What We Do Is Secret

Jan Paul Beahm faces numerous challenges during his childhood in Los Angeles. As he navigates these difficulties, he discovers solace in education, which becomes a focal point in his life.

Through determination and hard work, Jan Paul develops into an exceptionally bright student at University High School. His unusual demeanor draws the attention of school officials, leading to a peculiar offer concerning his grades.

In December 1975, fueled by a passion for music and writing, Jan Paul proposes starting a band to his friend Georg Ruthenberg. This marks the initial step towards their shared musical journey.

Inspired by David Bowie's song 'Five Years', Jan Paul drafts an ambitious five-year plan for their band. This plan encapsulates their hopes and aspirations within the music industry.

In April 1977, the band, which would later be known as Germs, makes their tentative debut on stage. The performance is filled with challenges, including heckling from the audience and issues with their instruments.

After a chance encounter with Claude 'Kickboy Face' Bessy, the band performs an impromptu set at an open mic. This chaotic debut is met with a lackluster response, sparking a comical yet symbolic flour bomb incident.

As the band ventures deeper into the punk rock scene, Jan Paul adopts the name Bobby Pyn, which eventually transforms into Darby Crash. This evolution reflects both personal growth and musical identity.

The band faces heart-wrenching tragedy when drummer Becky loses her life, prompting lineup changes within Germs. This loss deeply affects the group and sets them on a turbulent path.

Chris Ashford steps in as the band's manager, pushing them to release their first single, 'Forming'. This track becomes one of the pioneering punk rock releases from Los Angeles and marks a significant turning point for Germs.

With the Masque as their base, the Germs welcome new drummer Don Bolles and start gaining traction within the punk rock scene. Their reputation soars, leading to increasingly larger venues and notable performances.

The Germs deliver a chaotic performance at the Roosevelt Hotel on Halloween 1978. This event symbolizes their rise and showcases the tumultuous and vibrant nature of their music and performances.

As Darby becomes entangled in heroin addiction, tensions rise within the band, particularly between Darby, Rob, and Don. The strain of their personal relationships exacerbates the challenges they face as a group.

The Germs are featured in Penelope Spheeris' documentary 'The Decline of Western Civilization'. Their performance under the alias GI at the Whisky a Go Go in December 1979 becomes a pivotal moment captured on film.

In December 1980, Darby Crash announces a 'farewell show' for Germs at the Starwood. This emotional concert serves as a poignant closure for the band and its dedicated fans.

After the farewell show, Darby Crash tragically passes away, leaving behind a legacy marked by turmoil and creativity. His death resonates profoundly with fans, especially as news of John Lennon's assassination breaks.