Doug Staiman and guitarist Ari Friedman attended Yeshiva University and Queens College together and bonded over their shared music tastes.
[1] When Staiman moved back to New York City in 2008 after studying in yeshiva in Israel, he was introduced to the local Jewish music scene through a friend.
Released in early 2010, the video became a surprise viral hit and became popular among agunah activists, convincing Staiman to make "The Groggers" an official band shortly afterward.
The video, commissioned by plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Salzhauer, became the subject of widespread controversy and criticism due to its portrayal of rhinoplasty and accusations of playing into antisemitic tropes.
"Not Going to Shacharis", co-written with Aryeh Kunstler, was given a video featuring cameos from Kosha Dillz, Mendy Pellin, and Etan G of Shlock Rock.
Following another hiatus period, during which Staiman and the other members pursued various projects, the band resurfaced in January 2023 with social media posts teasing a new single.