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The Killers

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Band Timeline

2001

Formation of The Killers

The Killers were formed in Las Vegas, Nevada, in 2001 by Brandon Flowers (lead vocals, keyboards) and Dave Keuning (lead guitar, backing vocals). The band's name was inspired by a fictional band from a New Order music video. They recorded their first demos, including "Mr. Brightside," in November and December 2001, laying the groundwork for their future success.
2002

Band Lineup Established and Early Performances

In 2002, after several short-term bassists and drummers, Mark Stoermer (bass, rhythm guitar, backing vocals) and Ronnie Vannucci Jr. (drums, percussion) joined The Killers, completing the band's core lineup. They performed local shows around Las Vegas, gaining a following and developing their sound as a fusion of British pop styles and modern indie rock.
2004

Release of Debut Album 'Hot Fuss'

The Killers released their debut studio album 'Hot Fuss' in 2004, which catapulted them to international fame. The album featured hits such as "Mr. Brightside" and "Somebody Told Me," earning critical acclaim and commercial success. 'Hot Fuss' topped the UK Albums Chart and established The Killers as a major act in the rock and alternative music scenes.
2006

Release of 'Sam's Town' and Lineup Expansion

Their second album, 'Sam's Town,' was released in 2006, continuing the band's success with a more heartland rock and Americana-infused sound. This album also topped the UK Albums Chart. The band expanded their live performances by adding touring musicians like Ted Sablay and Rob Whited, enriching their sound on tour.
2008

Release of 'Day & Age' and Touring Lineup Changes

In 2008, The Killers released their third studio album, 'Day & Age,' characterized by vibrant pop-rock influences. The album again reached the top of the UK chart. The touring lineup saw changes, with Ray Suen and Tommy Marth joining the ensemble, adding saxophone and keyboards to their live shows. This period was marked by extensive touring and growing popularity.
2012

Release of 'Battle Born' and Continued Touring

The fourth album, 'Battle Born,' was released in 2012. It reflected a mature sound and featured production involvement from bassist Mark Stoermer, who had begun contributing more extensively. The band continued touring worldwide, supported by touring musicians including Ted Sablay and Jake Blanton, who took on various instruments during live performances.
2016-2017

Extended Hiatuses and Release of 'Wonderful Wonderful'

Between 2016 and 2017, longtime members Mark Stoermer and Dave Keuning took extended hiatuses from touring due to exhaustion and personal pursuits. Despite this, the band released 'Wonderful Wonderful' in 2017, their fifth studio album, which again topped the UK Albums Chart. Touring musicians covered the absent members' parts during live shows, maintaining the band's energetic performances.
2020-2021

Albums 'Imploding the Mirage' and 'Pressure Machine' Released Amid Lineup Adjustments

In 2020, The Killers released 'Imploding the Mirage,' followed by 'Pressure Machine' in 2021. Mark Stoermer, despite retiring from touring, participated in recording both albums, while Dave Keuning returned for the latest album's recording. Touring lineup saw changes with Ted Sablay assuming lead guitar duties, supported by new touring musicians, sustaining the band's presence globally.
2023-2024

Recent Touring Activity and Band Member Returns

In recent years, the band has continued to tour internationally, including major festivals such as Glastonbury and Electric Picnic. Dave Keuning left the 2022 tour briefly but returned in 2023 and 2024. Touring members like Ted Sablay have adapted to lineup shifts by covering lead guitar roles. The Killers remain one of the biggest rock bands of the 21st century, with a legacy of over 28 million records sold worldwide.

Albums

the-killers_1st_album
Hot Fuss
11 tracks
2004
the-killers_2nd_album
Sam’s Town
12 tracks
2006
the-killers_3rd_album
Day & Age
10 tracks
2008
the-killers_4th_album
Battle Born
12 tracks
2012
the-killers_5th_album
Wonderful Wonderful
10 tracks
2017
the-killers_6th_album
Imploding the Mirage
10 tracks
2020
the-killers_7th_album
Pressure Machine
11 tracks
2021
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Ronnie Vannucci Jr.

2002

Percussion

Membranophone

Mark Stoermer

2002

Bass

Background vocals

Dave Keuning

2001

Background vocals

Guitar

Brandon Flowers

2001

Lead vocals

Keyboard

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Dell Neal

2001
2002

Background vocals

Bass

Matt Norcross

2001
2002

Membranophone

Brian Havens

2002
2002

Membranophone

Story of The Killers

The Killers: From Vegas Strip to Global Domination

The Killers, born in the neon-drenched heart of Las Vegas in 2001, are a rock band who've gone from underground buzz to international stardom. The band's core is a dynamic duo: frontman Brandon Flowers, with his soaring vocals and shimmering keyboard lines, and lead guitarist Dave Keuning, whose riffs are as sharp as a casino's edge.

After a few revolving door bassists and drummers, the Killers found their rhythm section in 2002, solidifying their sound with Mark Stoermer on bass and rhythm guitar and Ronnie Vannucci Jr. behind the kit. Their name, Inspired by a fictitious band featured in the New Order music video for "Crystal," with a logo emblazoned on a bass drum.

Since their breakout debut, "Hot Fuss" in 2004, The Killers have consistently hit the bullseye with every album, scoring seven consecutive chart-topping albums in the UK. From the anthemic anthems of "Sam's Town" to the electronic explorations of "Day & Age," the band's music has been a soundtrack to a generation. They've also delivered a plethora of releases including B-sides collections, live albums, greatest hits compilations, and even a Christmas album.

The band's recent history has seen some shifts in line-up. Both Stoermer and Keuning have taken extended hiatuses, with Stoermer citing touring fatigue and injuries while Keuning pursued solo ventures. Despite this, both have rejoined the band officially, with Stoermer recording contributions and Keuning returning to the fold for "Pressure Machine." To fill the live performance gaps, veteran touring musician Ted Sablay stepped up on lead guitar for Keuning, while Jake Blanton took on Stoermer's role on bass.

Through lineup changes and creative explorations, The Killers continue to evolve, proving that their Las Vegas roots are fertile ground for musical innovation, keeping their fans hooked and their place at the forefront of rock music secure.

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