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The Lumineers

AmericasUnited StatesFolk Rock
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Band Timeline

2002-2005

Formation and Early Collaborations in New York

Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites began writing and performing together in Ramsey, New Jersey around 2005, initially under various band names like Free Beer and Wesley Jeremiah. Their music style during these early years was unfocused, ranging from vanilla singer-songwriter material to hard rock and electronic music. Eventually, the name The Lumineers was adopted after a mistaken introduction at a Jersey City club, and the core duo worked extensively on original songs trying to establish themselves in the New York music scene.
2009

Relocation to Denver and New Beginnings

Facing difficulties finding success and balance in New York City's music environment, Schultz and Fraites decided to relocate to Denver, Colorado. This move revitalized their career, providing them time and space to focus on their music while joining the local open mic scene. This relocation marked the start of a more serious and focused chapter for the band, shifting towards the folk-rock/Americana sound that would later define The Lumineers.
2010

Addition of Neyla Pekarek and Formation of the Trio

In 2010, cellist and vocalist Neyla Pekarek joined the band after responding to a Craigslist ad by Schultz and Fraites. Pekarek's classical training added rich, new layers to the band's folk sound, solidifying The Lumineers as a trio. This lineup would define their early influential years and contribute to their distinctive energetic live performances and recordings.
2011

Self-Recorded EP and Signing with Dualtone Records

The Lumineers released a self-recorded EP in 2011, which helped them attract wider attention and led to signing with American independent label Dualtone Records. This EP was a critical stepping stone that propelled them into mainstream success, setting the stage for their debut full-length album and extensive touring that followed.
2012

Release of Self-Titled Debut Album 'The Lumineers'

The Lumineers released their self-titled debut album in April 2012, produced by Ryan Hadlock. The album was a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard 200 and earning multi-platinum certifications in the U.S. and Canada. It featured hit singles such as 'Ho Hey,' which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, helping the band gain international recognition and establish them as leading figures in the folk-rock revival.
2016

Release of Second Album 'Cleopatra' and Chart-Topping Success

In 2016, The Lumineers released their second studio album, 'Cleopatra,' which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, as well as topping album charts in Canada and the UK. The album continued their trend of introspective lyrics and folk melodies, earning platinum certification. The success of singles like 'Ophelia' reinforced their standing as major artists within the Americana and folk rock genres.
2018

Departure of Neyla Pekarek from the Band

Cellist and vocalist Neyla Pekarek departed from The Lumineers in 2018 after eight years with the band. Her exit marked a significant lineup change, as her talents had contributed to the band’s distinctive sound and live performances. Despite her departure, Schultz and Fraites continued The Lumineers’ trajectory, focusing on new recordings and tours.
2019

Release of Third Album 'III' and Continued Success

September 13, 2019, saw the release of The Lumineers’ third album, 'III,' which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. The album is noted for its narrative storytelling and exploration of themes like addiction and family struggles. This release demonstrated the band’s evolving artistry and willingness to tackle complex subjects in their songwriting, sustaining their popularity and critical acclaim.
2022

Release of Fourth Album 'Brightside'

The Lumineers released their fourth studio album, 'Brightside,' on January 14, 2022. This album continued to showcase their signature blend of folk rock with emotionally resonant lyrics and catchy melodies. 'Brightside' reinforced their lasting presence in the American folk and indie music scenes while supporting continued touring and fan engagement.
2025

Release of Fifth Album 'Automatic' and Ongoing Career

On February 14, 2025, The Lumineers released their fifth album, 'Automatic,' marking another important milestone in their career. The album reflects their sustained creativity and relevance in the contemporary folk-rock genre. With a decade-long career featuring multiple platinum albums and international hits, The Lumineers remain one of the top touring and recording bands in the United States and beyond.

Albums

the-lumineers_1st_album
The Lumineers
11 tracks
2012
the-lumineers_2nd_album
Cleopatra
11 tracks
2016
the-lumineers_3rd_album
III
3 tracks
2019
the-lumineers_4th_album
BRIGHTSIDE
9 tracks
2022
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Neyla Pekarek

2010

Cello

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Ben Wahamaki

N/A
N/A

Maxwell Hughes

N/A
N/A

Jay Van Dyke

N/A
N/A

Story of The Lumineers

The Lumineers: A Folk-Rock Force to Be Reckoned With

The Lumineers are a Colorado-bred band that exploded onto the folk-rock scene in the 2010s. This Americana outfit, formed by the dynamic duo of Wesley Schultz (lead vocals, guitar) and Jeremiah Fraites (drums, percussion, piano), started their journey in Ramsey, New Jersey, back in 2005. Their unique blend of folk and rock quickly captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

The core of The Lumineers' sound, however, was solidified with the addition of cellist and vocalist Neyla Pekarek in 2010. The band's dynamic trio helped them create a sound that was both raw and heartfelt, paving the way for their breakthrough success. While Pekarek left the band in 2018, her impact on their music remains undeniable.

The Lumineers are known for their energetic live shows, drawing massive crowds with their infectious music and heartfelt performances. Their anthemic hits like "Ho Hey," "Stubborn Love," "Ophelia," "Angela," and "Cleopatra" have become staples on radio stations and playlists across the globe, cementing their status as one of the most popular folk-rock bands in the world.

The band has released four albums, all under the banner of the American independent label Dualtone Records. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2012, topped the charts, reaching number two on the Billboard 200.

The Lumineers are more than just a band - they're a musical phenomenon. Their unique blend of folk and rock, coupled with their captivating live performances, has made them one of the most successful touring bands in the United States and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene.

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