CKY’s Jess Margera on Jackass, Bam, MTV Nostalgia, AI & the Music That Saved HimChasta and Baby Huey go backstage at Aftershock Festival to catch up with CKY drummer Jess Margera for a conversation spanning CKY’s legendary history, Jackass, Bam Margera, MTV, skate culture and the changing music industry.
Jess looks back at the early days of CKY, when the band was gaining exposure through skate videos, MTV and Jackass before YouTube and social media changed the way artists became famous. He shares stories about the Margera family, Viva La Bam, his parents’ enduring connection with fans and why that chaotic era now feels like a simpler time.
Jess also gives an update on Bam, talks about his return to skating, and explains why music needs humanity — especially in an era of AI-generated music.
Plus, Jess discusses CKY’s upcoming shows, new music and the lasting impact of “96 Quite Bitter Beings.”