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Three Days Grace

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Band Timeline

1992

Formation of Groundswell, the precursor to Three Days Grace

The band initially formed in Norwood, Ontario, under the name Groundswell. The original lineup included lead vocalist Adam Gontier, drummer Neil Sanderson, bassist Brad Walst, lead guitarist Phil Crowe, and rhythm guitarist Joe Grant. They began by playing local backyard parties and small venues, with most members still attending high school. This early period laid the foundation for their future development.
1995

Release of 'Wave of Popular Feeling' and breakup of Groundswell

Groundswell released their one full-length album titled 'Wave of Popular Feeling.' Despite this release, the band disbanded later that year. This marked the end of the band's first iteration but set the stage for the regrouping that would soon follow under a new identity.
1997

Reformation as Three Days Grace

Adam Gontier, Neil Sanderson, and Brad Walst regrouped and formed the band Three Days Grace. The band name conveyed a sense of urgency about the possibility of change within three days. After moving to Toronto, they worked with producer Gavin Brown, who helped refine their material. This period was crucial for developing their demo and eventually securing a record deal.
2002

Signing with Jive Records and Zomba Music

After submitting their polished demo featuring the standout track "I Hate Everything About You," Three Days Grace garnered attention from several record labels. They were signed by Jive Records, thanks to the interest of company president Barry Weiss, and also signed with the music publishing company Zomba. This marked the band's official entry into the professional music industry.
2003

Release of debut album 'Three Days Grace' and breakthrough single

The band recorded their debut album at Long View Farm in Massachusetts and Bearsville Studios in New York. The self-titled album was released on July 22, 2003. The lead single "I Hate Everything About You" was released earlier on April 28 and achieved significant radio airplay, becoming the band's breakthrough hit. The album's themes reflected the band's experiences growing up and tackled darker, emotional content.
2006

Release of second album 'One-X' and rising commercial success

Three Days Grace released their second studio album, 'One-X,' which further established their presence in the rock music scene. The album was certified 3× platinum in the United States and triple platinum in Canada. It produced several successful singles that topped rock charts, helping the band gain a wider international audience and critical recognition.
2009

Release of third album 'Life Starts Now'

Continuing their momentum, Three Days Grace released 'Life Starts Now,' certified platinum in the U.S. and double platinum in Canada. The album demonstrated the band's evolving sound and lyrical maturity, supported by more touring and single releases. It solidified their reputation as a major rock act of the late 2000s.
2012

Release of 'Transit of Venus' and lineup stability

Their fifth studio album, 'Transit of Venus,' was released, maintaining the band's signature rock style while exploring new sonic elements. The album was accompanied by tours and support singles, helping maintain their fanbase and chart presence. The band lineup remained stable with Adam Gontier as the lead vocalist.
2013

Departure of lead vocalist Adam Gontier and introduction of Matt Walst

Adam Gontier left the band for personal and health reasons. He was replaced by Matt Walst, the younger brother of bassist Brad Walst and former lead singer of My Darkest Days. Matt had been a longtime collaborator and songwriter for Three Days Grace. This lineup change marked a new phase in the band's career.
2015

Release of 'Human' with Matt Walst as lead vocalist

Under the new lineup, Three Days Grace released their sixth studio album, 'Human.' The album was their first full project with Matt Walst on vocals and received positive reviews, demonstrating the band’s ability to evolve and continue successfully despite the lineup change.
2018

Release of 'Outsider' and continued creative output

The band released 'Outsider,' their seventh studio album, further showcasing Matt Walst's integration into the band and their ongoing relevance in the rock genre. They continued touring and releasing singles from the album, maintaining their presence on rock music charts.
2022

Release of 'Explosions' and over 10 million records sold worldwide

Their eighth studio album 'Explosions' came out in 2022, coinciding with the band's milestone of over 10 million albums and singles sold worldwide. This milestone highlighted their enduring popularity and commercial success over nearly three decades.
2024

Return of Adam Gontier and expansion to a quintet

Adam Gontier officially rejoined Three Days Grace, joining Matt Walst as a dual vocalist along with the existing members. This marked the band's first time operating as a quintet since their beginnings as Groundswell, signaling renewed creative directions and possibilities for the band’s future.
2025

Release of the ninth album 'Alienation'

The band released their ninth studio album 'Alienation,' featuring the combined vocal talents of Adam Gontier and Matt Walst. The album represents the latest chapter in the band's extensive career, continuing their legacy and musical evolution into the mid-2020s.

Albums

three-days-grace_1st_album
Three Days Grace
12 tracks
2003
three-days-grace_2nd_album
One‐X
13 tracks
2006
three-days-grace_3rd_album
Life Starts Now
12 tracks
2009
three-days-grace_4th_album
Transit of Venus
13 tracks
2012
three-days-grace_5th_album
Human
12 tracks
2015
three-days-grace_6th_album
Outsider
12 tracks
2018
three-days-grace_7th_album
EXPLOSIONS
12 tracks
2022
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Story of Three Days Grace

Three Days Grace: From Backyard Parties to Global Stardom

Three Days Grace, the Canadian rock juggernaut, didn't spring fully formed onto the scene. Their story is a testament to persistence and evolution. It all began in 1992 in Norwood, Ontario, with a band named Groundswell. They honed their sound amidst the chaotic energy of local backyard parties and gritty bar gigs, but eventually, the band called it quits in 1995.

However, the fire was not extinguished. In 1997, Groundswell rose from the ashes, reborn as Three Days Grace. The Toronto-based band, initially a trio featuring guitarist and vocalist Adam Gontier, drummer Neil Sanderson, and bassist Brad Walst, soon attracted the attention of the music world. In 2003, they welcomed lead guitarist Barry Stock, solidifying their four-piece lineup.

Their debut album, self-titled and released in 2003, was a smash hit. It propelled them to the forefront of the rock scene, earning double-platinum certification in the US and platinum status in Canada. The momentum continued with "One-X" in 2006 and "Life Starts Now" in 2009, both achieving multi-platinum status in both countries.

The band's sound, a potent blend of heavy riffs, soaring melodies, and Gontier's distinct vocals, resonated with audiences worldwide. They toured relentlessly, packing stadiums and festivals, becoming a global phenomenon.

In 2013, a change occurred when Gontier left the band. His replacement, Matt Walst, the younger brother of bassist Brad, brought his own unique voice and energy to the fold. This new chapter saw the release of albums like "Human," "Outsider," and "Explosions," further solidifying their legacy.

Three Days Grace has released seven studio albums, each a testament to their talent and evolution as musicians. They've achieved numerous accolades, including multiple platinum certifications and numerous charting hits. Their influence transcends generations, their music a constant reminder of the power of raw, emotionally charged rock music. From those humble beginnings in Norwood, Three Days Grace has become a force to be reckoned with, a band that continues to inspire and ignite audiences worldwide.

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