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Hoobastank

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Band Timeline

1994

Formation of Hoobastank

Hoobastank was formed in 1994 in Agoura Hills, California. The band was started by lead vocalist Doug Robb and guitarist Dan Estrin, who had known each other from high school. They recruited bassist Markku Lappalainen and drummer Chris Hesse to complete the lineup. The origin of the band's unusual name is unclear, with various explanations including mispronunciations and inside jokes.
1998

Release of First Independent Album

In 1998, Hoobastank independently released their first full-length album, "They Sure Don't Make Basketball Shorts Like They Used To." The album featured a saxophone section led by Jeremy Wasser, who also worked with other bands such as Incubus. This early work helped build their reputation in the Southern California music scene.
2000

Signing with Island Records

By 2000, Hoobastank had garnered enough attention from their live performances and recordings to be signed by Island Records. At that time, they had completed a second album called "Forward," but decided to shelve it as the band's direction shifted away from including saxophones. Some tracks from "Forward" were later re-recorded for their debut major-label release.
2001

Debut Major Album and Breakthrough Singles

Hoobastank released their self-titled debut album in November 2001. The album included the successful singles "Crawling in the Dark" and "Running Away," which charted well on Billboard's Hot 100 and other rock charts. The album went Platinum and reached No. 25 on the Billboard 200. The band supported the album with tours in Europe and Asia, extending their international presence.
2003

Release of 'The Reason' Album and Major Hit Single

In December 2003, Hoobastank released their second studio album, "The Reason." Despite an initial single "Out of Control," it was the power ballad "The Reason" released in early 2004 that became their most successful single. The song peaked at number two on the US Billboard Hot 100 and received international acclaim, reaching number one in countries such as Canada and Italy. It earned the band Grammy nominations and cemented their place in mainstream rock.
2008

Release of Fourth Studio Album 'Every Man for Himself'

Continuing their career, Hoobastank released their fourth studio album, "Every Man for Himself," in 2008. The album marked a development in their musical style and contained tracks reflecting their growth as a band. Though it did not achieve the commercial heights of its predecessor, it contributed to maintaining their presence in the rock music scene.
2012

End of Island Records Partnership and Continued Releases

After a decade with Island Records, the band's contract ended in 2012. They continued their musical journey independently, later releasing new works including their album "Fight or Flight" in 2012, showcasing their persistence in the industry despite changes in the music business landscape.
2018

Release of 'Push Pull' and Recent Activity

In May 2018, Hoobastank released their most recent album titled "Push Pull." This album featured a matured sound and demonstrated the band’s ability to evolve while retaining their rock roots. The band continued touring and engaging with their fan base, marking over two decades of active music making.

Albums

hoobastank_1st_album
They Sure Don't Make Basketball Shorts Like They Used To
10 tracks
1998
hoobastank_2nd_album
Hoobastank
12 tracks
2001
hoobastank_3rd_album
The Reason
12 tracks
2003
hoobastank_4th_album
Every Man for Himself
15 tracks
2006
hoobastank_5th_album
For(n)ever
11 tracks
2009
hoobastank_6th_album
Fight or Flight
11 tracks
2012
hoobastank_7th_album
Push Pull
11 tracks
2018
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Story of Hoobastank

Hoobastank: From Agoura Hills to Global Rock Stars

Hoobastank, the American rock band known for their soaring vocals and powerful anthems, emerged from the California music scene in 1994. Originally known simply as "Hoobastank," the band, fronted by vocalist Doug Robb, guitarist Dan Estrin, drummer Chris Hesse, and bassist Markku Lappalainen, quickly made their mark on the local scene.

The band's name, which has been the subject of much speculation, remains shrouded in mystery. Some claim it's a mispronounced German street, others suggest it's slang for a sneaker aficionado, while others insist it was simply a playful invention. Regardless of its origin, the name stuck, becoming synonymous with the band's unique sound.

Hoobastank's early gigs at the legendary Cobalt Cafe in Agoura Hills placed them alongside fellow rising stars Incubus and Linkin Park, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with. Their self-released debut album, "They Sure Don't Make Basketball Shorts Like They Used To," dropped in 1998, showcasing their raw talent and featuring a saxophone section led by the talented Jeremy Wasser. Wasser, known for his work on Incubus' "Summer Romance," also executive produced the album, highlighting the close-knit community of musicians that fueled the scene.

With Jim Wirt of Fourth Street Recording handling production and Brett Spivey contributing their visual design, Hoobastank's early career was a whirlwind of creativity and collaboration, laying the groundwork for their future success.

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