ZSA and The C—CKS: Unapologetic Punk, Glamour, and the Ever-Evolving Sound of Pride
As Pride Month draws to a vibrant close, its spirit of joy, celebration, and advocacy continues to resonate far beyond June. HollywoodLife has amplified this spirit through “The Sound Of Pride,” a special series featuring LGBTQ+ celebrities and allies curating the ultimate 2023 Pride Month playlist. This initiative serves as a powerful soundtrack, not just for a single month, but for year-round celebration and reflection – encouraging listeners to explore LGBTQ+ rights and delve into the rich history of Pride Month. Contributing to this grand finale is ZSA, the charismatic vocalist for The C—CKS, a band proudly proclaiming themselves as a “loud, fast, unbelievably gay punk rock band from Los Angeles.” Their inclusion in this series perfectly encapsulates the dynamic, diverse, and often delightfully irreverent essence of modern Pride.
Reflecting on the transformative journey of Pride, ZSA shared his perspective with HollywoodLife: “When I was a kid, Pride was still a niche celebration — now everyone’s Grandma is twerking on a float in the Pride parade and the Queer Eye guys are America’s life coaches. THAT is progress! I like to think we’re contributing to that evolution in some small way.” This sentiment perfectly articulates the band’s mission: to push boundaries, embrace visibility, and contribute to an ever-expanding definition of what Pride truly means. The C—CKS aren’t just playing music; they’re actively participating in a cultural shift, making space for humor, rebellion, and authentic queer expression within the mainstream. Their unique brand of loud, fast, and unapologetically gay punk rock serves as a vibrant testament to the ongoing evolution of LGBTQ+ acceptance and celebration.
Indeed, ZSA’s band, The C—CKS, stands as a testament to the idea that authenticity knows no bounds. They masterfully prove that one can be unapologetically queer, fiercely loud, wonderfully silly, and undeniably legitimate all at once. The lineup – featuring ZSA on vocals, Tchad Drats on guitar, Jason Halogen on bass, Mike McCormick on drums, and Bunny Knutson also on guitar – expertly fuses the spirited irreverence reminiscent of the late ’80s and early ’90s pop-punk scene with the unbridled, free-wheeling energy of crossover punk. Their performances and recordings are delivered with a knowing wink, a genuine smile, and often, a defiant middle finger, embodying a joyful embrace of life’s glorious sleaze. This vibrant attitude permeates their music, ensuring that audiences are left with a smile – and if not, perhaps they’re missing out on the fun that defines the band’s electrifying live experience. The C—CKS are not just a band; they’re a statement, a party, and a movement all rolled into one.
The origin story of The C—CKS is, by ZSA’s own admission, a “happy accident.” As detailed in an interview with New Noise Magazine, the band initially formed when a friend of ZSA required an original score for a short film. The creative process proved so enjoyable and creatively fulfilling for the group that they collectively decided to extend this newfound joy to a broader audience by becoming a fully-fledged band. ZSA elaborated on their philosophy to the publication, stating, “I think one thing we need in the world right now is playfulness, you know? I think someone who sees one of our videos might just think we are a parody act or a novelty thing. But really listen to the record; it’s good, poppy rock music.” This emphasis on genuine musical quality beneath the playful exterior is a core tenet of their appeal, demonstrating that their vibrant stage presence is backed by serious talent and a catchy, powerful sound.
ZSA further articulated how humor serves as a powerful conduit for connection, especially with audiences who might initially harbor reservations or “barriers up.” He explained, “You have artists who do serious ‘message’ music, so it helps to have the light-hearted version of that as a balance. For some listeners, you have to get it under the radar.” This strategic use of wit and levity allows The C—CKS to subtly introduce complex ideas and challenge preconceived notions, making their message accessible and impactful without being overly didactic. Their approach demonstrates that advocacy and entertainment are not mutually exclusive; in fact, when combined, they can create a more resonant and enduring cultural impact. By blending serious messages with infectious tunes and a dose of irreverent fun, they disarm listeners and open doors to understanding and acceptance. As Pride Month concludes, ZSA’s curated playlist arrives just in time, but the band reminds us that Pride, in its truest form, is a continuous, year-long celebration. Fans eager to experience The C—CKS’s electrifying live performance can catch them at Dragstrip 66 on July 23 for “Beach Bondage Barbie: A 66 Tea Dance,” promising an unforgettable evening of their signature high-energy, glam-punk spectacle.
Here’s ZSA’s contribution to The Sound of Pride playlist, a collection that merges raw energy, glamorous rebellion, and deeply personal influences, showcasing the diverse tapestry of queer rock history and its ongoing evolution:
Toilet Boys, “Turn It Up”
ZSA fondly recalls the visceral impact of seeing the Toilet Boys live for the first time: “The first time I saw Miss Guy, Sean and the Toilet Boys live, my face melted.” In an era dominated by bands sporting a more rugged, “lumberjack” aesthetic, the Toilet Boys emerged as a refreshing anomaly – a collective of proud misfits who unabashedly drew inspiration from glam-rock titans like KISS, the raw energy of The Cramps, and the theatricality of Alice Cooper. Their approach was defined by an immense sense of showmanship, writ large across every performance, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in rock music. Much like The C—CKS themselves, the Toilet Boys transcended labels of sexual orientation; their essence was purely about delivering raw, raunchy rock and roll imbued with an undeniable current of SEX. “Period. TURN IT UP,” ZSA declares, encapsulating their unapologetic ethos. He envisions this track as the perfect anthem for a spontaneous takeover of a DJ booth at a Palm Springs Pride event, ideally enjoyed with “pure grain alcohol and a lit match,” a testament to its explosive, rebellious spirit and glamorous, trashy fun that continues to inspire queer artists today.
Pansy Division, “Groovy Underwear”
For ZSA, Pansy Division holds a revered place as “The OG gay punk band!” He recounts a particularly impactful experience seeing them perform in Portland, where he was captivated by their profound connection with the audience – a stark contrast to the suburban rock and metal scenes he was familiar with. More significantly, Pansy Division was the first band ZSA encountered that openly and unflinchingly expressed same-sex lust and love without “mincing (pun intended) words.” This bold honesty was incredibly daring for its time, breaking significant ground in a genre not always welcoming to overt queer themes. Their fearless lyrics and performances carved a path for countless LGBTQ+ musicians who followed. ZSA acknowledges their pioneering legacy, stating, “Every gay punk band walks in their shadow — I doff my sailor hat in tribute!” Their influence on subsequent queer punk acts, including The C—CKS, is immeasurable, providing a blueprint for combining raw punk energy with authentic queer narratives. This track is recommended for a relaxed scenario: “Listen while scoping cute guys on the beach from the bar. Margarita with sugar on the rim,” suggesting a blend of casual flirtation and defiant self-acceptance that embodies the band’s spirit and the carefree joy of Pride.
Marianne Faithfull, “Song For Nico”
In a departure from typical diva worship, ZSA admits his preference leans towards “divas with a narco glimmer and bad girl attitude” over pop icons like Gaga and Cher. Among these, the inimitable Marianne Faithfull holds a truly special place in his heart. Her distinctive “world-weary baritone” and the legendary “Beelzebub trails of cigarette smoke” that seemed to follow her encapsulate a raw, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll glamour. Faithfull’s career, marked by tumultuous personal experiences and remarkable artistic resilience, makes her an icon of endurance and unapologetic self-expression. “Song For Nico” stands out as a unique entry in her discography, a shimmering synth-infused collaboration with Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins. It’s a poignant tribute to another towering figure of rock and roll’s darker side: Nico, the enigmatic vocalist from The Velvet Underground, known for her distinctive voice and equally storied past. This choice highlights a lineage of strong, complex, and often troubled female artists who defied easy categorization, embodying a deeper, more profound kind of rock ‘n’ roll authenticity that resonates deeply with ZSA’s own artistic sensibilities. ZSA suggests this track as the perfect backdrop for the quiet aftermath of a party: “Play as you’re cleaning up after the party. Chase the Vicodin with the dregs of the red wine. Smoke a cigarette,” painting a picture of introspective, post-celebration solitude steeped in a glamorous melancholy that is both raw and utterly captivating.
… Anything by Billy Squier
Despite being aware of his heterosexuality, ZSA confesses that “there was always something about Billy Squier that spoke to the future-gay-frontman in me.” This intriguing connection speaks to the often-subtle ways queer individuals find resonance and inspiration in unexpected places, even within mainstream rock. ZSA ponders what precisely made Squier so captivating: “Was it that unbelievable hair, the lips, the fluidity of his stage moves? Dunno, don’t care.” The ambiguity itself is part of the allure, highlighting how charisma and performance can transcend traditional categories and spark an awakening, shaping nascent queer identities. Squier himself famously believed that the video for his song ‘Rock Me Tonight,’ in which he flounces playfully in a minimalist pink tank top, effectively derailed his career, leading to a perceived backlash. However, ZSA argues the exact opposite, asserting that for him, it “launched innumerable naughty teenage dreams.” This perspective brilliantly reclaims and reinterprets a moment of perceived career sabotage as a powerful, formative queer experience, turning a setback into a source of inspiration and fantasy. This track is designated for ultimate poolside liberation: “Play at the pool party after the swim trunks come off. Budweiser, please,” suggesting an atmosphere of uninhibited enjoyment and authentic self-expression that aligns perfectly with the joyous freedom of Pride.
Do you have a memory of Pride Months past that you’d like to share?
ZSA reiterates his profound observation about the evolution of Pride: “When I was a kid, Pride was still a niche celebration — now everyone’s Grandma is twerking on a float in the Pride parade and the Queer Eye guys are America’s life coaches. THAT is progress!” He proudly asserts The C—CKS’s role in this ongoing transformation, highlighting their contribution to a more inclusive and openly celebrated LGBTQ+ landscape. “I like to think we’re contributing to that evolution in some small way,” he adds, underscoring the band’s commitment to cultural change through music. The band’s unique dynamic brings together a “rainbow coalition of gay and straight” individuals, united in celebrating what ZSA cheekily refers to as “The D” – interpreted as diversity, defiance, and pure rock ‘n’ roll drive – all powered by the invigorating force of RNR (Rock ‘n’ Roll). This inclusive approach underscores their belief that true celebration transcends labels, focusing instead on shared joy and collective empowerment, creating a space where everyone is welcome to express themselves.
Pride is a time to celebrate unsung heroes. Is there anyone you’d like to see get some more of the spotlight this year?
While acknowledging her strong reputation within the Los Angeles punk community, ZSA passionately advocates for broader recognition for the exceptional Jenna Talia of Glitter Trash. “She’s certainly not unsung in the LA punk community,” he notes, “but I’d love to see the world revere her as much as I do.” Jenna Talia is lauded for her unwavering dedication to the punk rock trans/gression movement, having been at its “front lines for 20-plus years,” from the gritty underground scenes of Detroit to the vibrant, yet challenging, streets of LA. Her long-standing commitment to authentic self-expression and her fierce presence within the punk scene make her a true icon. For ZSA, Jenna Talia embodies the raw power and iconic presence of both Iggy Pop and Cherie Currie rolled into one, a true trailblazer whose contributions to queer punk culture and the broader LGBTQ+ community deserve a much wider spotlight and greater acclaim. Her influence has shaped countless artists and activists, making her a deserving figure for wider recognition during Pride and beyond.
What do you have planned for June (and the rest of 2023?)
The C—CKS are gearing up for an exceptionally busy summer, promising plenty of opportunities for fans to experience their unique blend of punk rock. Their upcoming schedule includes a performance at the highly anticipated Dragstrip 66 “Beach Bondage Barbie” event in Silverlake on July 23, an event known for its vibrant, inclusive atmosphere and fierce creativity. Beyond their electrifying live shows, the band is also intensely focused on studio work, with plans to release several new singles and accompanying videos throughout August. These releases will serve as tantalizing previews for their highly anticipated second album, which is currently in production, promising even more of their signature sound. ZSA particularly highlights the video for their track “Sex In Prison,” enthusiastically teasing, “Jailhouse C—K!” This promises another dose of their signature provocative humor and high-energy visuals, further cementing their reputation as a band that consistently challenges norms while delivering infectious rock anthems that are both thought-provoking and incredibly fun.
Do you have a Pride 2023 message to share?
With characteristic directness and punk rock fervor, ZSA delivers a concise yet powerful message for Pride 2023, drawing directly from the heart of The C—CKS’s discography. His personal credo, and arguably the band’s most anthemic tune, serves as his ultimate declaration: “Damn straight! It’s our most anthemic tune and my personal credo — ‘It’s Better Being Gay’!” This emphatic statement not only encapsulates the band’s unapologetic celebration of queer identity but also reinforces their commitment to positive, empowering messages delivered with raw punk energy. It’s a rallying cry for self-acceptance, joy, and the inherent beauty of queer existence, resonating deeply with the core values of Pride. The message is clear: embrace who you are, celebrate loudly, and find strength in authenticity.
Click here to follow The C—CKS on Instagram (Basically, it’s @thec—ksband [But use the other 2 letters!])
As “The Sound of Pride” series concludes, remember that the spirit of Pride is boundless. Continue to support LGBTQ+ rights and artists, carrying the message of love, acceptance, and unapologetic self-expression forward throughout the entire year. Engage with the history, protect the rights, and celebrate the vibrant culture that makes the LGBTQ+ community so resilient and inspiring. And as ZSA and The C—CKS remind us with their vibrant spirit and infectious music – fix your heart or die!