The Mushuganas were known for their fast-paced and energetic punk sound, which was influenced by classic punk bands like the Ramones, the Buzzcocks, and the Undertones. They released their debut album, "The Mushuganas," in 1996, which was followed by a number of singles and EPs.

The band was active in the Chicago punk scene throughout the 1990s, playing shows with other local punk bands like Screeching Weasels and The Queers. They also toured extensively throughout the United States and Canada.