Third Eye Blind: A Journey of Introspection, Controversy, and Enduring Melodies
The enigmatic band Third Eye Blind emerged from San Francisco in the mid-1990s, captivating audiences with their introspective lyrics, ethereal harmonies, and infectious melodies. Their signature anthem, "How's It Going to Be?," became a defining song of the decade.
Early Beginnings and Meteoric Rise
Led by enigmatic frontman Stephan Jenkins, Third Eye Blind formed in 1993. Their debut self-titled album, released in 1997, catapulted them to stardom, selling over six million copies worldwide. Singles like "Semi-Charmed Life" and "Losing a Whole Year" became omnipresent on radio and MTV.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite their commercial success, Third Eye Blind faced numerous challenges. Jenkins's outspoken nature and struggles with mental health led to internal conflicts within the band. Drummer Brad Hargreaves left the group in 2000, followed by guitarist Kevin Cadogan in 2002.
Further controversy arose when Jenkins was accused of plagiarism in 2001. The band was sued for allegedly stealing the melody of their hit "How's It Going to Be?" from a lesser-known song. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court.
Evolution and Enduring Success
Despite the setbacks, Third Eye Blind persevered. They released a string of albums throughout the 2000s, including "Blue" (1999), "Out of the Vein" (2003), and "Ursa Major" (2009). While these albums didn't match the commercial success of their debut, they showcased the band's continued artistic evolution.
Members and Legacy
Over the years, Third Eye Blind has undergone several lineup changes. Current members include Stephan Jenkins (vocals, guitar), Kryz Reid (guitar), Arion Salazar (bass), and Alex LeCavalier (drums). The band's legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, with their introspective lyrics and ethereal melodies resonating with fans around the world.
Discography
* Third Eye Blind (1997) * Blue (1999) * Out of the Vein (2003) * Ursa Major (2009) * Dopamine (2010) * Screamer (2015) * Our Bande Apart (2016)