Formed in 2003 by members of One Man Army and Western Addiction, Dead to Me quickly gained a following in San Francisco's punk scene with their gritty, working-class sound reminiscent of late-'70s punk and Dillinger Four. The band's lineup solidified with the addition of drummer Ian Anderson and they signed to Fat Wreck Chords in 2006, releasing their debut album "Cuban Ballerina" produced by Alex Newport, which featured socially conscious lyrics addressing addiction and recovery.

Dead to Me, a punk revivalist band hailing from San Francisco, emerged in the aftermath of One Man Army's breakup and gained local recognition by sharing the stage with notable acts such as NOFX and the Adolescents. With a sound blending classic punk influences and modern grit, the band's debut album "Cuban Ballerina" showcased their thematic exploration of addiction and recovery, reflecting bassist Chicken's personal journey through rehab. Signed to Fat Wreck Chords, Dead to Me's lineup solidified and their music resonated with audiences seeking raw, socially conscious punk rock.