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Taproot

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Band Timeline

1997

Formation of Taproot

Taproot was formed in 1997 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The band's original lineup consisted of vocalist Stephen Richards, guitarist Mike DeWolf, bassist Phil Lipscomb, and drummer Jarrod Montague. Early on, the band earned a following through live performances and recorded their first demos, establishing the foundation of what would soon become a notable alternative metal act.
1998-1999

Independent Releases and Signing with Atlantic Records

During the late 1990s, Taproot released three independent demos: '...Something More Than Nothing' (1998), the EP 'Mentobe' (1998), and 'Upon Us' (1999). They garnered attention from Limp Bizkit frontman Fred Durst, who initially offered to help get them signed but the band eventually chose Atlantic Records over Interscope. Despite some industry conflict reportedly involving System of a Down and Fred Durst, Taproot secured their major label deal, setting the stage for wider exposure.
2000

Major Label Debut with 'Gift' and Early Success

Taproot released their major-label debut album, 'Gift', on June 27, 2000, via Atlantic Records. The album's lead single, 'Again & Again,' gained considerable MTV2 exposure and charted at No. 39 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart and No. 95 in the UK, marking their first mainstream chart presence. The band also secured spots on the second stage of the 2000 and 2001 Ozzfest tours. The follow-up single 'I' reached No. 34 on the Mainstream Rock chart in 2001, helping to increase their profile within the alternative metal scene.
2002

Breakthrough with the Album 'Welcome' and Hit Single 'Poem'

In October 2002, Taproot released 'Welcome', their second album and a more melodic effort than their debut. The album debuted at No. 17 on the Billboard 200 and sold over 51,000 copies in its first week. The lead single 'Poem' became their biggest hit, peaking at No. 5 on the Mainstream Rock chart and No. 10 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart. 'Welcome' ultimately sold over 500,000 copies, cementing the band's presence in the early 2000s alternative metal movement.
2005

Release of 'Blue-Sky Research' and Lineup Changes Begin

Taproot released their third album, 'Blue-Sky Research', in 2005. While the album produced the single 'Calling', which reached No. 11 on the Mainstream Rock chart, it did not achieve the commercial success of 'Welcome'. This period marked the beginning of changes in the band's relationship with their label, Atlantic Records, eventually leading to their departure from the label in 2006.
2008-2010

Independent Releases and Drummer Replacement

After parting ways with Atlantic Records, Taproot released 'Our Long Road Home' in 2008. Shortly thereafter, longtime drummer Jarrod Montague left the band and was replaced by Nick Fredell. The band continued to produce music independently, releasing 'Plead the Fifth' in 2010, which featured the moderately successful single 'Fractured (Everything I Said Was True)'. These years highlight the band's persistence despite lineup and label challenges.
2012-2015

Further Lineup Changes and Continued Releases

In 2012, Taproot released 'The Episodes'. Shortly after, drummer Nick Fredell was replaced by Dave Coughlin in 2013, and in 2015, guitarist Mike DeWolf left the band, with Dave Lizzio stepping in as his replacement. Despite these changes, Taproot maintained an active presence in the alternative metal scene, continuously working on new material and performing live.
2023

Return of Founding Drummer and Release of 'SC\SSRS'

Taproot released their seventh studio album, 'SC\SSRS', in 2023. This album announcement marked the return of original drummer Jarrod Montague and the addition of new guitarist Taylor Roberts to the band lineup. 'SC\SSRS' represents the band's latest evolution, blending their classic sound with new influences and re-establishing their place in the contemporary alternative metal landscape.

Albums

taproot_1st_album
…Something More Than Nothing
10 tracks
1998
taproot_2nd_album
Upon Us
8 tracks
1999
taproot_3rd_album
Gift
12 tracks
2000
taproot_4th_album
Welcome
12 tracks
2002
taproot_5th_album
Blue‐Sky Research
13 tracks
2005
taproot_6th_album
Our Long Road Home
12 tracks
2008
taproot_7th_album
Plead the Fifth
11 tracks
2010
taproot_8th_album
The Episodes
10 tracks
2012
taproot_9th_album
SC\SSRS
11 tracks
2023
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Phil Lipscomb

1997

Bass guitar

Nick Freddel

N/A

Dave Coughlin

2013

Drums (drum set)

Dave Lizzio

2015

Guitar

Stephen Richards

1997

Lead vocals

Guitar

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Nick Fredell

2008
2013

Drums (drum set)

Jarrod Montague

1997
2008

Background vocals

Drums (drum set)

Mike DeWolf

1997
2015

Guitar

Story of Taproot

Taproot: A Michigan Metal Force

Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Taproot emerged in 1997 as a driving force in the alternative metal scene. This quartet, featuring vocalist/guitarist Stephen Richards, bassist Phil Lipscomb, drummer Jarrod Montague, and guitarist Taylor Roberts, quickly garnered attention for their powerful sound and unforgettable riffs.

The band's early days were marked by independent releases, showcasing their raw energy and developing musical identity. Their breakthrough arrived in 1999 when they signed with Atlantic Records, a major label known for its support of groundbreaking artists. Their debut album, Gift, released in 2000, marked a significant step forward, propelled by the singles "Again & Again" and "I," which garnered moderate success.

But it was their 2002 album Welcome that truly cemented Taproot's place in the rock world. Led by the explosive single "Poem," the album dominated the Mainstream Rock chart, reaching the coveted No. 5 position. "Poem" became a staple on rock radio and a defining track for the band, showcasing their ability to craft catchy hooks and powerful lyrics.

Taproot's journey is a testament to their talent, resilience, and unwavering passion for creating dynamic, engaging music. They continue to tour and release music, leaving an indelible mark on the alternative metal scene with their signature blend of heaviness and melodic sensibility.

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