You got a guy for tickets

Bad Examples Tickets

Follow Bad Examples tour dates and be first in line when new tickets drop - all backed by our 100% Buyer Guarantee.

100% Buyer Guarantee Secure checkout (312) 644-6446

On the schedule

Bad Examples Tour Dates & Tickets

Loading current ticket availability

Inside the performance

Sound, stage & company

Onstage company

Documented collaborators

The Bad Examples are a Chicago-born band formed in 1987 under the leadership of Ralph Covert. Known for their enduring activity and evolving lineup, they’ve built a dedicated following both in the U.S. and abroad. The project has balanced studio albums, live performances, and notable crossovers into family music through Ralph’s World, highlighting Covert’s versatility as a songwriter and performer.

Onstage company

Documented collaborators

In Europe, their track Not Dead Yet helped raise international awareness in 1991, contributing to the band’s enduring visibility. The 2011 studio album Smash Record, released on Waterdog Records, stands as a recent milestone in their catalog, reflecting a mature indie-rock sound with catchy hooks and thoughtful lyrics.

Onstage company

Documented collaborators

Ralph Covert’s broader musical footprint includes Grammy-nominated work with Ralph’s World, which earned a Best Musical Album for Children nomination at the 48th Grammy Awards in 2006. This hub of creativity demonstrates the breadth of Covert’s talents and the Bad Examples’ flexible approach to making and sharing music.

The live experience

What reaches the room

This page highlights the Bad Examples’ biography, discography highlights, and upcoming tour information for fans near Chicago and beyond. We’ll keep you posted on new releases and live dates as they’re announced.

Onstage company

Documented collaborators

Upcoming 2025 tour dates include FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, IL on October 11, 2025, and Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora, IL on December 19, 2025. Dates are listed as standalone events with venue details, times, and ticket availability. Secure your seats with confidence—The Bad Examples offer a consistent live show that blends their indie-rock roots with hooks that fans keep returning for.

Onstage company

Documented collaborators

Social links and official pages keep you connected with the band, and you can explore additional material on Bandcamp and through Ralph Covert’s official site. All streaming platforms also carry the band’s catalog for easy listening on the go.

The essentials

Quick Facts About Bad Examples

  • Formed in 1987 in Chicago, Illinois, led by Ralph Covert with a history of lineup changes but enduring activity as The Bad Examples.
  • Not Dead Yet became a notable track in Europe (Netherlands) in 1991 and helped the band gain international attention.
  • Smash Record (2011) is the band’s latest studio album under Waterdog Records.
  • Grammy-nominated Ralph’s World (Covert’s children’s project) earned a Best Musical Album for Children nomination at the 48th Grammy Awards (2006).
  • Band maintains social presence via Bandcamp and the artist’s official site; The Bad Examples’ material is also available on streaming platforms.

The records

Bad Examples Discography

  • Smash Record
    2011 · Waterdog Records
  • Good Examples of Bad Examples
    2005 · Waterdog Records
  • 5000 Days
    2001 · Waterdog Records
  • The Two Meter Sessions
    1998 · Waterdog Records
  • Popscape: The Best of Ralph Covert & The Bad Examples
    1996 · Waterdog Records
  • Kisses 50 Cents
    1995 · Waterdog Records
  • Cheap Beer Night
    1992 · Waterdog Records
  • Bad Is Beautiful
    1991 · Jaws
  • Meat: The Bad Examples
    1987 · Waterdog Records

The hits

Top Bad Examples Songs

  • Not Dead Yet
    1990 · Netherlands Top 40 entry (1991)

Upcoming 2025 tour dates include FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, IL on October 11, 2025, and Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora, IL on December 19, 2025. Dates are listed as standalone events with venue details, times, and ticket availability. Secure your seats with confidence—The Bad Examples offer a consistent live show that blends their indie-rock roots with hooks that fans keep returning for.

Social links and official pages keep you connected with the band, and you can explore additional material on Bandcamp and through Ralph Covert’s official site. All streaming platforms also carry the band’s catalog for easy listening on the go.

Links to official social media and resources (target="_blank" rel="noopener"):

Venue details, such as capacity and location, are provided for each event to help you plan your visit. If you’re in the Midwest, this is a standout chance to catch a long-standing Chicagoan act in an intimate setting.

Pick your night

Browse Concert Tickets

100% GuaranteeSee refund conditions
Secure CheckoutEncrypted & protected
Invalid-Entry ProtectionVenue letter required
Since 199331+ years in Chicago