Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 1991
Counting Crows, hailing from the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, burst onto the music scene in 1991. Led by the distinctive vocals of Adam Duritz, the band's lineup boasts a stellar cast of musicians: guitarist David Bryson, drummer Jim Bogios, keyboardist Charlie Gillingham, multi-instrumentalist David Immerglück, bassist Millard Powers, and guitarist Dan Vickrey. Past members include drummers Steve Bowman and Ben Mize, as well as bassist Matt Malley.
The band's breakthrough came with their debut album, August and Everything After, released in 1993. The album, propelled by the iconic hit single "Mr. Jones," went on to sell over 7 million copies in the US, catapulting Counting Crows to mainstream success. Their distinctive blend of rock, pop, and folk resonated with audiences worldwide.
The band's impact was further solidified by two Grammy Award nominations in 1994: "Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal" for "Round Here" and "Best New Artist." Their subsequent album, Recovering the Satellites, topped the US Billboard 200 charts and reached the number one spot in several other countries.
Counting Crows has consistently delivered chart-topping albums, with all but one of their releases landing in the Billboard 200's top 10. Their catalog is packed with unforgettable hits, including "Mr. Jones," "Round Here," "A Long December," "Rain King," "Big Yellow Taxi," and "Accidentally in Love."
Beyond the charts, Counting Crows have earned a reputation for their captivating live performances and their enduring ability to connect with audiences. Their music continues to resonate with fans across generations, cementing their status as a cornerstone of the rock music landscape.
Founded in: 1995
Emerging from the Florida sunshine in 1994, Creed quickly became a cornerstone of the post-grunge movement, captivating a generation with their raw energy and anthemic vocals. Their meteoric rise saw them unleash three consecutive multi-platinum albums, with their 1999 masterpiece, Human Clay, achieving diamond status (11x platinum) – a testament to their undeniable impact.
Creed's signature sound, driven by Scott Stapp's soaring vocals and Mark Tremonti's blistering guitar riffs, resonated with millions worldwide. The band's impressive catalog boasts over 28 million records sold in the US alone, topping 53 million globally, solidifying their place as the ninth best-selling musical act of the 2000s.
Their early albums, My Own Prison and Human Clay, dominated the charts despite lukewarm critical reception. The latter, featuring the chart-topping single "With Arms Wide Open" (a Grammy winner for Best Rock Song), remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.
After the departure of bassist Brian Marshall in 2000, the band released their critically acclaimed Weathered album in 2001, with Tremonti taking on bass duties. Following their disbandment in 2004, Stapp embarked on a successful solo career while the remaining members formed the critically acclaimed band Alter Bridge with Myles Kennedy.
The year 2009 saw Creed's triumphant reunion, culminating in the release of their fourth album, Full Circle, and numerous sold-out tours. Although they went their separate ways again in 2012, Creed's legacy remained strong, captivating fans with their powerful music and intense performances.
After an eleven-year hiatus, Creed returned to the stage in July 2023, igniting a new wave of excitement with the announcement of a headlining tour in 2024. Their unwavering commitment to their music and their loyal fan base ensures that Creed will continue to be a major force in the rock scene for years to come.
Founded in: 2006
Daughtry, the American rock band fronted by Chris Daughtry (a season five American Idol finalist), exploded onto the scene with their self-titled debut album in November 2006. This record wasn't just a success; it was a phenomenon, hitting #1 on the Billboard 200 and selling over six million copies in the US, earning a 6x Platinum certification from the RIAA. Billboard crowned it the best-selling album of 2007, a testament to its status as the fastest-selling debut rock album in Nielsen SoundScan history. Four singles from the album cracked the Billboard Hot 100's top 20, including the top five hits "It's Not Over" and "Home."
The band's momentum continued with their second album, Leave This Town, which also debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 in July 2009. Selling over 1.3 million copies and achieving Platinum status, the album's lead single, "No Surprise," added another top 20 hit to their impressive catalog. While subsequent albums, Break the Spell (2011, Gold certification), Baptized (2013), Cage to Rattle (2018), and Dearly Beloved (2021), may not have replicated the initial explosive success, Daughtry has maintained a significant presence in the rock world, selling over nine million albums and 25.6 million digital tracks in the U.S.
Early Years (2005-2008): From American Idol to Chart-Topping Success
After his fourth-place finish on American Idol in 2006, Chris Daughtry rejected an offer to become the lead singer of Fuel, instead opting to form his own band. This decision proved to be pivotal, launching Daughtry's meteoric rise to rock superstardom.
Founded in: 2013
Hailing from the bustling music scene of Boston, Massachusetts, Dead Poet Society emerged in 2013 with a raw energy that resonated with a growing fanbase. Led by vocalist and guitarist Jack Underkofler, the band’s original lineup also featured Jack Collins (guitar), Nick Taylor (bass), and Will Goodroad (drums). They forged their sound in the vibrant atmosphere of Berklee College of Music, playing their first gig just two days after forming.
Their early years saw the band honing their craft as an independent unit, self-producing and recording their music. The unique blend of heavy riffs and pop-infused melodies, described by Underkofler as "heavy indie rock" and "djent pop", caught the attention of music lovers, and in 2020, they signed with Spinefarm Music Group.
The band's debut album, "!-," dropped in 2021, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with. Their music, with its infectious energy and captivating dynamics, has resonated with audiences worldwide.
The story of Dead Poet Society, however, goes beyond music alone. They embraced their roots, choosing their band name as a tribute to their shared passion for poetry, completely independent of the iconic film. After graduating from Berklee, the band relocated to Los Angeles, furthering their pursuit of musical success.
Their journey took a significant turn in 2016 when Pepe Problemas, an influential Mexican blog, recognized their talent. This recognition fueled their rise, paving the way for the international acclaim they enjoy today. Dead Poet Society is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the magic of creating music that transcends borders.
Founded in: 1977
Def Leppard, hailing from the industrial heartland of Sheffield, England, burst onto the scene in 1976, becoming a cornerstone of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Their journey, however, took them far beyond the headbanging hordes of the early 80s, culminating in a career marked by massive commercial success and stadium-filling anthems.
The band's core lineup since 1992 consists of the rhythm section powerhouse of Rick Savage (bass, backing vocals) and Rick Allen (drums), fronted by the charismatic Joe Elliott (lead vocals), and flanked by the twin guitar attack of Phil Collen (guitar, backing vocals) and Vivian Campbell (guitar, backing vocals).
Their debut album, "On Through the Night" (1980), while reaching the UK Top 15, failed to make a significant impact elsewhere. It wasn't until their second album, "High 'n' Dry" (1981), produced by the legendary Mutt Lange, that Def Leppard truly found their sonic signature. Lange's influence helped shape their melodic hard rock sound, giving birth to the iconic "Bringin' On the Heartbreak" - one of the first rock videos to grace MTV in 1982.
The arrival of Phil Collen in 1982 solidified the lineup that would propel them to global stardom. Their third album, "Pyromania" (1983), exploded onto the scene, fuelled by the twin power of "Photograph" and "Rock of Ages." These tracks dominated the US Rock Tracks chart and cracked the Top 20 on the Hot 100. "Pyromania" itself achieved Diamond status in the US, reaching No. 2 on the album chart. It also hit the UK Top 20, though its impact elsewhere remained limited.
Def Leppard's story is one of perseverance, evolution, and undeniable talent. They carved a path from the underground heavy metal scene to the forefront of stadium rock, leaving an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
Founded in: 2017
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Orlando, Florida, Dial Drive is a punk band known for their explosive live performances and tireless touring schedule. They have a solid discography, having released a number of EPs and full-length albums, solidifying their presence in the punk rock landscape.
Founded in: 1997
Dir En Grey, often stylized as DIR EN GREY, is a Japanese metal band formed in February 1997. They've built a reputation for their unique and ever-evolving sound, defying easy categorization within the metal genre. Currently signed to Firewall Div., a sub-division of Free-Will, the band has released eleven studio albums and garnered a loyal following worldwide.
The band's core lineup consists of Kyo on vocals, Die and Kaoru on guitars, Toshiya on bass, and Shinya on drums. They've maintained this stable lineup throughout their career, which has been marked by a consistent exploration of new sonic territories.
Initially embracing the visual kei aesthetic, Dir En Grey gradually moved away from exaggerated fashion, preferring a more subtle yet dramatic stage presence. Their music, however, has always retained a distinct darkness, delving into themes of pain, despair, and the human condition.
From La:Sadie's to Dir En Grey: A Story of Reinvention
Dir En Grey's origins can be traced back to the independent rock band La:Sadie's, formed in November 1995 by Kyo and bassist Kisaki. The band, which also included Die and Shio on guitars, as well as Shinya on drums, made their live debut in January 1996. Shio's departure after only three shows paved the way for Kaoru to join in April 1996.
La:Sadie's enjoyed a whirlwind of success during their independent years, performing over 800 shows in just one year. However, the band unexpectedly disbanded in January 1997, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions. While the official reason for the split remains shrouded in mystery, rumors of internal conflicts, particularly between Kisaki and the other members, linger. Kisaki later stated that he was asked to leave the band, attributing his failure to care for his bandmates to his focus on performing.
Out of the ashes of La:Sadie's rose Dir En Grey, carrying forward the band's core members and embarking on a new chapter in their musical journey.
This rewrite emphasizes the band's evolution, focusing on their musical style and the dramatic events that shaped their history. It also includes a concise, engaging introduction and a more descriptive account of La:Sadie's, providing a better understanding of the band's origins.
Founded in: 1998
Eagles of Death Metal, hailing from the desert haven of Palm Desert, California, emerged onto the music scene in 1998. Founded by the dynamic duo of Jesse Hughes (vocals, guitar) and Josh Homme (drums), the band boasts a revolving cast of talented musicians who contribute both to their studio albums and electrifying live performances. While Hughes and Homme remain the band's core, Homme's busy schedule with his other project, Queens of the Stone Age, limits his live appearances.
The band's current touring lineup features Hughes alongside a formidable crew: Leah Bluestein on drums, Scott Shiflett on guitar, Jennie Vee on bass, and Rex Roulette on guitar.
Despite their name, Eagles of Death Metal are anything but a death metal band. Their moniker, a playful twist on the iconic Eagles, is a testament to their tongue-in-cheek humor. Homme described their sound in a 2003 interview as a unique blend of "bluegrass slide guitar mixed with stripper drum beats and Canned Heat vocals."
Hughes, renowned for his captivating stage presence, is known for his energetic interaction with audiences, creating an infectious energy at their shows.
The band's name has been the subject of various, often conflicting, explanations, all centered around the humorous concept of a death metal version of the Eagles.
One story, as told by Hughes in a video interview, recounts a night when he and Homme were in a London bar witnessing a man dancing to "Wind of Change" by the Scorpions. When asked about his dance moves, the man declared, "This is death metal, dude!" Homme's reply, a humorous counterpoint, was "No, it's not. It's like the Eagles of death metal."
Another version claims the name originated from an exchange between Homme and a friend who was attempting to convert Hughes to the death metal genre.
Regardless of the precise origin, the name Eagles of Death Metal has become synonymous with their unique brand of rock and roll, a sound infused with blues, rockabilly, and a healthy dose of humor.
Founded in: 2012
EggPlantEgg (English: EggPlantEgg) is a Taiwanese indie rock band formed in Taipei in 2012. The band consists of vocalist and keyboardist Ah-Bin, guitarist Ah-De, and guitarist Ah-Ren. Their musical style encompasses classic rock, blues, and fusion, interwoven with street karaoke and popular music styles. In 2017, they released their first album, "Cartoon Characters". In 2018, they won the Best Hokkien Album Award and Best New Artist Award at the 29th Golden Melody Awards. In 2019, they were nominated for the Song of the Year Award at the 30th Golden Melody Awards with "Drifting". In May 2020, the music video for their single "浪子回頭" (The Prodigal Son Returns) reached 100 million views on their official YouTube channel. In December 2021, the music video for their single "Drifting" reached 100 million views on their official YouTube channel. In 2022, they won the Song of the Year Award at the 33rd Golden Melody Awards with the film theme song "Love Is Greater Than You Think". In September of the same year, they announced a hiatus due to the lead singer's vocal damage.
Like other indie bands in Taiwan that are actively expanding their musical landscape, EggPlantEgg also chose not to join a major record label and instead formed their own company, "EggPlantEgg Co., Ltd.", to handle all of the band's affairs. The company currently employs band members and a manager, and other businesses such as media relations, design, and technical engineering are handled through collaborations.
== Band Name == The band name "EggPlantEgg" comes from the fact that the band members all happen to love eggplants, and eggplants are something that people either love or hate, similar to their music which doesn't satisfy everyone. Lead vocalist Huang Qi-Bin said: "I like to eat eggplant, but you know, eggplant is something that people either love or hate, and that's the same with our music, some people like it, some people hate it, that's normal! So we chose a plant that's a little less mainstream, because eggplant is 'eggplant' in English, so I thought I'd add an 'egg' to make it 'EggPlantEgg', so it's visually symmetrical and has a distinct 'masculine symbol', representing the interesting, masculine image that EggPlantEgg gives to the audience through their music."
== Members == Formed in 2012, the original five members of EggPlantEgg were all graduates of Songshan High School. After member changes, only Huang Qi-Bin remains in the band.
Founded in: 1995
Evanescence, hailing from the heartland of Little Rock, Arkansas, exploded onto the scene in the late '90s, birthed from the creative partnership of the enigmatic Amy Lee (vocals, keyboards) and the visionary Ben Moody (guitar). Their early years were marked by a string of independent EPs, showcasing a raw and emotive sound that resonated with listeners.
Their breakthrough arrived in 2003 with the release of their debut album, Fallen, a powerful testament to their raw talent. Propelled by the anthemic "Bring Me to Life" and the hauntingly beautiful "My Immortal," Fallen achieved commercial and critical success, selling over four million copies in the US alone and earning the band two Grammy Awards. The album cemented Evanescence's place as a force in the rock world, their sound resonating with a generation craving emotional depth and raw energy.
Further solidifying their status, Evanescence released their first live album and concert DVD, Anywhere but Home in 2004, selling over a million copies worldwide. This marked a pivotal moment, showcasing their captivating live presence and solidifying their global reach.
Their sophomore effort, The Open Door, arrived in 2006, featuring a new co-writer in the form of guitarist Terry Balsamo. This album, while maintaining their signature sound, showcased a more mature and refined musical direction, garnering a Grammy nomination and selling over six million copies worldwide.
Following a period of change, Evanescence regrouped in 2009 with a new lineup: Terry Balsamo (guitar), Troy McLawhorn (guitar), Tim McCord (bass) and Will Hunt (drums). This re-energized lineup unleashed their self-titled third album, Evanescence, in 2011. This marked a turning point as the band collaborated on the songwriting for the first time, resulting in a record that reflected their collective creative vision. The album soared to the top of multiple Billboard charts, solidifying their position as a major force in the rock music scene.
After touring extensively in support of the album, Evanescence entered a hiatus, allowing the members to pursue individual projects and recharge their creative batteries.
Evanescence's story is one of evolution, resilience, and unwavering passion for music. From their humble beginnings in Arkansas to conquering the global stage, they have consistently delivered powerful, emotionally charged music that continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Their journey is far from over, promising exciting chapters in the band's ongoing narrative.