"Who's that?", You may have asked. Don't be ashamed.
I mentioned some famous people in the book, like Manafest and tobyMac, and some people have actually came up to me and asked me who they were.so here's the drop on the artists, skateboarders, and whoever I referred to that deserves at least a mention.
tobyMac
Toby McKeehan (born Kevin Michael McKeehan;[2] October 22, 1964), better known by his stage name TobyMac (styled tobyMac), is a Christian recording artist, music producer, hip-hop/pop artist, singer-songwriter, and author.
TobyMac was one of the first Christian rappers. He was first known for being a member of the Christian singing trio DC Talk, staying with them from 1987 until their announced hiatus in 2000. He has since continued a successful solo career with the release of four studio albums: Momentum (2001), Welcome to Diverse City (2004), Portable Sounds (2007), Tonight (2010), as well as two remixed albums of the first two albums titled Re:Mix Momentum and Renovating Diverse City and one remix album for the last two albums titled Dubbed and Freq'd: A Remix Project (2012), respectively. He also has a full-length Christmas album Christmas in Diverse City (2011).
Between DC talk and his own solo career, he has sold more than 10 million albums.[3] TobyMac has had six No. 1 hit CHR singles[4] including "Gone", "Made to Love" and "Lose My Soul." His live concert CD+DVD combo album, Alive and Transported, was released in 2008 and received the Grammy Award for Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album at the 51st Grammy Awards in 2009.[5] His fourth studio album, Tonight, was released on February 9, 2010.
TobyMac has written two books with Michael Tait and Kevin Max entitled, Jesus Freaks: DC Talk and The Voice of the Martyrs – Stories of Those Who Stood for Jesus, the Ultimate Jesus Freaks,[13] and, Jesus Freaks: Revolutionaries: Stories of Revolutionaries Who Changed Their World: Fearing God, Not Man.[14] These books are mainly focused on Christian martyrs. Toby Mac has also written two more books with Michael Tait, one titled, Under God,[15] containing stories of America's spiritual battles, and another book called, Living Under God: Discovering Your Part In God's Plan.[16]
TobyMac has written a fifth book called, City On Our Knees.[17] The book is about how Christians past and present have set aside differences, come together in unity, and stepped forward in action and prayer.
TobyMac is the president of the record label Gotee Records. He created the label with Todd Collins and Joey Elwood in order to produce Out of Eden's Lovin' the Day after efforts to sign the group to an established label proved unsuccessful.[18] "We all collectively said, 'Let's just give this a shot'", Elwood recalls; "Three naïve guys, a willing band, and some really good songs."[18] Gotee features artists such as Relient K, House of Heroes, Jamie Grace and Abandon Kansas. However, as a recording artist, TobyMac is under contract with ForeFront Records.
Websites: www.tobymac.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TobyMac
TobyMac was one of the first Christian rappers. He was first known for being a member of the Christian singing trio DC Talk, staying with them from 1987 until their announced hiatus in 2000. He has since continued a successful solo career with the release of four studio albums: Momentum (2001), Welcome to Diverse City (2004), Portable Sounds (2007), Tonight (2010), as well as two remixed albums of the first two albums titled Re:Mix Momentum and Renovating Diverse City and one remix album for the last two albums titled Dubbed and Freq'd: A Remix Project (2012), respectively. He also has a full-length Christmas album Christmas in Diverse City (2011).
Between DC talk and his own solo career, he has sold more than 10 million albums.[3] TobyMac has had six No. 1 hit CHR singles[4] including "Gone", "Made to Love" and "Lose My Soul." His live concert CD+DVD combo album, Alive and Transported, was released in 2008 and received the Grammy Award for Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album at the 51st Grammy Awards in 2009.[5] His fourth studio album, Tonight, was released on February 9, 2010.
TobyMac has written two books with Michael Tait and Kevin Max entitled, Jesus Freaks: DC Talk and The Voice of the Martyrs – Stories of Those Who Stood for Jesus, the Ultimate Jesus Freaks,[13] and, Jesus Freaks: Revolutionaries: Stories of Revolutionaries Who Changed Their World: Fearing God, Not Man.[14] These books are mainly focused on Christian martyrs. Toby Mac has also written two more books with Michael Tait, one titled, Under God,[15] containing stories of America's spiritual battles, and another book called, Living Under God: Discovering Your Part In God's Plan.[16]
TobyMac has written a fifth book called, City On Our Knees.[17] The book is about how Christians past and present have set aside differences, come together in unity, and stepped forward in action and prayer.
TobyMac is the president of the record label Gotee Records. He created the label with Todd Collins and Joey Elwood in order to produce Out of Eden's Lovin' the Day after efforts to sign the group to an established label proved unsuccessful.[18] "We all collectively said, 'Let's just give this a shot'", Elwood recalls; "Three naïve guys, a willing band, and some really good songs."[18] Gotee features artists such as Relient K, House of Heroes, Jamie Grace and Abandon Kansas. However, as a recording artist, TobyMac is under contract with ForeFront Records.
Websites: www.tobymac.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TobyMac
Manafest
Okay, I modeled Chris after this dude. Manafest is awesome. Now for the Wikipedia info. *snore*
Chris Greenwood (born July 19, 1979) better known by his stage name Manafest, is a Canadian Christian rapper and rock artist from Pickering, Ontario.
After a skateboarding accident in 1998, Manafest took time to focus on rap and was noticed by Trevor McNevan of the Ontario-based band Thousand Foot Krutch. This led to his signing with an internationally distributed label, BEC Recordings under the Uprok Records label, and his debut release Epiphany. The album was made primarily of West Coast hip hop with several rapcore outings in the vein of Limp Bizkit, P.O.D. and Linkin Park. Manafest's second album, Glory, used a more purely hip hop style. On June 24, 2008 Manafest released his third official album, Citizens Activ, which went on to become his most successful album to date. The single "Avalanche" from his album, The Chase, debuted at No. 46 on the Billboard Christian Songs on May 29, 2010 being his highest and only charting song.[1] Manafest's new album, Fighter was released April 10, 2012.[citation needed]
Websites: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manafest
www.manafest.net
Chris Greenwood (born July 19, 1979) better known by his stage name Manafest, is a Canadian Christian rapper and rock artist from Pickering, Ontario.
After a skateboarding accident in 1998, Manafest took time to focus on rap and was noticed by Trevor McNevan of the Ontario-based band Thousand Foot Krutch. This led to his signing with an internationally distributed label, BEC Recordings under the Uprok Records label, and his debut release Epiphany. The album was made primarily of West Coast hip hop with several rapcore outings in the vein of Limp Bizkit, P.O.D. and Linkin Park. Manafest's second album, Glory, used a more purely hip hop style. On June 24, 2008 Manafest released his third official album, Citizens Activ, which went on to become his most successful album to date. The single "Avalanche" from his album, The Chase, debuted at No. 46 on the Billboard Christian Songs on May 29, 2010 being his highest and only charting song.[1] Manafest's new album, Fighter was released April 10, 2012.[citation needed]
Websites: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manafest
www.manafest.net
FAMILY FORce 5
These guys are AWESOME! Follow them on Twitter!
Early history and The Family (1993-2003) Family Force 5 was formed in Atlanta, Georgia. Three of the five members, Solomon (AKA: "Soul Glow Activatur"), Joshua (AKA: Fatty), and Jacob Olds (AKA: Crouton), are sons of Jerome Olds, a Christian artist popular in the late 1980s. Prior to the formation of Family Force 5, the brothers were members of a "boy band" known as The Brothers, releasing Fact and Reality (1994) and RPM (1995). Both albums were released on Star Song Records, and produced by their father.[2][3]
Between The Brothers and Family Force 5, the brothers had a band called Ground Noise, which they classified as "a really bad version of Third Day."[4] Next, the three brothers added Derek Mount (AKA: Chap Stique) and Nathan "Nate" Currin (AKA: Nadaddy). Before the band chose the name Family Force 5, they used the name "The Phamily" but were forced to change it later due to copyright issues with Prince's band, The Family.
A decade later, the band signed with Maverick Records for distribution to the mainstream market before signing to Gotee Records for the Christian market. Under the name "The Phamily", the band sought a dual recording deal to better distribute their music to both the mainstream and Christian markets.[3] According to Solomon Olds, "To me, and pretty much anybody that's under my age, most Christian music is a turnoff. I don't want to be affiliated with that. I want to be affiliated with something that is great music. I feel that Maverick and Gotee together can pull that off."[2]
[edit] Family Force 5 and mainstream success (2004-2007) On March 21, 2006 the band released their first full-length album Business Up Front/Party in the Back which was an instant hit in both the Christian and mainstream markets spawning several hit singles such as "Love Addict" and "Earthquake". Both of these songs, like many others on the album, are heavily focused around the guitar. Their debut album has been both disparaged and praised by Christian and non-Christian critics respectively for not containing overtly Christian content in any of its tracks. In March 2007, their debut album was re-released as Business Up Front/Party in the Back: Diamond Edition, which contains three previously unreleased songs.[5] During this time, Family Force 5 contributed the song "Mind's Eye" for the compilation album Freaked! A Gotee Tribute to dc Talk's "Jesus Freak". For Christmas, Family Force 5 released a few Christmas-themed audio blogs. They also recorded "Grandma", a cover of "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer". Also a new unreleased song entitled "Whatcha Gonna Do with It" was added to the Hip Hope Hits: 2008 record.[6] Another previously unreleased song, "Master of Disguise", was posted on YouTube. However due to mixed fan reaction to the song it was not slated for release at the time.
[edit] Dance or Die (2008) In June 2008, the band released an EP entitled Dance or Die EP to debut three songs from their upcoming album Dance or Die. On August 19, 2008, the full-length album was released taking on a more club oriented, electronic dance sound than Business Up Front/Party in the Back with less guitar. The full-length album, Dance or Die, received a favorable review in World Magazine.[7]
Blake Soloman of AbsolutePunk.net had the following to say about the album; "Even though Family Force 5 may be the musical equivalent of mixing Mentos and Coke-–lots of build up for something that only ever happens one way-–I find myself oddly pleased with Dance or Die."
Dance or Die sold 17,000 copies in its first week and debuted at 30 on the Billboard 200. By the end of January, the album had sold over 50,000 units and during early 2009 the band embarked on the AP tour from March to May promoting the album and headlining concerts throughout the U.S.[8] In December 2008, the band won the Best Christian Rock Artist, Best Crunk Rock/Rap Artist and Best Rock Album for Dance or Die at the Rock on Request Awards.[9]
[edit] Dance or Die with a Vengeance and Christmas album (2009) In May 2009, the band debuted their remix album of Dance or Die; Dance or Die with a Vengeance. It featured remixes by The Secret Handshake, 3OH!3, Danger Radio, Jasen Rauch of Red, Matt Thiessen of Relient K, David Crowder of David Crowder Band, Alex Suarez of Cobra Starship, and more.[8] The album debuted at No. 180 on the Billboard 200, No. 15 on the Christian Albums chart and No. 6 on the Dance/Electronic Albums chart.[10]
Around this time, Solomon Olds created a remix of the song "Best Night of Our Lives" by Everyday Sunday.
On September 5, the band unveiled a new song called "Keep the Party Alive" which was featured on an EP, titled Keep the Party Alive EP. The EP was released exclusively at Target to promote the Halloween themed Skelanimals on September 15. Other tracks on the EP include 3 songs from Dance or Die with a Vengeance, 2 songs from Dance or Die, and two music videos.[11] Next, The band embarked on their third Dance Rawr Dance Tour, along with Breathe Carolina, Cash Cash, Queens Club, and i-Rival.
On October 6, the band released a Christmas album titled Family Force 5 Christmas Pageant, containing ten tracks including their own version of "My Favorite Things".[12] The album debuted at No. 14 on the US Dance charts.
In mid-November 2009, the band hit the road on the Christmas Pageant Tour. On this tour was House of Heroes, Remedy Drive, and All Left Out. On the tour they performed their versions of Christmas classics as well as their very own originals. On November 30 it was announced by lead singer Soul Glow Activatur's Twitter that Joshua (Fatty) had been admitted to the ICU of a local hospital and that a kidney specialist had been called in after his condition deteriorated.[13] Later it was confirmed that he was suffering from kidney failure and that he was undergoing dialysis treatment. The band at first vowed to continue the current tour they were on, The Christmas Pageant Tour, so as not to disappoint fans, however, as Joshua's condition worsened, the band canceled a few shows, but then made a return for the rest of the tour. Joshua is now out of the hospital and back playing shows.[14][15]
[edit] III (2010-2011) In January 2010 the band toured Australia and New Zealand, playing shows for the Parachute Music Festival and its Australian offshoots.[16][17] In February 2010, they toured with Cobra Starship in the United Kingdom. In March and April 2010, they were part of the lineup of the Rock and Worship Roadshow with Mercy Me, David Crowder Band, Francesca Battistelli, Fee, Remedy Drive, and more.[18][19] During this time, the band also released their music to the UK market for the first time.[18]
On March 2, 2010, Family Force 5 were confirmed to be playing the UK leg of the traveling festival, Sonisphere. This was the band's first UK festival appearance. The band also announced six UK and Ireland headline dates to coincide with their Sonisphere appearance.[20][21]
In December 2010 the band did their second annual Christmas Pageant Tour in the United States, with main support from Forever The Sickest Kids. The tour also had a one-off date for a London show, however this was later cancelled due to weather.
The band confirmed a third studio album, which was tentatively slated for release in mid-2010.[22] They stated that the third album will have more crunk-rock and "rock-and-roll" elements similar to Business Up Front/Party in the Back. The band released a three-song preview EP, entitled III, on April 15, 2011. In an interview with JesusFreakHideout.com, guitarist Chap Stique explained that the new album is tentatively titled III as well. He also mentioned that some of the tracks that may appear on the album are called "Paycheck", "Can You Feel It", "Get On Outta Here", "Not Alone", and "Tank Top", and that the album itself would contain more spiritual themes than the EP.[23] In another interview with Alt Press, Soul Glow Activatur also confirmed that the album will be called III and revealed a new track title, "Crash Down", and claimed that the CD "runs the gamut" from "straight-up electro" to "a little bit of redneckness". Tooth & Nail Records announced that they would be publishing III, and revealed the cover and track list on August 9.[24] The album was released on October 18, 2011. The album has received mixed reviews. Critics have praised the album's musical diversity, while criticizing the quality of the lyrics.
The band did short spring tour called Tourantula, which ran from April 15 to May 15[25] featuring the bands Stereo Skyline, Swimming With Dolphins, and Since Forever. They offered tickets to intimate acoustic sets (called Arachnocoustica).
Family Force 5 played on the "Warped Tour 2011" from July 26 through August 14.
[edit] III.V (2012) The band's 2012 tour was called Rise Up, and was scheduled to run from March through September. It was inspired by Fatty's near-fatal experience, and featured a short film by Isaac Deitz called "Vital Sign". The film documented the band's experience during the unexpected illness and how it has affected them long-term.[citation needed]
An extended version of the album III called III.V was announced in April. It features five extra songs, two new ones and three acoustic.[citation needed]
"Can You Feel It" was used in a trailer for the 2012 film Battleship.[citation needed]
[edit] Other Projects The band contributed a song to the Alice in Wonderland soundtrack (titled Almost Alice), called "Topsy Turvy". The song did not make the standard soundtrack,[26][27] but it is one of three bonus songs on the special Hot Topic edition of the soundtrack. The song premiered on their MySpace page on February 8. It was released with the Almost Alice (Deluxe Version) on iTunes June 1, 2010.
"Radiator" and "Love Addict" have been released on the Rock Band Network.
The band also appeared on the album Punk Goes Pop 3 with their cover version of La Roux's "Bulletproof". The album was released on November 2, 2010.
The band's song "Kountry Gentleman" was used in the advertisements for the movie "The Warrior's Way".
On December 8, 2010, Rock Sound gave out a free CD with their magazine containing a new version of "Love Addict" and a demo of their new song "Every Night Of The Week". Also in promotion of their new album a clip of "Dang Girl" was posted on their YouTube channel.[citation needed]
On January 25, 2012, they released a new five-song EP titled Junk in the Trunk which included previously unreleased songs and alternate versions of others.[citation needed]
[edit] Musical style Family Force 5 has been cited as a crunk rock band,[1] mixing a diverse set of music styles including punk, rap, post-hardcore, r&b, funk, dance, electronica, and rap metal[28][29][30][31] with positive, party lyrics.
When asked about their "Love Addict" video and its relation to their Christian image, Solomon Olds stated "They want Sandi Patty all over again. They want Amy Grant. And most times, its people that don't understand new art, new videos... We want to make music that is for God, but at the same time, we want to make music that people enjoy and that they're not turned off by."[citation needed]
[edit] Band members [edit] Current members
Transparent Media Group — — 24 11 — — — 3 2011 III 61 — — — 17 13 — — [edit] EPs
Early history and The Family (1993-2003) Family Force 5 was formed in Atlanta, Georgia. Three of the five members, Solomon (AKA: "Soul Glow Activatur"), Joshua (AKA: Fatty), and Jacob Olds (AKA: Crouton), are sons of Jerome Olds, a Christian artist popular in the late 1980s. Prior to the formation of Family Force 5, the brothers were members of a "boy band" known as The Brothers, releasing Fact and Reality (1994) and RPM (1995). Both albums were released on Star Song Records, and produced by their father.[2][3]
Between The Brothers and Family Force 5, the brothers had a band called Ground Noise, which they classified as "a really bad version of Third Day."[4] Next, the three brothers added Derek Mount (AKA: Chap Stique) and Nathan "Nate" Currin (AKA: Nadaddy). Before the band chose the name Family Force 5, they used the name "The Phamily" but were forced to change it later due to copyright issues with Prince's band, The Family.
A decade later, the band signed with Maverick Records for distribution to the mainstream market before signing to Gotee Records for the Christian market. Under the name "The Phamily", the band sought a dual recording deal to better distribute their music to both the mainstream and Christian markets.[3] According to Solomon Olds, "To me, and pretty much anybody that's under my age, most Christian music is a turnoff. I don't want to be affiliated with that. I want to be affiliated with something that is great music. I feel that Maverick and Gotee together can pull that off."[2]
[edit] Family Force 5 and mainstream success (2004-2007) On March 21, 2006 the band released their first full-length album Business Up Front/Party in the Back which was an instant hit in both the Christian and mainstream markets spawning several hit singles such as "Love Addict" and "Earthquake". Both of these songs, like many others on the album, are heavily focused around the guitar. Their debut album has been both disparaged and praised by Christian and non-Christian critics respectively for not containing overtly Christian content in any of its tracks. In March 2007, their debut album was re-released as Business Up Front/Party in the Back: Diamond Edition, which contains three previously unreleased songs.[5] During this time, Family Force 5 contributed the song "Mind's Eye" for the compilation album Freaked! A Gotee Tribute to dc Talk's "Jesus Freak". For Christmas, Family Force 5 released a few Christmas-themed audio blogs. They also recorded "Grandma", a cover of "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer". Also a new unreleased song entitled "Whatcha Gonna Do with It" was added to the Hip Hope Hits: 2008 record.[6] Another previously unreleased song, "Master of Disguise", was posted on YouTube. However due to mixed fan reaction to the song it was not slated for release at the time.
[edit] Dance or Die (2008) In June 2008, the band released an EP entitled Dance or Die EP to debut three songs from their upcoming album Dance or Die. On August 19, 2008, the full-length album was released taking on a more club oriented, electronic dance sound than Business Up Front/Party in the Back with less guitar. The full-length album, Dance or Die, received a favorable review in World Magazine.[7]
Blake Soloman of AbsolutePunk.net had the following to say about the album; "Even though Family Force 5 may be the musical equivalent of mixing Mentos and Coke-–lots of build up for something that only ever happens one way-–I find myself oddly pleased with Dance or Die."
Dance or Die sold 17,000 copies in its first week and debuted at 30 on the Billboard 200. By the end of January, the album had sold over 50,000 units and during early 2009 the band embarked on the AP tour from March to May promoting the album and headlining concerts throughout the U.S.[8] In December 2008, the band won the Best Christian Rock Artist, Best Crunk Rock/Rap Artist and Best Rock Album for Dance or Die at the Rock on Request Awards.[9]
[edit] Dance or Die with a Vengeance and Christmas album (2009) In May 2009, the band debuted their remix album of Dance or Die; Dance or Die with a Vengeance. It featured remixes by The Secret Handshake, 3OH!3, Danger Radio, Jasen Rauch of Red, Matt Thiessen of Relient K, David Crowder of David Crowder Band, Alex Suarez of Cobra Starship, and more.[8] The album debuted at No. 180 on the Billboard 200, No. 15 on the Christian Albums chart and No. 6 on the Dance/Electronic Albums chart.[10]
Around this time, Solomon Olds created a remix of the song "Best Night of Our Lives" by Everyday Sunday.
On September 5, the band unveiled a new song called "Keep the Party Alive" which was featured on an EP, titled Keep the Party Alive EP. The EP was released exclusively at Target to promote the Halloween themed Skelanimals on September 15. Other tracks on the EP include 3 songs from Dance or Die with a Vengeance, 2 songs from Dance or Die, and two music videos.[11] Next, The band embarked on their third Dance Rawr Dance Tour, along with Breathe Carolina, Cash Cash, Queens Club, and i-Rival.
On October 6, the band released a Christmas album titled Family Force 5 Christmas Pageant, containing ten tracks including their own version of "My Favorite Things".[12] The album debuted at No. 14 on the US Dance charts.
In mid-November 2009, the band hit the road on the Christmas Pageant Tour. On this tour was House of Heroes, Remedy Drive, and All Left Out. On the tour they performed their versions of Christmas classics as well as their very own originals. On November 30 it was announced by lead singer Soul Glow Activatur's Twitter that Joshua (Fatty) had been admitted to the ICU of a local hospital and that a kidney specialist had been called in after his condition deteriorated.[13] Later it was confirmed that he was suffering from kidney failure and that he was undergoing dialysis treatment. The band at first vowed to continue the current tour they were on, The Christmas Pageant Tour, so as not to disappoint fans, however, as Joshua's condition worsened, the band canceled a few shows, but then made a return for the rest of the tour. Joshua is now out of the hospital and back playing shows.[14][15]
[edit] III (2010-2011) In January 2010 the band toured Australia and New Zealand, playing shows for the Parachute Music Festival and its Australian offshoots.[16][17] In February 2010, they toured with Cobra Starship in the United Kingdom. In March and April 2010, they were part of the lineup of the Rock and Worship Roadshow with Mercy Me, David Crowder Band, Francesca Battistelli, Fee, Remedy Drive, and more.[18][19] During this time, the band also released their music to the UK market for the first time.[18]
On March 2, 2010, Family Force 5 were confirmed to be playing the UK leg of the traveling festival, Sonisphere. This was the band's first UK festival appearance. The band also announced six UK and Ireland headline dates to coincide with their Sonisphere appearance.[20][21]
In December 2010 the band did their second annual Christmas Pageant Tour in the United States, with main support from Forever The Sickest Kids. The tour also had a one-off date for a London show, however this was later cancelled due to weather.
The band confirmed a third studio album, which was tentatively slated for release in mid-2010.[22] They stated that the third album will have more crunk-rock and "rock-and-roll" elements similar to Business Up Front/Party in the Back. The band released a three-song preview EP, entitled III, on April 15, 2011. In an interview with JesusFreakHideout.com, guitarist Chap Stique explained that the new album is tentatively titled III as well. He also mentioned that some of the tracks that may appear on the album are called "Paycheck", "Can You Feel It", "Get On Outta Here", "Not Alone", and "Tank Top", and that the album itself would contain more spiritual themes than the EP.[23] In another interview with Alt Press, Soul Glow Activatur also confirmed that the album will be called III and revealed a new track title, "Crash Down", and claimed that the CD "runs the gamut" from "straight-up electro" to "a little bit of redneckness". Tooth & Nail Records announced that they would be publishing III, and revealed the cover and track list on August 9.[24] The album was released on October 18, 2011. The album has received mixed reviews. Critics have praised the album's musical diversity, while criticizing the quality of the lyrics.
The band did short spring tour called Tourantula, which ran from April 15 to May 15[25] featuring the bands Stereo Skyline, Swimming With Dolphins, and Since Forever. They offered tickets to intimate acoustic sets (called Arachnocoustica).
Family Force 5 played on the "Warped Tour 2011" from July 26 through August 14.
[edit] III.V (2012) The band's 2012 tour was called Rise Up, and was scheduled to run from March through September. It was inspired by Fatty's near-fatal experience, and featured a short film by Isaac Deitz called "Vital Sign". The film documented the band's experience during the unexpected illness and how it has affected them long-term.[citation needed]
An extended version of the album III called III.V was announced in April. It features five extra songs, two new ones and three acoustic.[citation needed]
"Can You Feel It" was used in a trailer for the 2012 film Battleship.[citation needed]
[edit] Other Projects The band contributed a song to the Alice in Wonderland soundtrack (titled Almost Alice), called "Topsy Turvy". The song did not make the standard soundtrack,[26][27] but it is one of three bonus songs on the special Hot Topic edition of the soundtrack. The song premiered on their MySpace page on February 8. It was released with the Almost Alice (Deluxe Version) on iTunes June 1, 2010.
"Radiator" and "Love Addict" have been released on the Rock Band Network.
The band also appeared on the album Punk Goes Pop 3 with their cover version of La Roux's "Bulletproof". The album was released on November 2, 2010.
The band's song "Kountry Gentleman" was used in the advertisements for the movie "The Warrior's Way".
On December 8, 2010, Rock Sound gave out a free CD with their magazine containing a new version of "Love Addict" and a demo of their new song "Every Night Of The Week". Also in promotion of their new album a clip of "Dang Girl" was posted on their YouTube channel.[citation needed]
On January 25, 2012, they released a new five-song EP titled Junk in the Trunk which included previously unreleased songs and alternate versions of others.[citation needed]
[edit] Musical style Family Force 5 has been cited as a crunk rock band,[1] mixing a diverse set of music styles including punk, rap, post-hardcore, r&b, funk, dance, electronica, and rap metal[28][29][30][31] with positive, party lyrics.
When asked about their "Love Addict" video and its relation to their Christian image, Solomon Olds stated "They want Sandi Patty all over again. They want Amy Grant. And most times, its people that don't understand new art, new videos... We want to make music that is for God, but at the same time, we want to make music that people enjoy and that they're not turned off by."[citation needed]
[edit] Band members [edit] Current members
- Soul Glow Activatur (Solomon Olds) (1993–present) – vocals/rhythm guitar
- Chap Stique (Derek Mount) (2005–present) – lead guitar
- Crouton (Jacob Olds) (1993–present) – drums/vocals
- Fatty (Joshua Olds) (1993–present) – bass/vocals
- Nadaddy (Nathan Currin) (2004–present) – synthesiser/vocals/percussion
- 20 Cent (Brad Allen) (2004–2005) – guitar
- Steve Heimler (2001–2003) – guitar
Transparent Media Group — — 24 11 — — — 3 2011 III 61 — — — 17 13 — — [edit] EPs
- The Phamily EP (2004)
- Family Force 5 EP (2005)
- Dance or Die EP (2008)
- Keep the Party Alive EP (2009)[33][34] Target exclusive.
- III EP (2011)
- Junk In the Trunk EP (November 25, 2011)
- III.V EP (May 1, 2012)
- "Master of Disguise" [35]
- "Color of Water" [36]
- "Love Addict" (RAC Mix) [37]
- "Grandma" [38]
- "Here Comes Santa Claus" [39]
- "Repeat the Sounding Joy" [40]
- "Every Night of the Week"
- "Love Addict (2011 Demo)"
- "Phenomenon"
- "Crank it Like a Chainsaw"
- Hip Hope Hits 2008, 2007 .... "Whatcha Gonna Do with It" [Gotee]
- Freaked!: A Gotee Tribute to dcTalk's "Jesus Freak", 2006 .... "Mind's Eye" [Gotee]
- Almost Alice: Songs Inspired by "Alice in Wonderland" (Hot Topic Edition), 2010 ... "Topsy Turvy"
- Punk Goes Pop 3, 2010 .... "Bulletproof" originally recorded by La Roux[41]
- Jingle Jam, 2010 ... "Here Comes Santa Clause" and "Repeat the Sounding Joy" [42]
- "Grandma"
- "Numb" (only on the extremely rare enhanced edition of the Family Force 5 EP)
- "Kountry Gentleman"
- "Love Addict"
- "Never Let Me Go"
- "Dance Or Die"
- "Radiator"
- "Make My House a Home" (as The Brothers)
- "Get On Outta Here"
- "Wobble"
- "Paycheck"
- "Zombie"
- "Cray Button" (featuring Lecrae and Meekakitty)
Group 1 Crew
Group 1 Crew is a Christian hip hop band signed to Fervent Records and Warner Bros. Records. They made their debut with their hit song "Can't Go On" on WOW Hits 2007. Soon after they released their first EP I Have a Dream (2006). The band released their self-titled debut full-length studio album, Group 1 Crew, in February 2007. Their song "Love is a Beautiful Thing" charted into the Top 20 in May 2007 on R&R magazine's Christian chart.[1] The group's second studio album Ordinary Dreamers was released on September 16, 2008.[2] Their popular radio single "Forgive Me" appeared on an episode of One Tree Hill. In September 2010, they released the album Outta Space Love which has proven to be their most mainstream effort yet, as many of the songs were used in America's Got Talent.
Current members
Year Award Result 2008 New Artist of the Year Nominated Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year (Group 1 Crew) Won 2009 Rock/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year ("Keys to the Kingdom") Nominated Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year (Ordinary Dreamers) Won Short Form Music Video of the Year ("Movin'") Nominated 2010 Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year ("Movin'") Won 2011 Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year ("Walking On the Stars") Won Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year (Outta Space Love) Won 2012 Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year ("Please Don't Let Me Go") Nominated
Current members
- Manwell Reyes – Vocals & Rap (2006–present)
- Blanca Reyes Callahan – Lead Vocals (2006–present)
- Ben Callahan - percussion and background vocals (2006-present)
- Pablo Villatoro – Vocals & Rap (2006–2011)
- 1st studio album
- Released: February 20, 2007
- Formats: CD, digital download
- 2nd studio album
- Release: September 16, 2008
- Formats: CD, digital download
- 3rd studio album
- Release: September 21, 2010
- Formats: CD, digital download
- 4th studio album
- Release: September 10, 2012
- Formats: CD, digital download
- 2006: I Have a Dream
- 2007: No Plan B EP
- 2009: Movin' The EP
- 2010: Spacebound
- "Love is a Beautiful Thing"
- "Forgive Me"
- "Movin'"
- "Live It Up"
- "Manipulation"
- "Outta Space Love"
- "He said"
Year Award Result 2008 New Artist of the Year Nominated Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year (Group 1 Crew) Won 2009 Rock/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year ("Keys to the Kingdom") Nominated Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year (Ordinary Dreamers) Won Short Form Music Video of the Year ("Movin'") Nominated 2010 Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year ("Movin'") Won 2011 Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year ("Walking On the Stars") Won Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year (Outta Space Love) Won 2012 Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year ("Please Don't Let Me Go") Nominated
L.A. Symphony
L.A. Symphony is an independent hip hop group from Los Angeles, California.[1] Current members of L.A. Symphony are FLYNN (also known as Flynn Adam), UNO Mas, CookBook, Joey's Dream (formerly Joey The Jerk), and Sareem Poems (fka Sharlock Poems). Past members include Pigeon John and bTwice (collectively known as Brainwash Projects), J-Beits a.k.a. Great Jason and Trendi MC (who compose Halieyoos Fishermen with Sharlok Poems), Coy (Paul "Coy" Allen), Xpress, Gaja and Beond of Acid Reign.
Rob Dyrdek
This dude is a great skateboarder and is on his own show, "Rob Dyrdek's Fantasty Factory".
Rob Dyrdek was born in Kettering, Ohio to Gene and Patty Dyrdek.[3] Dyrdek was involved in sports as a child and began skateboarding at the age of 11 when he received his first skateboard from professional skater Neil Blender[4] Of his early interest in the sport, Dyrdek said, "I was a pretty driven young man. I was so focused on becoming a pro skateboarder. I would sit in school and think about all the tricks I was going to do, then I’d get out of school and skate until they made me come inside."[5] At the age of 12, Rob acquired sponsorship from the same company Blender rode for and began his skateboarding career. A few years later, Dyrdek and Blender quit their board sponsor and created Alien Workshop – Rob’s current board company.[6]
At the age of 16, Dyrdek decided to forgo his senior year of high school and instead moved to Southern California to pursue his professional skate career. Soon after moving, Dyrdek began to ride for Droors Clothing (now known as DC Shoes), where he also began his exploring entrepreneurship through shoe design. This led Dyrdek to launch various short-lived companies, including a hip-hop record label and a skate shop.[6]
Dyrdek has one sister, Denise. His cousins Christopher "Drama" Pfaff and Scott "Big Cat" Pfaff (Drama's older brother) are featured in Rob and Big and Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory.[7] He also has two bulldogs named Meaty and Beefy.[8]
Dyrdek became an ordained minister through the Universal Life Church in order to perform his sister's wedding in December 2011.[9] The ceremony, which was featured in an episode of Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory,[10] took place at the Fantasy Factory in Los Angeles.
Career Television Dyrdek first starred in an MTV reality series, entitled Rob & Big (aired November 2006 to April 2008), with his best friend and bodyguard Christopher "Big Black" Boykin, as well as his cousin, Chris "Drama" Pfaff and friend Rashawn "Bam Bam" Davis. After three seasons Boykin chose to leave the show when his longtime girlfriend had a baby.
In February 2009 Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory, featuring Dyrdek, Pfaff, and his Dyrdek Enterprise staff, was first aired. The "Fantasy Factory" is a converted warehouse where Dyrdek runs his many entrepreneurial ventures. It also features a large indoor skate plaza, Rob's personal office with "bat cave" parking garage, a foam pit, and numerous basketball hoops. He also built a "hands of God" music studio for his cousin "Drama" Pfaff inside the factory. During the course of the first season, he also opened his first SafeSpot SkateSpot with the sponsorship of Carl's Jr. At the grand-opening, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa rode with Dyrdek on the world's largest skateboard. Fantasy Factory has aired five seasons so far and the current cast of the show includes Dyrdek, Chris "Drama" Pfaff, Big Black, Scott "Big Cat" Pfaff (Drama's brother), Chanel West Coast, and Sterling.
Dyrdek was also featured in the video games skate., and Skate 2 (which also featured "Big Black"). During the days of Rob & Big, the two were featured in an episode where they were actually going to the EA building to shoot for the game. In Skate 2, the player is able to purchase an early version of the Fantasy Factory on the Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store as an add-on, allowing the player to skate within the factory premises.
Dyrdek made a movie entitled "Street Dreams" in 2009.
In 2011 Dyrdek appeared in Jackass 3.5 in a bit with Johnny Knoxville.
In 2012, Dyrdek was on the TV show Punk'd, Justin Bieber tried to punk him and failed.
On August 29, 2011, he started a show on MTV, called Ridiculousness, where he comments internet videos, mainly about extreme sports mishaps.[11]
World records Rob Dyrdek riding the world's largest skateboard Dyrdek has set 21 separate Guinness World Records for skateboarding as part of his former show Rob & Big. Big Black also set two eating records for the show; most bananas peeled and eaten and most powdered donuts eaten in a set period of time.[12]
In Fantasy Factory, Dyrdek also set the record for the largest skateboard (according to the GBWR website it is listed as the Longest Skateboard in the world) after he decided that the current record holders were undeserving.[13]
Dyrdek's personal bests (some of which have been broken since) include:
Dyrdek also pioneered the iSX, Instant Scoring Experience, which he hopes will revolutionize the way skate competitions are held. He is the creator of the Street League Skateboarding - a professional skateboarding contest offering the largest prize purse in skateboarding history and is also broadcasted live on ESPN and ESPN2.[17]
Dyrdek also has his own signature TAG Body Spray scent called Make Moves. A fraction of the profit will go to his charity organization, The Rob Dyrdek Foundation.[18]
Rob has also partnered with Chevrolet for the launch of the new Chevy Sonic. As part of the launch campaign, Rob performed a "kickflip" with a Sonic which was a full 360 degree rotation off a ramp and over the world's record largest skateboard which he also created. He performed the stunt at Six Flags Magic Mountain.[19]
Rob Dyrdek was born in Kettering, Ohio to Gene and Patty Dyrdek.[3] Dyrdek was involved in sports as a child and began skateboarding at the age of 11 when he received his first skateboard from professional skater Neil Blender[4] Of his early interest in the sport, Dyrdek said, "I was a pretty driven young man. I was so focused on becoming a pro skateboarder. I would sit in school and think about all the tricks I was going to do, then I’d get out of school and skate until they made me come inside."[5] At the age of 12, Rob acquired sponsorship from the same company Blender rode for and began his skateboarding career. A few years later, Dyrdek and Blender quit their board sponsor and created Alien Workshop – Rob’s current board company.[6]
At the age of 16, Dyrdek decided to forgo his senior year of high school and instead moved to Southern California to pursue his professional skate career. Soon after moving, Dyrdek began to ride for Droors Clothing (now known as DC Shoes), where he also began his exploring entrepreneurship through shoe design. This led Dyrdek to launch various short-lived companies, including a hip-hop record label and a skate shop.[6]
Dyrdek has one sister, Denise. His cousins Christopher "Drama" Pfaff and Scott "Big Cat" Pfaff (Drama's older brother) are featured in Rob and Big and Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory.[7] He also has two bulldogs named Meaty and Beefy.[8]
Dyrdek became an ordained minister through the Universal Life Church in order to perform his sister's wedding in December 2011.[9] The ceremony, which was featured in an episode of Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory,[10] took place at the Fantasy Factory in Los Angeles.
Career Television Dyrdek first starred in an MTV reality series, entitled Rob & Big (aired November 2006 to April 2008), with his best friend and bodyguard Christopher "Big Black" Boykin, as well as his cousin, Chris "Drama" Pfaff and friend Rashawn "Bam Bam" Davis. After three seasons Boykin chose to leave the show when his longtime girlfriend had a baby.
In February 2009 Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory, featuring Dyrdek, Pfaff, and his Dyrdek Enterprise staff, was first aired. The "Fantasy Factory" is a converted warehouse where Dyrdek runs his many entrepreneurial ventures. It also features a large indoor skate plaza, Rob's personal office with "bat cave" parking garage, a foam pit, and numerous basketball hoops. He also built a "hands of God" music studio for his cousin "Drama" Pfaff inside the factory. During the course of the first season, he also opened his first SafeSpot SkateSpot with the sponsorship of Carl's Jr. At the grand-opening, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa rode with Dyrdek on the world's largest skateboard. Fantasy Factory has aired five seasons so far and the current cast of the show includes Dyrdek, Chris "Drama" Pfaff, Big Black, Scott "Big Cat" Pfaff (Drama's brother), Chanel West Coast, and Sterling.
Dyrdek was also featured in the video games skate., and Skate 2 (which also featured "Big Black"). During the days of Rob & Big, the two were featured in an episode where they were actually going to the EA building to shoot for the game. In Skate 2, the player is able to purchase an early version of the Fantasy Factory on the Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store as an add-on, allowing the player to skate within the factory premises.
Dyrdek made a movie entitled "Street Dreams" in 2009.
In 2011 Dyrdek appeared in Jackass 3.5 in a bit with Johnny Knoxville.
In 2012, Dyrdek was on the TV show Punk'd, Justin Bieber tried to punk him and failed.
On August 29, 2011, he started a show on MTV, called Ridiculousness, where he comments internet videos, mainly about extreme sports mishaps.[11]
World records Rob Dyrdek riding the world's largest skateboard Dyrdek has set 21 separate Guinness World Records for skateboarding as part of his former show Rob & Big. Big Black also set two eating records for the show; most bananas peeled and eaten and most powdered donuts eaten in a set period of time.[12]
In Fantasy Factory, Dyrdek also set the record for the largest skateboard (according to the GBWR website it is listed as the Longest Skateboard in the world) after he decided that the current record holders were undeserving.[13]
Dyrdek's personal bests (some of which have been broken since) include:
- Consecutive front-side ollies: 46 (2007, WR)
- Ollie big spins: 12 (2007, WR)
- Consecutive nollie kickflips: 73 (2007, WR)
- 360-degree kickflips in one minute: 12 (2007, WR)
- Heel flips in one minute: 15 (2007, WR)
- Consecutive ollies: 215 (2007)
- Nollie kickflips in one minute: 22 (2007, WR)
- Longest stationary manual: 49 seconds (2007, WR)
- Switch frontside kickflips in one minute: 9 (2007, WR)
- Longest 50-50 rail grind: 100 feet 5.75 inches (30.62 m) (2007, WR)[14]
- Longest board slide: 100 feet 5.75 inches (30.62 m) (2007, WR)[15]
- Highest skateboard ramp jump into water: 10 feet 8 inches (3.29 m) (2007, WR)[16]
Dyrdek also pioneered the iSX, Instant Scoring Experience, which he hopes will revolutionize the way skate competitions are held. He is the creator of the Street League Skateboarding - a professional skateboarding contest offering the largest prize purse in skateboarding history and is also broadcasted live on ESPN and ESPN2.[17]
Dyrdek also has his own signature TAG Body Spray scent called Make Moves. A fraction of the profit will go to his charity organization, The Rob Dyrdek Foundation.[18]
Rob has also partnered with Chevrolet for the launch of the new Chevy Sonic. As part of the launch campaign, Rob performed a "kickflip" with a Sonic which was a full 360 degree rotation off a ramp and over the world's record largest skateboard which he also created. He performed the stunt at Six Flags Magic Mountain.[19]
KJ-52
KJ-5,2 (born as Jonah Kirsten Sorrentino, June 26, 1975 ) is a Christian rapper from Tampa, Florida. The "KJ" part of his name refers to his old rap alias, "King J. Mac,"[1] a name which he later described in one of his podcasts as "horribly cheesy."[2][not in citation given] "52", which is pronounced "five two", not "fifty-two", is a reference to the Biblical story of Jesus feeding the multitude with five loaves and two fish, which is also sung about in his song "Push Up" from The Yearbook and in the "KJ Five Two" on It's Pronounced 'Five Two'.[1][not in citation given] He was awarded the Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year for "Never Look Away" and Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year at the GMA Dove Awards of 2007.[3] On July 28, 2009, KJ-52 released "End of My Rope", which is the first single for his album Five-Two Television. His song "Dear Slim" is based on Eminem's song "Stan" and is a sort of personal message from KJ-52 to Eminem.
Works In 2002, Sorrentino released his second album, Collaborations. The album's title referred to the numerous contributions made to the album by guest artists, including Ill Harmonics, Pillar, John Reuben and Thousand Foot Krutch. Collaborations also represented his first nomination for a Dove Award, for "Rap/Hip Hop/Dance Album of the Year" in 2003.[4]
KJ-52 has won four Dove Awards, three in the "Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year" category. He took the 2004 award for It’s Pronounced Five Two, the 2006 award for Behind the Musik (A Boy Named Jonah), and the 2007 award for Remixed.[5] He received an additional honor in 2007, for "Never Look Away" from Behind the Musik, in the "Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song" category.[6] KJ never tried out for American Idol,[7] but suggested such in his song "Fivetweezy".
On October 2008, he released his album, The Yearbook: The Missing Pages,[8] a re-release of his album, The Yearbook. It comes with the original record with a slip over cover that has a code to download the 13 songs.
2009 Dove Awards[9] Another productive year for KJ-52 as he was awarded with "Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year" for “Do Yo Thang”; The Yearbook; KJ-52; Jonah Sorrentino; BEC Recordings/Uprok
In 2009, he released "Five-Two Television", and album covering a variety of themes and rap styles. It is his first album in which autotune is used, a controversial step among his fans. The album brings us the (fictitious) story of Chris Carlino, a man who has ruined his life, through a series of interludes. As usual for KJ-52, the album includes both songs with a strong Christian message and songs that are meant only to entertain.[10]
KJ-52's song "You're Gonna Make It" appeared at the end of Cold Case Season 5 Episode 8 "It Takes a village".[11]
KJ-52 also rapped in the Newsboys version of "Jesus Freak".[12]
KJ-52 also rapped in the tobyMac remix of the song "One World" on the album Hip-Hope which also includes the KJ-52 remixed song "What You Want".[citation needed]
KJ-52 released Dangerous on April 3, 2012. It mixes hip hop album with quite a bit of synth, and has some pop-electric. The first released single, "Dangerous", is more light rock-pop. The second single is called "Shake Em Up", but is commonly spelled "Shakem Up".[citation needed] It features guest artists such as Canton Jones on "It's Goin Down", Lecrae on "They Like Me", This'l on "Shake Em Up", George Moss on "Do the Bill Cosby", and more. His final track, "Go," is a remake of the Hillsong United (band) song with the same name.
[edit] Eminem and "Dear Slim" controversy KJ-52 was often compared to Eminem, as many called him a "Christian counterpart".[13] One of the most notable mainstream reactions to the Christian hip hop scene was to KJ-52 and his single "Dear Slim", which was written to Eminem in an attempt reach him with the message of Christianity, though Eminem already claims to be a Christian.[citation needed] The song became famous and controversial among Eminem fans when it was featured on the hit show Total Request Live. KJ-52 began to receive hate mail (including death threats) from Eminem's fans, though KJ-52 claimed that the song was not a "diss".[14] This also led to the single being disparaged by VH1 as No. 26 on their "Top 40 Worst Moments in Hip Hop",[15] an issue the artist addressed in a follow-up song titled "Dear Slim Pt. 2".
[edit] Discography
www.kj52.com
Works In 2002, Sorrentino released his second album, Collaborations. The album's title referred to the numerous contributions made to the album by guest artists, including Ill Harmonics, Pillar, John Reuben and Thousand Foot Krutch. Collaborations also represented his first nomination for a Dove Award, for "Rap/Hip Hop/Dance Album of the Year" in 2003.[4]
KJ-52 has won four Dove Awards, three in the "Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year" category. He took the 2004 award for It’s Pronounced Five Two, the 2006 award for Behind the Musik (A Boy Named Jonah), and the 2007 award for Remixed.[5] He received an additional honor in 2007, for "Never Look Away" from Behind the Musik, in the "Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song" category.[6] KJ never tried out for American Idol,[7] but suggested such in his song "Fivetweezy".
On October 2008, he released his album, The Yearbook: The Missing Pages,[8] a re-release of his album, The Yearbook. It comes with the original record with a slip over cover that has a code to download the 13 songs.
2009 Dove Awards[9] Another productive year for KJ-52 as he was awarded with "Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year" for “Do Yo Thang”; The Yearbook; KJ-52; Jonah Sorrentino; BEC Recordings/Uprok
In 2009, he released "Five-Two Television", and album covering a variety of themes and rap styles. It is his first album in which autotune is used, a controversial step among his fans. The album brings us the (fictitious) story of Chris Carlino, a man who has ruined his life, through a series of interludes. As usual for KJ-52, the album includes both songs with a strong Christian message and songs that are meant only to entertain.[10]
KJ-52's song "You're Gonna Make It" appeared at the end of Cold Case Season 5 Episode 8 "It Takes a village".[11]
KJ-52 also rapped in the Newsboys version of "Jesus Freak".[12]
KJ-52 also rapped in the tobyMac remix of the song "One World" on the album Hip-Hope which also includes the KJ-52 remixed song "What You Want".[citation needed]
KJ-52 released Dangerous on April 3, 2012. It mixes hip hop album with quite a bit of synth, and has some pop-electric. The first released single, "Dangerous", is more light rock-pop. The second single is called "Shake Em Up", but is commonly spelled "Shakem Up".[citation needed] It features guest artists such as Canton Jones on "It's Goin Down", Lecrae on "They Like Me", This'l on "Shake Em Up", George Moss on "Do the Bill Cosby", and more. His final track, "Go," is a remake of the Hillsong United (band) song with the same name.
[edit] Eminem and "Dear Slim" controversy KJ-52 was often compared to Eminem, as many called him a "Christian counterpart".[13] One of the most notable mainstream reactions to the Christian hip hop scene was to KJ-52 and his single "Dear Slim", which was written to Eminem in an attempt reach him with the message of Christianity, though Eminem already claims to be a Christian.[citation needed] The song became famous and controversial among Eminem fans when it was featured on the hit show Total Request Live. KJ-52 began to receive hate mail (including death threats) from Eminem's fans, though KJ-52 claimed that the song was not a "diss".[14] This also led to the single being disparaged by VH1 as No. 26 on their "Top 40 Worst Moments in Hip Hop",[15] an issue the artist addressed in a follow-up song titled "Dear Slim Pt. 2".
[edit] Discography
- Insightful Comprehentions (with Sons of Intellect) (1997, Omega)
- 7th Avenue (2000, Essential)
- Collaborations (2002, Uprok)
- It's Pronounced Five Two (2003, Uprok)
- Soul Purpose (with T.C. aka Todd Collins) (2004, BEC)
- Behind the Musik (A Boy Named Jonah) (2005, BEC)
- The Yearbook (2007, BEC)
- Five-Two Television (2009, BEC)
- Dangerous (April 2012, BEC)[16]
- Peace of Mind (2003, BEC Recordings)
- Soul Purpose (2004, BEC Recordings)
- KJ-52 Remixed (2006, BEC Recordings)
- The Office Prequel Mixtape (2009)
- Born Again guest rap on "Jesus Freak" (2010)
www.kj52.com
George mOss
George Moss (born September 23, 1982) is a Christian, American rapper, artist, producer, actor, and radio host at 88.3 and 89.9 WAYfm.[1] After the release of his debut solo album, "All or Nothing" in 2008 and a string of radio singles such as "Whoa!", "Get Right", "Transparent", and "Go Hard or Go Home", he quickly rose to fame, sharing stages with TobyMac, Skillet, Newsboys, Lecrae, Thousand Foot Krutch, Group 1 Crew, and Red.
[edit] Life and career Moss worked with producer, Blake “Shy” Carter (producer for names such as Nelly, Ashanti, Sugarland, and Rob Thomas). Moss also performed at the Winterjam festival in 2011, Creation Festival Tour in 2008 alongside Modern Day Heroes, KJ52, Group One Crew, and Confessions Tour Pillar 2009 with KJ52. He is usually seen sharing the stage with KJ-52 as KJ-52's hype man.
[edit] Life and career Moss worked with producer, Blake “Shy” Carter (producer for names such as Nelly, Ashanti, Sugarland, and Rob Thomas). Moss also performed at the Winterjam festival in 2011, Creation Festival Tour in 2008 alongside Modern Day Heroes, KJ52, Group One Crew, and Confessions Tour Pillar 2009 with KJ52. He is usually seen sharing the stage with KJ-52 as KJ-52's hype man.
Thousand Foot Krutch
Thousand Foot Krutch is a Canadian[5] Christian rock band formed in 1995. To date they have released six albums Set It Off (2001), Phenomenon (2003), The Art of Breaking (2005), The Flame In All of Us (2007), Welcome to the Masquerade (2009), and most recently The End Is Where We Begin (2012). They have also released one live album, Live at the Masquerade (2011). Singer Trevor McNevan and drummer Steve Augustine are also members of their own side project band called FM Static and Joel Bruyere started his own solo project called The Drawing Room in 2009. The band has sold over a half a million albums as of October 26, 2007 (2007 -10-26)[update].[6]
Overview Trevor McNevan began the band in Peterborough, Ontario, a city northeast of Toronto, where he went to high school. Joel Bruyere, born in Brantford, Ontario, was McNevan's childhood friend who had moved away but remained in contact with him. Drummer Steve Augustine is from Hamilton, Ontario. McNevan's first band was Oddball, which featured Dave Smith on guitar, Tim Baxter on bass and McNevan's good friend, Three Days Grace's Neil Sanderson, on drums. Oddball recorded only one album, Shutterbug, which was released in 1995. McNevan is the founding member of TFK (along with original guitarist Dave Smith), formed in 1997 in Peterborough, Ontario. McNevan came up with TFK's name "symbolizing the point in our lives that we realize we can't make it on our own strength".[7] He has written and released 6 albums with Thousand Foot Krutch to date and another four with his side project FM Static.
TFK has worked with Aaron Sprinkle (Mae/Anberlin/MxPx), Gavin Brown (Three Days Grace/Billy Talent/Thornley), Arnold Lanni (Our Lady Peace/Finger Eleven/Simple Plan), and Ken Andrews (Beck/Chris Cornell/Pete Yorn/Tenacious D) on their last three Tooth and Nail-released records.
[edit] History [edit] Shutterbug (1995–1996) Shutterbug was released in 1995 by Trevor McNevan. McNevan had friends Dave Smith (guitar), Tim Baxter (bass) and Neil Sanderson (of Three Days Grace) (drums), play on the album. There were 27 songs on the album, the first half rock, the second half hip-hop. McNevan recorded it at Barry Haggarty's studio in his home town of Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. He worked at McDonalds and other jobs to pay for the studio time. The song "Lift It," first appeared here and was later re-recorded for Thousand Foot Krutch's first release That's What People Do and appeared again on Set It Off.[8][9]
[edit] That's What People Do (1997–1999) That's What People Do was written the year McNevan started TFK in 1997. It was released independently in 1998 and is out of print. It sold over 5000 copies. TFK climbed the ladder of local notoriety throughout Ontario and abroad. Reaching the ears of Ontario commercial radio, CKWF 101.5 FM in their home town of Peterborough took a chance and added "Rhyme Animal", the band's first single from their independent recording, to their rotation. It clicked with listeners and within two months ended up being one of the five most requested songs of the year. In 1999 TFK was chosen by 7 Ball Magazine as one of the top 25 bands in North America. They were also awarded "Best Indie Recording" and McNevan awarded "Vocalist of the Year" by the readers of The Wire Magazine. They were then awarded "Band of the Year" at the 2000 Wire Awards. They were also voted as the No. 1 band of the millennium on 100.3 FM in Barrie, Ontario.[10]
[edit] Set It Off (2000–2002) Set It Off was released on November 14, 2000. It was the group's first indie label release. The sound of the album was distinct in its heavily hip-hop influenced nu metal, and though a few songs from the record (including "Puppet" and "Supafly") impacted at both secular and Christian radio,[citation needed] the band gained notoriety almost entirely through self-promotion and word of mouth. The band toured it extensively across North America and ended up garnering much label attention by selling 85,000 copies of the indie release out of their van.[11] The band also printed a limited edition "Pre-release" version of "Set It Off" only sold at their release party at The Gordon Best Theatre in Peterborough, Ontario for their local fans. TFK toured with Finger Eleven, Econoline Crush, Treble Charger, The Tea Party, Matthew Good Band, Gob, Sum 41 and others. Three Days Grace, which was a cover band at that time, was TFK's regular support act.[citation needed] McNevan helped with recordings of Three Days Grace's demo album. He is also featured on their song "This Movie" from this album. Around this same time, Dave Smith left the group; Making McNevan the only original member. Smith was replaced with Myke Harrison, who parted ways about a year later. After Dave Smith's departure, McNevan began writing all the guitar lines and the band has used a live guitar player instead of officially replacing him.
Track seven from this album, entitled "Unbelievable" - a cover of the EMF song of the same name - is said to appear on the soundtrack for the 2010 movie "Just Wright".[12]
[edit] Phenomenon (2003–2004) In 2003, the band signed with Seattle-based Tooth & Nail Records after long consideration and released their critically acclaimed second full-length CD, Phenomenon. Though something of a departure from the rap-heavy sound of Set it Off, Phenomenon still relied on McNevan's rhythmic vocals, albeit with a solid modern metal sound. Phenomenon was well received, and spawned 4 popular radio singles, including the anthemic "Rawkfist." The CD sold 200,000 units[13][14] making it one of the best-selling albums in Tooth & Nail's history. They continued this success with the 2004 re-release of Set it Off through Tooth & Nail, allowing for a larger print run and adding 6 songs, including five from "That's What People Do", and one new song "Everyone Like Me", produced by Gavin Brown (Three Days Grace/Billy Talent/Thornley). Now touring majorly, the band needed a guitarist for live shows; because Myke Harrison had not been replaced and McNevan had recorded lead guitars on Phenomenon. So the trio enlisted Jamie Aplin, a member of a fellow Canadian band (h)eadspace who had played drums, as fill in guitarist. Jamie never recorded any records with the band.
In that time McNevan and Augustine started a side band called FM Static, which can be classified as a pop-punk or pop/rock band and is usually much more light-hearted. FM Static scoring two No. 10 hits for their songs "Crazy Mary", and "Something to Believe in." In 2004, they toured with Kutless on the "Sea of Faces" tour alongside Falling Up and FM Static.
[edit] The Art of Breaking (2005–2006) On July 19, 2005, they released their third full-length album The Art of Breaking, produced by Arnold Lanni (Our Lady Peace/Finger Eleven/Simple Plan). This album makes almost a complete break from the nu metal sound of Phenomenon, focusing more on heavy elements. The record is the first to feature short guitar solos as well. The Art of Breaking was received well from fans, although some criticized the album's change of style. The single "Move" peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart early 2006[citation needed]. Other singles included "Absolute" and "Breathe You In", which was released to alternative radio and was one of the band's first slower songs. During this time the band toured extensivley.
[edit] The Flame in All of Us (2007–2008) Bassist Joel Bruyere After working in the studio with producer Ken Andrews (Beck/Chris Cornell/Pete Yorn/Tenacious D/Mae) they released The Flame in All of Us on September 18, 2007, with a move to a more mainstream rock sound, with some heavy influences from bands such as fellow Canadian artists Our Lady Peace & other various metal bands. The album features the singles "Falls Apart", "What do we Know?", "Favorite Disease" and "The Flame in All of Us". On January 20, 2008 "The Flame In All Of Us" became the 1000th song to ever make it on the ChristianRock.Net Top 30 Chart. Also on Purevolume.com, Thousand Foot Krutch was the favourite artist on July 2, 2007 and August 26, 2007.[citation needed]
In 2006, McNevan became involved with TobyMac and helped him write the song "Ignition" found on Portable Sounds. The song has been used in many TV/film placements including Monday Night Football and NASCAR. Because of this, in the spring of 2007 the band was part of the TobyMac Portable Sounds tour. The tour was such a success that Toby asked them to do the fall tour as well.[15]
The next tour was in the spring of 2008 when the band toured with Skillet and Decyfer Down. TFK performed with P.O.D., Chevelle, Sevendust, 10 Years, Daughtry, Red and many other bands on this album. After a lengthy summer playing festivals and one-offs, they were direct support for the very first Creation Festival: The Tour. The tour consisted of the following nine bands: Kutless, TFK, Pillar, KJ-52, Fireflight, Worth Dying For, Run Kid Run, Esterlyn, and Capital Lights. TFK was asked to headline the tour three shows in, but declined.[16] TFK covered the Christmas song "Jingle Bell Rawk" for the Christmas album X Christmas, put out by Tooth & Nail Records.[17]
[edit] Welcome to the Masquerade (2009–2011) Thousand Foot Krutch's next album, titled Welcome to the Masquerade, first announced in early 2009. In April '09, McNevan appeared in a live chat with fans via TFKTV hosted by Mogulus Live Broadcast, where he revealed several facts about the record. The band reunited with Aaron Sprinkle to co-produce this album (Sprinkle had previously produced the TFK album Phenomenon) with Emery's Matt Carter assisting and Randy Staub (Metallica/Stone Sour/Nickelback/Our Lady Peace) mixing. The song "Fire It Up" will be featured in video games such as EA Sports NHL 10 and a few others and is featured in the G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra movie trailer.[18] The record was released on September 8, 2009 and peaked at No. 35 on the Billboard 200.[19]
In summer 2009, McNevan underwent emergency surgery on his appendix, causing TFK to cancel at Creation West Festival (not to be confused with Creation Festival: The Tour).[20] He returned to play shows a week later. The band did appear at many other festivals, including their debut appearance at Soulfest. Thousand Foot Krutch has now announced a fall tour to support Welcome to The Masquerade and during fall 2009, TFK performed again on Creation Festival: The Tour, with Jars of Clay, Audio Unplugged, B.Reith, FM Static, and This Beautiful Republic, and also a Christmas holiday show with 30 Seconds to Mars, Flyleaf, After Midnight Project, and The Veer Union.[21]
On September 8, 2009, TFK's three albums, Phenomenon, The Art of Breaking, and The Flame In All of Us were re-released as a three-CD set called Deja Vu: The Thousand Foot Krutch Anthology.[22]
Thousand Foot Krutch toured with Breaking Benjamin, Chevelle and Red in March 2010.
The Peterborough Examiner reported on January 29 that an unspecified Thousand Foot Krutch song may be used in Iron Man 2.[23]
In a recent concert video posted on February 1, the band was seen with a new guitarist. His name is Ty Dietzler. He has replaced Nick Baumhardt as the touring guitarist for TFK. He has also played rhythm guitar for Christian hard rock band The Letter Black.[24]
In the first week of April 2010, "Fire it Up" was released for the Rock band music store in Rock Band 2. On April 19, The Detroit Red Wings featured "The Invitation" and "Welcome To The Masquerade" during the pre-game introduction.[25] On May 11, 2010, McNevan announced on his personal Facebook page: "We [TFK] covered "The Heat Miser Song" from the old classic Christmas special, gonna do one with FM too, but that's a surprise..." referring to their upcoming appearance on the album "X-Christmas 2" by Tooth and Nail Records. He has also stated that a live DVD for TFK is planned for the very near future and is being recorded on May 28 at YC Alberta at Rexall Place in Edmonton in front of an audience of 14,000 people.[26] The live DVD is likely to be released in the fall of 2010 according to McNevan.[27] TFK's song "Unbelievable" is to be used in the movie Just Wright.[12] During the 2010 NBA playoffs, TFK's song "Move" is being used by ABC.[citation needed]
TFK on the Music Boat 2010 In 2010, TFK performed at Creation Festival: The Tour Presents the Welcome to the Masquerade Fall Tour. They are headlining the tour, which will also feature Disciple and Ivoryline,[28] with Decyfer Down replacing Disciple during the last week of the tour.[21] The band also stated that they have just started writing tracks for a new record.[citation needed]
In January 2011 TFK joined the Rock And Worship Roadshow national tour headlined by MercyMe.[29]
On March 2, 2011 Ty Dietzler announced via his website that he would be leaving the band at the end of the month.[30] The band was searching for a replacement guitarist for Dietzler.[31] On March 30, 2011 the band announced that Dietzler would be remaining with the band, and canceled the search for a replacement.[32]
On June 7, 2011 the band released a live album/DVD called Live at the Masquerade.[33]
On September 10, 2011 TFK headlined at the First Love Festival in Buena Vista, NJ along with Decyfer Down, Remedy Drive, Addison Road, Dave Pettigrew, and Compelled.[34]
[edit] The End Is Where We Begin (2011–present) At Soulfest 2011, Thousand Foot Krutch announced that they would be in-studio to start recording the album "The End Is Where We begin" on August 8. The album was released on April 17, 2012.[35] McNevan tweeted that the title would be "The End Is Where We Begin".[36] McNevan posted daily video diaries of the band's recording of the album, and previewing songs from the album, which include "The End Is Where We Begin", "Light Up the Sky", "Let the Sparks Fly", "We Are", "So Far Gone", "Fly on the Wall", "Courtesy Call" and "War of Change".[citation needed] On November 29, 2011 they announced that they would be leaving Tooth and Nail Records to release The End is Where We Begin independently.[37] The band has set up a web page offering fans various pre-release packages in exchange for advance support for the costs in recording and releasing the album.[38] The song "War of Change" was made available for free download in early December.[39] Fans who donated to the band received early downloads of the songs "The End is Where We Begin" and "Courtesy Call" on January 7, 2012.[citation needed]
The album debuted No. 5 on iTunes in US, and No. 1 in Canada.[citation needed] "War of Change" was the Theme Song for the 2012 Edition of WWE Over The Limit.[citation needed]
[edit] Members Current[40]
www.thousandfootkrutch.com
Overview Trevor McNevan began the band in Peterborough, Ontario, a city northeast of Toronto, where he went to high school. Joel Bruyere, born in Brantford, Ontario, was McNevan's childhood friend who had moved away but remained in contact with him. Drummer Steve Augustine is from Hamilton, Ontario. McNevan's first band was Oddball, which featured Dave Smith on guitar, Tim Baxter on bass and McNevan's good friend, Three Days Grace's Neil Sanderson, on drums. Oddball recorded only one album, Shutterbug, which was released in 1995. McNevan is the founding member of TFK (along with original guitarist Dave Smith), formed in 1997 in Peterborough, Ontario. McNevan came up with TFK's name "symbolizing the point in our lives that we realize we can't make it on our own strength".[7] He has written and released 6 albums with Thousand Foot Krutch to date and another four with his side project FM Static.
TFK has worked with Aaron Sprinkle (Mae/Anberlin/MxPx), Gavin Brown (Three Days Grace/Billy Talent/Thornley), Arnold Lanni (Our Lady Peace/Finger Eleven/Simple Plan), and Ken Andrews (Beck/Chris Cornell/Pete Yorn/Tenacious D) on their last three Tooth and Nail-released records.
[edit] History [edit] Shutterbug (1995–1996) Shutterbug was released in 1995 by Trevor McNevan. McNevan had friends Dave Smith (guitar), Tim Baxter (bass) and Neil Sanderson (of Three Days Grace) (drums), play on the album. There were 27 songs on the album, the first half rock, the second half hip-hop. McNevan recorded it at Barry Haggarty's studio in his home town of Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. He worked at McDonalds and other jobs to pay for the studio time. The song "Lift It," first appeared here and was later re-recorded for Thousand Foot Krutch's first release That's What People Do and appeared again on Set It Off.[8][9]
[edit] That's What People Do (1997–1999) That's What People Do was written the year McNevan started TFK in 1997. It was released independently in 1998 and is out of print. It sold over 5000 copies. TFK climbed the ladder of local notoriety throughout Ontario and abroad. Reaching the ears of Ontario commercial radio, CKWF 101.5 FM in their home town of Peterborough took a chance and added "Rhyme Animal", the band's first single from their independent recording, to their rotation. It clicked with listeners and within two months ended up being one of the five most requested songs of the year. In 1999 TFK was chosen by 7 Ball Magazine as one of the top 25 bands in North America. They were also awarded "Best Indie Recording" and McNevan awarded "Vocalist of the Year" by the readers of The Wire Magazine. They were then awarded "Band of the Year" at the 2000 Wire Awards. They were also voted as the No. 1 band of the millennium on 100.3 FM in Barrie, Ontario.[10]
[edit] Set It Off (2000–2002) Set It Off was released on November 14, 2000. It was the group's first indie label release. The sound of the album was distinct in its heavily hip-hop influenced nu metal, and though a few songs from the record (including "Puppet" and "Supafly") impacted at both secular and Christian radio,[citation needed] the band gained notoriety almost entirely through self-promotion and word of mouth. The band toured it extensively across North America and ended up garnering much label attention by selling 85,000 copies of the indie release out of their van.[11] The band also printed a limited edition "Pre-release" version of "Set It Off" only sold at their release party at The Gordon Best Theatre in Peterborough, Ontario for their local fans. TFK toured with Finger Eleven, Econoline Crush, Treble Charger, The Tea Party, Matthew Good Band, Gob, Sum 41 and others. Three Days Grace, which was a cover band at that time, was TFK's regular support act.[citation needed] McNevan helped with recordings of Three Days Grace's demo album. He is also featured on their song "This Movie" from this album. Around this same time, Dave Smith left the group; Making McNevan the only original member. Smith was replaced with Myke Harrison, who parted ways about a year later. After Dave Smith's departure, McNevan began writing all the guitar lines and the band has used a live guitar player instead of officially replacing him.
Track seven from this album, entitled "Unbelievable" - a cover of the EMF song of the same name - is said to appear on the soundtrack for the 2010 movie "Just Wright".[12]
[edit] Phenomenon (2003–2004) In 2003, the band signed with Seattle-based Tooth & Nail Records after long consideration and released their critically acclaimed second full-length CD, Phenomenon. Though something of a departure from the rap-heavy sound of Set it Off, Phenomenon still relied on McNevan's rhythmic vocals, albeit with a solid modern metal sound. Phenomenon was well received, and spawned 4 popular radio singles, including the anthemic "Rawkfist." The CD sold 200,000 units[13][14] making it one of the best-selling albums in Tooth & Nail's history. They continued this success with the 2004 re-release of Set it Off through Tooth & Nail, allowing for a larger print run and adding 6 songs, including five from "That's What People Do", and one new song "Everyone Like Me", produced by Gavin Brown (Three Days Grace/Billy Talent/Thornley). Now touring majorly, the band needed a guitarist for live shows; because Myke Harrison had not been replaced and McNevan had recorded lead guitars on Phenomenon. So the trio enlisted Jamie Aplin, a member of a fellow Canadian band (h)eadspace who had played drums, as fill in guitarist. Jamie never recorded any records with the band.
In that time McNevan and Augustine started a side band called FM Static, which can be classified as a pop-punk or pop/rock band and is usually much more light-hearted. FM Static scoring two No. 10 hits for their songs "Crazy Mary", and "Something to Believe in." In 2004, they toured with Kutless on the "Sea of Faces" tour alongside Falling Up and FM Static.
[edit] The Art of Breaking (2005–2006) On July 19, 2005, they released their third full-length album The Art of Breaking, produced by Arnold Lanni (Our Lady Peace/Finger Eleven/Simple Plan). This album makes almost a complete break from the nu metal sound of Phenomenon, focusing more on heavy elements. The record is the first to feature short guitar solos as well. The Art of Breaking was received well from fans, although some criticized the album's change of style. The single "Move" peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart early 2006[citation needed]. Other singles included "Absolute" and "Breathe You In", which was released to alternative radio and was one of the band's first slower songs. During this time the band toured extensivley.
[edit] The Flame in All of Us (2007–2008) Bassist Joel Bruyere After working in the studio with producer Ken Andrews (Beck/Chris Cornell/Pete Yorn/Tenacious D/Mae) they released The Flame in All of Us on September 18, 2007, with a move to a more mainstream rock sound, with some heavy influences from bands such as fellow Canadian artists Our Lady Peace & other various metal bands. The album features the singles "Falls Apart", "What do we Know?", "Favorite Disease" and "The Flame in All of Us". On January 20, 2008 "The Flame In All Of Us" became the 1000th song to ever make it on the ChristianRock.Net Top 30 Chart. Also on Purevolume.com, Thousand Foot Krutch was the favourite artist on July 2, 2007 and August 26, 2007.[citation needed]
In 2006, McNevan became involved with TobyMac and helped him write the song "Ignition" found on Portable Sounds. The song has been used in many TV/film placements including Monday Night Football and NASCAR. Because of this, in the spring of 2007 the band was part of the TobyMac Portable Sounds tour. The tour was such a success that Toby asked them to do the fall tour as well.[15]
The next tour was in the spring of 2008 when the band toured with Skillet and Decyfer Down. TFK performed with P.O.D., Chevelle, Sevendust, 10 Years, Daughtry, Red and many other bands on this album. After a lengthy summer playing festivals and one-offs, they were direct support for the very first Creation Festival: The Tour. The tour consisted of the following nine bands: Kutless, TFK, Pillar, KJ-52, Fireflight, Worth Dying For, Run Kid Run, Esterlyn, and Capital Lights. TFK was asked to headline the tour three shows in, but declined.[16] TFK covered the Christmas song "Jingle Bell Rawk" for the Christmas album X Christmas, put out by Tooth & Nail Records.[17]
[edit] Welcome to the Masquerade (2009–2011) Thousand Foot Krutch's next album, titled Welcome to the Masquerade, first announced in early 2009. In April '09, McNevan appeared in a live chat with fans via TFKTV hosted by Mogulus Live Broadcast, where he revealed several facts about the record. The band reunited with Aaron Sprinkle to co-produce this album (Sprinkle had previously produced the TFK album Phenomenon) with Emery's Matt Carter assisting and Randy Staub (Metallica/Stone Sour/Nickelback/Our Lady Peace) mixing. The song "Fire It Up" will be featured in video games such as EA Sports NHL 10 and a few others and is featured in the G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra movie trailer.[18] The record was released on September 8, 2009 and peaked at No. 35 on the Billboard 200.[19]
In summer 2009, McNevan underwent emergency surgery on his appendix, causing TFK to cancel at Creation West Festival (not to be confused with Creation Festival: The Tour).[20] He returned to play shows a week later. The band did appear at many other festivals, including their debut appearance at Soulfest. Thousand Foot Krutch has now announced a fall tour to support Welcome to The Masquerade and during fall 2009, TFK performed again on Creation Festival: The Tour, with Jars of Clay, Audio Unplugged, B.Reith, FM Static, and This Beautiful Republic, and also a Christmas holiday show with 30 Seconds to Mars, Flyleaf, After Midnight Project, and The Veer Union.[21]
On September 8, 2009, TFK's three albums, Phenomenon, The Art of Breaking, and The Flame In All of Us were re-released as a three-CD set called Deja Vu: The Thousand Foot Krutch Anthology.[22]
Thousand Foot Krutch toured with Breaking Benjamin, Chevelle and Red in March 2010.
The Peterborough Examiner reported on January 29 that an unspecified Thousand Foot Krutch song may be used in Iron Man 2.[23]
In a recent concert video posted on February 1, the band was seen with a new guitarist. His name is Ty Dietzler. He has replaced Nick Baumhardt as the touring guitarist for TFK. He has also played rhythm guitar for Christian hard rock band The Letter Black.[24]
In the first week of April 2010, "Fire it Up" was released for the Rock band music store in Rock Band 2. On April 19, The Detroit Red Wings featured "The Invitation" and "Welcome To The Masquerade" during the pre-game introduction.[25] On May 11, 2010, McNevan announced on his personal Facebook page: "We [TFK] covered "The Heat Miser Song" from the old classic Christmas special, gonna do one with FM too, but that's a surprise..." referring to their upcoming appearance on the album "X-Christmas 2" by Tooth and Nail Records. He has also stated that a live DVD for TFK is planned for the very near future and is being recorded on May 28 at YC Alberta at Rexall Place in Edmonton in front of an audience of 14,000 people.[26] The live DVD is likely to be released in the fall of 2010 according to McNevan.[27] TFK's song "Unbelievable" is to be used in the movie Just Wright.[12] During the 2010 NBA playoffs, TFK's song "Move" is being used by ABC.[citation needed]
TFK on the Music Boat 2010 In 2010, TFK performed at Creation Festival: The Tour Presents the Welcome to the Masquerade Fall Tour. They are headlining the tour, which will also feature Disciple and Ivoryline,[28] with Decyfer Down replacing Disciple during the last week of the tour.[21] The band also stated that they have just started writing tracks for a new record.[citation needed]
In January 2011 TFK joined the Rock And Worship Roadshow national tour headlined by MercyMe.[29]
On March 2, 2011 Ty Dietzler announced via his website that he would be leaving the band at the end of the month.[30] The band was searching for a replacement guitarist for Dietzler.[31] On March 30, 2011 the band announced that Dietzler would be remaining with the band, and canceled the search for a replacement.[32]
On June 7, 2011 the band released a live album/DVD called Live at the Masquerade.[33]
On September 10, 2011 TFK headlined at the First Love Festival in Buena Vista, NJ along with Decyfer Down, Remedy Drive, Addison Road, Dave Pettigrew, and Compelled.[34]
[edit] The End Is Where We Begin (2011–present) At Soulfest 2011, Thousand Foot Krutch announced that they would be in-studio to start recording the album "The End Is Where We begin" on August 8. The album was released on April 17, 2012.[35] McNevan tweeted that the title would be "The End Is Where We Begin".[36] McNevan posted daily video diaries of the band's recording of the album, and previewing songs from the album, which include "The End Is Where We Begin", "Light Up the Sky", "Let the Sparks Fly", "We Are", "So Far Gone", "Fly on the Wall", "Courtesy Call" and "War of Change".[citation needed] On November 29, 2011 they announced that they would be leaving Tooth and Nail Records to release The End is Where We Begin independently.[37] The band has set up a web page offering fans various pre-release packages in exchange for advance support for the costs in recording and releasing the album.[38] The song "War of Change" was made available for free download in early December.[39] Fans who donated to the band received early downloads of the songs "The End is Where We Begin" and "Courtesy Call" on January 7, 2012.[citation needed]
The album debuted No. 5 on iTunes in US, and No. 1 in Canada.[citation needed] "War of Change" was the Theme Song for the 2012 Edition of WWE Over The Limit.[citation needed]
[edit] Members Current[40]
- Trevor McNevan - vocals, guitar (studio) (1995–present)
- Joel Bruyere - bass guitar, backing vocals (1999–present)
- Steve Augustine - drums (2002–present)
- Ty Dietzler - guitar (2011-present) (touring 2010)
- Andrew Welch - guitar (2012)[41]
- Jamie Aplin - guitar (2003–2007)
- Nick Baumhardt - guitar, backing vocals, keyboards (2007–2010) now playing for Stellar Kart
- Neil Sanderson - drums (1995–1997)
- Tim Baxter - bass guitar (1995–1998)
- Dave Smith - guitar (1995–2002)
- Christian Harvey - drums (1997–2000)
- Pat Pedasiuk - bass guitar (1998–1999)
- Geoff "Johnny Orbital" Laforet - drums (2000–2002)
- Myke Harrison - guitar (2002–2003)
- Aaron Sprinkle - keyboards and additional guitars (Phenomenon, Welcome to the Masquerade, The End Is Where We Begin)
- Arnold Lanni - keyboards (The Art of Breaking)
- Ken Andrews - keyboards (The Flame in All of Us)
- Phil X - additional guitars (The Art of Breaking, The Flame in All of Us)
- Randy Torres - additional guitars (Welcome to the Masquerade)
- Pete Stewart - additional guitar on "Fire it Up" (Welcome to the Masquerade)
- Charlotte Martin - backing vocals on "Inhuman" (The Flame in All of Us)
- Adam Gontier - additional vocals on "Hurt", "Go" and "Absolute" (The Art of Breaking)
- Shutterbug (1995)
- That's What People Do (1998)
- Set It Off (2001)
- Phenomenon (2003)
- Set It Off Re-Released (2004)
- The Art of Breaking (2005)
- The Flame in All of Us (2007)
- Welcome to the Masquerade (2009)
- The End Is Where We Begin (2012)
- 2005 Artist of the Year
- 2005 Group of the Year
- 2005 Modern Rock Album of the Year: The Art of Breaking
- 2006 Video of the Year: Move
- 2008 nominee, Group of the Year
- 2008 nominee, Hard Music Album of the Year: The Flame In All of Us
- 2008 nominee, Hard Music Song of the Year: "Falls Apart"
- 2010 Rock Album of the Year: Welcome To The Masquerade
- 2010 Rock Song of the Year: "Forward Motion"
- 2010 Hard Music Song of the Year: "Bring Me to Life"
- 2010 nominee, Rock Album of the Year: Welcome to the Masquerade
- 2010 nominee, Rock Song of the Year: "Bring Me To Life"
- 2005 nominee, Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the year: Phenomenon
- 2006 nominee, Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the year: The Art of Breaking
- 2008 nominee, Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the year, The Flame in All of Us
- 2010 nominee, Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the year: Welcome to the Masquerade
- 2004 Hard Music Album of the Year: Phenomenon
- TFK won Taco Bell's "Feed The Beat" competition in 2008 along with Fireflight and Hit The Lights, they played the Winter X Games in Aspen with ESPN/Taco Bell.
www.thousandfootkrutch.com
Jamie Grace
Jamie Grace Harper (born November 25, 1991)[1] is an American Contemporary Christian musician, singer, rapper, songwriter, and actress from Atlanta, Georgia. In 2010 she was discovered (via her YouTube channel) by TobyMac and signed to his label Gotee Records. She released the song "Hold Me" in 2011 and won the 2012 Dove Award for New Artist of the Year.
Hold Me Jamie Grace's debut EP, Hold Me was released by the label on February 22, 2011.[2] Jamie Grace released the title track to the album at the same time and it was one of the most added singles to Christian Hit Radio stations.[3] Her debut album, One Song at a Time, was released in stores September 20, 2011.[1] Her second EP, Christmas Together was released November 29, 2011.[citation needed]
[edit] Musical style In a somewhat unique style, Jamie Grace combines elements of hip hop, folk, and pop into one distinct sound. In addition, she occasionally uses elements of guest vocalists, such as TobyMac in "Hold Me" and GabeReal from DiverseCity in "One Song at a Time."
[edit] Media recognition Jamie Grace is featured as a main artist and speaker in the Revolve Tour by Women of Faith[4] alongside artists such as Britt Nicole, Group 1 Crew, and Hawk Nelson.[5] On May 4, 2011, Jesus Freak Hideout announced that "Hold Me," her first single, had attained the No. 1 spot at CHR.[6]
[edit] Personal life Grace graduated from college on May 12, 2012.[citation needed] When she is not on tour, she studies children's ministry at Point University.[3]
[edit] Struggle with Tourette syndrome Jamie Grace was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome in 2003 when she was 11.[3] She has spoken of this illness in various American states through her music and speaking.[7]
[edit] Discography [edit] Studio albums Released Title Label(s) September 20, 2011 One Song at a Time Gotee Records [edit] Studio EPs Released Title Label(s) February 22, 2011 Hold Me Gotee Records November 29, 2011 Christmas Together Gotee Records [edit] Singles Year Title Peak chart
positions Album US
US
Christ US Heat 2011 "Hold Me" 107 1[8] 19 Hold Me [edit] Awards/Nominations Year Award Song Result 2012 Grammys Best Contemporary Christian Music Song "Hold Me" Nominated 2012 Dove Song of the Year "Hold Me" Nominated New Artist of the Year Won Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year "Hold Me" Nominated Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year "One Song at a Time" Nominated.
www.jamiegrace.com
Hold Me Jamie Grace's debut EP, Hold Me was released by the label on February 22, 2011.[2] Jamie Grace released the title track to the album at the same time and it was one of the most added singles to Christian Hit Radio stations.[3] Her debut album, One Song at a Time, was released in stores September 20, 2011.[1] Her second EP, Christmas Together was released November 29, 2011.[citation needed]
[edit] Musical style In a somewhat unique style, Jamie Grace combines elements of hip hop, folk, and pop into one distinct sound. In addition, she occasionally uses elements of guest vocalists, such as TobyMac in "Hold Me" and GabeReal from DiverseCity in "One Song at a Time."
[edit] Media recognition Jamie Grace is featured as a main artist and speaker in the Revolve Tour by Women of Faith[4] alongside artists such as Britt Nicole, Group 1 Crew, and Hawk Nelson.[5] On May 4, 2011, Jesus Freak Hideout announced that "Hold Me," her first single, had attained the No. 1 spot at CHR.[6]
[edit] Personal life Grace graduated from college on May 12, 2012.[citation needed] When she is not on tour, she studies children's ministry at Point University.[3]
[edit] Struggle with Tourette syndrome Jamie Grace was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome in 2003 when she was 11.[3] She has spoken of this illness in various American states through her music and speaking.[7]
[edit] Discography [edit] Studio albums Released Title Label(s) September 20, 2011 One Song at a Time Gotee Records [edit] Studio EPs Released Title Label(s) February 22, 2011 Hold Me Gotee Records November 29, 2011 Christmas Together Gotee Records [edit] Singles Year Title Peak chart
positions Album US
US
Christ US Heat 2011 "Hold Me" 107 1[8] 19 Hold Me [edit] Awards/Nominations Year Award Song Result 2012 Grammys Best Contemporary Christian Music Song "Hold Me" Nominated 2012 Dove Song of the Year "Hold Me" Nominated New Artist of the Year Won Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year "Hold Me" Nominated Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year "One Song at a Time" Nominated.
www.jamiegrace.com
Bam Margera
A'ight. Alex is about to MURDER me if I don't post this, and I would like to live and see my first tobyMac concert. THis is Alex's favorite skateboarder, so here goes...
Brandon Cole "Bam" Margera[2] (/mɑrˈdʒɛərə/ or mar-JAIR-ə; born September 28, 1979) is an American professional skateboarder, television and radio personality, actor and daredevil. He released a series of videos under the CKY banner and came to prominence after being drafted into MTV's Jackass crew. He has since appeared in MTV's Viva La Bam and Bam's Unholy Union, all three Jackass movies, and Haggard and Minghags, both of which he co-wrote and directed.
Early life Margera was born in West Chester, Pennsylvania, to Phil and April Margera. He is the younger brother of Jess Margera and nephew of Vincent Margera. His grandfather nicknamed him "Bam" at the age of three after his habit of running into walls.[3] He attended East High School and cites friend Chris Raab as his only reason for attending high school.
Career Television and film Margera began shooting videos of himself and his friends skateboarding and doing stunts, which eventually turned into the CKY video series.[4] He independently released CKY. CKY2K, CKY3 and CKY4 have also been released. CKY stands for "Camp Kill Yourself", a reference to the film Sleepaway Camp. These early videos feature many of Margera's friends, including Ryan Dunn, Brandon DiCamillo, Rake Yohn, Chris Raab, Brandon Novak and others who form a loose collective known as the CKY Crew. CKY is also the name of a rock band featuring his brother Jess, and the history and relationship between the video and band projects is heavily interlinked.
Following the CKY success, former Big Brother editor Jeff Tremaine noticed Margera's videos and drafted him into the team which would eventually become MTV's Jackass. Margera and Ryan Dunn became mainstays of the cast while other CKY crew members played supporting roles to various degrees. Margera went on to appear in Jackass: The Movie, Jackass Number Two, and Jackass 3D. Several skits in the first Jackass movie were CKY style pieces filmed in and around West Chester, but similar scenes in the second movie were removed after the arrest of Margera's uncle Vincent Margera.
After Jackass, Margera was given his own MTV series entitled Viva La Bam, which ran for five seasons between 2003–2005. The show followed Margera and his crew as they performed various stunts and missions. The show was primarily filmed in West Chester, Pennsylvania but also visited New Orleans, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Brazil, Finland, Mexico, Amsterdam and Transylvania. In addition to the regular series, special episodes have included "Viva La Spring Break" and a "lost" episode included on the Viva La Bands CD.
Following the show, in 2007, Margera was engaged and the wedding was filmed for Bam's Unholy Union as a follow-up to Viva la Bam. The show follows Margera, his then fiancée Melissa Rothstein and their friends in the lead-up to their wedding.[5] Also in 2008, Margera had a "prominent, non-sex role in" a pornographic film by Gina Lynn called The Fantasstic Whores 4 with Brandon Novak.[6]
In 2009, Margera appeared on Nitro Circus.[7]
In October 2010, Margera appeared in Jackass 3D and the movie broke box office records.[8] He visited Europe doing press for the movie in late October.[9]
Margera appears with Dunn and pro-skateboarder Tim O'Connor on Bam's World Domination, a half-hour Spike TV program that debuted on October 13, 2010. The first episode showcased Margera and his friends' attempt to conquer an obstacle course race, in the Tough Guy Competition, held in Staffordshire, England.[10][11]
Skateboarding career Since 2003, Margera has been a member of Team Element, the demonstration team for Element Skateboards.[12] He is also sponsored by Speed Metal Bearings, Adio Footwear, and Fairman's Skateshop.
Independent films Margera has written, produced and starred in three independent films. Margera co-wrote, directed and starred in Haggard (2003), an independent film based on real events in the life of his friend Ryan Dunn. Dunn played himself as the main character while Margera played "Valo", a character based on himself and elements of HIM singer and friend Ville Valo.[13]
Margera also directed Minghags, formerly titled Kiss a Good Man's Ass.[14] The film is a loose sequel to Haggard and will feature the "garbage juicer" invention from that film.[15] This film was confirmed on Radio Bam and the front page of FilthyNote Records by Tim Glomb. Filming started April 5, 2007.[16] On an episode of Radio Bam, Margera said that they are trying to make the movie PG-13 rated,[17] but with the amount of swearing and a shot of nudity, an 'R' Rating could not be avoided.[18] They had its first viewing of the rough version of the film on August 7, 2007, at Sikes Hall.[19] The movie was released in December 2008. The film was a straight-to-DVD release.
Subsequently, Margera released a Christmas-themed movie entitled Bam Margera Presents: Where the#$&% Is Santa? in December 2008.[20] The movie is about Bam and his friends going to the Arctic Circle in Finland on a quest to find Santa Claus. The film features Ville Valo from HIM, The Dudesons, Hanoi Rocks, Mark the Bagger, and more.[20]
Radio Bam and music Margera began a weekly Sirius Satellite Radio show on Sirius channel 28 Faction on November 24, 2004 called Radio Bam. The show features Margera along with friends from the CKY and Jackass crews.
In 2005, Margera started a music label, Filthy Note Records, and has directed music videos for Clutch, Turbonegro, Viking Skull, Vains of Jenna and several for CKY. He also directed seven music videos, "Buried Alive By Love", "The Sacrament", "And Love Said No", and "Solitary Man",for the Finnish band HIM, and three for The 69 Eyes, "Lost Boys", "Dead Girls are Easy" and "Dead N Gone". He also plays the keyboard in a novelty band called Gnarkill along with Brandon DiCamillo, Jess Margera, Rich Vose and Matt Cole.
Other projects Margera has been animated as a character in pro-skateboarder Tony Hawk's video games Pro Skaters 3 and 4, Underground and Underground 2, American Wasteland, Project 8 and Proving Ground. He also voiced a character in the video game Scarface: The World Is Yours. He made cameo appearances in the movies Grind and Destroying America.
In late September 2008, Margera opened a bar/theater called "The Note", in his hometown of West Chester, Pennsylvania.[21]
In late 2009, Margera released a book containing private writings and pictures titled Serious as Dog Dirt.[22]
Personal life Relationships Margera was previously engaged to Jenn Rivell, a divorced single mother. Rivell played a prominent part in several of his projects and the couple appeared to be co-habiting in various episodes of Viva La Bam. However, the relationship ended in 2005.[23] In November 2006, Margera filed for "Protection From Abuse" from Rivell after she allegedly broke into his house.[23] He further alleged that Rivell had exhibited irrational and aggressive behavior towards him on several previous occasions including stealing several computers and vandalizing his house immediately after their initial breakup. The judge dismissed the allegations as "speculative" and "hearsay".[24][dead link]
In 2006, Margera became engaged to childhood friend Melissa "Missy" Rothstein.[25] The events leading up to their wedding (with about 350 friends and family in attendance) on February 3, 2007, in downtown Philadelphia, were chronicled on the MTV series Bam's Unholy Union. The couple's honeymoon was in Dubai. In 2008, during an appearance LA Ink, Bam told Kat Von D about $13,000 in damages done to the hotel for his marriage, saying " I was kind of ready for it though. I was like: 'I’m inviting the Jackass crew. If something doesn’t get broken then that’s not right'."[26][27]
In July 2009, Margera was taken to the hospital by paramedics and state troopers from his West Chester home after his wife Missy called 911 after a four day alcohol binge.[28][29] On the drinking binge, Margera said "I may get a divorce . . . booze helps."[28] In October 2010, Margera told Howard Stern he and Missy were living in separate cities, they meet once a week and Missy knows about his girlfriend in San Francisco and another in West Chester.[30][31]
Name, residence and assault In an October 24, 2007 interview with the Cleveland Free Times, Margera stated that although he had completed paperwork that would legally change his first name to Bam, he was "still debating" filing it after a conversation with his father.[2]
Margera currently resides in "Castle Bam", a large house in Wawaset, Pennsylvania. The house has a gothic theme, a skatepark in the driveway and is situated on 14 acres (57,000 m2) of land. In January 2007, Margera built a ramp in his backyard, near the old casino seen in Viva La Bam. The ramp itself caused trouble with the township.[32] Margera's parents and select members of the CKY Crew lived in the house while shooting Viva La Bam, with Margera's uncle residing in a house on the property.
Injuries In May 2012 Bam was involved in an accident in which kayaking off a 100ft cliff. He paddled off the cliff along with pro kayaker Steve Fisher, but it is not clear if he was also injured. Upon arrival he had to undergo emergency operation following the fall. Bam tweeted a picture of him from his sick bed. Alongside the picture, he wrote: 'Hernia operation after 100ft kayak drop.'
Brandon Cole "Bam" Margera[2] (/mɑrˈdʒɛərə/ or mar-JAIR-ə; born September 28, 1979) is an American professional skateboarder, television and radio personality, actor and daredevil. He released a series of videos under the CKY banner and came to prominence after being drafted into MTV's Jackass crew. He has since appeared in MTV's Viva La Bam and Bam's Unholy Union, all three Jackass movies, and Haggard and Minghags, both of which he co-wrote and directed.
Early life Margera was born in West Chester, Pennsylvania, to Phil and April Margera. He is the younger brother of Jess Margera and nephew of Vincent Margera. His grandfather nicknamed him "Bam" at the age of three after his habit of running into walls.[3] He attended East High School and cites friend Chris Raab as his only reason for attending high school.
Career Television and film Margera began shooting videos of himself and his friends skateboarding and doing stunts, which eventually turned into the CKY video series.[4] He independently released CKY. CKY2K, CKY3 and CKY4 have also been released. CKY stands for "Camp Kill Yourself", a reference to the film Sleepaway Camp. These early videos feature many of Margera's friends, including Ryan Dunn, Brandon DiCamillo, Rake Yohn, Chris Raab, Brandon Novak and others who form a loose collective known as the CKY Crew. CKY is also the name of a rock band featuring his brother Jess, and the history and relationship between the video and band projects is heavily interlinked.
Following the CKY success, former Big Brother editor Jeff Tremaine noticed Margera's videos and drafted him into the team which would eventually become MTV's Jackass. Margera and Ryan Dunn became mainstays of the cast while other CKY crew members played supporting roles to various degrees. Margera went on to appear in Jackass: The Movie, Jackass Number Two, and Jackass 3D. Several skits in the first Jackass movie were CKY style pieces filmed in and around West Chester, but similar scenes in the second movie were removed after the arrest of Margera's uncle Vincent Margera.
After Jackass, Margera was given his own MTV series entitled Viva La Bam, which ran for five seasons between 2003–2005. The show followed Margera and his crew as they performed various stunts and missions. The show was primarily filmed in West Chester, Pennsylvania but also visited New Orleans, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Brazil, Finland, Mexico, Amsterdam and Transylvania. In addition to the regular series, special episodes have included "Viva La Spring Break" and a "lost" episode included on the Viva La Bands CD.
Following the show, in 2007, Margera was engaged and the wedding was filmed for Bam's Unholy Union as a follow-up to Viva la Bam. The show follows Margera, his then fiancée Melissa Rothstein and their friends in the lead-up to their wedding.[5] Also in 2008, Margera had a "prominent, non-sex role in" a pornographic film by Gina Lynn called The Fantasstic Whores 4 with Brandon Novak.[6]
In 2009, Margera appeared on Nitro Circus.[7]
In October 2010, Margera appeared in Jackass 3D and the movie broke box office records.[8] He visited Europe doing press for the movie in late October.[9]
Margera appears with Dunn and pro-skateboarder Tim O'Connor on Bam's World Domination, a half-hour Spike TV program that debuted on October 13, 2010. The first episode showcased Margera and his friends' attempt to conquer an obstacle course race, in the Tough Guy Competition, held in Staffordshire, England.[10][11]
Skateboarding career Since 2003, Margera has been a member of Team Element, the demonstration team for Element Skateboards.[12] He is also sponsored by Speed Metal Bearings, Adio Footwear, and Fairman's Skateshop.
Independent films Margera has written, produced and starred in three independent films. Margera co-wrote, directed and starred in Haggard (2003), an independent film based on real events in the life of his friend Ryan Dunn. Dunn played himself as the main character while Margera played "Valo", a character based on himself and elements of HIM singer and friend Ville Valo.[13]
Margera also directed Minghags, formerly titled Kiss a Good Man's Ass.[14] The film is a loose sequel to Haggard and will feature the "garbage juicer" invention from that film.[15] This film was confirmed on Radio Bam and the front page of FilthyNote Records by Tim Glomb. Filming started April 5, 2007.[16] On an episode of Radio Bam, Margera said that they are trying to make the movie PG-13 rated,[17] but with the amount of swearing and a shot of nudity, an 'R' Rating could not be avoided.[18] They had its first viewing of the rough version of the film on August 7, 2007, at Sikes Hall.[19] The movie was released in December 2008. The film was a straight-to-DVD release.
Subsequently, Margera released a Christmas-themed movie entitled Bam Margera Presents: Where the#$&% Is Santa? in December 2008.[20] The movie is about Bam and his friends going to the Arctic Circle in Finland on a quest to find Santa Claus. The film features Ville Valo from HIM, The Dudesons, Hanoi Rocks, Mark the Bagger, and more.[20]
Radio Bam and music Margera began a weekly Sirius Satellite Radio show on Sirius channel 28 Faction on November 24, 2004 called Radio Bam. The show features Margera along with friends from the CKY and Jackass crews.
In 2005, Margera started a music label, Filthy Note Records, and has directed music videos for Clutch, Turbonegro, Viking Skull, Vains of Jenna and several for CKY. He also directed seven music videos, "Buried Alive By Love", "The Sacrament", "And Love Said No", and "Solitary Man",for the Finnish band HIM, and three for The 69 Eyes, "Lost Boys", "Dead Girls are Easy" and "Dead N Gone". He also plays the keyboard in a novelty band called Gnarkill along with Brandon DiCamillo, Jess Margera, Rich Vose and Matt Cole.
Other projects Margera has been animated as a character in pro-skateboarder Tony Hawk's video games Pro Skaters 3 and 4, Underground and Underground 2, American Wasteland, Project 8 and Proving Ground. He also voiced a character in the video game Scarface: The World Is Yours. He made cameo appearances in the movies Grind and Destroying America.
In late September 2008, Margera opened a bar/theater called "The Note", in his hometown of West Chester, Pennsylvania.[21]
In late 2009, Margera released a book containing private writings and pictures titled Serious as Dog Dirt.[22]
Personal life Relationships Margera was previously engaged to Jenn Rivell, a divorced single mother. Rivell played a prominent part in several of his projects and the couple appeared to be co-habiting in various episodes of Viva La Bam. However, the relationship ended in 2005.[23] In November 2006, Margera filed for "Protection From Abuse" from Rivell after she allegedly broke into his house.[23] He further alleged that Rivell had exhibited irrational and aggressive behavior towards him on several previous occasions including stealing several computers and vandalizing his house immediately after their initial breakup. The judge dismissed the allegations as "speculative" and "hearsay".[24][dead link]
In 2006, Margera became engaged to childhood friend Melissa "Missy" Rothstein.[25] The events leading up to their wedding (with about 350 friends and family in attendance) on February 3, 2007, in downtown Philadelphia, were chronicled on the MTV series Bam's Unholy Union. The couple's honeymoon was in Dubai. In 2008, during an appearance LA Ink, Bam told Kat Von D about $13,000 in damages done to the hotel for his marriage, saying " I was kind of ready for it though. I was like: 'I’m inviting the Jackass crew. If something doesn’t get broken then that’s not right'."[26][27]
In July 2009, Margera was taken to the hospital by paramedics and state troopers from his West Chester home after his wife Missy called 911 after a four day alcohol binge.[28][29] On the drinking binge, Margera said "I may get a divorce . . . booze helps."[28] In October 2010, Margera told Howard Stern he and Missy were living in separate cities, they meet once a week and Missy knows about his girlfriend in San Francisco and another in West Chester.[30][31]
Name, residence and assault In an October 24, 2007 interview with the Cleveland Free Times, Margera stated that although he had completed paperwork that would legally change his first name to Bam, he was "still debating" filing it after a conversation with his father.[2]
Margera currently resides in "Castle Bam", a large house in Wawaset, Pennsylvania. The house has a gothic theme, a skatepark in the driveway and is situated on 14 acres (57,000 m2) of land. In January 2007, Margera built a ramp in his backyard, near the old casino seen in Viva La Bam. The ramp itself caused trouble with the township.[32] Margera's parents and select members of the CKY Crew lived in the house while shooting Viva La Bam, with Margera's uncle residing in a house on the property.
Injuries In May 2012 Bam was involved in an accident in which kayaking off a 100ft cliff. He paddled off the cliff along with pro kayaker Steve Fisher, but it is not clear if he was also injured. Upon arrival he had to undergo emergency operation following the fall. Bam tweeted a picture of him from his sick bed. Alongside the picture, he wrote: 'Hernia operation after 100ft kayak drop.'