Decades of Sound 2024 - SPIN (original) (raw)

Bose and SPIN have joined forces for a landmark celebration, marking 60 years of music history and the 60th anniversary of Bose. Together, we’ve created the “Decades of Sound” series, a tribute to legendary artists who have not only defined their eras but reshaped the music landscape.

Griff
H.R.
Ben Gibbard
Jakob Nowell
Killer Mike
The Last Dinner Party
Bose
SPIN

Griff

Here’s a look at some key moments through this decade.

Debut Single Released

Griff releases her debut single, “Mirror Talk,” which makes waves with its introspective lyrics and soulful vocals.

Debut EP, The Mirror Talk, Released

Griff releases her debut EP, The Mirror Talk, which includes the singles “Mirror Talk” and “Didn’t Break It Enough”.

Rising Star Award Winner

Griff wins the Rising Star Award at the 41st Brit Awards, recognizing her as one of the most promising new talents in the UK music scene.

One Foot in Front of the Other Released

Griff releases her debut mixtape, One Foot in Front of the Other, which includes the hit single “Black Hole” and receives acclaim for its beautiful production and heartfelt lyrics.

Brit Awards Nomination

Griff is nominated for the Best New Artist award at the 42nd Brit Awards.

Glastonbury Performance

Griff performs at the Glastonbury Festival, billed as one of the hottest pop acts in the UK.

Single "Vertigo" Released

Griff releases the single “Vertigo,” showcasing growth in her sonic journey, touching on more mature and darker tones. The song is praised for its innovative production and introspective lyrics, setting the stage for her upcoming album.

Brit Award Nominations

Griff is nominated for multiple awards at the 44th Brit Awards, including Best Female Solo Artist and Best Album for One Foot in Front of the Other.

Debut Album, Vertigo, Released

Griff drops her official commercial debut album, Vertigo. The album is met with critical acclaim, with reviewers highlighting its sophisticated production, emotional depth, and Griff’s evolution as an artist.

H.R.

Here’s a look at some key moments through the last several decades.

Bad Brains Formed

Paul Hudson, better known as H.R. (Human Rights) formed Bad Brains in Washington, D.C. The band initially started as a jazz fusion group before transitioning to hardcore punk. The original lineup included H.R. (vocals), Dr. Know (guitar), Darryl Jenifer (bass), and Earl Hudson (drums, H.R.’s brother).

Debut Single Released

Bad Brains releases their debut single, “Pay to Cum.” This track quickly became a seminal piece in the hardcore punk scene, showcasing their intense energy and musical prowess.

Debut Album Bad Brains Released

The band releases their self-titled debut album, often referred to as the “ROIR cassette.” This album featured iconic tracks such as “Banned in D.C.,” “Sailin’ On,” and “Attitude,” cementing their place in punk history.

Rock for Light is Released

Bad Brains releases their second album, Rock for Light, produced by Ric Ocasek of The Cars. This album blended punk and reggae, highlighting the band’s versatility and expanding their musical reach.

First Solo Album It's About Luv is Released

H.R. begins his solo career, releasing his first solo album, It’s About Luv. This album explores reggae and R&B influences, showcasing H.R.’s versatility as an artist.

I Against I is Released

Bad Brains releases I Against I, a landmark album that integrated punk, metal, and reggae influences. The album featured tracks like “Re-Ignition” and the title track “I Against I,” further solidifying their innovative sound.

Quickness Released

Bad Brains releases Quickness, continuing their fusion of hardcore punk and reggae. However, H.R.’s participation in the album’s recording was limited due to internal band tensions.

Human Rights is Released

Human Rights is an album by H.R. that is characterized by its conscious lyrics, focusing on themes of social justice, human rights, and spiritual upliftment.

Singin' in the Heart Released

Solo album, Singin’ in the Heart, marked a significant departure from H.R.’s punk roots, embracing a more reggae-influenced sound. The album showcased H.R.’s versatility as a vocalist, moving away from the punk style of Bad Brains to a more melodic and introspective approach.

God of Love Released

The classic lineup of Bad Brains reunited to release God of Love, produced by Ric Ocasek. This reunion album marked a significant moment for the band and their fans.

Charge Released

H.R.’s solo album, Charge features socially conscious lyrics and reflects H.R.’s ongoing spiritual journey. Charge was well-received by fans of his reggae work and demonstrated his commitment to his solo career during a period when he was often on hiatus from Bad Brains.

I & I Survived Released

Bad Brains releases I & I Survived, an album focusing heavily on dub and reggae influences, showcasing their ability to experiment and evolve their sound.

Build a Nation Released

The band releases Build a Nation, produced by Adam Yauch of the Beastie Boys. This album marked a return to their hardcore punk roots and was well-received by fans and critics alike.

Into the Future Released

Bad Brains continues their legacy in the punk and reggae scenes with the release of Into the Future, further solidifying their influence and relevance.

Brain Surgery

H.R. underwent brain surgery to alleviate severe headaches caused by a rare neurological condition. His health issues and journey were documented in the film Finding Joseph I, which explored his life and career in depth.

Today

H.R. continues to impact the punk and reggae music scenes. Bad Brains’ music and H.R.’s vocal style remain influential to new generations of musicians and fans, ensuring their legacy endures.

Ben Gibbard

Here’s a look at some key moments through the last several decades.

Death Cab for Cutie Formed

Benjamin Gibbard forms Death Cab for Cutie in Bellingham, Washington, as a solo project. The band name comes from a song by the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.

You Can Play These Songs with Chords Released

Death Cab for Cutie releases their debut cassette, You Can Play These Songs with Chords, which garners local attention and leads Gibbard to expanding the project into a full band with Chris Walla (who worked on the cassette), Nick Harmer, and Nathan Good.

Something About Airplanes Released

Death Cab for Cutie releases their debut studio album, Something About Airplanes, which gains attention in the indie music scene.

We Have the Facts and We're Voting Yes Released

Death Cab for Cutie releases their second studio album, We Have the Facts and We’re Voting Yes. The album received acclaim from music critics and Gibbard’s songwriting received praise.

The Photo Album Released

Death Cab for Cutie releases their third album, The Photo Album, which includes standout tracks like “A Movie Script Ending.”

Transatlanticism is Released

Death Cab for Cutie releases Transatlanticism, widely considered a breakthrough album. Tracks like “The New Year,” “Title and Registration,” and “Transatlanticism” become iconic.

Transatlanticism Tour

Death Cab for Cutie spent much of 2004 on tour for their album Transatlanticism. The band played numerous shows across the United States and internationally. During this tour, songs from Transatlanticism were prominently featured in various TV shows and films, including The O.C. and Six Feet Under, further boosting the band’s popularity.

Plans Released

The band signs with Atlantic Records and releases their fifth album, Plans, featuring hits like “Soul Meets Body” and “I Will Follow You into the Dark.” The album earns a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album.

SPIN Cover

Death Cab for Cutie graces the cover of SPIN.

The Postal Service Released Give Up

Gibbard collaborates with producer Jimmy Tamborello to form The Postal Service, releasing the album Give Up. The album includes the hit single “Such Great Heights”. In March 2005, Give Up received gold certification by the Recording Industry Association of America, and later received platinum certification in October 2012.

Narrow Stairs Released

Death Cab for Cutie released Narrow Stairs, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The single “I Will Possess Your Heart” gains significant radio play. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and received a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album.

Solo Album Former Lives Released

Gibbard releases his debut solo album, Former Lives, showcasing a different musical style and personal songwriting.

The Postal Service Reunion Tour

Benjamin Gibbard embarks on a reunion world tour with The Postal Service at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Coachella, Sasquatch! Music Festival in Washington, the Primavera Sound Festival in Barcelona, Lollapalooza in Chicago, and Free Press Summer Fest in Houston.

Kintsugi Released

Death Cab for Cutie releases their eighth studio album, Kintsugi. The album’s title refers to the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, symbolizing the concept of embracing flaws and imperfections. The album received a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album.

Thank You for Today Released

Death Cab for Cutie releases Thank You for Today, continuing to evolve their sound and maintain their relevance in the indie rock scene.

Asphalt Meadows Released

Death Cab for Cutie releases their tenth studio album, Asphalt Meadows, further cementing their place in the indie rock genre.

20th Anniversary Tour

Benjamin Gibbard commemorates the 20th anniversary of two influential, platinum-certified indie rock albums from his two bands — Transatlanticism from Death Cab for Cutie, and Give Up from The Postal Service — with a co-headlining tour performed in front of more than 250,000 fans.

Jakob Nowell

Here’s a look at some key moments through the last several decades.

The Birth of Jakob Nowell

Bradley Nowell, the lead singer of the band Sublime, and Troy denDekker welcome their son, Jakob Nowell into the world.

The Loss of a Legend

Sublime frontman, Bradley Nowell, Jakob’s father dies of an accidental overdose.

The Formation of LAW

Jakob Nowell formed the band LAW with drummer Nick Aguilar, bassist Logun Spellacy, and guitarist Aidan Palacios. They began performing locally in Long Beach, California.

There and Back Again is Released

LAW releases their debut album, There and Back Again, featuring a mix of punk, reggae, and rock influences. The album includes tracks like “Cold,” “Bluesman,” and “For What It’s Worth.”

Jakob Goes Solo

Jakob leaves LAW and forms a solo project called Jakobs Castle. This project showcases his versatility as an artist, blending various musical styles and further establishing his unique sound apart from his work with the band LAW.

Joining Sublime

Jakob Nowell joins Sublime, taking on the role of lead vocalist. This marks a significant milestone as he steps into the legacy left by his father, Bradley Nowell.

ENTER: THE CASTLE is Released

Jakob’s Castle releases a full-length album, ENTER: THE CASTLE, further establishing his solo project’s presence in the music industry. The album receives critical acclaim and strengthens his reputation as a versatile artist.

Coachella Performance

Sublime with Jakob as the frontman performs at Coachella in front of a sold-out crowd. Makes the Grammy’s Must-See Coachella List.

Killer Mike

Here’s a look at some key moments through the last several decades.

Debut

Killer Mike makes his debut on OutKast’s album Stankonia, featuring on the track “Snappin’ & Trappin’”.

Grammy Win

Killer Mike featured on OutKast’s Grammy-winning single “The Whole World.”

Monster Released

Killer Mike releases his debut album, Monster, which includes the single “A.D.I.D.A.S.” featuring Big Boi and Sleepy Brown. “A.D.I.D.A.S.” reached number 60 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped solidify Killer Mike’s presence in the rap scene.

I Pledge Allegiance to the Grind Released

Killer Mike releases his second album, I Pledge Allegiance to the Grind.

I Pledge Allegiance to the Grind II Released

Killer Mike releases I Pledge Allegiance to the Grind II, continuing to build his reputation as a solo artist.

Record Label Formation

Killer Mike forms the Grind Time Official record label, focusing on promoting independent artists.

PL3DGE Released

Killer Mike releases the album PL3DGE, which includes the single “Ready Set Go” featuring T.I..

R.A.P. Music Released

Killer Mike releases R.A.P. Music, produced by El-P. The album receives widespread critical acclaim and is considered a breakthrough in his career. The collaboration with El-P on R.A.P. Music leads to the formation of the duo Run the Jewels.

Run the Jewels Released

Run the Jewels releases their self-titled debut album, Run the Jewels, which is critically acclaimed.

Run the Jewels 2 Released

Run the Jewels releases their second album, Run the Jewels 2, which receives even greater acclaim and solidifies their status in hip-hop. This album is named Album of the Year by multiple publications, including Pitchfork and Stereogum.

NME Awards Winner

Run the Jewels wins the Best Album Award at the NME Awards for Run the Jewels 2.

A3C Hip Hop Festival Winner

Killer Mike receives the first ever Social Impact Award at the A3C Hip Hop Festival.

Run the Jewels 3 Released

Run the Jewels releases Run the Jewels 3, continuing their critical and commercial success.

Host a Netflix Series

Killer Mike hosts the Netflix series Trigger Warning with Killer Mike, exploring issues related to race, economics, and culture.

RTJ4 is Released

Run the Jewels releases RTJ4, which addresses themes of racial inequality and police brutality. The album receives critical acclaim and is noted for its timely and powerful messages.

SPIN Cover

Run the Jewels is named SPIN’s Artist of the Year and featured on the cover.

Billboard Award Winner

Killer Mike receives the Billboard Change Maker Award for his social justice advocacy and impact on the community.

SPIN Cover

Killer Mike is featured on SPIN’s June 2023 digital cover. The corresponding article highlights Killer Mike’s ongoing commitment to activism and social justice, discussing how he uses his platform to address critical issues such as racial inequality and economic empowerment.

Michael Released

Killer Mike releases his first solo album in 11 years, titled Michael and is featured on the cover of SPIN the same month

Grammy Awards Winner

Killer Mike wins three Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Album for Michael, Best Rap Song for Scientists and Engineers and Best Rap Performance for Scientists and Engineers.

The Last Dinner Party

Here’s a look at some key moments through this decade.

The Formation of The Last Dinner Party

The Last Dinner Party, a British indie rock powerhouse, is officially formed in London. Featured in the band are the main members: vocalist Abigail Morris, guitarists Lizzie Mayland and Emily Roberts, bassist Georgia Davies, and drummer Aurora Nishevci.

First Live Gig

After dealing with delays from the Covid-19 Pandemic, The Last Dinner Party performs their first live gig at The George in London.

Performances in South London

The Last Dinner Party performs at various local venues around South London, quickly gaining attention for their theatrical stage presence and unique blend of rock and baroque pop influences. Start getting comparisons to icons such as Kate Bush, Sparks and Warpaint.

Debut Single Release

The Last Dinner Party releases their debut single “Nothing Matters” which received critical acclaim and commercial success becoming a top 20 hit in the UK and reaching the top 25 in Ireland. It also made it into the top 10 on Billboard’s adult alternative chart.

Glastonbury Performance

The Last Dinner Party performs at Glastonbury, where they delivered a dazzling performance solidifying their reputation as a must-see live act.

First Tour

The band embarks on their first UK tour, playing to sold-out crowds. This tour was quickly followed by a 5 date US tour on October 31, 2023 to November 9, 2023.

BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2024 Winner

The Last Dinner Party wins BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2024. The band joins the likes of previous winners Adele, Haim, Ellie Goulding and Sam Smith.

Prelude to Ecstasy Released

The Last Dinner Party released their debut album Prelude to Ecstasy, which debuted at #1 on the UK Albums Chart.

Rising Star Award Winner

The Last Dinner Party wins the Rising Star award at the 44th Brit Awards. This prestigious award has been won by other incredible acts such as Adele, Florence and the Machine, Ellie Goulding, Sam Smith, Griff, and Sam Fender.

Coachella Debut

The Last Dinner Party debuts at Coachella and is on the Grammy’s “10 Must- See Artists” list for the festival.

Bose

Here’s a look at some key moments through the last several decades.

Quest for Noise Cancelling Technology Begins

On a transatlantic flight aboard Swiss Air, Dr. Bose is disappointed by how the sound produced by the then-new electronic headphones he’s been given is marred by airplane noise. He conceives the mathematics for noise cancelling headphones before the flight touches down hours later.

Prototype Noise Cancelling Headphones Make Historic Flight

Though Bose active noise-reducing headsets are still in development, the company makes two prototypes available to preserve the hearing of pilots Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager on their record-breaking, non-stop, around-the-world Voyager flight.

First Commercial Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headset

Bose revolutionizes flying for pilots by introducing a headset that provides effective noise reduction and communication, as well as comfort.

BOSE Wave Redefines Radio

Bose patented acoustic waveguide speaker technology is re-introduced in a small tabletop music system. It redefines the concept of a radio by delivering rich, deep sound not previously heard from such a small unit. Though at $349 (it costs nearly ten times the price of an ordinary clock radio), the Wave® radio goes on to become a product beloved by owners, and a huge commercial success.

A Breakthrough In Sound Predictions

Bose announces a new technology and tool that allows acoustical engineers and their clients to hear the sound a listener will experience in any particular seat in a venue – before the building is built or any sound equipment is installed. Over the years to come, the Auditioner® Audio Demonstrator is used on thousands of projects throughout the world, including sound systems at the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome, the Grand Mosque in Mecca, and at Olympic and World Cup venues.

Aviation Headsets Get Smaller, Lighter Better

The new Aviation Headset X® with innovative TriPort® technology improves pilot comfort while providing a level of noise reduction that’s comparable to the larger, heavier Bose® models that had first established the Active Noise Reduction category. The Aviation Headset X will go on to dominate the category, with Bose being voted as the No. 1 headset manufacturer for nine consecutive years in the Professional Pilot Magazine survey.

QC 1 Released

In 2000, Bose introduces the QuietComfort (QC) 1, its first noise-cancelling headphones. Building on the success of Bose Acoustic Noise Cancelling® headset technology, the QuietComfort® headphones forever change air travel for passengers by drastically reducing noise and providing better in-flight entertainment sound quality than ever before.

An Entirely New Way To Amplify Live Music

By replacing conventional PA, floor monitors and backline amps, the Bose® L1® system creates a breakthrough in live music amplification. It relies on the unusual properties of a special loudspeaker, 7 feet tall and only 5 inches wide, which is placed behind each individual musician.

New Standard In Noise Cancelling Headphones

Already the market leader in noise cancelling headphones, Bose introduces the QuietComfort® 15 headphones, a major advancement in noise cancelling technology. The product quickly becomes the gold standard for frequent flyers and becomes a major commercial success.

A New Standard In Mobile Sound

The SoundLink® Wireless Mobile speaker wirelessly connects to a smartphone or other Bluetooth® enabled device, so music can be shared out loud almost anywhere. It delivers an unprecedented combination of performance, mobility and durability.

Another Breakthrough In Noise Cancelling Headphones

The QuietComfort® 20 headphones are the first in-ear noise cancelling headphones from Bose that deliver a stunning breakthrough in noise reduction, audio performance and comfort, and offer two ways to listen – one to shut out the world, and one to keep you connected. The company has been granted more patents for this product than for any other in its history.

Revolutionizing Wi-Fi Music, Listening At Home

SoundTouch™ Wi-Fi music systems bring lifelike sound to every room in the home. Users can now stream music wirelessly from the Internet, music libraries and other music services, at the simple touch of a button.

Soundlink Mini Takes Off

The ultra-compact SoundLink® Mini Bluetooth® speaker fits in the palm of your hand, connects wirelessly to a smart device or tablet and delivers a new level of performance for personal, out-loud listening. It quickly becomes the fastest-selling product in Bose® history.

Shhh gets smaller. We Introduce Our QuietComfort Earbuds

All the quiet of our best-in-class QuietComfort® noise cancelling headphones in a sleek, truly wireless earbud. The QuietComfort® Earbuds deliver big audio quality in a compact, comfortable design, and offer 11 levels of noise control so you can choose how much of the world to let in.

We Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop

With this year marking the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop, Bose celebrates the incredible impact that hip hop artists around the world have made over the last five decades.

Bose 60th Anniversary

60 years of Bose. 60 years of legendary music. Bose looks forward to continuing to elevate the listening experience for artists’ music, as well as those who will carry music into the future.

SPIN

Here’s a look at some key moments through the last several decades.

First Issue of SPIN

SPIN makes an indelible mark on the world of music journalism with the release of its first-ever issue, featuring Madonna as its inaugural cover artist. This groundbreaking moment signaled the arrival of a new era in music and pop culture discovery.

SPIN’s Bad Brains Article, “Brain Def”

The interview with Bad Brains focuses on the band’s unique blend of punk and reggae music, their influential role in the hardcore punk scene, and their reputation for high-energy performances. The article discusses their formation, their impact on the music industry, and the challenges they faced, including issues related to race and identity. The piece highlights Bad Brains’ significant contributions to both punk and reggae music.

At The Forefront

Throughout the 1990s, SPIN remained at the forefront of music journalism, providing unparalleled coverage of pivotal cultural moments that shaped the decade. From the seismic impact of grunge music to the meteoric rise of hip-hop, SPIN’s insightful reporting and analysis captured the pulse of the music industry and helped to define the era.

Discovering Sinead O’Conner

Founder Bob Guccione Jr. discovers the Irish singer-songwriter Sinead O’Connor after digging through discarded tape demos, rescuing O’Connor’s music from obscurity and recognizing her potential as a truly exceptional artist.

Miles Davis’ Final Interview

SPIN conducts the final interview with the legendary musician Miles Davis, mere months before his untimely passing in 1991.

Nirvana’s First Cover

SPIN Magazine makes history when it features the legendary band Nirvana on its cover, becoming the first national publication to do so.

Death Cab for Cutie Feature by Brian Raftery

SPIN’s 2005 interview with Death Cab for Cutie covers the band’s rise to fame with their album Plans. It explores their journey from their early days, their evolving sound, and their impact on the indie rock scene. The interview delves into the band’s creative process, their lyrical themes, and the personal experiences that shaped their music. It also highlights their growing popularity and the reception of their work during that period.

SPIN’s Final Print Issue of the Decade

Amidst the shifting landscape of modern journalism, SPIN discontinues its print edition, releasing the final print issue in October 2012. With this bold move, SPIN fully embraces the digital age, positioning it as a trailblazer in online music and culture reporting.

Run The Jewels Featured on SPIN Cover

SPIN unveils its December 2020 cover featuring Run the Jewels as Artists of the Year. The corresponding feature story focuses on their album RTJ4 and its impact. It explores how the duo, comprised of Killer Mike and El-P, used the album to address and respond to the social and political climate of 2020, including the Black Lives Matter movement and the COVID-19 pandemic.

SPIN is Back in Print

SPIN’s return to print marks a significant moment in music journalism, bridging the gap between digital and traditional media while reaffirming its role as a key player in the industry.

SPIN Today

Today, SPIN is back in print and remains committed to covering an array of genres and cultural topics, focusing on emerging artists and up-and-coming scenes, as well as mainstream artists who continue to break new ground.

Decades Playlists

Griff Playlist
Ben Gibbard Playlist
H.R. Playlist
Jakob Nowell Playlist
Killer Mike Playlist
The Last Dinner Party Playlist

Check back periodically as we add more stories about Griff, H.R., Ben Gibbard, The Last Dinner Party, Jakob Nowell, and Killer Mike, along with insights into 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s music across the board.