Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 1976
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.
Founded in: 2008
fun. was a New York City-based indie pop band known for their infectious energy and catchy melodies. The trio consisted of the talented musicians:
The band's journey began in 2008, shortly after The Format disbanded. Nate Ruess, yearning for a fresh start, invited Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff to join his new project. Dost, who had previously toured and contributed to The Format, readily accepted the offer. Ruess and Antonoff had crossed paths when The Format toured with Steel Train, forging a musical connection.
The band's debut album, "Aim and Ignite," was released in 2009, establishing fun. as a force to be reckoned with in the indie music scene. However, it was their second album, "Some Nights," released in 2012, that catapulted them to international stardom.
"Some Nights" peaked at number three on the Billboard 200 chart and topped both the Top Alternative Albums and Top Rock Albums charts. This critical and commercial success spawned some of fun.'s most iconic singles:
At the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, fun. was honored with prestigious awards: "Song of the Year" for "We Are Young," and "Best New Artist."
With their unique blend of indie sensibilities, catchy pop hooks, and a high-energy live show, fun. left a lasting impact on the music world. Their success proved that a band with a strong foundation in songwriting, musicianship, and a genuine connection with their audience could achieve true global recognition.
Founded in: 1994
Garbage, a formidable force in the alternative rock scene, emerged in 1993 from the unlikely pairing of Scottish singer Shirley Manson and American musicians Duke Erikson, Steve Marker, and Butch Vig. This dynamic quartet, each contributing to songwriting and production, has remained intact since their inception, solidifying their unique blend of dark, angular pop and electronic influences.
Their self-titled debut album, released in 1995, was a critical and commercial smash, selling over four million copies worldwide. This success was fueled by a string of chart-topping singles, including the iconic "Stupid Girl" and the haunting "Only Happy When It Rains". The album achieved double platinum status in the UK, US, and Australia, firmly establishing Garbage as a force to be reckoned with.
Following the success of their debut, Garbage continued to push boundaries with their sophomore effort, "Version 2.0", released in 1998. This album, a testament to their commitment to sonic experimentation, topped the UK Albums Chart and garnered two Grammy Award nominations. The band further cemented their status by contributing the theme song to the 1999 James Bond film "The World Is Not Enough".
While their third album, "Beautiful Garbage", received critical acclaim, it didn't quite reach the commercial heights of its predecessors, despite selling over a million copies in its first three months. The band faced internal struggles during the production of their fourth album, "Bleed Like Me", leading to a brief disbandment. However, they ultimately reunited and released the album in 2005, achieving their highest US chart position with a number four debut.
Despite the success of "Bleed Like Me," Garbage abruptly cut short their tour and announced an indefinite hiatus. They emphasized that they weren't disbanding but rather seeking individual creative pursuits. Despite their hiatus, Garbage has continued to leave an enduring legacy on the rock music landscape, inspiring generations of artists with their innovative sound and undeniable talent. Their impact on the music industry is undeniable, and their devoted fanbase eagerly awaits their return.
Founded in: 1994
Hoobastank, the American rock band known for their soaring vocals and powerful anthems, emerged from the California music scene in 1994. Originally known simply as "Hoobastank," the band, fronted by vocalist Doug Robb, guitarist Dan Estrin, drummer Chris Hesse, and bassist Markku Lappalainen, quickly made their mark on the local scene.
The band's name, which has been the subject of much speculation, remains shrouded in mystery. Some claim it's a mispronounced German street, others suggest it's slang for a sneaker aficionado, while others insist it was simply a playful invention. Regardless of its origin, the name stuck, becoming synonymous with the band's unique sound.
Hoobastank's early gigs at the legendary Cobalt Cafe in Agoura Hills placed them alongside fellow rising stars Incubus and Linkin Park, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with. Their self-released debut album, "They Sure Don't Make Basketball Shorts Like They Used To," dropped in 1998, showcasing their raw talent and featuring a saxophone section led by the talented Jeremy Wasser. Wasser, known for his work on Incubus' "Summer Romance," also executive produced the album, highlighting the close-knit community of musicians that fueled the scene.
With Jim Wirt of Fourth Street Recording handling production and Brett Spivey contributing their visual design, Hoobastank's early career was a whirlwind of creativity and collaboration, laying the groundwork for their future success.
Founded in: 2008
Imagine Dragons, the American pop rock powerhouse, emerged from the neon lights of Las Vegas in 2008. Fronted by the charismatic Dan Reynolds, the band – also featuring guitarist Wayne Sermon and bassist Ben McKee – quickly gained traction with their anthemic single "It's Time."
Their debut album, Night Visions (2012), catapulted them to international fame, spawning the chart-topping hits "Radioactive" and "Demons." "Radioactive" became a global phenomenon, holding the record for most weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning the title of "biggest rock hit of the year" by Rolling Stone.
Imagine Dragons were crowned "the year's biggest breakout band" by MTV and recognized as Billboard's "Breakthrough Band of 2013" and "Biggest Band of 2017," cementing their dominance in the rock scene. Their albums consistently topped Billboard's "Year in Rock" rankings, and they claimed the top spot in the "Top Artists – Duo/Group" category in 2018.
Their sophomore album, Smoke + Mirrors (2015), reached number one in the US, Canada, and the UK, solidifying their global appeal. Evolve (2017) followed, generating three chart-topping singles: "Believer," "Thunder," and "Whatever It Takes," and marking them as the artist with the most weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot Rock Songs chart.
While the band's fourth studio album, Origins (2018), featured the hit single "Natural," which became their fifth song to top the Hot Rock Songs chart, critical reception for their four albums remained mixed.
In 2022, the band released their ambitious double album, Mercury – Acts 1 & 2, which was met with a mixed response. Regardless of critical acclaim, Imagine Dragons continues to be a force to be reckoned with, consistently delivering powerful and anthemic music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Founded in: 1993
Hailing from the desert heat of Mesa, Arizona, Jimmy Eat World emerged in 1993 with a raw, energetic sound that quickly captured the hearts of alternative rock fans. The band – featuring the songwriting duo of Jim Adkins (lead vocals, guitar) and Tom Linton (rhythm guitar, backing vocals), along with bassist Rick Burch and drummer Zach Lind – have remained a tight-knit unit, their consistency reflected in the nine studio albums they've released together.
The band's breakout moment came with their 2001 release, Bleed American. This album was a veritable hit machine, spawning four top-20 singles on the Alternative Songs chart, including the iconic "The Middle" which soared to the No. 1 position. Their momentum continued with Futures (2004), which boasted the chart-topping single "Pain" and solidified their place as a major force in the rock scene.
The RIAA recognized the immense success of Bleed American with a platinum certification, while Futures achieved gold status, reflecting combined sales exceeding 1.5 million units. The band continued to climb the charts with their sixth LP, Chase This Light (2007), which peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard 200, becoming their highest-charting album to date.
Jimmy Eat World's story is one of unwavering dedication and an ability to connect with audiences through their passionate and relatable songwriting. From the desert heat of their beginnings to the pinnacle of the rock charts, they've carved their own path and left an enduring mark on the music world.
Founded in: 1973
Journey, the iconic American rock band, emerged from the vibrant San Francisco music scene in 1973. Born from the creative union of former members of legendary bands like Santana, the Steve Miller Band, and Frumious Bandersnatch, Journey's story is one of enduring success and musical evolution.
The band, as it stands in 2024, features Neal Schon, the last remaining original member, on guitar and vocals, alongside Jonathan Cain on keyboards and vocals, Jason Derlatka on keyboards and vocals, Deen Castronovo on drums and vocals, Todd Jensen on bass, and Arnel Pineda on lead vocals.
Journey's golden era, however, is intrinsically linked to the vocal powerhouse of Steve Perry. During his tenure from 1978 to 1987, the band achieved their greatest commercial triumphs, crafting a string of timeless hits that still resonate today. "Don't Stop Believin'," released in 1981, became a cultural phenomenon, reaching the top of the iTunes charts in 2009, cementing its place as one of the most enduring rock anthems of all time.
Their seventh album, Escape, released in 1981, reached the pinnacle of the Billboard 200, becoming their most successful album to date. It gifted the world another unforgettable single, "Open Arms," solidifying Journey's status as musical giants. Their follow-up album, Frontiers, released in 1983, continued their winning streak, achieving chart dominance in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
The band has enjoyed several successful reunions, first with Steve Augeri from 1998 to 2006, and then with Arnel Pineda, who has fronted the band since 2007.
Journey's legacy is firmly cemented in the annals of rock history. With an impressive 25 gold and platinum albums, including the 18x platinum RIAA Diamond Certified Greatest Hits album, their influence on the music landscape is undeniable. They hold the distinction of having 19 Top 40 singles in the US, second only to Electric Light Orchestra in terms of charting success without reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
Initially rooted in progressive rock, Journey re-defined their sound in 1978 with their fourth album, Infinity, embracing pop arrangements that captivated audiences worldwide. They are recognized by AllMusic as "one of America's most beloved (and sometimes hated) commercial rock/pop bands." Despite the occasional criticism, Journey's impact on the music scene remains undeniable, leaving a legacy of melodically rich rock anthems that continue to be enjoyed by generations of music lovers.
Founded in: 1999
Hailing from the heart of Tennessee, Kings of Leon emerged in 1999, a family affair featuring brothers Caleb, Nathan, and Jared Followill alongside their cousin Matthew. Their early sound was a potent cocktail of Southern rock grit, garage rock energy, and bluesy swagger. But Kings of Leon weren't content to stay in one lane. As their career progressed, they embraced a more diverse musical palette, venturing into alternative rock territory while still retaining their signature raw energy.
The band's initial breakout came in the UK, where they racked up nine top 40 singles and two BRIT Awards in 2008, solidifying their status as international rock royalty. Their first three albums stormed the UK charts, with Because of the Times claiming the coveted No. 1 spot.
Then came the monumental Only by the Night in 2008, catapulting Kings of Leon into the stratosphere of American music. The album's anthemic singles, "Sex on Fire," "Use Somebody," and "Notion," dominated the Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart, reaching the pinnacle of rock radio airplay. Only by the Night achieved platinum status in the US, cementing their position as a global force and becoming the best-selling album of 2008 in Australia, achieving a staggering nine-times platinum certification.
Kings of Leon continued their winning streak with their fifth album, Come Around Sundown, released in October 2010, proving their staying power and solidifying their legacy as one of the most important and enduring rock bands of the 21st century.
Founded in: 1996
Lifehouse, hailing from the bustling streets of Los Angeles, California, is a rock band that found mainstream success with their emotive and melodic music. The band features Jason Wade (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, piano), Rick Woolstenhulme Jr. (drums, percussion), Bryce Soderberg (bass, vocals), and Steve Stout (lead guitar).
Their breakthrough moment came in 2000 with the single "Hanging by a Moment," which propelled their debut album, No Name Face, into the spotlight. The song climbed to number two on the Billboard Hot 100, earning a Billboard Music Award for Hot 100 Single of the Year. It spent a remarkable 20 weeks within the top ten and over a year on the chart, solidifying its place as one of the most successful singles of 2001, despite not reaching the top position.
Following the success of their debut, Lifehouse continued to release a series of albums, including Stanley Climbfall (2002), their self-titled third album (2005), Who We Are (2007), Smoke & Mirrors (2010), Almería (2012), and Out of the Wasteland (2015). While these albums maintained a similar commercial success, they generated hits like "You and Me," "First Time," and "Whatever It Takes," all of which resonated with audiences on the Mainstream Top 40, Adult Top 40, Adult Contemporary, and Billboard Hot 100 charts.
Lifehouse's music, with its blend of rock and pop sensibilities, has become synonymous with the adult contemporary genre. Their songs often grace the airwaves in public spaces, from supermarkets and shopping malls to family-friendly venues, attracting a wide audience with their relatable lyrics and catchy melodies.
Early Days: From Blyss to Lifehouse
Before finding their footing as Lifehouse, Jason Wade, a songwriter coping with his parents' divorce, moved to Los Angeles in 1995 and met his future bandmate, bassist Sergio Andrade, who lived next door. The following year, they joined forces with Jon "Diff" Palmer, forming the band Blyss, which would eventually evolve into Lifehouse. Blyss honed their skills playing live shows at high schools and colleges, laying the groundwork for their future success.
Founded in: 1990
Live, often stylized as LĪVE, LĪAVE, or +LĪAVE+, is an American rock band hailing from York, Pennsylvania. Formed in 1984 by Ed Kowalczyk (lead vocals, guitars), Patrick Dahlheimer (bass), Chad Gracey (drums), and Chad Taylor (guitars), Live rose to prominence with their energetic live performances and anthemic rock sound.
The band gained initial recognition with their single "Operation Spirit (The Tyranny of Tradition)," which received heavy rotation on MTV. Their second album, Mental Jewelry (1991), garnered modest success, but it was their third album, Throwing Copper (1994), that catapulted them to stardom. Selling over eight million copies in the U.S. alone, Throwing Copper produced a string of hits including "Lightning Crashes," which reigned supreme on the Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart for an impressive ten consecutive weeks. Their success propelled them to sell over twenty million albums worldwide.
Throughout their career, Live expanded their sound by incorporating additional musicians, including Kowalczyk's brother Adam, British keyboardist Michael "Railo" Railton, rhythm guitarist Christopher Thorn of Blind Melon, and guitarist Zak Loy of Alpha Rev.
In 2009, Kowalczyk left the band, leaving a void filled by singer Chris Shinn. Their subsequent album, The Turn (2014), reflected this new era for the band. However, Kowalczyk returned to Live in 2016, marking a return to their original sound and leading to the release of the EP Local 717 in 2018.
The band's trajectory took another turn in 2022 when Kowalczyk assumed majority control of Live and subsequently fired Taylor. Reports from Rolling Stone indicated that Gracey and Dahlheimer were also let go, leaving Kowalczyk as the sole remaining original member.
Live's legacy is one of high-energy rock anthems, resonating with fans for decades. Their history, though filled with changes and shifts in lineup, remains a testament to the enduring power of their music.