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Band Timeline

1994

Formation of Evanescence in Little Rock, Arkansas

Evanescence was formed in 1994 by singer and keyboardist Amy Lee and guitarist Ben Moody in Little Rock, Arkansas. The duo met at a Christian youth camp and quickly bonded over their shared sense of being outsiders. Within a month, they started collaborating musically, performing acoustic sets locally. Their early sound was marked by a desire for dramatic, cinematic arrangements despite limited resources. This initial partnership laid the foundation for the band's musical identity and future development.
2003

Debut Album 'Fallen' Released, Achieving Breakthrough Success

After years of developing their sound with independent EPs and demos, Evanescence released their major label debut album, 'Fallen,' in 2003 through Wind-up Records. The album featured hit singles such as 'Bring Me to Life' and 'My Immortal,' which gained significant mainstream attention. 'Fallen' achieved multi-platinum status, selling over four million copies in the US alone by early 2004, and showcased the band's fusion of gothic alternative metal and hard rock with orchestral elements. This breakthrough propelled Evanescence to worldwide fame and critical acclaim.
2004

Release of First Live Album and Concert DVD 'Anywhere but Home'

Building on the massive success of 'Fallen,' Evanescence released their first live album and concert DVD, 'Anywhere but Home,' in 2004. The release captured performances during their worldwide touring cycle and sold over one million copies globally. This live album helped solidify their reputation as a powerful live act, allowing fans to experience the band's intense and emotional stage presence, and broadened their audience further through visual media.
2006

Second Studio Album 'The Open Door' and Lineup Changes

Evanescence released their sophomore album, 'The Open Door,' in 2006, largely co-written by Amy Lee and new guitarist Terry Balsamo following Ben Moody's departure. The album continued the band's signature blend of metal and orchestration and was met with commercial and critical success, selling over six million copies worldwide. Along with the album, the band saw lineup changes including the addition of guitarist Tim McCord, reflecting their evolution from a duo to a collaborative band. 'The Open Door' earned a Grammy nomination, reinforcing their standing in rock and metal music.
2011

Release of Self-Titled Album 'Evanescence' and First Fully Collaborative Band Effort

In 2011, Evanescence released their third studio album, titled 'Evanescence,' marking the first album fully co-written by the entire band, including members Terry Balsamo, Troy McLawhorn, Tim McCord, and Will Hunt. This album debuted at number one on multiple Billboard charts, including the Billboard 200 and Rock Albums charts. The release reflected a matured and cohesive band sound, blending hard rock and electronic influences. The album's success was followed by an extensive touring cycle, cementing their continued relevance in rock music.
2014

Band Goes Independent and Enters Hiatus

In 2014, Amy Lee and Evanescence parted ways with their record label and chose to operate as an independent band. Following the end of the tour cycle for their 2011 album, the band entered a hiatus. During this period, Amy Lee focused on solo projects and new musical directions, while the band members pursued individual endeavors. This hiatus provided time for reflection and reorientation towards their future musical path.
2017

Release of Fourth Album 'Synthesis' Featuring Orchestral and Electronica Arrangements

'Synthesis,' released in 2017, marked a significant creative departure for Evanescence. It featured orchestral and electronic reimaginings of their previous songs alongside two new compositions. This album underscored Amy Lee's interest in blending classical music elements with their established rock sound. The accompanying Synthesis Live tour was notable for the band's first performances with live orchestras, expanding their artistic range and offering fans an immersive symphonic rock experience.
2021

Fifth Studio Album 'The Bitter Truth' Released Amidst Pandemic Delays

After delays caused by the global pandemic, Evanescence released their fifth studio album, 'The Bitter Truth,' in 2021. The album continued to showcase their signature heavy yet melodic alternative metal and hard rock style. It achieved commercial success, reaching the top five on several Billboard charts such as Independent, Alternative, and Hard Rock. The album reaffirmed Evanescence's resilience and sustained impact in the rock music scene after decades of evolution and challenges.
2022

Band Lineup Update with Bassist Emma Anzai Joining

In 2022, Evanescence updated their lineup with the addition of bassist Emma Anzai. This change reflected the band's ongoing dynamic evolution, incorporating talented musicians that complemented their sound. The updated lineup consisted of Amy Lee (vocals, keyboards), Tim McCord and Troy McLawhorn (guitars), Will Hunt (drums), and Emma Anzai on bass. The band continued to maintain their distinctive fusion of gothic alternative metal, hard rock, and orchestral elements, remaining a prominent force in the genre.
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Troy McLawhorn

2007

Guitar

Emma Anzai

2022

Bass guitar

Tim McCord

2022

Guitar

Amy Lee

1995

Piano

Lead vocals

Keyboard

Harp

Will Hunt

2007

Drums (drum set)

Jen Majura

2015

Guitar

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Rocky Gray

2003
2007

Drums (drum set)

Tim McCord

2006
2022

Bass guitar

John LeCompt

2003
2007

Guitar

Terry Balsamo

2004
2015

Guitar

Ben Moody

1995
2003

Guitar

William Boyd

2003
2006

Bass guitar

David Hodges

1999
2002

Keyboard

Story of Evanescence

Evanescence: A Rock Band Story of Triumph and Evolution

Evanescence, hailing from the heartland of Little Rock, Arkansas, exploded onto the scene in the late '90s, birthed from the creative partnership of the enigmatic Amy Lee (vocals, keyboards) and the visionary Ben Moody (guitar). Their early years were marked by a string of independent EPs, showcasing a raw and emotive sound that resonated with listeners.

Their breakthrough arrived in 2003 with the release of their debut album, Fallen, a powerful testament to their raw talent. Propelled by the anthemic "Bring Me to Life" and the hauntingly beautiful "My Immortal," Fallen achieved commercial and critical success, selling over four million copies in the US alone and earning the band two Grammy Awards. The album cemented Evanescence's place as a force in the rock world, their sound resonating with a generation craving emotional depth and raw energy.

Further solidifying their status, Evanescence released their first live album and concert DVD, Anywhere but Home in 2004, selling over a million copies worldwide. This marked a pivotal moment, showcasing their captivating live presence and solidifying their global reach.

Their sophomore effort, The Open Door, arrived in 2006, featuring a new co-writer in the form of guitarist Terry Balsamo. This album, while maintaining their signature sound, showcased a more mature and refined musical direction, garnering a Grammy nomination and selling over six million copies worldwide.

Following a period of change, Evanescence regrouped in 2009 with a new lineup: Terry Balsamo (guitar), Troy McLawhorn (guitar), Tim McCord (bass) and Will Hunt (drums). This re-energized lineup unleashed their self-titled third album, Evanescence, in 2011. This marked a turning point as the band collaborated on the songwriting for the first time, resulting in a record that reflected their collective creative vision. The album soared to the top of multiple Billboard charts, solidifying their position as a major force in the rock music scene.

After touring extensively in support of the album, Evanescence entered a hiatus, allowing the members to pursue individual projects and recharge their creative batteries.

Evanescence's story is one of evolution, resilience, and unwavering passion for music. From their humble beginnings in Arkansas to conquering the global stage, they have consistently delivered powerful, emotionally charged music that continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Their journey is far from over, promising exciting chapters in the band's ongoing narrative.

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