From 1976 til 1982 Moritz was a lead singer in two bands. 'Hard Ball' based in LA with guitarist Harry Hess (from The Texas Tornados) bassist Jim Valvano (from Thee Midniters) and drummer Johnny Perez ( The Sir Douglas Quintet). The band played legendary clubs like Madam Wongs, The Hong Kong Cafe, Al's Bar and Club 88 with fellow acts, THE Blasters, The Plimsouls and X. Later Moritz and Hess formed 'The Hornets' and relocated to New York City where they appeared with such bands like The Ramones. The Jim Carroll Band,and Screaming Jay Hawkins.