The B-52's are a New Wave rock band formed in Athens, Georgia in 1976.  The band's name comes from a particular beehive hairdo that is wrapped around, instead of teased, with an open "hole" in the top.During the band's first years, wigs of that style were often worn by the band's female singers Cindy Wilson and Kate Pierson. The band was definitely not named after the airplane of the same name.  Wilson and Pierson formed the band with drummer Keith Strickland, guitarist Ricky Wilson (Cindy's older brother) and vocalist Fred Schneider after a drunken night at a Chinese restaurant and played their first gig in 1977 at a St. Valentine's Day party for friends. The B-52's sound is marked by the vocals and lush harmonies of Wilson and Pierson, and the generally monotone or spoken-word vocals of Schneider.  The band's quirky take on the New Wave sound of their era was a combination of dance and surf music set apart by the unusual guitar tunings used by Ricky Wilson. Their costume thrift-store chic set them apart as well. During the Mesopotamia tour, the band's famous wigs were under the care of Jackie Slayton, one of Athens's leading artists and long-time friend of the band.  As of 2006 the band continues to perform, electrifying audiences with their quirky, innovative style and lush vocals. Recently, the band announced they are working on a new album and a compilation of new remixes of their earlier work.   See the B-52's LIVE!  Purchase your B-52 tickets today!