United States
468 bands founded at United States

Founded in: 2004
Band of Horses: A Seattle Sound That's Stood the Test of Time
Band of Horses, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Seattle, Washington, emerged in 2004. Spearheaded by the soulful songwriting of Ben Bridwell, the band has weathered numerous lineup changes, but Bridwell's presence remains a constant, anchoring their signature sound.
The current lineup features a solid core of veterans: Creighton Barrett on drums, a powerhouse behind the kit, and Ryan Monroe, who brings versatility to the mix with keyboards, guitar, and backing vocals. Rounding out the band are Matt Gentling on bass and backing vocals, and Brett Nash, adding another layer of guitar and harmonies.
For a decade, the band enjoyed a remarkably stable lineup with guitarist Tyler Ramsey and bassist Bill Reynolds, who left in 2017 after a long and successful period together. Their contributions are woven into the fabric of the band's early albums, including the critically acclaimed Cease to Begin (2007).
Throughout their career, Band of Horses has released six studio albums, each offering a distinct sonic tapestry: Everything All the Time (2006), Cease to Begin, Infinite Arms (2010), Mirage Rock (2012), Why Are You OK (2016), and Things Are Great (2022). Infinite Arms earned the band a Grammy nomination in 2011, further solidifying their place in the rock landscape.
The Early Days:
Band of Horses, originally known simply as "Horses," formed in 2004 after the breakup of Bridwell's previous band, Carissa's Wierd. The original lineup included Chris Early on bass, Tim Meinig on drums, and Mat Brooke, another Carissa's Wierd alum, on guitar and vocals.
Their early gigs caught the attention of Sub Pop Records after opening for Iron & Wine in Seattle. This led to the release of their Tour EP in 2005, generating buzz among fans and industry insiders alike.
Their debut album, Everything All the Time, recorded with producer Phil Ek in 2005, marked their official entry into the music scene. The album showcased the band's raw energy and distinctive blend of Americana and indie rock, and was released by Sub Pop in March 2006.
The band's journey since then has been a compelling mix of lineup changes, critical acclaim, and enduring musicality. Band of Horses remains a vital force in the world of rock, leaving an indelible mark on the Seattle sound and beyond.

Founded in: 2008
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.

Founded in: 2017
Night Jobs, a punk rock trio formed in 2017, comprises Matthew Day, Dan Henney, and Kristian Peterson. Their music is infused with emotional depth, inviting audiences to sing along to their powerful anthems.

Founded in: 2020
Philadelphia's underground music scene veterans, Crossed Keys, have a history as deep as the city's rich musical heritage. If you've been immersed in the city's hardcore and punk scene over the past two decades, you've likely encountered members of this band in their past incarnations. From the legendary Kid Dynamite to the raw energy of Ink & Dagger, Crossed Keys boasts a resume that includes iconic acts like Step Ahead, Kill The Man Who Questions, Zolof the Rock and Roll Destroyer, Halo of Snakes, and The Curse.
This collective experience has forged a unique sound in Crossed Keys, a band drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences. Their music reflects years spent in basements and record stores, crafting a distinct brand of punk rock. Their debut full-length album, "CROSSED KEYS BELIEVES IN YOU," released this spring on Creep Records, Dead Satellite Records, and Sell The Heart Records, showcases their evolution.
While the members of Crossed Keys may be a bit older, a touch wiser, and perhaps sporting a bit less hair, their passion for creating music for sweaty singalongs and good times remains as strong as ever. Their sound is a testament to their dedication, a celebration of the vibrant Philadelphia scene that has shaped them.

Founded in: 2020
The Bonstones: East Bay Bred, Punk Rock Fed
Calling The Bonstones simply a "pop punk band from the East Bay" is a gross understatement. It's like describing nachos as "chips with stuff." Born and raised in Alameda, a town so East Bay it practically defines the term, these veteran rockers are steeped in the region's vibrant musical legacy.
Robby, Marky, and Joey Bonstone aren't musical newbies. Each boasts a resume longer than a CVS receipt, but their past achievements pale in comparison to their ambitious future. The Bonstones craft infectious, melodic noise that burrows into your brain like a catchy earworm, equally inspired by classic punk pioneers like The Ramones, The Pretenders, Buzzcocks, and The Clash, mid-90s heroes The Queers, Screaching Weasel, Chixdiggit, and The Lillingtons, and modern pop-punkers like Jagger Holly, The Prozacs, Dee Cracks, and Sweatpants Party.
With roots firmly planted in the Lookout Records scene, The Bonstones are a collective force, writing and creating as a tight-knit unit. Their self-produced debut album, "East Bay Elegy," has been captivating listeners on streaming platforms since 2023 and saw physical release in 2024 on Sell The Heart Records and Monster Zero Records.
Known for their high-energy, crowd-pleasing live shows, The Bonstones regularly rock the San Francisco Bay Area. They've also taken their infectious sound on the road across the US and even toured Europe, spreading their infectious East Bay spirit across the globe.

Founded in: 2023
Hailing from Richmond, VA and Bloomington, IN, The Barbed Wires are no strangers to the punk scene. Having already made a name for themselves with previous bands like Pink Razors, Strike Anywhere, and Cloak / Dagger, they now bring their signature blend of aggression and melody to the forefront with their 2023 debut on Lets Pretend Records. This is raw, edgy punk rock with singalong hooks reminiscent of The Wipers and Adolescents โ if you crave straightforward, no-frills punk, this is for you.

Founded in: 1983
Guided by Voices: A Rock Band Unlike Any Other
Guided by Voices, hailing from the unassuming city of Dayton, Ohio, has been a force in indie rock since their formation in 1983. The band's history is one of constant reinvention, driven by the creative spirit of their visionary leader, Robert Pollard. While the lineup has seen a revolving door of musicians over the years, Pollard's songwriting has remained the core, acting as the beating heart of GBV's unique sound.
The band's most iconic iteration featured Pollard on vocals, his brother Jim on guitar and bass, the guitar wizardry of Mitch Mitchell, Tobin Sprout's distinct vocals and rhythm guitar, Kevin Fennell's powerhouse drumming, and bassist Greg Demos. This lineup cemented their reputation for raw, unpolished energy, characterized by their lo-fi aesthetic and DIY approach. Using four-track cassette recorders, they crafted a signature sound heavily influenced by early post-British Invasion garage rock, psychedelic rock, progressive rock, punk, and post-punk.
Guided by Voices is known for their prolific output, having released over 40 full-length albums alongside a plethora of EPs, singles, and other releases. Their music is a whirlwind of sonic experimentation, marked by short, often abruptly-ending songs. They sprinkle their tracks with homemade sound effects, adding a layer of surrealism to their already unconventional approach.
The band initially disbanded in 2004, only to be revived in 2010 with the reunion of their classic lineup. They celebrated Matador Records' 21st anniversary with a performance, followed by a tour and the release of six new albums. Despite another break-up in 2014, Pollard's passion for music reignited, bringing the band back with a new lineup and a fresh album in 2016.
A Legacy of Creative Chaos
Guided by Voices has cultivated a dedicated fanbase who appreciate their unbridled creativity and willingness to break the mold. They are a testament to the power of independent music, proving that sometimes the most compelling stories are born from the most unexpected places.
From Dayton's Bars to the Indie Rock Hall of Fame
Their journey from Dayton's bars to becoming indie rock legends is a testament to their unwavering dedication to their craft. Guided by Voices' legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of musicians and listeners, reminding them that the spirit of rock and roll thrives on innovation and a DIY attitude.
The Unpredictable and Unforgettable
Guided by Voices is more than just a band; they are a musical phenomenon, a testament to the raw power of creative expression. They continue to push boundaries, defy expectations, and leave a lasting impact on the world of music, one off-kilter song at a time.

Founded in: 2018
Boygenius: A Supergroup Story
Boygenius (stylized in all lowercase) is an American indie rock supergroup, formed by the critically acclaimed singer-songwriters Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus. Their debut, a self-titled EP released in 2018, quickly established them as a force to be reckoned with. After a hiatus, they returned in 2023 with their debut album, "The Record." This critically acclaimed masterpiece, hailed by NME as an "instant classic," topped the charts in the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands, and peaked at number four on the U.S. Billboard 200. The album's success was solidified by three Grammy Awards and a Brit Award for the band. They released their second EP, "The Rest," in October 2023. The group is currently on hiatus.
The Seeds of a Supergroup:
The formation of Boygenius was, as Bridgers puts it, "kind of an accident." The three women were already established solo artists who deeply admired each other's work and had formed a close friendship. Dacus and Bridgers had both opened for Baker on separate tours in 2016, and they all shared a common ground navigating the indie scene.
Breaking the Mold:
The group's genesis stemmed from a shared frustration with the constant comparison and competition that often plagued women in the music industry. As Dacus has stated, the idea of women in music "should not be remarkable whatsoever." Bridgers echoes this sentiment, adding, "it's not a genre." The trio saw this tendency to pit women against each other as a harmful and outdated notion. Boygenius was formed, in part, to reject this narrative. As Dacus puts it, "I hope people see the three of us and know there isn't competition."

Founded in: 1977
Toto: The Story of a Rock & Roll Fusion Powerhouse
Toto, a name synonymous with polished rock and infectious melodies, emerged from the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles in 1977. This band, often stylized as TOTO, transcended genre boundaries, seamlessly blending pop, rock, soul, funk, hard rock, R&B, blues, and jazz into their signature sound.
Their journey, marked by 14 studio albums and over 40 million records sold worldwide, has been punctuated by accolades including multiple Grammy Awards and an induction into the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2009.
The band's origins trace back to session musicians David Paich (keyboards, vocals) and Jeff Porcaro (drums). They joined forces with bassist David Hungate, guitarist Steve Lukather (also on vocals), keyboardist Steve Porcaro (also on vocals), and vocalist Bobby Kimball to release their self-titled debut album in 1978.
Their breakthrough came with the Top 5 hit "Hold the Line," which propelled their debut album to mainstream attention. However, it was their fourth studio album, Toto IV (1982), that catapulted them to global stardom. This album yielded the chart-topping "Africa" and the number two hit "Rosanna," solidifying Toto's place as one of the most successful musical groups of their era.
Following Toto IV, the band experienced lineup changes, with Hungate and Kimball departing. Mike Porcaro replaced Hungate on bass, while Kimball's vocal duties were shared by various short-term singers, most notably Joseph Williams. The tragic loss of Jeff Porcaro in 1992 led to the addition of drummer Simon Phillips.
While Toto might not have consistently dominated the US radio charts since their 1970s and early 1980s peak, they have remained active, releasing albums and touring relentlessly (with a few brief hiatuses) until the present day. They continue to enjoy significant popularity in markets like Japan and Scandinavia, where they have consistently achieved top ten charting albums and singles.
Toto's legacy is cemented by their undeniable musical talent, their ability to seamlessly blend genres, and their timeless hits that continue to resonate with generations of music fans. They are, without a doubt, a true force in the world of rock music.

Founded in: 1976
Foreigner: A Rock Anthem From Two Continents
Foreigner, a powerhouse rock band formed in the heart of New York City in 1976, is a true fusion of musical talents from across the Atlantic. The band's core was formed by the British guitarist Mick Jones, lead vocalist Lou Gramm, drummer Dennis Elliott, and keyboardist Al Greenwood, along with the American bassist Ed Gagliardi. Completing the lineup was Ian McDonald, a multi-instrumentalist and founding member of the legendary prog-rock group King Crimson.
The band's name, "Foreigner," was born from the diverse nationalities of its members. With British and American musicians sharing the stage, the band was destined to resonate with a global audience. And resonate they did! Foreigner has become one of the best-selling bands of all time, selling over 80 million records worldwide, including a staggering 37.5 million in the United States alone.
Their self-titled debut album in 1977 marked the beginning of an incredible run. It was the first of six consecutive albums, including the 7x platinum 1982 "Records" greatest hits collection, to achieve multi-platinum status and reach the Top 10 in the US. Hits like "Feels Like the First Time" and "Cold as Ice" were early testaments to their signature sound.
The momentum continued with their 1978 album "Double Vision," which yielded the iconic tracks "Hot Blooded" and the title track, cementing their place in the rock pantheon.
Foreigner's lineup saw bassist Rick Wills replace Ed Gagliardi before the recording of their third album, "Head Games," in 1979. This record brought forth more chart-topping singles like "Dirty White Boy" and the title track, further solidifying their influence on the music scene.
Despite the departure of McDonald and Greenwood, reducing the band to a quartet, their next album, "4" (1981), took the world by storm. It reached the top of the charts in the US for an impressive 10 weeks and became their breakthrough album in the UK, hitting the Top 5. The album was a hit factory, producing popular tracks like "Urgent," "Waiting for a Girl Like You," and the timeless anthem "Juke Box Hero."
Foreigner's continued success reached new heights with their 1984 album "Agent Provocateur," which topped the UK charts and featured their biggest hit single, the emotionally charged "I Want to Know What Love Is."
Foreigner's impact on the rock landscape is undeniable. Their music continues to inspire and entertain generations of fans, proving that their blend of powerful vocals, soaring guitar melodies, and catchy hooks is a timeless formula.