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Band Timeline

1996

Formation and Early Years of Sum 41

Sum 41 was formed in Ajax, Ontario, in 1996, evolving from an earlier band called Kaspir started by Deryck Whibley and Grant McVittie in 1994. The band's name, Sum 41, came from counting 41 days from the start of summer vacation to the Warped Tour date. The early lineup included members Deryck Whibley, Steve Jocz, Grant McVittie, and Jon Marshall, with changes including bassist Richard Roy replacing McVittie. Their sound was inspired by punk and rock bands such as NOFX, Weezer, Nirvana, and later they developed a style that embraced punk rock and skate punk.
1999

Signing with Island Records and Debut EP Release

In 1999, Sum 41 signed an international record deal with Island Records, paving the way for wider exposure and professional recording. This was a major step for the young band to launch their professional career beyond local scenes. The following year, they released their first EP, 'Half Hour of Power,' which showcased their energetic blend of punk rock and set the stage for their debut full-length album.
2001

Breakthrough with 'All Killer No Filler'

Sum 41 released their debut studio album 'All Killer No Filler' in 2001, achieving mainstream success. The album featured hits like 'Fat Lip,' which topped the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and became their signature song. Other hit singles included 'In Too Deep' and 'Motivation.' The album was certified platinum in the US and UK and triple platinum in Canada, establishing Sum 41 as a prominent force in the pop-punk and punk rock scenes in the early 2000s with spirited, youthful energy and catchy hooks.
2002

Success of 'Does This Look Infected?'

In 2002, Sum 41 followed up their debut with the album 'Does This Look Infected?,' which sustained their commercial and critical success. The album contained singles like 'The Hell Song' and 'Still Waiting' which charted well on modern rock charts and bolstered the band’s presence in the rock music scene. This album showed a maturation in their musical style with heavier and more aggressive tones, allowing the band to broaden their appeal and solidify their reputation.
2004

Release of the Album 'Chuck' and Recognition

Sum 41 released 'Chuck' in 2004, an album that marked a significant development in their musical style, incorporating heavier and more complex elements. 'Chuck' peaked at number 10 on the Billboard 200, highlighting the band's commercial growth. Singles like 'We're All to Blame' and 'Pieces' received airplay and critical acclaim. This period was notable for the band's growing maturity in songwriting and themes, reflecting more personal and introspective content alongside their energetic sound.
2007

'Underclass Hero' Album and Mixed Reception

'Underclass Hero' was released in 2007 and became Sum 41's highest-charting album ever. Despite mixed reviews from critics, it marked an important chapter as it was their last album with Aquarius Records. The album showcased a more melodic and anthemic style, reflecting the band’s evolution but also polarizing some longtime fans. This era was characterized by reflection and experimentation in their musical trajectory, showing their willingness to explore different sounds.
2011

Screaming Bloody Murder and Continued Touring

Sum 41 released 'Screaming Bloody Murder' in 2011 on Island Records, which was met with generally positive reviews though it did not match the commercial success of previous albums. The album reflected a darker tone and more complex instrumentation. During this time, the band continued extensive touring worldwide, maintaining a strong fanbase and showcasing their dynamic live performances. This phase reinforced their reputation as a committed and enduring act in the rock music world.
2016

Comeback with '13 Voices'

In 2016, Sum 41 released their sixth studio album '13 Voices' through Hopeless Records. The album marked a notable comeback after several years, featuring themes of recovery and resilience. '13 Voices' received critical acclaim and commercial success in Europe, earning a double gold award from IMPALA for selling 150,000 copies. The album signaled a revitalized creative spirit, blending the band's classic punk rock energy with more mature, introspective songwriting.
2019

Release of 'Order in Decline'

Sum 41 released their seventh studio album 'Order in Decline' on July 19, 2019, their final album with Hopeless Records. The album reflected the band's ongoing evolution with raw, personal lyrics and diverse musical influences, affirming their status as veteran rock musicians. 'Order in Decline' was recognized for its emotionally charged themes and strong instrumentation, continuing to engage fans and critics alike with its authenticity and energy.
2024

Final Album 'Heaven :x: Hell' and Disbandment Announcement

'Heaven :x: Hell,' Sum 41's eighth and final studio album, was released on March 29, 2024, through Rise Records. This release encapsulated their diverse musical journey and legacy, blending punk rock with heavier and melodic influences. Following this album, the band embarked on a final worldwide headlining tour. In March 2025, Sum 41 officially disbanded, culminating a nearly three-decade career highlighted by significant contributions to punk and rock music, their induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, and multitude of accolades.

Albums

sum-41_1st_album
All Killer No Filler
13 tracks
2001
sum-41_2nd_album
Does This Look Infected?
12 tracks
2002
sum-41_3rd_album
Chuck
13 tracks
2004
sum-41_4th_album
Underclass Hero
16 tracks
2007
sum-41_5th_album
Screaming Bloody Murder
14 tracks
2011
sum-41_6th_album
13 Voices
10 tracks
2016
sum-41_7th_album
Order in Decline
10 tracks
2019
sum-41_8th_album
Heaven :x: Hell
20 tracks
2024

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Sum 41 - Top 10 Songs
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Story of Sum 41

Sum 41: The Canadian Punk Rock Powerhouse

Hailing from the suburbs of Ajax, Ontario, Sum 41 burst onto the scene in 1996, bringing a raw, energetic brand of punk rock that quickly captured the hearts of millions. The original quartet, featuring Deryck Whibley's iconic vocals and guitar riffs, soon expanded to a full-fledged five-piece, solidifying their lineup as Deryck Whibley (vocals, guitar, keys), Dave Baksh (lead guitar, backing vocals), Jason McCaslin (bass, backing vocals), Tom Thacker (guitar, keyboards, backing vocals), and Frank Zummo (drums, occasional backing vocals).

Their infectious energy and catchy tunes landed them a deal with Island Records in 1999, paving the way for their debut EP "Half Hour of Power" in 2000. However, it was their 2001 debut album, "All Killer No Filler," that truly cemented their status as a global force. The album's lead single, "Fat Lip," stormed the charts, hitting number one on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and becoming their most recognizable anthem to date. The album’s subsequent singles, "In Too Deep" and "Motivation," continued the success, propelling "All Killer No Filler" to platinum status in both the US and UK, and a staggering triple platinum certification in their native Canada.

Sum 41’s success didn’t end there. Their sophomore album, "Does This Look Infected?," released in 2002, further solidified their position as a powerhouse. Singles like "The Hell Song" and "Still Waiting" dominated the modern rock charts, further solidifying their image as a band with an undeniable, high-octane sound.

The band continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including "Chuck" in 2004, which featured the hit singles "We're All to Blame" and "Pieces," showcasing their evolution and continued ability to deliver powerful and catchy music. Sum 41’s story is a testament to their raw talent, relentless energy, and their lasting influence on the rock music scene.

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