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The Fray

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Band Timeline

2002

Formation of The Fray

The Fray was formed in Denver, Colorado in 2002 by schoolmates Isaac Slade and Joe King. They reconnected and began writing songs together, eventually adding members including Ben Wysocki on drums and Dave Welsh on lead guitar. The band name was chosen randomly from suggestions, and they started their musical journey rooted in a background of leading worship in Denver-area churches. Their sound would come to be known for its piano-driven rock with introspective lyrics.
2005

Debut Album 'How to Save a Life' and Breakthrough

The Fray released their debut studio album, 'How to Save a Life', through Epic Records in 2005. The album saw major commercial success, achieving quadruple platinum status in the US and platinum certifications in several other countries. Their single "Over My Head (Cable Car)" reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100, and the title track became an international hit, peaking at number three in the US and charting well globally. The songs earned Grammy Award nominations, significantly elevating the band's profile and establishing them in mainstream rock.
2009

Second Album 'The Fray' Tops Charts

In 2009, The Fray released their self-titled second album which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 charts. The album included the hit single "You Found Me" which reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100. It received platinum certification in the US and gold certifications internationally. The album was critically noted for its polished sound and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album. This confirmed The Fray's sustained commercial presence following their debut's success.
2012

Release of 'Scars & Stories'

The band released their third studio album, 'Scars & Stories', in 2012. The album peaked at number four on the Billboard 200 but received mixed reviews from critics, indicating a shift in commercial and critical response. Despite this, it continued to showcase the band's characteristic introspective and emotive songwriting. The Fray maintained a loyal fan base and continued touring, adapting to changes in the music industry and their evolving artistic direction.
2014

Fourth Album 'Helios' and Continued Releases

In 2014, The Fray released their fourth album titled 'Helios'. This album reached number eight on the Billboard 200 chart. Like its predecessor, 'Helios' garnered mixed reviews and a more modest commercial performance compared to their earlier works, reflecting challenges in maintaining their earlier peak popularity. The band's music retained its poignant and theatrical qualities as they continued to produce new material and keep active in the rock music scene.
2016

Greatest Hits Compilation and Final Epic Release

The Fray released a greatest hits album, 'Through the Years: The Best of the Fray', in 2016. This compilation album served as their final release under Epic Records. It encapsulated their most successful singles and the depth of their decade-long influence in rock music. The album marked the end of a significant chapter for the band, highlighting their legacy with Epic and preparing for future independent projects and changes in their lineup.
2022

Departure of Lead Vocalist Isaac Slade

Isaac Slade, the founding lead vocalist and pianist of The Fray, left the band in 2022. Slade's departure marked a major change for the group as he was a key figure in their signature sound and lyrical style. The band transitioned to functioning as a trio following his exit. This shift represented both an ending of an era and a potential new beginning as the remaining members prepared to redefine the band’s musical direction and identity.
2024

Return as a Trio and Release of EP 'The Fray Is Back'

In 2024, The Fray returned as a trio and released their sixth extended play (EP) titled 'The Fray Is Back'. This release signified their comeback following Isaac Slade's departure and represented a reimagining of their sound and identity as a band. The EP reflected their ongoing commitment to producing music and connecting with fans despite changes in lineup and the evolving landscape of the music industry.

Albums

the-fray_1st_album
How to Save a Life
12 tracks
2005
the-fray_2nd_album
The Fray
10 tracks
2009
the-fray_3rd_album
Scars & Stories
12 tracks
2012
the-fray_4th_album
Helios
11 tracks
2014
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Ben Wysocki

N/A

Isaac Slade

N/A

Joe King

N/A

Dave Welsh

N/A

Story of The Fray

The Fray: A Denver-Born Rock Band That Took the World by Storm

The Fray, hailing from Denver, Colorado, emerged in 2002 as the brainchild of schoolmates Isaac Slade and Joe King. Their debut album, "How to Save a Life," dropped in 2005 under the Epic Records banner, catapulting them to international stardom. This album, certified quadruple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), resonated with audiences worldwide, achieving platinum status in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Their breakout single, "Over My Head (Cable Car)," soared to number eight on the Billboard Hot 100, propelling the album's success. But the band's biggest hit, "How to Save a Life," climbed even higher, reaching number three on the chart and garnering global acclaim, charting strongly in Australia, Canada, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Both anthems were recognized with Grammy Award nominations: "Over My Head (Cable Car)" for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals, and "How to Save a Life" for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group.

The Fray's self-titled second album, released in 2009, debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 and secured platinum certification from the RIAA, as well as gold certifications in Australia and Canada. This record was fueled by the power ballad "You Found Me," their third top ten hit, and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album.

While their first two albums achieved commercial success, they received mixed critical reception. Nonetheless, The Fray's impact was undeniable, solidifying their place in the music landscape. Billboard recognized their influence by ranking them number 84 on their "Artists of the Decade" list.

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