BETTY is an alternative rock group from New York City. The group originated in Washington, D.C. and traces its lineage to a birthday party for Dodie Bowers (the original owner of the 9:30 Club). The band's harmonies and unique lyrics attracted a cult following in the vibrant alternative music scene and among gay/lesbian audiences. A "BETTY Rules" t-shirt, an early marketing item of the band, appears on one of the AIDS quilts.

The band achieved notoriety by making their first major gig as a band an 'autobiographical' two-act musical at the legendary DC Space in February 1987. Entitled "BETTY:Inside Out", the show established the tongue-in-cheek personas of the band that follow them to present day: the ego of egomaniacal diva Amy, the id of shame-free rebel, Elizabeth and the superego of calm superhero, Alyson. The wild success of that sold-out run led to appearances at Howie Montaug's Danceteria and the ultra-hot clubs and lounges of the late 1980s' scene in New York City.