311

311: A Rock Band Story

Hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, 311 (pronounced "three eleven") has been a cornerstone of the American rock scene since their formation in 1988. The band's core lineup, vocalist and guitarist Nick Hexum, lead guitarist Jim Watson, bassist Aaron "P-Nut" Wills, and drummer Chad Sexton, quickly established themselves as a dynamic force. While Watson departed in 1990, he was replaced by Tim Mahoney, adding another layer of talent to their sound.

The band's journey took a pivotal turn in 1992 with the arrival of Doug "SA" Martinez, who joined as a second vocalist and turntablist. This addition brought a unique blend of hip-hop and reggae influences into their already diverse sonic palette.

Over the years, 311 has built an impressive discography, boasting 13 studio albums, 2 live albums, 4 compilation albums, 4 EPs, and 4 DVDs. After a period of independent releases, they signed with Capricorn Records in 1992, releasing their albums "Music" (1993) and "Grassroots" (1994) to moderate success.

Their self-titled album in 1995, however, propelled them to new heights. Achieving triple-platinum status, it reached number 12 on the Billboard 200 charts, fueled by the iconic singles "Down" and "All Mixed Up." The latter, particularly, climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks in 1996.

311 continued their streak of success with their next three albums – "Transistor" (1997), "Soundsystem" (1999), and "From Chaos" (2001) – achieving platinum and gold certifications respectively. Their 2004 compilation album, "Greatest Hits '93-'03," also secured platinum status, showcasing the enduring power of their music.

The band's most recent studio album, "Voyager," was released in 2019, solidifying their legacy as a vibrant and innovative force in the rock world. 311's ability to blend rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop elements has captivated audiences for over three decades, making them one of the most influential and enduring bands of their generation.