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The Killers

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The Killers
NameThe Killers
OriginLas Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
GenreRock, alternative rock, indie rock, post-punk revival, heartland rock
Years active2001–present
LabelIsland, Vertigo, Marrakesh
Current membersBrandon Flowers, Dave Keuning, Mark Stoermer, Ronnie Vannucci Jr.

The Killers are an American rock band formed in Las Vegas in 2001. The band consists of lead vocalist and keyboardist Brandon Flowers, guitarist Dave Keuning, bassist Mark Stoermer, and drummer Ronnie Vannucci Jr.. Renowned for their anthemic sound and dynamic live performances, they have become one of the most commercially successful rock acts of the 21st century, selling millions of albums worldwide.

History

The band formed after Brandon Flowers responded to a want ad placed by guitarist Dave Keuning following the dissolution of Flowers' previous band, Blush Response. Bassist Mark Stoermer and drummer Ronnie Vannucci Jr. were recruited soon after, solidifying the lineup. Their debut single, "Mr. Brightside", initially released on the British independent label Lizard King Records, garnered significant attention on UK radio. This led to a major label deal with Island/Vertigo and the release of their acclaimed first album, Hot Fuss, in 2004. The album's success, propelled by hits like "Somebody Told Me", established them internationally. Subsequent albums, including Sam's Town (2006) and Day & Age (2008), saw the group exploring heartland rock and art-pop influences while headlining major venues like Madison Square Garden and Wembley Stadium. The band has undertaken several hiatuses for solo projects, including Flowers' work with The Desired Effect and Stoermer's collaborations with Arctic Monkeys, but has consistently reunited for successful tours and albums like Battle Born (2012), Wonderful Wonderful (2017), and Imploding the Mirage (2020).

Musical style and influences

Their musical style is a synthesis of post-punk revival, alternative rock, and heartland rock, often characterized by synthesizer hooks, driving guitar riffs, and anthemic choruses. Early work on Hot Fuss displayed strong influences from British acts like New Order, The Cure, and David Bowie. The follow-up, Sam's Town, marked a deliberate shift toward a more American rock sound, drawing inspiration from Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, and U2. This blend of punk energy, pop sensibility, and cinematic Americana has defined their catalog. Their lyrical themes frequently explore Las Vegas mythology, romantic desperation, faith, and existential searching, delivered through Brandon Flowers' distinctive vocal style.

Band members

* Brandon Flowers – lead vocals, keyboards, bass (2001–present) * Dave Keuning – guitar, backing vocals (2001–present; touring hiatus 2017–2022) * Mark Stoermer – bass, guitar, backing vocals (2002–present; touring hiatus 2017–2022) * Ronnie Vannucci Jr. – drums, percussion (2002–present)

Touring musicians have included Ted Sablay (guitar, keyboards) and Robbie Connolly (guitar, backing vocals), who have filled in during periods of member hiatuses. Former touring member Taylor Milne also contributed guitar duties.

Discography

* Hot Fuss (2004) * Sam's Town (2006) * Day & Age (2008) * Battle Born (2012) * Wonderful Wonderful (2017) * Imploding the Mirage (2020) * Pressure Machine (2021)

Their discography also includes the compilation Direct Hits (2013) and the live album Live from the Royal Albert Hall (2009). Several non-album singles, including the charity track "A Great Big Sled" and the standalone single "Land of the Free", have also been released.

Awards and nominations

The band has received numerous accolades, including seven nominations at the Brit Awards, winning for Best International Group in 2005 and 2008. They have been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Rock Album for Day & Age and Battle Born. They have also won several NME Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and Q Awards. In 2019, their debut single "Mr. Brightside" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, underscoring its enduring cultural resonance.

Cultural impact

Widely regarded as a defining act of the 2000s post-punk revival movement, their influence is evident in the success of subsequent alternative rock bands. Anthems like "Mr. Brightside" and "When You Were Young" have become ubiquitous in popular culture, featured in films, television series like The O.C., and major sporting events. Their annual hometown shows in Las Vegas have become significant cultural events. Furthermore, Brandon Flowers and Ronnie Vannucci Jr.'s advocacy for their home state, including support for the Smith Center for the Performing Arts and public comments on Nevada politics, has intertwined the band's identity with the modern mythology of Las Vegas.

Category:American rock bands Category:Musical groups from Las Vegas Category:Island Records artists