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Band Timeline

1995

Formation of Blue October in Houston, Texas

Blue October was formed in 1995 in Houston, Texas by lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist Justin Furstenfeld, his brother Jeremy Furstenfeld on drums, and multi-instrumentalist Ryan Delahoussaye. The band spent their early years developing their sound and gaining exposure through extensive touring and live performances, including being discovered by manager Michael Rand in 1998.
1998

Release of debut album 'The Answers'

In 1998, Blue October released their debut album titled 'The Answers.' The album was well-received locally, selling over 5,000 copies in Houston alone. Managed by the Furstenfeld brothers' parents under RoDan Entertainment, the band gained early attention and performed live on local television through a fan connection, which helped increase their regional exposure.
1999

Signing with Universal Records and releasing 'Consent to Treatment'

Blue October signed with Universal Records in 1999 and released their second studio album, 'Consent to Treatment.' Despite the initial promise, the band faced challenges with the label and was dropped by Universal in 2000. This period was marked by efforts to create a more radio-friendly sound and extensive touring to build their audience independently.
2003

Release and re-release of 'History for Sale'

After temporarily losing bassist Matt Noveskey and signing with management company Rainmaker Artists, Blue October recorded their third album 'History for Sale' under Brando Records in 2003. The single 'Calling You' gained significant radio play, especially in Dallas, helping to expand the band's fan base. Subsequently, the band was offered deals from major labels and returned to Universal Republic Records, re-releasing the album later that year. 'History for Sale' reflected the band's struggles with label control experienced during 'Consent to Treatment.'
2006

Breakthrough with 'Foiled' and platinum success

Blue October achieved mainstream commercial success in 2006 with the release of their platinum album 'Foiled.' This album produced their best-known hits, including 'Hate Me' and 'Into the Ocean,' which received extensive airplay and charted on the alternative rock charts. 'Foiled' marked a major turning point for the band, significantly increasing their national and international recognition, and helping them build a larger, loyal fanbase.
1998-2003

Recognition and awards in Houston Press Music Awards

Between 1998 and 2003, Blue October received multiple accolades from the Houston Press music awards. These included Best New Act in 1998, and Best Pop/Rock artist across several years (1999, 2000, 2002, and 2003). In 2003, their album 'History for Sale' was named Album of the Year by the Houston Press, underscoring their growing impact and presence in the local music scene.
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Story of Blue October

Hailing from Houston, Texas, Blue October emerged in 1995, solidifying their place as a cornerstone of the city's legendary rock scene. The band – currently featuring Justin Furstenfeld (vocals/guitar), Jeremy Furstenfeld (drums), Ryan Delahoussaye (multi-instrumentalist), Matt Noveskey (bass), and Steve Schiltz (lead guitar) – boasts a formidable catalog. Across twelve studio albums, they've amassed twenty Top 40 singles on the alternative rock charts, achieving platinum status with hits like "Hate Me" and "Into the Ocean" from their acclaimed 2006 album, Foiled. Their latest project, the ambitious triple album Spinning the Truth Around, is being released in three installments, with the first dropping October 14, 2022, and the second on October 13, 2023.

Blue October's impact extends beyond their chart success. Their accolades include numerous Houston Press Music Awards, recognizing them as Best New Act (1998) and repeatedly as Best Pop/Rock Artist (1999, 2000, 2002, 2003), culminating in the Album of the Year award for History for Sale in 2003.

Early Years and The Answers (1995-1998):

Formed by Justin Furstenfeld, his brother Jeremy, and Ryan Delahoussaye, Blue October's breakthrough came in 1998. A chance performance at Houston's Pappadeaux Cafe caught the attention of former Kid Rock manager Michael Rand. Recognizing their potential, Rand's agency orchestrated an aggressive marketing campaign, booking over 350 dates for the then-unsigned band, providing crucial publicity and artist development. This strategic push laid the groundwork for their future success.

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