an attempt to write an even better song, themselves.

"We try to write the best songs ever, and they come out kind of funny..."

— Kyle Gass on the band's humorous lyrics.[68]

Gass has described Tenacious D's comic assertion that they are the best band as being "ridiculous because it's a matter of opinion".[152] Black characterizes Tenacious D's comic nature as an antidote to "the masculinity of rock", adding "There's also something funny about the macho-ness of rock. Like the bands that are the fucking hardest rocking are like, 'We'll fucking kick your ass, dude... with our rock.'"[152] Russell Brand,[153] All Shall Perish,[154] The Lonely Island,[155] and Kanye West[156] have in turn been influenced by the work of Tenacious D.

Appearances

[edit]

Film and television

[edit]

Black and Gass first performed together in Bio-Dome (1996),[20] followed by The Cable Guy (1996),[20] Bongwater (1997),[157] Cradle Will Rock (1999),[158] Saving Silverman (2001),[159] Shallow Hal (2001),[159] and Year One (2009). Black has starred in a number of films himself, and he has provided voices for animated films.[100] In 2006, Tenacious D starred in their own film, Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny, in which they set out to become the greatest rock band in the world, by means of a guitar pick imbued with mystic powers and crafted from the tooth of Beelzebub.[160]

The duo contributed to the Annie Award-winning martial arts cartoon film Kung Fu Panda with Black as Po and Gass as KG Shaw.[161] Their cover of Britney Spears' "...Baby One More Time" is featured in the end credits of the fourth film of the series.[162]

Black and Gass have made several television appearances performing songs from their first album. On June 16, 2002, Tenacious D were featured as puppets performing "Friendship" on an episode of Crank Yankers.[163] They were guest starred when they were taught by Zorak how to perform in an episode of the Cartoon Network/Adult Swim series Space Ghost Coast to Coast. In 2002 they guest starred on MADtv playing the songs "Tribute", & "Lee" with the Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl on drums.[164] Later, Tenacious D made an appearance in the first episode of Tom Goes to the Mayor televised on Adult Swim.[165]

In the run up to the release of the film The Pick of Destiny, Tenacious D performed the "Pick of Destiny" at the 2006 American Music Awards and on Late Night with Conan O'Brien. Tenacious D was a musical guest on Saturday Night Live for the first time, although they had previously appeared as an uncredited musical guest on May 2, 1998.[166] They also opened the 2006 Spike TV Video Game Awards with a performance of "The Metal",[167] and played "Friendship" at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards.[168] The band's first television appearance of 2008 was in support of the Who at the VH1 Rock Honors.[169]

Internet

[edit]

Black and Gass were interviewed on August 29, 2012, by Tony Hawk as part of the "Dissent" series on the web channel, Ride. The interview was conducted in the Sirius/XM studios as part of the Hawk's "Demolition Radio" program. The interview's topics include comedy rock and Upland Skatepark.[170]

Video games

[edit]

The song "The Metal" is playable in the sixth tier setlist of Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock, as well as being playable in demo versions of the game included in demo kits, Official Xbox Magazine Demo Disc #77, some copies of Tony Hawk's Proving Ground, and formerly as a digital download on the Xbox Games Store.[171][172]

"The Metal" and "Master Exploder" appear on the soundtrack of Brütal Legend.[173] Both Black and Gass voice characters in the game partly modeled after their likenesses; Black voices main character Eddie Riggs, while Gass voices Kage the Kannonier.[174] An in-game Tenacious D guitar was available as a pre-order incentive.[175] "The Metal" was added as downloadable content to Rock Band to coincide with Brütal Legend's release.[176]

Live

[edit]
Main articles: The Pick of Destiny Tour, Rize of the Fenix Tour, Post-Apocalypto Tour, and The Spicy Meatball Tour
"Wonderboy" (live)
Sample of "Wonderboy" performed live by Tenacious D in San Francisco on February 21, 2002.
Problems playing this file? See media help.

The band spent the first twelve years of their career playing acoustic concerts; just Black and Gass on acoustic guitars, with no backing instruments apart from occasional guests. Black and Gass have expressed angst they experience before concerts saying: "We're always looking for a loophole. Pretty much every concert we've ever done, we're trying to find a way to cancel the show at the last minute."[177] The band mainly spent their first five years performing in Los Angeles, with occasional concerts in New York and Colorado. The band embarked on their first ever tour in 1999. In 2001, Tenacious D started their second nationwide concert tour, performing at larger venues, many of which sold out.[3] In 2001, Black and Gass toured with Weezer alongside Jimmy Eat World, performing in large arenas. In 2002, the band supported Kid Rock at a handful of concerts, before starting their third domestic tour, Le Tour!, playing many medium-sized theaters. Later that year and in early 2003, the band would perform three small European tours, and an Australian tour.[178]

It's a roaring crowd, and they may be roaring your approval, but it's still a scary, roaring crowd. They can turn on you, conceivably. It's still a beast that you must ride. And once it's been ridden, in the midst of the ride, it feels fantastic.

— Jack Black on performing live.[19]

In 2006, the band launched their first ever major tour, The Pick of Destiny Tour. Black and Gass wished to recruit electric guitarist John Konesky and bassist John Spiker, both members of Gass's side-project Trainwreck, and had been session musicians on The Pick of Destiny album. The band also wished to recruit drummer Brooks Wackerman from The Vandals. At early rehearsals of the tour, Black and Gass contemplated whether to go ahead with the musicians, or whether to continue performing acoustic, of which they decided to try the tour with the band.[179] The tour would continue into 2007, with two US legs, a European leg and an Australian leg.

Following The Pick of Destiny Tour, the band would go on to play Reading and Leeds Festivals,[180][181] Outside Lands,[182] Bonnaroo and the BlizzCon closing ceremony from 2008 to 2010,[183][184] as well as supporting the Foo Fighters in 2011.[185] In 2012, the band launched their second major tour, Rize of the Fenix Tour. Apart from two performances in Stockholm and Amsterdam, until 2012, the band had never performed to non-English speaking countries. Black claimed it was because foreign concerts were "a little funky" because "the subtleties do get lost in translation".[177] In June, the band would perform at Rock am Ring and Rock im Park festivals in Germany, which broke the band's attendance records. In October, the band embarked on a large tour of Europe, including returns to Germany.[citation needed]

Following the Rize of the Fenix Tour, the band toured smaller venues as Old School Acoustic Style Tour in early 2013, performing in North America and Australia. This would be their first acoustic tour since their tour of Australia in 2004. There were two additional acoustic tours in Europe in December 2013 and February 2015.[186] In 2018, the band launched their third major tour, Post-Apocalypto Tour, which would surpass Rize of the Fenix as their biggest tour in October 2019.[187] In 2023, the band began their fourth major tour, the Spicy Meatball Tour.[131]

Political activities

[edit]

Tenacious D are supporters of cannabis legalization. They have also performed at a NORML benefit concert.[59] Black described his view that allowing drug use would remove the stigma of feeling "naughty" attached to users, making the activity mundane and less attractive.[188] Black was the executive producer for a documentary about Randy Credico entitled Sixty Spins Around the Sun. It calls for the so-called Rockefeller Drug Laws to be repealed. Black said of it, "They're populating our prisons with people, you know, first time drug offenders—single mothers that have a little bit of coke end up going to prison for 20 years or something. It's just cruel and unusual punishment."[189]

In 2004, Tenacious D supported John Kerry's US presidential election campaign by playing a benefit concert for him.[15] Black and Gass were disparaging towards George W. Bush's presidency on many occasions.[190] The band performed a benefit concert for Barack Obama's presidential campaign on November 2, 2008, in Milwaukee. Other performers included Ben Harper and Relentless7, David Crosby and Graham Nash, and the Beastie Boys. Tenacious D guested with Crosby and Nash on "Find the Cost of Freedom" which concluded the Crosby-Nash set.[191] In 2010, Tenacious D agreed to boycott Arizona due to laws passed there concerning illegal immigration.[192] In 2012, Tenacious D performed at the House of Blues in Cleveland and did a surprise gig at Kent State University earlier on that day to encourage voting. Tenacious D supported Obama that year.[193] In 2017, Black and Gass performed "The Government Totally Sucks" at an anti-Donald Trump Prophets of Rage show in Los Angeles.[194]

Other projects

[edit]

In 2014, Tenacious D provided a cover of "The Last in Line" on the Dio tribute album This Is Your Life.[195] The recording won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance.[98]

Tenacious D have appeared in numerous music videos by other bands, including "Learn to Fly" by the Foo Fighters, "Push" by Dio,[63] and "Photograph" by Weezer.[196] Black has appeared on his own in many music videos, including a cameo alongside Dave Grohl in the music video for the Eagles of Death Metal song "I Want You So Hard (Boy's Bad News)", alongside Grohl again in the music video for the Foo Fighters' "Low", a cameo in the music video for the song "Sexx Laws" by Beck, and the video for "Humility" by Gorillaz.[197]

In addition to appearing in videos, Black and Gass sang backup vocals on the 2003 Styx album Cyclorama, on the song "Kiss Your Ass Goodbye".[198] Tenacious D lent backing vocals to The Vandals album Look What I Almost Stepped In..., on the song "Fourteen".[199] Tenacious D appeared on KROQ-FM's twelfth full-length Christmas compilation, Swallow My Eggnog, with Sum 41, on a song entitled "Things I Want".[200] Gass appeared in the Good Charlotte music video for the song "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous".[201]

Trainwreck

[edit]
Main article: Trainwreck with Kyle Gass

Following Black's popularity in the film industry, he was unable to tour regularly with Gass, so Gass started Trainwreck, under the pseudonym "Klip Calhoun".[202] The band also features JR Reed (Lee of Tenacious D) under the pseudonym "Darryl Donald", as well as Konesky and Spiker, who play lead guitar and bass. They have released a live album, Trainwreck Live, and a studio album The Wreckoning.[203] Black occasionally appeared with the band under the name "Tuffy McFuckelby".[177] Trainwreck broke up in 2010, but reunited in 2018 and announced that they were working on a new album.[204]

Kyle Gass Band

[edit]
Main article: Kyle Gass Band

Following the breakup of Trainwreck, Gass started Kyle Gass Band in 2011. The band released their first album, Kyle Gass Band in 2013 and Thundering Herd in 2016. The band features Mike Bray as lead singer, who used to open for Trainwreck shows. The band also features Konesky reprising his role as electric guitarist.[205]

Guitarings

[edit]

Gass and Konesky produced a YouTube show called Guitarings. The first series launched in mid-2009, and the second series lasted for 2011 and 2012. The series featured guitar tutorials for Tenacious D songs, as well as interviews, equipment reviews, music shop tours and answering fan mail.[206][207]

Band members

[edit]
  • Jack Black – lead vocals, rhythm guitar (1994–present)
  • Kyle Gass – lead guitar, recorder, backing and co-lead vocals (1994–present)

Backing/additional members

  • John Konesky – guitars, backing vocals (2005–present; touring and session)
  • John Spiker – bass, keyboards, piano, backing vocals (2005–present; touring and session)
  • Scott Seiver – drums, percussion, piano (2011–present; session, touring since 2015)

Former additional members

Discography

[edit]
Main articles: Tenacious D discography and List of songs recorded by Tenacious D

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Association Category Nominated work Result Ref.
2002 Annie Award Best Animated Short Subject "Fuck Her Gently" Nominated [208]
2003 MVPA Awards Alternative Video of the Year "Tribute" Nominated [209]
2012 Kerrang! Awards Kerrang! Service to Rock — Won [210]
2013 Grammy Award Best Comedy Album Rize of the Fenix Nominated [211]
2015 Best Metal Performance "The Last in Line" Won [212]
2024 Hollywood Independent Music Awards Special Recognition - Concept Song "Video Games" Won [213]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Tenacious D

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from Grokipedia
Tenacious D is an American comedy rock duo formed in in 1994, consisting of vocalist and actor and guitarist and actor . The pair initially built a through acoustic performances parodying heavy metal and rock clichés, later expanding to full-band tours with additional musicians. They gained broader recognition via a 1999 variety series showcasing their theatrical songs and sketches. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2001 by , achieved platinum certification in the United States for over one million units sold. In 2006, Black and Gass starred in the Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny, which included an accompanying soundtrack album featuring original comedic tracks like "" and "Beelzeboss". Subsequent releases include (2012) and (2018), blending humor with elements. Tenacious D won the Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2015 for their cover of Dio's "", recorded as a to . The duo's defining characteristics include over-the-top lyrical tributes to rock lore, such as the hit single "", and a persistent emphasis on fantasy-themed narratives in their music and visuals.

History

Formation and early years (1994–1996)

Jack Black and Kyle Gass first connected in 1986 as members of the Actors' Gang theater troupe in California, with Gass serving as the house musician and Black as an aspiring actor. They co-founded the comedy rock duo Tenacious D in Los Angeles in 1994, initially performing acoustically with satirical takes on rock music tropes. The duo's debut performance took place later in 1994 at Al's Bar in , opening for the band The Abe Lincoln Story. Armed with only one song, ""—a hyperbolic ode to influences—they presented the audience with band name options including "Pets or Meat" and "Balboa's Big Score," which ultimately selected "Tenacious D." This single-song set marked the inception of their live act, characterized by exaggerated personas and theatrical energy. From 1994 to 1996, and Gass expanded their repertoire through informal rehearsals and early demos, including a 1995 recording of "," while playing sporadic gigs at small venues to refine their parody-driven style. Their efforts gained modest traction in underground scenes, leading to a screen debut in 1996 performing the song "5 Needs" in the comedy film . These years laid the groundwork for Tenacious D's blend of humor and musicianship, though commercial success remained elusive.

Breakthrough and HBO series (1997–2001)

In the mid-1990s, Tenacious D transitioned from local open-mic performances to broader visibility by opening for the live tour of 's series Mr. Show with Bob and David, a connection forged through comedian , who had encountered on the club circuit. This exposure introduced their hyperbolic rock persona to 's audience and Mr. Show's production team, including Cross and , who subsequently developed a pilot for . The resulting series, Tenacious D, premiered on HBO on November 28, 1997, airing immediately after an episode of Mr. Show. Produced by Cross and Odenkirk and directed by Jason Bloom, the program consisted of three episodes released sporadically over three years: the debut "The Search for Inspirado / Angel in Disguise" on November 28, 1997; "Death of a Dream / The Greatest Song in the World" on November 27, 1999; and the finale "The Fans of Tenacious D / Road Gig" on March 15, 2000. Each half-hour installment framed the duo—Jack Black as J.B. and Kyle Gass as K.G.—in mockumentary-style vignettes at an open-mic night, blending absurd narratives of romantic rivalries, creative blocks, and demonic encounters with original acoustic rock songs such as "," "Kyle Quit the Band," and an early version of "." Though HBO initially ordered a full 10-episode season, the series was curtailed after the pilot due to disputes over creative control, limiting it to these three installments and preventing wider distribution like a DVD release at the time. The program's cult appeal stemmed from its unpolished, self-deprecating portrayal of the duo's "struggles" as self-proclaimed rock saviors, which resonated with fans of and helped cultivate a dedicated following ahead of their musical output. This television foothold marked Tenacious D's breakthrough from underground act to nationally recognized entity, amplifying their live show draw and setting the stage for commercial recording deals by 2001.

Debut album and rising fame (2001–2002)

Tenacious D released their self-titled debut studio album on September 25, 2001, through Epic Records, following a deal signed the previous year. The album was recorded at Neil Diamond's personal studio and produced by the Dust Brothers, known for their work on Santana's Grammy-winning Supernatural, with Dave Grohl contributing drums on most tracks, alongside additional musicians such as Ken Andrews for mixing, Alfredo Ortiz on percussion, and Page McConnell on keyboards. The record featured polished production that contrasted the duo's raw comedic style, incorporating orchestral elements and rock arrangements for tracks like "Wonderboy" and "Tribute." The album debuted at number 33 on the chart on October 13, 2001, and remained on the chart for 43 weeks, eventually achieving platinum certification by the RIAA for sales exceeding one million units in the United States. It also reached number 18 in Ireland and , and topped the charts in , reflecting strong international appeal among niche audiences including college students and rock enthusiasts. Initial reception praised its energetic humor and musicianship but noted mixed critical views, with some outlets like Time highlighting the production quality while others, such as , critiqued it for diluted comedic impact compared to their earlier HBO work. Rising visibility came via the "Tribute," released on February 11, , which satirized rock excess and gained traction through radio play and airings, contributing to the album's . The duo supported the release with extensive touring, performing approximately 50 shows in —including opening for on December 15—and over 55 in across and , often delivering high-energy sets that amplified their theatrical live . Media exposure increased with a on MADtv, where they performed "Tribute" and "Lee" backed by Grohl on drums, further embedding their rock style in amid post-9/11 audiences seeking escapist entertainment.

The Pick of Destiny era (2003–2007)

Following the commercial success of their self-titled debut album, Tenacious D shifted focus to developing a and soundtrack, with production on Tenacious D in —directed by Lynch—completing in December 2004. The project originated as an extension of their comedic rock persona, scripting a fictional centered on the duo's quest for a mythical forged from the Devil's tooth, incorporating original songs into the narrative. and co-wrote the film alongside Lynch, leveraging Black's rising Hollywood profile from roles in films like School of Rock to secure backing, though the $20 million budget reflected ambitious production values including practical effects and musical sequences. The soundtrack album, The Pick of Destiny, marked the band's first studio release since 2001 and was produced by Black and Gass; it debuted on November 14, 2006, featuring 20 tracks of satirical hard rock anthems like "Kickapoo" and "The Legend of the Rent," with guest appearances from Meat Loaf and Ronnie James Dio. The album achieved modest chart success, peaking at number 10 on the UK Albums Chart and number 9 in Ireland, while selling steadily through tie-in promotion but failing to match the debut's platinum certification. The film followed eight days later on November 22, 2006, opening in limited U.S. theaters amid mixed critical reception—praised for its unapologetic humor and musical energy but critiqued for uneven pacing and reliance on inside jokes appealing primarily to existing fans. Commercially, the film underperformed, grossing $8.3 million domestically and $13.4 million worldwide against its budget, contributing to perceptions of it as a box-office disappointment despite generating cult enthusiasm and strong DVD sales in subsequent years. To promote both releases, Tenacious D launched the Pick of Destiny Tour in late 2006, extending into 2007 with over 100 dates across North America, Europe, and Australia, featuring expanded live instrumentation including drummer Brooks Wackerman and theatrical elements like costume changes and pyrotechnics. The tour emphasized full performances of the film's songs alongside debut-era staples, maintaining high-energy comedy routines that sustained fan engagement even as the project's financial shortfalls strained relations with their label, Epic Records. This period culminated in the 2008 documentary D Tour: A Tenacious Documentary, which chronicled the tour's logistics, interpersonal dynamics, and the duo's exhaustion from balancing film promotion with live demands, foreshadowing their subsequent hiatus.

Hiatus and Rize of the Fenix (2008–2012)

Following the commercial and critical disappointment of The Pick of Destiny, which failed to recoup its production costs and prompted widespread declarations that the band was finished, Tenacious D entered an extended hiatus beginning around 2008. During this period, the duo maintained minimal joint activity, with Jack Black prioritizing his expanding film career and Kyle Gass engaging in sporadic supporting roles and musical side projects. By 2011, and Gass began collaborating again on new material, leading to the announcement of their third studio album, , on February 29, 2012. The record, their first in six years, was produced by John Kimbrough and recorded in the garage behind his home, incorporating contributions from longtime collaborators John Konesky on guitar and John Spiker on bass, alongside guest drummer on select tracks. Thematically, the album satirized the band's post-Pick of Destiny nadir, portraying a fictional from obscurity, with the title track explicitly referencing the prior project's bomb status and the members' diverging paths—Black's Hollywood success contrasted against Gass's relative anonymity. Released on May 15, , via , Rize of the Fenix debuted at number 4 on the and marked the best-selling comedy album of the year. Promotion included the title track's , directed by the filmmaking duo DANIELS and featuring over-the-the-top cameos from as a phoenix, , , and , which humorously reenacted the band's "death" and revival. To support the album, Tenacious D embarked on a summer tour encompassing major festivals such as Sasquatch!, , and Rock am Ring, alongside headline dates across and . The performances reinstated their signature blend of theatrical comedy and , solidifying the reunion's success amid renewed fan enthusiasm.

Post-Apocalypto and continued activity (2013–2022)

In the years following the tour, Tenacious D maintained a low profile with sporadic performances and side projects. The duo hosted the inaugural Festival Supreme, a comedy-music event, on October 19, 2013, at the in , featuring acts such as and . The festival returned annually, including editions on October 25, 2014, and October 10, 2015, at the Shrine Auditorium, emphasizing comedic musical collaborations. In 2014, the band recorded a cover of "The Last in Line" for the tribute album Ronnie James Dio: This Is Your Life, released on May 27 by . Live appearances remained infrequent, with occasional festival sets, such as at Rock am Ring on June 3, 2016. On September 4, 2018, Tenacious D announced , their fourth studio album, alongside a hand-drawn animated of the same name depicting the duo's post-nuclear adventure. The six-episode series debuted on on September 28, 2018, with weekly releases culminating on November 2, totaling approximately 70 minutes and incorporating original songs. Produced by bassist John Spiker, the album soundtrack followed on November 2, 2018, via , available in digital, CD, and limited-edition translucent green vinyl formats featuring tracks like "The Metal" and "Roadie". It debuted at number 18 on the , selling 22,000 units in its first week. The Post-Apocalypto Tour launched on November 3, 2018, in , spanning and with over 50 dates, concluding on February 26, 2020, in ; it exceeded the length of their 2012 tour and included sets blending new material with classics like "Tribute". In 2020, a by Titan Comics expanded the album's storyline, concluding the multimedia project. From 2021 to 2022, amid the pandemic's impact on live events, Tenacious D issued charity cover singles, including a medley of The Who songs ("Pinball Wizard," "There's a Doctor," "Go to the Mirror") released June 8, 2022, with proceeds supporting Ukraine relief efforts, and an acoustic rendition of Chris Isaak's "Wicked Game". In December 2021, they scheduled a 2022 U.S. tour starting June 16 at in , adding September dates across 10 cities with support from DJ Douggpound, performing through events like in Louisville on September 25.

Spicy Meatball Tour and prelude to controversy (2023)

The Spicy Meatball Tour marked Tenacious D's return to extensive live performances following their 2018 album . The tour launched on May 6, 2023, at the in Atlanta, Georgia, followed by additional U.S. dates including May 8 at The Factory in . These initial shows featured the duo's signature blend of acoustic rock anthems and comedic interludes, with setlists emphasizing staples like "" and covers such as "Fuck Her Gently." In early June 2023, Tenacious D announced an extension of the tour with nine U.S. dates in September, supported by openers including McCafferty, Wheel of Power, and Catbells. The leg commenced on September 6 at in , and proceeded through (September 7); Indianapolis, Indiana (September 9); (September 11, sold out); Houston, Texas (September 13); (September 14); ; Los Angeles, California (October 14 at ); and concluded on September 15 in . Performances maintained the band's irreverent humor, including improvisational banter and props like custom guitars, drawing crowds nostalgic for their theatrical style. The tour's European portion earlier in 2023, including festival appearances at Rock am Ring and Nova Rock, preceded the U.S. legs and showcased expanded production elements amid the duo's decade-plus hiatus from headlining tours. This phase of activity, characterized by Jack Black's energetic stage presence and Kyle Gass's foils, laid groundwork for the tour's continuation into 2024, where the duo's propensity for satirical commentary on current events would later intersect with heightened political sensitivities. No major incidents disrupted the 2023 shows, which received positive feedback for revitalizing the format.

Trump comment backlash, tour cancellation, and hiatus (2024)

During a Tenacious D concert at the on July 14, 2024, guitarist celebrated his 64th birthday onstage, receiving a cake from frontman , when Gass improvised the remark, "Don’t miss Trump next time," in reference to the assassination attempt on former President that had occurred the previous day in . The comment, interpreted by many as endorsing further violence against Trump, quickly drew widespread condemnation from fans, politicians, and media outlets, with Australian calling it "not funny" and "not appropriate," while conservative commentators amplified calls for boycotts. The backlash intensified online and in public discourse, leading to petitions demanding the band's deportation from Australia and scrutiny over their visas, though no formal actions were taken by authorities. On July 16, 2024, Gass issued an apology via Instagram, stating that the line was an "improvised joke" born of "severe lack of judgment," emphasizing that he does not condone violence of any kind and expressing regret for offending fans. In response, announced the immediate cancellation of the remaining dates on the Spicy Meatball Tour, which had been underway since May 2024, citing that he was "blindsided" by Gass's remark and did not support it, declaring, "I would never condone or encourage in any form." He further stated that "all future creative plans" for Tenacious D were on hold indefinitely, effectively placing the duo in hiatus amid the controversy. Gass was subsequently dropped by his longtime , of Greene Talent, who cited the incident as irreconcilable with professional representation. The episode highlighted tensions between the band's comedic, often irreverent style and contemporary sensitivities around , with refunds issued to ticket holders for the affected shows and no immediate plans announced for resumption by year's end.

Partial return and new media releases (2025)

In February 2025, Tenacious D made their first public appearance together since the 2024 hiatus, performing at a benefit event following Kyle Gass's controversial remark. This marked a tentative step back into the spotlight without resuming full touring activities. On February 6, 2025, announced their first new recording since the hiatus: a cover of REO Speedwagon's "," featured on a supporting victims of wildfires. The track represented a low-key collaborative effort rather than original material, signaling reconciliation between and amid ongoing uncertainty about the band's future. In August 2025, Tenacious D revealed plans for The Complete Masterworks Vol. 3, a Blu-ray and DVD collection compiling live performances from their 2023 Spicy Meatball Tour. The release, handled by MVD Entertainment Group, launched on October 3, 2025, focusing on archival footage rather than new live shows. This media drop extended their catalog without committing to a traditional comeback, as Jack Black had indicated earlier in the year that a full return was premature. No original studio album or tour dates for the duo were confirmed by late October 2025.

Musical style and influences

Core elements of style

Tenacious D's core musical style centers on acoustic rock performed by the duo of and , who use two acoustic guitars to generate high-intensity strumming patterns and tight vocal harmonies that simulate the drive of electric and heavy metal. This setup produces a raw, folk-infused sound characterized by rapid fingerpicking, power chords adapted for unplugged play, and dynamic builds from sparse verses to anthemic choruses, as heard in tracks like "" where layered acoustics drive the narrative momentum. Lyrically, the style emphasizes absurdist through satirical narratives parodying mythology—such as demonic pacts, sexual conquests, and self-proclaimed supremacy as "the greatest band in the world"—delivered with exaggerated theatricality to mock excesses rather than endorse them straightforwardly. Vocally, Black's lead employs a mix of gritty belts, operatic sustains, and flourishes for harmonic interplay with Gass, creating a mock-operatic grandeur that underscores the humor without relying on irony alone for effect. Structurally, songs often follow epic formats with verse-chorus progressions inflated into fantasy quests, incorporating call-and-response elements and shifts to mimic drama on a minimalist scale. This acoustic core persists in studio recordings and unplugged sets, distinguishing Tenacious D from pure acts by grounding the in proficient musicianship that demands live precision. In full-band contexts, electric amplification and drums enhance volume but preserve the duo's foundational interplay, ensuring the style's theatrical energy translates scalably.

Key influences

Tenacious D's music draws heavily from acts of the 1970s, with Led Zeppelin serving as the duo's most frequently cited influence. has described Led Zeppelin as "the greatest rock 'n' roll band of all time," emphasizing their impact on the band's songwriting and performance style, particularly in tracks like "," which was partially inspired by "." The duo's theatrical vocals and guitar riffs often parody Zeppelin's epic structures and mystical themes, as evidenced by their covers of songs like "" and "." Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne also profoundly shaped Tenacious D's heavy, riff-driven sound and humorous takes on metal tropes. In a 2012 Howard Stern interview, Black and Kyle Gass highlighted Osbourne's influence alongside Led Zeppelin's, noting Sabbath's role in inventing heavy metal, which informs the duo's exaggerated demon-slaying narratives in songs like "The Metal." Gass's acoustic fingerpicking echoes the riff-heavy foundations of Sabbath's early work, blending it with comedic absurdity. Additional influences include Metallica, whose epic ballad "One" directly inspired the structure and ambition of "Tribute," as revealed by Black and Gass in 2020, combining narrative storytelling with instrumental prowess. The duo's shared appreciation for Simon & Garfunkel provided a foundation in harmonious folk-rock vocals, which Black noted as the common ground where he and Gass first connected musically during their early collaboration. Broader classic rock elements from bands like The Who, AC/DC, and Kiss appear in their covers and stylistic nods, such as medleys and high-energy theatrics, reflecting Gass and Black's formative listening experiences.

Legacy and cultural impact

Achievements in comedy rock

Tenacious D garnered recognition in for blending theatrical absurdity with riffs, culminating in a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2015 for their cover of Ronnie James Dio's "," recorded as a following Dio's death in 2010. This win, awarded at the on February 8, 2015, during the pre-telecast ceremony, highlighted their ability to deliver sincere homage within a comedic framework, outperforming entries from established metal acts like Slipknot and . Their discography achieved commercial milestones, with the self-titled debut of September 25, 2001, certified by the RIAA for exceeding 1 million units sold in the United States. The accompanying DVD compilation The Complete Master Works (2003) earned six-times certification from the RIAA, reflecting strong sales of over 600,000 copies and underscoring their appeal through visual humor and live performances. Globally, the band has sold over 2.37 million , with certifications including double in the for the debut (600,000 units) and gold awards in , , and . Further accolades include a 2013 Grammy nomination for Best Comedy Album for , affirming their category-specific standing despite limited mainstream awards. Critics have positioned their work as a foundational "mock rock" style, distinguishing it from contemporaneous nu-metal trends through exaggerated tributes to influences like Led Zeppelin and , as noted in retrospectives marking the 20th anniversary of their debut. This fusion sustained a dedicated fanbase, evidenced by sustained touring and cultural references, though achievements remain niche compared to pure rock counterparts.

Criticisms and limitations

Tenacious D has faced criticism for prioritizing comedic over musical innovation, often described as a "mock rock" act whose exaggerated style limits its depth and longevity in the rock genre. has acknowledged this self-imposed boundary, stating in 2016 that the band would never pursue seriousness, positioning it instead as a vehicle for mocking rock tropes rather than advancing them. Reviewers have argued that this formula results in repetitive output, with albums like (2018) faulted for resembling unfunny improv routines that fail as standalone music, relying on visual context for coherence. Similarly, (2006) drew dismissal as emblematic of comedy bands' inherent flaws, lacking substance beyond humor. Lyrical content has drawn objections for its juvenile and crude elements, including themes of misogyny and sexual exaggeration that some find dated or off-putting outside niche audiences. Critics contend this immaturity constrains broader cultural resonance, reducing the duo's appeal to "teenage boy" sensibilities and hindering evolution beyond early 2000s parody. While technically proficient—drawing from classic rock influences—their self-aware absurdity often overshadows instrumental skill, leading to perceptions of underutilized talent in favor of shtick. In terms of legacy, Tenacious D's intermittent activity and hiatuses, including gaps between albums exceeding five years at times, have limited sustained momentum and discographic growth. This inconsistency, combined with dependence on Jack Black's acting career for visibility, has reinforced views of the band as a rather than a primary musical force, capping its influence to subgenres without pioneering broader trends. Some analyses highlight how later works devolve into "exclusive" lowbrow humor, eroding the sharp of their debut and confining enduring impact to cult fandoms.

Band members and personnel

Core duo

Tenacious D consists of the duo Jack Black and Kyle Gass, who formed the band in Los Angeles in 1994. Black and Gass first encountered each other in the mid-1980s as members of the Actors' Gang theater troupe, where Black pursued acting and Gass served as the house musician. Their initial interactions were strained, but they later collaborated musically, establishing the core partnership that defines the group's acoustic comedy rock style. Jack Black handles lead vocals and rhythm guitar, delivering the high-energy, theatrical performances central to the duo's satirical take on rock stardom. provides lead guitar, backing vocals, and occasional co-lead vocals, often acting as Black's comedic foil in routines that emphasize exaggerated bravado and fantasy narratives. The pair's dynamic relies on Black's charismatic frontmanship complemented by Gass's instrumental support and humor, enabling them to perform as a stripped-down unit while expanding to full-band setups for recordings and tours. As the sole constant members since , Black and Gass have co-written all original material, blending folk influences with heavy metal tropes in songs that parody rock clichés. Their extends beyond music into , with joint appearances in films like Tenacious D in (2006), where they portray heightened versions of themselves on a quest for legendary status.

Supporting musicians

Tenacious D's supporting musicians have primarily augmented the core duo's acoustic setup for studio recordings and expanded live ensembles. On their debut self-titled album, released September 25, 2001, provided drums for multiple tracks, including the lead single "." of contributed keyboards to several songs, while guitarist of and bassist Steve McDonald of handled additional guitar and bass duties. For live performances and subsequent releases, the band adopted a rock-oriented full-band format starting with the 2006 promotion of . John Konesky joined as lead electric guitarist in 2006, delivering intricate solos and backing vocals across tours and albums like (2012). John Spiker has served as bassist since 2006, also providing additional vocals and contributing to recordings such as the 2012 album. Drumming roles have rotated among session and touring players, including for select tours in the 2010s and Scott Seiver for the 2024 Spicy Meatball Tour, ensuring dynamic percussion support for the duo's theatrical shows. JR Reed has been a frequent collaborator since the early 2000s, appearing in music videos, providing backing vocals, and occasionally contributing instrumentation in live and recorded contexts.

Discography

Studio albums

Tenacious D's eponymous debut studio album was released on September 25, 2001, through . Produced by the , it consists of 21 tracks blending acoustic folk elements with heavy metal riffs and satirical lyrics centered on the duo's fictional quest for rock supremacy, including the hit single "." The album received praise for its humorous songwriting and musicianship, with contributors like on drums for select tracks. The second studio album, , arrived on November 14, 2006, also via , serving as the soundtrack to the band's self-produced film of the same name. Featuring 15 songs such as "" and "Master Exploder," it expands on the mythological narrative of a magical granting ultimate power, incorporating orchestral elements and guest appearances by and . The release debuted at number 8 on the chart. Rize of the Fenix, the third studio album, was issued on May 15, 2012, by . Produced by John Kimbrough, it includes 13 tracks parodying the band's supposed "death" and resurrection, with standout songs like the title track and "Low Hangin' Fruit," emphasizing over-the-top ballads and shredding solos. The album debuted at number 4 on the , selling over 44,000 copies in its first week and becoming the top-selling comedy album of 2012. The fourth studio album, , followed on November 2, 2018, through , accompanied by an animated of the same title. Produced by John Spiker, it features 20 tracks depicting a post-nuclear adventure with themes of survival, space travel, and absurdity, including "The Metal" and satirical jabs at figures like . The release ties into the duo's approach, with songs drawn from the series' narrative.

Live albums and compilations

, the duo's sole live album, was released on November 27, 2015, as a limited-edition double vinyl exclusive to Record Store Day Black Friday. Recorded from performances during the band's 2012 and 2013 tours supporting Rize of the Fenix, the album contains 11 tracks drawn from their catalog, including live renditions of "Rize of the Fenix," "Low Hangin' Fruit," "Kielbasa," "Friendship," and "Tribute." Tenacious D has not issued traditional greatest-hits compilations but has released box sets aggregating prior studio albums. The 2010 set Tenacious D / The Pick of Destiny comprises reissues of the self-titled debut (2001) and the The Pick of Destiny soundtrack (2006) across two CDs. In 2015, Original Album Classics collected the band's first three studio albums—Tenacious D, The Pick of Destiny, and Rize of the Fenix (2012)—in mini-LP sleeve packaging.

Video releases

Tenacious D has released three video albums in the Complete Masterworks series, compiling live performances, music videos, and supplementary material. These DVD and Blu-ray sets document key concerts and creative output, emphasizing the duo's comedic rock style. The first, The Complete Master Works, is a two-DVD set released on November 4, 2003, by Epic Records. It features a full concert recorded at London's Brixton Academy on November 3, 2002, along with early HBO episodes chronicling the band's origins and additional fan-oriented content. The Complete Master Works 2, released on November 4, 2008, expands on the format with footage from performances across six countries, including a standout live show in Seattle, Washington. The set highlights international touring highlights and behind-the-scenes elements from the band's active period. The Complete Masterworks Vol. 3, issued as a Blu-ray/DVD combo on August 8, 2025, includes a live set of classic hits from the O2 Arena, the full animated film Post-Apocalypto, and music videos such as "The Who Medley," "You Never Give Me Your Money / The End," "Wicked Game," "Video Games," and the "Fiber D'Lish" commercial. This installment integrates recent animated and cover material with archival live footage.

Media appearances

Film and television roles

Tenacious D headlined a HBO comedy series titled Tenacious D, which consisted of three half-hour episodes airing between 1997 and 2000, depicting exaggerated, fictionalized struggles of and as an aspiring rock duo in . The pilot episode, "The Search for Inspirado," follows the pair desperately seeking songwriting inspiration ahead of an open-mic contest, while subsequent installments like "Angel in Disguise" involve romantic rivalries and absurd mishaps, blending live-action sketches with musical performances. Created by , , , and , the series drew from their real-life comedic style but amplified it for television, though it received limited distribution beyond . The duo's primary film role came in the 2006 New Line Cinema production Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny, a rock musical comedy directed by Liam Lynch, where Black played the naive protagonist JB and Gass portrayed the streetwise KG. The plot chronicles their friendship's origin in 1990s Venice Beach, California, and a fantastical quest for the "Pick of Destiny," a guitar pick supposedly carved from Judas Iscariot's tooth, granting ultimate rock mastery; the film grossed $8.2 million against a $20 million budget and featured cameo performances by Ronnie James Dio as himself, Dave Grohl as Satan, and Meat Loaf as JB's father. Released on November 22, 2006, it incorporated Tenacious D's existing songs alongside new tracks like "Kickapoo" and "Beelzeboss," serving as a semi-autobiographical extension of their stage persona.

Video games and animations

Tenacious D released , an animatic in 2018, consisting of six episodes that form a continuous accompanying their of the same name. The series, hand-drawn primarily by and voiced exclusively by Black and , depicts the duo navigating a post-nuclear in search of a fabled , blending absurd humor with acoustic folk-rock segments. A compiled full-length animated version was made available online in November 2018. In May 2023, Tenacious D issued "Video Games," their first new song in five years, accompanied by an animated music video directed by Adam Paloian in collaboration with the YouTube channel Oney Plays. The video, nominated for a 2024 Annie Award in the Best Sponsored category, features the duo as pixelated avatars traversing parodic depictions of various video game franchises, including God of War, Red Dead Redemption II, The Legend of Zelda, Sonic the Hedgehog, Street Fighter, Minecraft, and Tomb Raider. The track and visuals celebrate gaming culture through hyperbolic references to mechanics like grinding, boss fights, and open-world exploration, without direct involvement in commercial video game development or licensing.

Internet and viral content

Tenacious D's music videos and comedic sketches have achieved substantial viral success on platforms like and , amplifying their beyond traditional media. The official video for their signature song "Tribute," originally released in 2001 but uploaded to on October 19, 2010, has amassed over 151 million views, propelled by its exaggerated storytelling of a demonic encounter and the duo's over-the-top rock personas. Similarly, the 2012 video for "" has garnered tens of millions of views, featuring a phoenix-rising with celebrity cameos that resonated with fans of absurd humor. More recent content has leveraged internet-specific formats, such as the 2023 animated for "Video Games," produced in collaboration with animator Chris O'Neill (Oney Plays), which parodies retro gaming tropes and has contributed to proliferation across platforms. Clips from their early series (1997–2000), including skits like musical tributes to rock legends, circulated online in the mid-2000s, predating widespread streaming but gaining traction as user-uploaded content on nascent video-sharing sites. Fan-generated memes, particularly remixes of "Tribute" lyrics overlaid on unrelated footage, have proliferated on TikTok, with dedicated discovery pages amassing thousands of user videos that adapt the song's bombastic claims for comedic effect. The duo engaged directly with online culture in a 2018 GQ "Actually Me" segment, where Jack Black and Kyle Gass responded to fan comments and impersonations on social media, highlighting their self-aware embrace of internet fandom. These elements underscore Tenacious D's adaptation to digital dissemination, where view counts and shares have sustained their visibility amid sporadic album releases.

Live performances

Major tours

Tenacious D's early touring efforts, primarily in support of their self-titled debut album, consisted of around 50 performances in and 55 in 2002, focusing on North American venues such as the Electric Factory in on October 11, , and the American Theater in on October 7, , which helped establish their live reputation through high-energy comedy-metal sets. The Tour ran from November 2006 to February 2007, encompassing 33 concerts across , including major arenas like , and was captured in the 2008 documentary D Tour: A Tenacious Documentary, highlighting the duo's theatrical stage production tied to their film Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny. After a five-year hiatus, the Rize of the Fenix Tour in 2012 supported their third studio album of the same name, featuring live recordings later compiled on the 2015 album , with additional European dates extending into 2013. The Post-Apocalypto Tour, launched on November 3, 2018, at Kings Theatre in and ending February 26, 2020, became the band's longest to date, including a July 25, 2019, headline show at in , accompanied by the Symphony, and a swing-state focused leg in September 2019 targeting politically contested U.S. regions. The Spicy Meatball Tour commenced in May 2022 with U.S. dates, followed by European and UK legs in 2023–2024, and an Australian/New Zealand extension announced for 2024 as their first in that region in 11 years; however, the remaining Oceania shows were cancelled in July 2024 after an onstage remark by Kyle Gass regarding a recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump.

Notable concerts and events

Tenacious D has made multiple appearances at the Rock am Ring festival in , , with performances in 2012, 2016, 2019, and 2023. The 2012 set included tracks from their album , such as "Rize of the Fenix" and "Low Hangin' Fruit," performed on a bill headlined by Metallica. In 2023, their show featured a guest appearance by of during "The Metal." The duo headlined the Download Festival in Castle Donington, England, on June 9, 2012, delivering a set that included "Tribute" and "Deth Starr" on the Jim Marshall Main Stage. This performance was captured in professional video, highlighting their comedic rock style with an onstage interview by Kylie Olsson. Tenacious D created and hosted Festival Supreme, an annual comedy music festival in Los Angeles, beginning with the inaugural event on October 19, 2013, at the Santa Monica Pier. The festival featured curated acts blending music and comedy, with subsequent editions in 2014 at the Shrine Exposition Hall, 2015, and 2016, emphasizing their role in producing large-scale live events.

Political involvement and controversies

Overall political leanings

Jack Black, the primary creative force and public face of Tenacious D, has openly aligned with liberal Democratic positions, endorsing Senator Elizabeth Warren's 2020 presidential campaign and describing himself as "all in" for her progressive agenda. In June 2024, Black endorsed President at a fundraiser, delivering a performance criticizing as a threat to while urging support for Biden's reelection. He has spoofed conservative movements like the Tea Party in viral videos and participated in 2020 get-out-the-vote efforts aimed at opposing Trump's reelection, framing the campaign as "rocking Trump out of office." Kyle Gass, Black's longtime collaborator, has maintained a lower political profile, with reports indicating he has not publicly endorsed specific candidates or parties prior to 2024. However, Gass expressed strong anti-Trump sentiment during a July 14, 2024, concert in , , where he quipped "Don't miss Trump next time" following the attempt on the former president, reflecting personal opposition consistent with broader left-leaning critiques of Trump but prompting immediate backlash and an apology from Gass for the remark's inappropriateness. As a duo, Tenacious D's political expressions have mirrored Black's Democratic activism, including joint appearances promoting anti-Trump mobilization, though the band has not formally affiliated with political organizations or issued collective platforms. Black's subsequent condemnation of Gass's 2024 comment as and decision to pause band activities underscore a boundary against endorsing , distinguishing their leanings from more radical fringes despite shared opposition to conservative figures. This aligns with patterns in Hollywood circles, where anti-Trump stances predominate among celebrity acts, often amplified by media outlets with left-leaning editorial slants.

Specific incidents and public reactions

In 2004, Tenacious D performed at a to support Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry's campaign against incumbent . Jack publicly denounced Bush as "the worst f---ing president in the history of time" during the event, citing opposition to policies including the , and the duo closed their set with "." The appearance drew applause from liberal attendees and aligned with celebrity anti-Bush activism, but elicited criticism from conservative commentators who accused the band of injecting partisan bias into entertainment venues. On January 20, 2017—the day of Trump's presidential inauguration—Tenacious D performed their 2006 "The Government Totally Sucks" at the Anti-Inaugural Ball in , an event organized to oppose the new administration. The lineup included a reunited and , with the performance eliciting cheers from the protest-oriented crowd protesting Trump's policies on , , and other issues. Conservative media and Trump supporters condemned the rally as disrespectful to democratic institutions and emblematic of Hollywood elitism, though it faced no immediate professional fallout for the duo. These episodes exemplify Tenacious D's sporadic use of and performance for left-leaning , which typically garnered enthusiasm from progressive fans and media while provoking partisan rebukes from the right, without derailing their career trajectory prior to later developments.

2024 Trump assassination attempt comment

During a Tenacious D concert at the on July 14, 2024, the day after an on former U.S. President at a campaign rally in , band member made a remark referencing the incident while celebrating his 64th birthday onstage. presented Gass with a cake and prompted him to "make a wish," to which Gass replied, "Don't miss next time," alluding to the shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks, who wounded Trump but failed to kill him. The comment, captured on video and shared widely online, drew immediate condemnation for appearing to endorse . Gass issued an apology on July 16, 2024, stating via that the improvised line was "highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake," expressing for offending fans and emphasizing his opposition to . In response, Gass was dropped by his longtime , of Greene Talent, who cited the remark as irreconcilable with professional representation. Jack Black, in a separate Instagram statement the same day, described himself as "blindsided" by Gass's words, affirming he would "never condone or encourage in any form," and announced the cancellation of Tenacious D's remaining tour dates in and , placing all future band projects, including tours, films, and TV, on indefinite hold. The backlash extended to political figures, with Australian Prime Minister calling the joke "not funny" and "appalling," while U.S. Senator labeled it "disgusting" and urged a of Black's films. Public reaction amplified online, with critics arguing the comment trivialized an event that resulted in one spectator's death, Trump's ear injury, and injuries to two others. By August 7, 2024, Black indicated optimism for the band's resumption, stating at a fan event that Tenacious D would "be back" after the hiatus, though no specific timeline or new projects were confirmed as of late 2024.

Other ventures

Solo and side projects of Jack Black

Jack Black's acting career constitutes his primary solo pursuit outside Tenacious D, encompassing lead and supporting roles in live-action films, voice work in animations, and television appearances spanning over three decades. His early film roles included minor parts in Dead Man Walking (1995) and The Cable Guy (1996), but he gained prominence with the role of Barry in High Fidelity (2000), a comedy-drama about record store employees, which showcased his energetic comedic style and musical knowledge. This was followed by his breakout lead performance as Dewey Finn in School of Rock (2003), where he portrayed a slacker musician impersonating a teacher to coach students in rock music; the film earned $288.3 million globally against a $20 million budget and received a Golden Globe nomination for Black. Subsequent highlights include voicing the panda warrior Po in DreamWorks' Kung Fu Panda (2008), a role reprised across three sequels through 2024, contributing to the franchise's over $1.9 billion in worldwide earnings; Black's performance earned an Annie Award nomination for voice acting in an animated feature. He also starred as the ambitious director in Peter Jackson's (2005), a that grossed $550.5 million, and headlined family adventures like (2017), where he played the avatar of a teen gamer, helping the film exceed $962 million in receipts. These roles demonstrate Black's versatility in blending , , and musical elements, often drawing from his rock influences. In music, Black's solo and collaborative efforts beyond Tenacious D are sporadic but notable, often tied to film soundtracks. He provided lead vocals for "I Am the Warlock," a hidden track on Dave Grohl's metal tribute album Probot (2004), featuring production by Probot's all-star lineup. More prominently, Black co-wrote and performed "Peaches" for The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023), voicing the villain in a power expressing unrequited love for ; the track peaked at No. 56 on the and garnered over 100 million streams within months of release. Similarly, he contributed "Steve's Lava Chicken" to the soundtrack of A Minecraft Movie (2025), performing as the character Steve in a comedic original song highlighting the film's blocky aesthetic. These releases underscore Black's ability to craft viral, character-driven music, though they remain ancillary to his acting output rather than forming a dedicated solo discography.

Solo and side projects of Kyle Gass

Kyle Gass formed the southern rock band Trainwreck in 2002 amid reduced availability from Jack Black for Tenacious D activities. The group, featuring costumed characters and guitar-driven songs blending classic, progressive, and elements, released its debut album The Wreckoning, a 15-track collection, in 2009 at a performance in ' Roxy Theatre. The band disbanded in 2010 but reunited in 2018, with ongoing recording of a follow-up 12-track studio album as of recent updates. In 2011, Gass established the , a rock ensemble including musicians from Tenacious D's live lineup such as John Konesky on guitar. The band issued its self-titled debut album in 2013, followed by Thundering Herd in 2016; tracks from the latter include "Bro Ho" and "Questionable," emphasizing Gass's songwriting and focus. Performances often incorporate comedic elements akin to Gass's Tenacious D style, with tours extending to the and . Gass launched the acoustic trio Kyle Gass Company in fall 2019 as a spinoff of the , collaborating with vocalist Mike Bray and guitarist John Konesky to deliver cover songs and originals in an intimate format. The project emphasizes stripped-down arrangements of favorites, with a "Three Man Job" tour scheduled for and the UK in May 2025. Independently, Gass released the original single "Penelope" in February 2017 as an exclusive for the "Love Me Not" playlist, marking one of his rare non-band recordings. He conducted his first solo tour, titled "Kyle Gass Must Save The World," starting in October 2021, featuring material from his back catalog alongside covers and surprises.

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  123. https://www.ign.com/articles/jack-blacks-infectious-video-game-song-features-god-of-war-red-dead-redemption-2-and-yes-mario
  124. https://liveforlivemusic.com/news/tenacious-d-video-games/
  125. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lK4cX5xGiQ
  126. https://www.tiktok.com/discover/tenacious-d-tribute-meme
  127. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZEQkfEFYhA
  128. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6Ewot1MnAM
  129. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zDggAHuzvE
  130. https://guestpectacular.com/artists/tenacious-d/events/tour/the-pick-of-destiny
  131. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1185237/
  132. https://concertfix.com/tours/tenacious-d
  133. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/tenacious-d-announce-dates-for-post-apocalypto-the-tour-2019-793847/
  134. https://grammy.com/news/tenacious-d-plot-politically-charged-swing-state-tour
  135. https://www.setlist.fm/news/11-18/tenacious-d-kicks-off-post-apocalypto-tour-and-wants-you-to-vote-7bd6ba24
  136. https://tenaciousd.com/the-spicy-meatball-us-eu-tour-copy/
  137. https://tonedeaf.thebrag.com/tenacious-d-thiry-years-tenacity/
  138. https://www.hennemusic.com/2012/06/video-tenacious-d-watch-complete-rock.html
  139. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGv2F95ASuw
  140. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4Ajtk743fY
  141. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00trk18
  142. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/tenacious-d/2012/donington-park-castle-donington-england-53dfcb19.html
  143. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjYVi73MyuE
  144. https://www.dailynews.com/arts-and-entertainment/20131015/tenacious-d-brings-super-comedy-festival-supreme-to-santa-monica-pier/
  145. https://www.thrillist.com/entertainment/los-angeles/festival-supreme-los-angeles-jack-black-kyle-gass-tenacious-d-tim-heidecker
  146. https://northerntransmissions.com/tenacious-d-reveal-festival-supreme-lineup/
  147. https://thehill.com/blogs/in-the-know/in-the-know/484374-jack-black-endorses-elizabeth-warren/
  148. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/jack-black-brutally-lashed-donald-160009621.html
  149. https://hollowverse.com/jack-black
  150. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRTC4X7ccdk
  151. https://www.republicworld.com/entertainment/who-is-kyle-gass-jack-black-s-bandmate-who-made-a-joke-on-donald-trump-assassination-attempt
  152. https://variety.com/2024/music/news/kyle-gass-apologizes-trump-assassination-tenacious-d-1236073585/
  153. https://deadline.com/2024/07/jack-black-cancels-tenacious-d-tour-blindsided-trump-assassination-joke-1236011403/
  154. https://www.smh.com.au/culture/music/tenacious-d-pushed-boundaries-for-30-years-but-one-joke-brought-them-undone-20240717-p5jubx.html
  155. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-live-reviews/reunited-audioslave-prophets-of-rage-explode-at-anti-inaugural-ball-107779/
  156. https://www.billboard.com/music/rock/audioslave-reunite-prophets-rage-anti-inaugural-ball-review-video-7662578/
  157. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/dont-miss-next-time-the-inappropriate-trump-assassination-joke-that-destroyed-kyle-gass-and-jack-blacks-band-tenacious-d/articleshow/111865509.cms
  158. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/16/arts/music/jack-black-tenacious-d-tour-trump-shooting.html
  159. https://www.ign.com/articles/best-jack-black-movies
  160. https://open.spotify.com/artist/0qpMYTgbXRi1ZcX6vend3T
  161. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/music/music-news/jack-black-super-mario-bros-song-peaches-1235709610/
  162. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jack-black/1166319
  163. https://kylegass.com/trainwreck
  164. https://open.spotify.com/album/6jUm6NNdbeYd0X5HAhWBdM
  165. https://kylegass.com/band
  166. https://open.spotify.com/artist/6uF985PW9jWIQyShM5fl1d
  167. https://www.instagram.com/kylegassband/?hl=en
  168. https://www.facebook.com/tenacious/posts/the-kyle-gass-company-three-man-job-european-and-uk-tour-2025-coming-to-you-in-m/1180287750134714/
  169. https://www.facebook.com/GassLeak/videos/check-out-kgs-new-song-penelope-exclusively-on-amazon-musics-lovemenot-playlist-/1240112689359679/
  170. https://livemusicnewsandreview.com/2021/08/kyle-gass-must-save-the-world-tour-2021/
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