Red

Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, RED (stylized as R3D or simply RED) is a powerhouse American Christian rock band that burst onto the scene in 2002. The band`s initial formidable lineup was forged by identical twin brothers Anthony Armstrong (shredding guitars) and Randy Armstrong (pounding bass, keys), alongside the commanding vocals of Michael Barnes. Completing the original sonic architecture were drummer Andrew Hendrix and lead guitarist Jasen Rauch.

Early on, RED meticulously crafted and recorded several demos that showcased their signature blend of alternative rock, hard rock, and deeply thematic Christian rock music. This compelling sound caught the attention of acclaimed producer Rob Graves, leading to a pivotal development deal. By 2004, their talent secured a coveted record deal with the prominent Christian label Essential Records. Their groundbreaking debut album, End of Silence (2006), and its powerful follow-up, Innocence & Instinct (2009), both earned prestigious Grammy Award nominations for Best Rock Gospel Album. These seminal records also unleashed fan-favorite anthems like "Breathe Into Me" and "Death of Me," solidifying their presence on rock radio. RED’s mainstream appeal soared, with their third studio effort, Until We Have Faces (2011), skyrocketing to an impressive No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart. This monumental success was followed by a consistent string of chart-topping albums, including Release the Panic (2013), which peaked at No. 7, Of Beauty and Rage (2015), Gone (2017), Declaration (2020), and their latest release, Rated R (2023), cementing their legacy in heavy alternative rock.

== History ==

=== Formation and signing with Essential (2002–2004) === The genesis of RED traces back to a deep friendship formed in Linesville, Pennsylvania. The band`s core was initially established by identical twin brothers Anthony Armstrong (guitarist) and Randy Armstrong (bassist, pianist), alongside dynamic lead vocalist Michael Barnes. The trio, who grew up together from elementary school, shared a profound musical bond. Their shared passion for music was ignited and fueled by attending various festivals, including the iconic Christian music festival Creation, where witnessing electrifying live performances instilled in them a fervent desire to command the stage and forge their own impactful rock career.