The Whitest Boy Alive was formed in 2003 in Bergen, Norway by singer/guitarist Erlend Øye, bassist Detlef Knaus, and drummer Kruno Matić. The band's name was inspired by a song by the German post-punk band Die Krupps. Øye, who is also known for his work with the band Kings of Convenience, is the primary songwriter and driving force behind The Whitest Boy Alive.