This is the original logo/image for the show when it was planned as a cartoon to pitch to Adult Swim back in 2003.  
A little secret not in the interviews below; Originally, in Oct. of 2003,  Sal Amato had created a few characters with colorful names that were to be made into little statuettes (similar to 'Homies') and sold as such.  

Vinnie Da Nose, Lenny The Torch, Lard and Frankie O were the original statuettes to be produced.  The inspiration to write the episodes came after his years of lobbying and dealing with a great many politicians on both sides of the aisle and many in the entertainment business. The scripts were written in Dec. 2003.

Below you'll find interviews and information on how the show came to be with the Producer/Writer and actor Sal Amato who plays Mickey Auriano in the show and Frankie Hollywood Rodriguez who voices the character of Rat Bastard.