Follow Your Favorite Band Today!

Be the first one to follow Candlebox!

Top Candlebox Community Posts

Loading posts...
Sponsor content

Band Timeline

1990

Formation of Candlebox

Candlebox was formed in November 1990 in Seattle, Washington. The original lineup included lead singer Kevin Martin, guitarist Peter Klett, bassist Bardi Martin, and drummer Scott Mercado. The band started performing live shows by 1991 and quickly gained popularity in the local Seattle music scene.
1993

Debut Album and Breakthrough Success

On July 20, 1993, Candlebox released their self-titled debut album. The album featured hit singles such as "Change", "You", "Far Behind", and "Cover Me". It was a commercial success, selling over four million copies and peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard charts. Notably, the single "Far Behind" reached the top 20 and remained on the charts for over six months. This early success landed Candlebox opening slots for major bands like Rush and Metallica, as well as an appearance at Woodstock '94. The band also won Metal Edge magazine's 1994 Readers' Choice Award for Best New Band.
1995

Second Album 'Lucy' and Sustained Success

Candlebox released their second studio album, 'Lucy', on October 3, 1995. The album was certified gold and featured singles like "Simple Lessons" and "Understanding". While 'Lucy' marked the beginning of a decline in the band’s mainstream popularity, it maintained solid sales and critical recognition. The band toured extensively in support of the album, playing alongside well-known acts such as Foo Fighters and Everclear. During this period, original drummer Scott Mercado left the band in 1997 and was replaced by Pearl Jam's Dave Krusen.
1998

Third Album 'Happy Pills' and Challenges

On July 21, 1998, Candlebox released their third album, 'Happy Pills', which returned to the simpler rock sound reminiscent of their debut. Despite its musical direction, the album only achieved limited commercial success. One notable track, "Glowing Soul", was featured on the soundtrack of the Adam Sandler film 'The Waterboy'. This period also saw further lineup changes with Dave Krusen departing and Shannon Larkin joining as drummer, and bassist Bardi Martin replaced by Rob Redick.
2000

Breakup due to Record Contract Issues

By the year 2000, Candlebox disbanded primarily due to dissatisfaction with their record label contract with Maverick Records. The band members sought a way to be released from their deal after two years of conflict, leading to the breakup. Following the dissolution, members pursued other musical projects throughout the 2000s.
2006

Candlebox Reunion

Candlebox reunited in 2006 after six years of inactivity. This marked a revival in the band's career and the beginning of a new creative phase. The reunited band returned to performing live and started working on new material, rallying both old fans and attracting new audiences.
2008

Release of 'Into the Sun' and Renewed Creative Output

In 2008, Candlebox released 'Into the Sun', their first studio album since reuniting. The album showcased the band’s revitalized energy and commitment to their rock roots. It received positive responses from fans and helped reestablish Candlebox in the contemporary rock scene.
2012

Release of 'Love Stories & Other Musings'

The band followed up with another album in 2012, titled 'Love Stories & Other Musings'. This release continued to explore Rock and Post-grunge influences and demonstrated the band's matured sound. The album was part of Candlebox’s ongoing output through the 2010s that solidified their legacy beyond their 90s success.
2016

Release of 'Disappearing in Airports'

In 2016, Candlebox released their sixth studio album, 'Disappearing in Airports'. The album was marked by a mix of introspective lyrics and melodic rock sensibilities. It was recorded with a stable lineup and furthered the band's presence in the modern rock music landscape.
2021

Release of 'Wolves'

Candlebox released their seventh studio album 'Wolves' in 2021. This album featured a contemporary rock sound while retaining the band's signature style. It exemplified the band's persistence in evolving musically while still catering to their long-time fans.
2023

Final Album 'The Long Goodbye' Released

On August 25, 2023, Candlebox released what is considered their final album, 'The Long Goodbye'. This release caps off a career spanning over three decades. The album reflects the band's journey, closing the chapter on their influential presence in American rock with a mature and reflective collection of songs.
Sponsor content
Loading....

Story of Candlebox

Candlebox: A Seattle Grunge Legacy

Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Candlebox emerged in 1990, quickly establishing themselves as a force in the burgeoning grunge scene. Their self-titled debut album, released in July 1993, catapulted them to immediate success. Fueled by the powerful singles "Change," "You," "Far Behind," and "Cover Me," the album achieved quadruple platinum certification from the RIAA. "Far Behind," in particular, cracked the top 20 charts.

Following up with the gold-certified Lucy (1995) and Happy Pills (1998), Candlebox’s trajectory was unfortunately interrupted by label disputes, leading to their disbandment in 2000.

However, the Seattle sound wasn't silenced for long. The band reunited in 2006, proving their enduring appeal. Their post-reunion output includes five more studio albums: Into the Sun (2008), Love Stories & Other Musings (2012), Disappearing in Airports (2016), Wolves (2021), and their final album, The Long Goodbye, released August 25, 2023. Beyond these albums, their catalog also includes a compilation album and a CD/DVD release.

Early Days (1990-1992):

Initially comprised of vocalist Kevin Martin, guitarist Peter Klett, bassist Bardi Martin, and drummer Scott Mercado, Candlebox honed their craft in Seattle’s vibrant music scene. By 1992, they were regular fixtures in renowned clubs like RKCNDY and Farside, building a dedicated following. An eight-song EP caught the attention of Maverick Records, sealing their deal with the label and setting the stage for their breakthrough.

Sponsor content
Loading....

Bands you may like