The Darkness
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Band Timeline
2000
Formation of The Darkness
The Darkness was formed in Lowestoft, England in 2000 by brothers Justin Hawkins (vocals, guitar) and Dan Hawkins (guitar), along with bassist Frankie Poullain and drummer Ed Graham. Initially known as Empire, they played together inspired by rock acts like Queen and gradually built a reputation for their energetic and flamboyant live shows, gaining attention with their classic rock revival style.
2003
Breakthrough with 'Permission to Land'
The Darkness released their debut album, Permissions to Land, in 2003. The album was a major commercial success, featuring hit singles such as "I Believe in a Thing Called Love," "Growing on Me," "Get Your Hands off My Woman," and "Love Is Only a Feeling." It achieved quadruple platinum certification in the UK, selling over 1.3 million copies. This album established the band as a prominent act in the hard rock scene with their catchy melodies and theatrical performances.
2004
Brit Awards Success and Rising Fame
In 2004, The Darkness won three prestigious Brit Awards: Best British Group, Best British Rock Act, and Best British Album, recognizing their impact and success in the UK music industry. That year also saw rapid growth in their audience through extensive touring and media exposure, further cementing their place among notable rock bands of the early 2000s.
2005
Lineup Change and Second Album Release
Original bassist Frankie Poullain left the band in 2005, replaced by Richie Edwards, who was previously their guitar technician. The band released their second studio album, One Way Ticket to Hell... And Back, in November 2005. Despite some anticipation, the album did not achieve the same level of success as their debut, receiving mixed reviews and lower sales, indicating challenges in sustaining their earlier momentum.
2006
Departure of Justin Hawkins and Band Splits from Label
In 2006, frontman Justin Hawkins left the band following recovery from alcohol and drug abuse. His departure, combined with the disappointing commercial performance of their second album, led Atlantic Records to drop The Darkness in October 2006. Subsequently, the remaining members continued playing under a new name, Stone Gods, while Justin pursued a solo project called Hot Leg.
2011
Reunion and Return to Performing
The Darkness announced reunion shows in March 2011 featuring the original lineup, including bassist Frankie Poullain. They performed at notable festivals such as Download Festival 2011 and Isle of Wight Festival 2012, marking a significant comeback that attracted both old fans and new listeners, rejuvenating their career after several years apart.
2012
Release of Third Album 'Hot Cakes'
In August 2012, The Darkness released their third studio album, Hot Cakes. The album was welcomed by fans and critics alike, reflecting the band's return to their classic sound and style. Around this time, original drummer Ed Graham left the band, making way for a new lineup adjustment while The Darkness continued to actively perform and promote their music.
2015
Fourth Album and Continuing Evolution
The band released their fourth studio album, Last of Our Kind, in 2015. This album continued to showcase their glam rock and hard rock roots, and demonstrated the band's ability to evolve while maintaining their distinctive sound. This period solidified their place as enduring figures within the rock genre despite previous challenges.
2017-2018
Release of 'Pinewood Smile' and Live Album
The Darkness released their fifth studio album, Pinewood Smile, in 2017. Following the album, they put out a live album titled Live at Hammersmith in 2018, capturing the band's dynamic stage presence and energetic performances. These releases helped maintain their presence in the rock scene and keep their fanbase engaged.
2019
Sixth Album 'Easter Is Cancelled' and Pandemic Impact
Their sixth album, Easter Is Cancelled, was released in 2019, continuing their tradition of vibrant rock music with theatrical flair. However, their subsequent world tour was disrupted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing cancellations and postponements like many other artists during this global crisis.
2020
Streaming Show and Live Album During Pandemic
In response to the touring halt caused by COVID-19, The Darkness held a one-off streamed live show titled "Streaming of a White Christmas" at the end of 2020. This event was also recorded and released as a live album, allowing fans to experience their performance virtually during a time of widespread social restrictions and isolation.
2021
Seventh Album 'Motorheart' and UK Tour
In 2021, The Darkness released their seventh studio album, Motorheart, accompanied by an extensive UK tour during November and December. This album further exemplified their signature style of flamboyant hard rock and demonstrated their continued relevance and vitality in the music industry.
2025
Performance at VE Day 2025 Celebration
The Darkness were scheduled to perform at the 2025 VE Day Celebration held at Horse Guards Parade. This historic UK commemorative event marked a prestigious cultural moment for the band, acknowledging their significant status in British music and history.
Albums
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Members
Current
Name
Begin
Occupation
Ed Graham
2011
Dan Hawkins
2011
Justin Hawkins
2011
Rufus Taylor
2015
Drums (drum set)
Frankie Poullain
2011
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
Richie Edwards
2005
2006
Dan Hawkins
2000
2006
Justin Hawkins
2000
2006
Frankie Poullain
2000
2005
Ed Graham
2000
2006
Story of The Darkness
Hailing from Lowestoft, England, The Darkness exploded onto the hard rock scene in 2000. The lineup, fronted by the flamboyant Justin Hawkins (vocals, guitar) alongside his brother Dan Hawkins (guitar), Frankie Poullain (bass), and Rufus Tiger Taylor (drums), quickly gained notoriety. Their 2003 debut, Permission to Land, became a phenomenon, fueled by anthemic singles like "I Believe in a Thing Called Love," "Growing on Me," "Get Your Hands off My Woman," and "Love Is Only a Feeling." The album achieved quadruple platinum certification in the UK, selling over 1.3 million copies. This success translated into three Brit Awards in 2004: Best British Group, Best British Rock Act, and Best British Album.
However, the whirlwind success took its toll. Extensive touring led to bassist Frankie Poullains departure in 2005, replaced by Richie Edwards. Their follow-up album, *One Way Ticket to Hell... and Back*, released in November 2005, failed to replicate the debuts success. Further compounding matters, Justin Hawkins struggles with alcohol and cocaine abuse culminated in his departure the following year after completing rehab. This, combined with the albums disappointing sales, resulted in Atlantic Records dropping the band in October 2006. The Darkness` story is a classic tale of meteoric rise, internal struggles, and the volatile nature of the music industry.
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