Hawthorne Heights
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Band Timeline
2001
Formation of A Day in the Life in Dayton, Ohio
The band that would become Hawthorne Heights was initially formed in 2001 under the name 'A Day in the Life' by JT Woodruff and other members in Dayton, Ohio. This original lineup began their musical journey with hopeful ambitions, releasing an early demo and beginning to build a local fanbase. Their sound incorporated emo and post-hardcore influences, aligning with the early 2000s emo scene.
2003
Name change and new lineup as Hawthorne Heights
In 2003, after several original members left, JT Woodruff rebuilt the band with new members Matt Ridenour, Mark McMillon, and others. The group renamed themselves Hawthorne Heights, inspired by a motel sign Matt noticed. This marked a fresh start with renewed focus on developing their signature emo-punk sound. The band began recording new material that would soon earn them national success.
2004
Debut album 'The Silence in Black and White' and breakthrough success
Hawthorne Heights released their debut album 'The Silence in Black and White' in 2004 through Victory Records. The album featured emotive lyrics and catchy melodies, with standout tracks like 'Ohio Is for Lovers' gaining significant MTV airplay. Initially slow to sell, the album eventually became the label's best-selling debut. It peaked at number 56 on the Billboard charts and established Hawthorne Heights as an important band in the burgeoning emo scene.
2006
Second album 'If Only You Were Lonely' and mainstream breakthrough
Their sophomore album, 'If Only You Were Lonely,' released in 2006, further propelled Hawthorne Heights' success. It debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 and topped the Independent Albums chart. The album was certified Gold by the RIAA, reflecting strong sales. The single 'Saying Sorry' became a commercial hit, reaching number seven on Billboard's Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart and achieving Gold status. This period marked the band's peak commercial popularity.
2007
Tragic loss of guitarist Casey Calvert
On November 24, 2007, Hawthorne Heights faced a significant tragedy when rhythm guitarist and unclean vocalist Casey Calvert passed away. His death deeply affected the band emotionally and creatively. This loss led them to continue as a four-piece band and impacted the tone of their subsequent music. The event was a pivotal moment in their history, influencing their future direction and solidifying their bond as a group.
2008
Release of third album 'Fragile Future' without Casey Calvert
In August 2008, Hawthorne Heights released 'Fragile Future,' their first album after Calvert's passing. Despite the emotional challenges, the band managed to maintain momentum, delivering songs that reflected themes of loss and hope. The album was surprising in that it was released again through Victory Records following legal disputes with the label. 'Fragile Future' showcased a maturation in their sound and lyrical content during a difficult time.
2010
Fourth album 'Skeletons' and compilation release
The band released their fourth studio album 'Skeletons' in 2010 through Wind-up Records. The album reached number 50 on the Billboard 200, receiving moderate commercial success. Later that year, Victory Records issued a greatest hits compilation titled 'Midwesterners: The Hits,' which summarized the band's career highlights so far. The year marked a transitional phase as Hawthorne Heights began to explore independence in their music career.
2010
Formation of Cardboard Empire and new EP trilogy
After departing from Wind-up Records in 2010, Hawthorne Heights founded their own independent label, Cardboard Empire. This move gave them full creative control over their music. Under Cardboard Empire, they embarked on an ambitious project releasing a trilogy of EPs beginning with 'Hate' in 2011, followed by 'Hope' in 2012. The trilogy explored darker themes and displayed varied musical experimentation, representing the band’s evolving identity.
2013
Release of concept album 'Zero' and Vans Warped Tour
In 2013, after signing with Red River Entertainment, Hawthorne Heights postponed the final EP of their trilogy to release a full-length concept album titled 'Zero'. The album reflected a cohesive thematic approach and innovative storytelling through music. Additionally, the band participated in the 2013 Vans Warped Tour, reconnecting with a broad fanbase and solidifying their relevance within the alternative and emo music communities during this era.
2014-2015
Lineup changes with departures of original members
Between 2014 and 2015, Hawthorne Heights underwent notable lineup changes. Original drummer Eron Bucciarelli departed in June 2014, followed by original lead guitarist Micah Carli announcing his exit in January 2015. These changes marked the end of the band's original core membership and signaled a new era. Despite this, the band continued recording and touring, releasing 'Hurt' in 2015, the final EP in their earlier trilogy.
2018
Release of sixth studio album 'Bad Frequencies'
In 2018, Hawthorne Heights released their sixth studio album, 'Bad Frequencies,' through Pure Noise Records. This album was seen as a strong return to form, blending their emo roots with matured songwriting and heavier instrumentation. 'Bad Frequencies' was well-received by fans and critics alike, reaffirming the band’s enduring presence in the alternative rock scene nearly two decades after their formation.
2021
Release of seventh album 'The Rain Just Follows Me'
In September 2021, Hawthorne Heights released their seventh studio album, 'The Rain Just Follows Me,' continuing their partnership with Pure Noise Records. The album demonstrated the band's continued evolution in sound and lyrical depth, touching on themes of resilience and reflection. Despite changes and challenges over the years, Hawthorne Heights remained active and relevant, maintaining a loyal fanbase and influence in the emo/post-hardcore genres.
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Story of Hawthorne Heights
Hawthorne Heights: A Post-Hardcore Powerhouse
Hailing from Dayton, Ohio, Hawthorne Heights burst onto the scene in 2001, originally known as "A Day in the Life." The band's current lineup features the powerhouse vocals and rhythm guitar of JT Woodruff, the steady bass and backing vocals of Matt Ridenour, the searing lead guitar and gruff vocals of Mark McMillon, and the driving force of drummer Chris Popadak.
Hawthorne Heights gained widespread recognition with their first two albums, "The Silence in Black and White" (2004) and "If Only You Were Lonely" (2006), both achieving RIAA Gold certification. The latter album, in particular, reached the pinnacle of the Billboard's Independent Albums chart and claimed the #3 spot on the Billboard 200 chart, cementing their position as a force in the post-hardcore scene.
Their 2006 single, "Saying Sorry," became an anthem, achieving gold status and reaching #7 on the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart. Tragically, the band lost guitarist Casey Calvert in 2007, leaving them as a four-piece. Despite the loss, Hawthorne Heights released their third album, "Fragile Future," in 2008, through Victory Records after a protracted legal battle. This album marked their first without Calvert and demonstrated their resilience and determination.
Hawthorne Heights carved a unique path in the post-hardcore landscape, blending melodic vocals with raw energy and emotional depth. They continue to resonate with fans through their impactful music and enduring legacy.
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