They may have started out as another early-'80s, Ramones-influenced Cal-punk band, but before long Social Distortion was incorporating a distinct C&W influence into their jackhammer drive. In a sandpaper rasp, singer Mike Ness told tales of drugs, jail, and woman trouble, all from personal experience. In the '90s, Ness and company emerged from their tribulations with a streamlined sound that made an impact on a larger audience, and Social Distorion became the frontguard of latter-day cowpunk.