Scott Kempner

Scott Kempner is an American musician, best known as a founding member of the influential rock band The Dictators and later as a member of the roots rock group The Del-Lords. Emerging from the New York City punk scene in the early 1970s, Kempner's work with The Dictators contributed to the punk and protopunk movements, blending elements of rock, punk, and garage music. Notable works with The Dictators include their acclaimed debut album, "Go Girl Crazy!" (1975), featuring tracks like "Master Race Rock" and "California Sun." In the 1980s, Kempner formed The Del-Lords, which showcased a more roots-oriented sound, evident in albums such as "Get Tough!" (1984) and "Based on a True Story" (1986). His songwriting often reflects themes of Americana, drawing on rock and country influences. Kempner's impact on music lies in his ability to merge punk energy with melodic rock, influencing subsequent generations of musicians. His contributions have been recognized as significant in the evolution of American rock music, especially within the realms of punk and roots rock.