DanaHaynes's Music Collectibles 1-6 Molly Hatchet
Molly Hatchet is an American southern rock band renowned for its gritty sound, hard-driving guitars, and fusion of southern blues and heavy rock influences. Formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1971, the band originally consisted of guitarist Dave Hlubek, vocalist Danny Joe Brown, guitarist Duane Roland, guitarist Steve Holland, bassist Banner Thomas, and drummer Bruce Crump. Named after a legendary 17th-century axe-wielding prostitute, Molly Hatchet’s music captures the raw, rebellious spirit of southern rock, and their triple-guitar lineup gives their sound a powerful, layered effect. Known for their energetic live performances, the band quickly built a reputation across the southern U.S., often compared to fellow Jacksonville-based band Lynyrd Skynyrd.
The band's 1978 self-titled debut album, Molly Hatchet, introduced their hard-edged sound and bluesy swagger, while their 1979 follow-up, Flirtin’ with Disaster, propelled them to national fame. The title track became a hit and remains one of southern rock’s most iconic anthems, showcasing the band’s fierce guitar riffs and Brown’s distinctive vocals. Over the years, Molly Hatchet experienced numerous lineup changes, with various members coming and going, but they maintained a devoted fanbase and continued to tour and release new music. Albums like Beatin’ the Odds (1980) and Take No Prisoners (1981) further cemented their legacy. Despite the challenges and changes, Molly Hatchet remains a staple of southern rock, celebrated for their unyielding spirit, hard-hitting sound, and place in rock history as one of the genre’s most enduring bands.
