We The Kings
Named for hometown Bradenton, Florida’s King Middle School where they first made music together, the band – Travis Clark (lead vocals, guitar), Hunter Thomsen (guitar, backing vocals), Drew Thomsen (bass) and Danny Duncan (drums) – has grown into one of the most engaging and exciting acts on the pop-rock circuit. Talent, ambition, and hard work have all played a part, but for We The Kings, nurturing the bonds between the band and their fans is what makes it all happen.
In the age of Twitter, MySpace, and YouTube, interactivity and engagement are key to success, and the band has worked hard over the past two and a half years to stay as close to their fans as possible. The results are obvious in what they've accomplished. Their self-titled debut album hit #1 on Billboard's New Alternative Album sales chart and spawned the Billboard-charting tracks "Secret Valentine" and "Check Yes Juliet," which is nearing Platinum status. They've sold over 2 million tracks and had over 56 million plays on MySpace, 15 million YouTube video plays (including the #1 most played music video), and three of MTV.com's most requested videos. Additionally, iTunes has featured "Check Yes Juliet" as its single of the week.
Since Warped wrapped up, the band has been in the studio recording their sophomore disc, produced by S*A*M & Sluggo (Gym Class Heroes, Cobra Starship, Metro Station) which will be released December 8. The infectious first single, "Heaven Can Wait," is gaining nationwide airplay, climbing the Billboard Singles chart, and has already reached the Top 10 on the Alternative Singles chart. It's the band's third Top 40 charting single. On the road and in the studio the band has had the opportunity to collaborate with artists like teen sensation Demi Lovato who appears on the new album on the pop ballad “We’ll Be A Dream.”
The title of the new release, Smile Kid (S-Curve), sums up the band's attitude. With all their travels and recent success, the band remains bonded by their network of fans, friendship, and hometown pride, always coming back to their home. In fact, We The Kings were awarded the key to the city of Bradenton last year and Travis wears the key around his neck, so wherever the band may travel, they're never far from home.
TO SEE WE THE KINGS LIVE:
Sun 06-Feb-2011 Newcastle O2 Academy 2 0844 477 2000
Wed 09-Feb-2011 Liverpool University (Stanley theatre) 0151 256 5555
Fri 11-Feb-2011 Manchester Academy 3 0161 832 1111
Sat 12-Feb-2011 Birmingham O2 Academy 0844 477 2000
Sun 13-Feb-2011 Norwich Waterfront 01603 508 050
Tue 15-Feb-2011 London Electric Ballroom 0844 811 0051