Backstory:
Dirty Competition was born out of the hard-knock streets of Detroit, Michigan. The band was formed in 2008 by former skate shop co-workers, lead vocalist Jake “Snake” Hanson and drummer Mike “Moe” Madison. The band quickly blossomed as they added bassist Kelly “Killer” Kiel and lead guitarist Rob “Ruff” Russo. In the early days, the band was known for impromptu street performances, drawing crowds with their distinct sound and gritty lyrics, reflecting the everyday struggles and triumphs of life in the city.
Genre:
Dirty Competition identifies as a Punk Rock band, but they have a unique blend of bluesy undertones and raspy vocals that set them apart from the norm.
Song Title:
“Steel City Sunrise”
Full Song Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
[G] Woken up by the [D] hum of the city
[Em] Steel and smoke, ain’t [C] always pretty
[G] Working hard just to [D] make ends meet
[Em] In the heart of the [C] Motor City
(Chorus)
[G] Steel City Sunrise, [D] breaking the night
[Em] We’re just looking for a [C] piece of the light
[G] Burning rubber and [D] dreams taking flight
[Em] Underneath the [C] Steel City Sunrise
(Verse 2)
[G] She’s got dreams that [D] could fill the river
[Em] For a moment, can [C] make you shiver
[G] Tough as nails, but [D] she’s got grace
[Em] In the heart of the [C] human race
(Chorus)
[G] Steel City Sunrise, [D] breaking the night
[Em] We’re just looking for a [C] piece of the light
[G] Burning rubber and [D] dreams taking flight
[Em] Underneath the [C] Steel City Sunrise
Favorite Fan Testimonial:
The band’s favorite fan is a guy by the name of Louie “Loud” Lawson. Louie has been following Dirty Competition since their street performance days. He never misses a gig and is known for his wild energy, infectious smile, and uncanny ability to catch every guitar pick thrown into the crowd.
Louie enthusiastically says, “Dirty Competition, man, they’re my favorite because they’re real. Their music isn’t just about the struggles, it’s about the triumphs too. They’ve got this raw, gritty sound that just speaks to your soul, you know? Their live shows are like nothing else – the energy, the passion…it’s infectious. Plus, they’re just genuine, down-to-earth guys. They’ve never forgotten their roots, and that’s something I can really respect.”