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Band Timeline
1988
Formation and Early Gigs of Sublime
Sublime was formed in 1988 in Long Beach, California, by childhood friends Eric Wilson (bass) and Bud Gaugh (drums), who had been influenced by punk rock. They partnered with Bradley Nowell, who joined after leaving the University of California, Santa Cruz. Nowell introduced the band to reggae and ska, creating a unique hybrid sound. The band played its first gig on July 4, 1988, in Belmont Shore, Long Beach. Despite initial skepticism from venues because of their eclectic sound, Sublime created the Skunk Records label to market themselves as recording artists, helping book more shows in small clubs and parties across Southern California.
1990
Introduction of Lou Dog, the Band Mascot
In February 1990, Bradley Nowell adopted a dalmatian puppy named Louie, who became affectionately known as Lou Dog. The dog became a mascot for the band, often seen wandering around during performances and featured prominently in their imagery and personality as a band. This addition helped reinforce Sublime's laid-back and unique artistic identity in their early stages, blending music with a distinct lifestyle component.
1992
Release of Debut Album '40oz. to Freedom'
Sublime released their debut album '40oz. to Freedom' in 1992. The album was a mix of punk, ska, and reggae influences and helped establish their regional fanbase in Southern California. Although it was not an immediate commercial success nationally, it became influential in the ska-punk scene and helped build the foundation for the band's signature sound. The album's DIY production and Raw energy captured the band's live vibe and grassroots appeal.
1994
Release of 'Robbin' the Hood' Album
'Robbin' the Hood' was released in 1994 and showcased Sublime’s diverse musical influences and more experimental approach. This album received moderate attention, further solidifying their cult following in the independent music scene. It presented a mix of humorous storytelling, social commentary, and genre blending, paving the way for larger commercial success while remaining true to their underground roots.
1996
Breakthrough with Self-titled Album and Tragic Death of Bradley Nowell
Sublime's third studio album, titled 'Sublime,' was released in 1996. It marked Sublime's major commercial breakthrough, peaking at No. 13 on the Billboard 200 and including hit singles such as 'What I Got,' which topped the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. Tragically, two months before the album's release, lead vocalist and guitarist Bradley Nowell died of a heroin overdose. His death led to the band's dissolution, but the album went on to sell over 17 million copies worldwide by 2009, cementing Sublime's legacy in American alternative music.
1997
Posthumous Rise and Radio Hits
Following Bradley Nowell's death, Sublime's music received significant exposure on U.S. radio in 1997. Songs like 'What I Got,' 'Santeria,' 'Wrong Way,' 'Doin' Time,' and 'April 29, 1992 (Miami)' became well-known and contributed to the band's lasting mainstream popularity. This posthumous success introduced Sublime's unique blend of ska, punk, and reggae to a wider audience, influencing many bands in the subsequent era of alternative music.
2009
Attempted Reformation as Sublime with Rome
In 2009, surviving members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh attempted to reform Sublime with new guitarist Rome Ramirez, a dedicated fan. However, a Los Angeles judge ruled that they could not use the Sublime name without permission from Nowell's estate, leading to the new lineup adopting the name Sublime with Rome. This new band released three albums. Bud Gaugh left the group shortly after their 2011 debut album 'Yours Truly,' but the effort kept Sublime's music alive for a new generation.
2023
Reformation with New Lineup
In 2023, Bud Gaugh returned to play alongside Eric Wilson and Jakob Nowell, the son of Bradley Nowell, in a new formation of Sublime. Jakob brought influences from his own ska-punk/alternative rock band Jakobs Castle, infusing new energy into Sublime's legacy. Shortly after this, Eric Wilson announced his departure from Sublime with Rome, which led to the disbandment of Sublime with Rome at the end of 2024, marking a significant moment in the ongoing history of the Sublime name and its members.
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Story of Sublime
Sublime, the Long Beach, California trio, carved a unique niche in the alternative music scene with their potent blend of ska, punk, and reggae. Formed in 1988 by Bradley Nowell (vocals/guitar), Eric Wilson (bass), and Bud Gaugh (drums), the band also famously featured Lou Dog, Nowell's Dalmatian, as their mascot. Their early albums, 40 Oz. to Freedom (1992) and Robbin' the Hood (1994), built a dedicated following, but it was their self-titled third album, released posthumously in 1996 following Nowell's tragic heroin overdose, that catapulted them to mainstream success. The album, peaking at #13 on the Billboard 200, spawned the iconic hit "What I Got," which topped the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. Other tracks like "Santeria," "Wrong Way," "Doin' Time," and "April 29, 1992 (Miami)" received extensive airplay, cementing Sublime's legacy. Their impressive discography includes three studio albums, a live album, five compilations, three EPs, and a box set, a testament to their enduring influence on alternative rock despite their tragically short lifespan.
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