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Flyleaf

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Band Timeline

2002-2004

Formation and Early Years as Passerby

Flyleaf started as a band called Passerby in 2002 in Belton, Texas, with members Lacey Sturm, James Culpepper, Jared Hartmann, Sameer Bhattacharya, and Pat Seals. They played extensively in Texas, releasing three EPs and performing over 100 shows. In 2004, they showcased for RCA but were signed by Octone Records. They recorded an EP with producer Rick Parashar in Seattle. For legal reasons, they renamed themselves Flyleaf in June 2004 and released their EP with the single "Breathe Today".
2005-2008

Breakthrough with Self-Titled Debut Album

In 2005, Flyleaf recorded their first full-length album produced by Howard Benson, released on October 4, 2005. The album featured collaborators like Dave Navarro and Ryan White. Singles such as "I'm So Sick," "Fully Alive," "All Around Me," and "Sorrow" helped propel the album to platinum status, selling over one million copies. From 2006 to 2008, Flyleaf toured extensively, including major tours like Family Values and Music as a Weapon III. They released exclusive EPs during tours and expanded their international presence with tours in Australia and Europe.
2009

Release of Second Album 'Memento Mori' and Continued Success

Flyleaf released their second studio album, 'Memento Mori,' in 2009. It debuted and peaked at number 8 on the Billboard charts, reinforcing the band's mainstream rock and Christian metal presence. This album showcased their evolution musically and lyrically, with heavier and more polished production. The band's rising popularity was marked by both critical acclaim and strong sales, helping establish their lasting reputation in rock music circles.
2012

Lineup Change and Release of Third Album 'New Horizons'

Shortly before the release of their third album 'New Horizons' in 2012, lead vocalist Lacey Sturm announced her departure from Flyleaf, marking a significant change in the band’s lineup. Kristen May took over as the new lead vocalist. This transition was challenging given Sturm’s iconic status within the band, but the group continued to produce music and tour. 'New Horizons' reflected this new era, symbolizing both change and continuity in the band’s sound and identity.
2016

Departure of Kristen May and Hiatus

In August 2016, Kristen May, who had been the lead vocalist since 2012, left Flyleaf. This departure led to a period of inactivity for the band, essentially putting Flyleaf on hiatus. During this time, members pursued other projects and the band's future remained uncertain, marking a lull in their public and creative output.
2022

Reunion with Original Lead Vocalist Lacey Sturm

In November 2022, after several years of inactivity, Flyleaf announced that original lead vocalist Lacey Sturm had rejoined the band. This reunion was met with enthusiasm from fans and marked a resurgence for Flyleaf as they revisited their roots and prepared for new creative endeavors. Sturm's return signaled potential new music and live performances, rekindling the band's presence in the rock music scene.

Albums

flyleaf_1st_album
Flyleaf
11 tracks
2005
flyleaf_2nd_album
Memento Mori
19 tracks
2009
flyleaf_3rd_album
New Horizons
11 tracks
2012
flyleaf_4th_album
Between the Stars
16 tracks
2014
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Sameer Bhattacharya

2002

Background vocals

Guitar

Benjamin Burnley, Josh and Lacey Sturm

N/A

Jared Hartmann

2002

Guitar

Pat Seals

2002

Background vocals

Bass

James Culpepper

2002

Membranophone

Percussion

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Lacey Sturm

2002
2012

Lead vocals

Kristen May

2012
2016

Lead vocals

Story of Flyleaf

Hailing from Belton, Texas, Flyleaf exploded onto the scene in 2002, quickly making a name for themselves in the rock world. Their sound transcended genre boundaries, impacting mainstream rock, Christian pop, and Christian metal charts. After extensive touring throughout the US in 2003, their self-titled debut album dropped in 2005, achieving platinum status with over a million copies sold. Building on this success, their 2009 release, Memento Mori, peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard charts, solidifying their position in the rock landscape.

A significant shift occurred before the release of their third album, New Horizons (2012), with the departure of original lead vocalist Lacey Sturm. Kristen May stepped in, fronting the band until August 2016. Following several years of hiatus, Flyleaf triumphantly announced Sturms return in November 2022, reigniting anticipation for the bands future.

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