The L.A. Boppers began as Side Effect's backup band in Los Angeles, but in the early '80's found limited success on their own. The L.A. Boppers were originally formed by Augie Johnson. It's members were: Vance 'Mad Dog' Tenort, John 'Iron Lips' Ervin, Dave 'The Groover' Grover, Stan 'Be-Bop' Martin, Bob 'The Professor' Greve, Chuck 'The German' Brooke, Kevin 'Shake Your Booty' Davis, Ed 'Funky Fingers' Luna, Ed 'Funky Thumbs' Reddick and Robert 'The Popper' Griffin.