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Band Timeline

2008

Formation of Fun.

Fun. was formed in February 2008 in New York City shortly after the breakup of Nate Ruess's previous band, The Format. Nate Ruess invited Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff to join him in this new project. The trio quickly began collaborating, with Ruess focusing on melodies and Dost and Antonoff providing instrumentation. Their first demo song was "Benson Hedges." They embarked on their first tour later that year, opening for Jack's Mannequin, which helped establish their presence in the indie pop and rock scene.
2009

Debut Album "Aim and Ignite" Released

Fun. recorded their debut studio album "Aim and Ignite" in fall 2008, which was released on August 25, 2009. The album showcased their progressive and adventurous pop style, receiving generally positive reviews for its innovative production and witty lyrics. The lead single "At Least I'm Not as Sad As I Used to Be" was released earlier in April 2009. Despite moderate commercial success, the album laid the groundwork for their later mainstream breakthrough. The band's sound was noted for mixing lush orchestration with energetic pop hooks.
2011

Breakthrough with Single "We Are Young"

In September 2011, Fun. released the single "We Are Young," featuring Janelle Monáe. The song quickly gained traction after exposure on online media and a cover on the TV show Glee. Its profile soared further when featured in a Chevrolet Sonic Super Bowl commercial in early 2012, leading to widespread radio play. The single reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and achieved top ten positions internationally. This marked Fun.'s first significant commercial hit, signaling their transition from indie musicians to mainstream stars.
2012

Second Album "Some Nights" and Grammy Success

Fun.'s second studio album, "Some Nights," was released on February 21, 2012, achieving critical and commercial success. It debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200 and received platinum certification. The album produced multiple hit singles including the title track "Some Nights," which peaked at number three, and "Carry On," all charting in the top 20. At the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, Fun. won Song of the Year for "We Are Young" and Best New Artist, marking a peak in their career. Their blend of theatrical pop-rock and introspective lyrics resonated broadly, securing their place in popular music.

Albums

fun._1st_album
Aim and Ignite
15 tracks
2009
fun._2nd_album
Some Nights
12 tracks
2012
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Andrew Dost

2008

Guitar

Trumpet

Piano

Keyboard

Background vocals

Bass guitar

Drums (drum set)

Flugelhorn

Glockenspiel

Nate Ruess

2008

Lead vocals

Jack Antonoff

2008

Guitar

Drums (drum set)

Background vocals

Piano

Story of fun.

fun. (stylized as fun.): The Indie Pop Band That Took the World by Storm

fun. was a New York City-based indie pop band known for their infectious energy and catchy melodies. The trio consisted of the talented musicians:

  • Nate Ruess: A seasoned frontman, previously known for his work with The Format.
  • Jack Antonoff: A multi-instrumentalist and prolific songwriter, best known for his work with the band Steel Train.
  • Andrew Dost: A talented multi-instrumentalist who had previously collaborated with The Format.

The band's journey began in 2008, shortly after The Format disbanded. Nate Ruess, yearning for a fresh start, invited Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff to join his new project. Dost, who had previously toured and contributed to The Format, readily accepted the offer. Ruess and Antonoff had crossed paths when The Format toured with Steel Train, forging a musical connection.

The band's debut album, "Aim and Ignite," was released in 2009, establishing fun. as a force to be reckoned with in the indie music scene. However, it was their second album, "Some Nights," released in 2012, that catapulted them to international stardom.

"Some Nights" peaked at number three on the Billboard 200 chart and topped both the Top Alternative Albums and Top Rock Albums charts. This critical and commercial success spawned some of fun.'s most iconic singles:

  • "We Are Young" featuring Janelle Monáe: This anthem of youth and optimism reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming their biggest hit.
  • "Some Nights" and "Carry On" were both chart-topping hits, further solidifying fun.'s status as a pop powerhouse.

At the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, fun. was honored with prestigious awards: "Song of the Year" for "We Are Young," and "Best New Artist."

With their unique blend of indie sensibilities, catchy pop hooks, and a high-energy live show, fun. left a lasting impact on the music world. Their success proved that a band with a strong foundation in songwriting, musicianship, and a genuine connection with their audience could achieve true global recognition.

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