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Staind

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Band Timeline

1995

Formation of Staind in Springfield, Massachusetts

Staind was formed in 1995 when vocalist Aaron Lewis and guitarist Mike Mushok met and recruited drummer Jon Wysocki and bassist Johnny April. The band started playing a heavy, dark, introspective style of metal at local venues in the Northeast U.S., gaining a regional following through extensive touring.
1996

Self-release of debut album Tormented

Staind self-released their debut album Tormented in November 1996, featuring influences from Tool, Faith No More, and Pantera. The album was marked by a heavy metal sound, and helped them build a cult following despite its grotesque cover causing some initial controversy.
1998

Signing with Flip Records and early major label exposure

In February 1998, after performing with Limp Bizkit on a concert organized by Aaron Lewis's cousin, Staind impressed Limp Bizkit frontman Fred Durst, who signed them to Flip Records despite initial reservations about their album art. This marked their entry into the major label music industry.
1999

Release of Dysfunction, Staind's major label debut

On April 13, 1999, Staind released Dysfunction, produced by Fred Durst and Terry Date. Compared to bands like Tool and Korn, the album gradually gained success, reaching No. 1 on Billboard's Heatseeker Charts and producing singles like 'Just Go' and 'Mudshovel' which gained radio airplay and chart success.
2001

Breakthrough with Break the Cycle album

Staind released their third studio album, Break the Cycle, on May 8, 2001. The album was a major international success, spending three weeks at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 and achieving 5× platinum certification. It produced hits like 'It's Been Awhile' which reached the top five on Billboard Hot 100, and demonstrated a mix of alternative metal and softer post-grunge.
2003

Release of 14 Shades of Grey album

Staind followed up their commercial success with the release of 14 Shades of Grey in 2003, which continued their presence in the mainstream rock scene, maintaining strong sales and chart positions, further solidifying their place in early 2000s rock music.
2005

Release of Chapter V album

In 2005, Staind released Chapter V which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, continuing the band's streak of commercially successful albums and maintaining their popularity with singles that received radio play and fan acclaim.
2008

Release of The Illusion of Progress

Staind released their sixth studio album, The Illusion of Progress, in 2008. The album showed the band continuing to explore their alternative metal and post-grunge style while addressing themes of personal struggles and progress.
2011

Lineup change and release of Staind self-titled album

In 2011, drummer Jon Wysocki departed and was replaced by Sal Giancarelli. That year, Staind released their self-titled eighth studio album, which reflected changes in the band's dynamic and sound, while the band’s activity became more sporadic as Aaron Lewis started focusing on a solo country music career.
2023

Return with Confessions of the Fallen

Staind released their eighth studio album, Confessions of the Fallen, in 2023 marking their return after a period of lower activity in the 2010s. This album represented a continuation of their legacy and musical evolution, reengaging their fanbase.

Albums

staind_1st_album
Tormented
11 tracks
1996
staind_2nd_album
Dysfunction
10 tracks
1999
staind_3rd_album
Break the Cycle
13 tracks
2001
staind_4th_album
14 Shades of Grey
14 tracks
2003
staind_5th_album
Chapter V
12 tracks
2005
staind_6th_album
The Illusion of Progress
16 tracks
2008
staind_7th_album
Staind
13 tracks
2011
staind_8th_album
Confessions of the Fallen
10 tracks
2023
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Sal Giancarelli

2011

Aaron Lewis

1995

Lead vocals

Johnny April

1995

Electric bass guitar

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Mike Mushok

1995
2014

Guitar

Jon Wysocki

1995
2011

Drums (drum set)

Story of Staind

Staind: A Rock Powerhouse from Springfield

Staind, hailing from the gritty streets of Springfield, Massachusetts, burst onto the rock scene in 1995. The band's original lineup was a formidable force: Aaron Lewis, the raw and emotional vocalist wielding his rhythm guitar, paired with the searing riffs of Mike Mushok, the driving basslines of Johnny April, and the relentless drumming of Jon Wysocki. This core lineup remained steadfast through numerous triumphs, with only Wysocki's departure in 2011, replaced by the skilled Sal Giancarelli.

Staind's journey has been documented through eight studio albums: Tormented (1996), Dysfunction (1999), Break the Cycle (2001), 14 Shades of Grey (2003), Chapter V (2005), The Illusion of Progress (2008), Staind (2011), and their latest offering, Confessions of the Fallen (2023).

The Rise of a Rock Giant:

The early 2000s marked a pivotal period for Staind. Their 2001 album, Break the Cycle, became a certified rock anthem, selling over five million copies in the US and catapulting the band into mainstream success. The album's lead single, "It's Been Awhile", stormed the Billboard Hot 100 charts, reaching a coveted top-five position. This success extended to their next two albums, 14 Shades of Grey and Chapter V, which both conquered the Billboard 200 charts, solidifying their status as a major rock force.

The band's signature sound, characterized by Lewis's emotionally charged vocals and Mushok's heavy, atmospheric guitar riffs, resonated with audiences worldwide. Tracks like "Fade", "For You", "Price to Play", "So Far Away", and "Right Here" became rock staples and crossover hits, further cementing Staind's place in rock history.

Navigating New Horizons:

While their dominance in the rock landscape continued throughout the 2000s, the band's activity became less frequent as Lewis pursued a successful solo career in country music. Mushok also joined forces with the rock band Saint Asonia. Despite the individual ventures, Staind's influence remains undeniable, leaving a lasting legacy in the rock world.

Early Days: The Genesis of a Rock Band:

The spark that ignited Staind's journey can be traced back to a Christmas party in 1993. It was there that vocalist Aaron Lewis and guitarist Mike Mushok crossed paths, setting the stage for a musical partnership that would change the landscape of rock music. Mushok introduced drummer Jon Wysocki to the mix, while Lewis brought in bassist Johnny April, completing the band's original lineup in 1995. From these humble beginnings, a rock phenomenon was born, ready to leave its mark on the world.

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