Just as the nineties dissolved into the 21st century, Lit charged up rock ‘n’ roll with uncompromising punk energy and a power pop punch. However, the Orange County-born band left an imprint on popular culture that only fissured wider over the years like a California fault line. Who could forget the immortal lyric, “Can we forget about the things I said when I was drunk?” or the time Pamela Anderson devoured the band whole in the “Miserable” music video - HERE.
The group outlasted the next two decades as well. They stood out as the rare act whose presence could be felt loud and clear at Woodstock ’99. Twenty years after its initial release, the Billboard Music Award-winning “My Own Worst Enemy” HERE not only went double-platinum, but Post Malone also covered it on Instagram Live as did Kelly Clarkson HERE and Jimmy Fallon on his late night show HERE. Further speaking to their enduring influence, they’ve inspired think pieces by everyone from American Songwriter HERE to Kerrang! HERE, while Consequence of Sound named them one of the “100 Best Pop Punk Bands.” Not to mention, their music blared through American Reunion, Central Intelligence, Parks and Recreation, Rock Band, and beyond as they also impressively averaged over 2.2 million monthly listeners on Spotify. The guys have amassed a catalog highlighted by fan favorites such as the platinum A Place in the Sun [1999], Atomic [2001], Lit [2004], The View From The Bottom [2012], and These Are The Days [2017]. Meanwhile, they teased the next chapter with “Yeah Yeah Yeah” in 2021, arriving to acclaim from Loudwire, Alternative Press, and more.
Now, the quartet—brothers Ajay [vocals] and Jeremy Popoff [guitar], Kevin Baldes [bass], and Taylor Carroll [drums]—continue to do what they do best on their seventh full-length album and 2022 debut for Round Hill Records, Tastes Like Gold.
“We made a conscious decision to go back to when we had arrived at what we represented musically,” says Ajay. “It took a little bit of time to cleanse the palette and hit reset. However, the creativity flowed better than it had in the past couple of decades.”
“We just decided to make what people expect from Lit and, honestly, what we expect from Lit,” exclaims Jeremy. “Our fans have been very cool and gracious over the years. They’ve allowed us to grow, change, morph, and explore. At the end of the day though, Lit means something to people, and we wanted to get back to that. Once the lockdowns happened, it was even more difficult to go back to that place when we were in our early twenties in an Anaheim warehouse with cases of cheap beer and friends without a care in the world other than the next show. While everybody reevaluated the whole world, we tried to make a really fun rock ‘n’ roll record.”
So, that’s what they did…
By the time the Global Pandemic hit, the Popoff brothers had both traded Sunny Southern California for Music City, even hitching ride on Jamey Johnson’s tour bus to Nashville. They hit the studio with cowriters and co-producers Carlo Colasacco and Eric Paquette, re-energizing and reinvigorating their sound.
“Those two had a big role in relighting the Lit torch,” says Kevin. “Our drummer Taylor is a monster too, and a big part of the energy of this record. ”
“They are younger dudes that grew up big Lit fans,” Jeremy goes on. “So, as we inspired them along the way, they inspired us with their modern and fresh approach to making music. We stripped it back down to the basics, and they gave us a new school energy actually inspired by what we’re known for. We focused on what Lit means to people, what it means to us, and embraced who we are. Even though we’re older and wiser now, we still love the same things we’ve always loved. Right out of the gate, we said, ‘We‘re not talking about viruses, politics, or any of that shit’. We still have a great time, party, and make music that sounds better loud.”
That’s definitely the case with the first single “Kicked Off The Plane.” The head-nodding beat and palm-muted riff underline a real-life recollection of a recent instance when the dudes were unceremoniously booted from a flight for nursing something else other than water in coffee cups…The chantable refrain instantly captivates as Ajay asks, “What’s one more walk of shame?”
“When we first started out, it took a lot to get kicked off a plane,” the front man grins. “Last year, our flight kept getting delayed, so we kept drinking. Once we got on the plane, a flight attendant asked our very honest sound guy what was in his cup. We were thrown off! It’s similar to ‘My Own Worst Enemy’ lyrically, because we’re still doing things that get us into trouble,” Ajay laughs.
Then, there’s “Mouth Shut.” The single details why it’s important to be seen and not heard sometimes as another anthemic hook takes hold over a boisterous riff and arena-ready beat.
“It’s about keeping your thoughts to yourself, because sometimes it’s not worth speaking,” affirms Jeremy.
“It’s also good advice for a marriage,” Ajay elaborates. “I’ve learned that one the hard way. We’ve all regretted hitting ‘send’ on at least one text or Instagram story!”
“Do It Again” hinges on a hummable acoustic guitar melody before giving way to another soaring chorus. It might just be the perfect pre-game banger.
“It’s the party anthem,” Jeremy reveals. “You’re a glutton for punishment, but you’re back for round two. It’s the story of our life.”
On the other end of the spectrum, “The Life That I Got” takes stock of what matters in life as Ajay screams, “Maybe I ain’t got a lot, I never balled in a mansion or a yacht, but I’m in love with the motherfucking life that I got.”
“We’ve touched on this sentiment on every record,” Jeremy continues. “We go back to a simpler time. We just loved life, and we still do today. If you keep looking for what’s next, you forget to look at what’s right now. The song is a reminder.”
In the end, Tastes Like Gold is Lit, and that’s more than enough.
“We managed to not only make a classic record with a modern approach, but we did it during a pandemic,” Jeremy leaves off. “We realized you don’t have to be consumed by negativity and social media to the point where it stifles your ability to have fun, be happy, and do what you’re good at. Maybe the music inspires you to turn all of the other shit off and get back to what makes you happy.”
“I want you to hear it and go, ‘Lit’s back’, but they’re not going backwards,” Ajay concludes. “This is new Lit, but we hope it’s the Lit you fell in love with.”
Smash Mouth stands tall as a global phenomenon, a force to be reckoned with over its illustrious three-decade journey. From humble origins in San Jose, CA, they've transcended local curiosity, invaded national playlists, and evolved into international live phenoms. Smash Mouth, a name etched in gold as multi-platinum and Grammy-nominated pop-rock icons, has navigated the realms of legendary status with unparalleled finesse.
In the late '90s, Smash Mouth embarked on a relentless touring spree, solidifying their legendary live performer status with a timeless and universal appeal. As the 21st century dawned, they seamlessly transitioned into an international household name, forever woven into the fabric of popular culture. Their live shows are nothing short of spectacular—exciting, entertaining, and overflowing with hit-laden extravagance. Smash Mouth's electrifying stage presence springs from their natural all-inclusiveness. With music universally adored and an allure spanning wide, they can command any audience, anywhere in the world, leaving them clamoring for more every single time. Simply put, EVERYONE loves Smash Mouth.
A trove of international awards, accolades, and achievements over three decades cements Smash Mouth's legacy. Their TV and film appearances are too numerous to count, including a record-breaking stint on "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" and pivotal roles in classics like "Rat Race" and the monumental "Shrek." Smash Mouth is the unmistakable soundtrack to the most-watched movie in the history of the universe, forever embracing the title of "The Shrek Band."
Beyond massive international tours with icons like U2, Lenny Kravitz, *NSync, and KISS, Smash Mouth's versatility shines through collaborations with showbiz legends ranging from Engelbert Humperdinck to George Clinton to Neil Diamond.
Yet, Smash Mouth's true prowess lies in their music. Between 1997 and 2002, they notched up an extraordinary six top 20 hits, dominating the airwaves at the turn of the century. Two of these hits, "Walkin' On The Sun" and "All-Star," soared to #1 and lingered there, with the latter recently surpassing a mind-boggling ONE BILLION streams on Spotify. Their social media acclaim, recognized by Billboard, Rolling Stone, Newsweek and many other prominent outlets is a testament to their enduring influence, with a YouTube channel boasting over 1 million subscribers.
The five maestros of Smash Mouth (Paul DeLisle, Zach Goode, Michael Klooster, Randy Cooke and Sean Hurwitz) have solidified their international reputation as world-class musicians and performers. Committed to giving 100% effort in every show, their inherent and determined ability to connect with any audience worldwide is nothing short of astounding. Smash Mouth's electrifying live shows make their legions of fans winners every time, a testament to their indomitable spirit and unwavering purpose.
Everything continues to change. Leaders cycle in and out of office. Trends fall in and out of style. Vinyl dies and comes back to life. Television shows go off the air and end up somewhere on the internet.
However, Sugar Ray might just outlast them all.
After over three decades, a world without the group—co-founded by Mark McGrath [vocals] and Rodney Sheppard [lead guitar]—feels downright unfathomable. Beyond sales of 10 million records, four top 10 songs, streams in the hundreds of millions, and millions of tickets sold, the band embody the endless summer of popular music and culture.
How many artists still pack sheds a whole generation removed from their genesis? How many acts can claim sharing the stage with The Rolling Stones, KISS, and Sex Pistols, collaborating with Run-DMC, and being interpolated by Post Malone?
We need Sugar Ray now more than ever…
“You could say we’re still performing because the music means a lot to us,” observes Mark. “However, the real reason is it means a lot to so many other people. All the time, we hear fans say, ‘Boy, those songs were so important to me growing up’ or ‘I listened to you on my first date with my girlfriend, and now she’s my wife’. I’m the last guy to brag about this band and the first one to make fun of it, but we wrote some killer tunes,” he smiles.
As the story goes, Rodney and Mark first linked up in high school. Rodney played in what Mark calls “the hot shit band all the girls loved.” The future frontman and his buddy McG just wanted to be a part of it. One afternoon in an Orange County garage, Mark and Rodney “sipped 40oz cans of King Cobra, listened to Creedence, and became friends for life.” Eventually, Rodney asked Mark to take a shot at singing.
“Music threw us together,” recalls Rodney. “There was just a lot of excitement at the time. From that excitement, we ended up forming Sugar Ray in 1988.”
With a few gigs under their collective belt, they recorded a whopping two songs. Prior to becoming a blockbuster director, McG shot an infamous video for “Caboose”—which ended up in the hands of Atlantic Records.
With no internet to audit hype back in 1993, a little exaggeration went a long way.
“We totally lied to Atlantic,” chuckles Mark. “We told them we had a big following from San Diego to Los Angeles. That certainly wasn’t the case. There was no social media or way for them to check though. We told them we had 100 songs, and we only had two! ‘Caboose’ ended up on our first album, and the other one ‘Lick Me’ didn’t for obvious reasons.”
That first album, Lemonade & Brownies, took the guys around the world and earned cult classic status for its frenetic and unpredictable hybrid of metal, punk, alternative, funk, pop, and everything but the kitchen sink. It set the stage for FLOORED in 1997 though. The latter’s immortal and inescapable lead single “Fly” [feat. Super Cat] invaded airwaves and made the band a household name. 21 years down the road, Post Malone incorporated “Fly” in “Sugar Wraith” on the triple-platinum beerbongs & Bentleys as a testament to its impact. Helmed by GRAMMY® Award-winning producer David Kahne [Sublime, Paul McCartney, The Strokes], FLOORED earned the band’s first gold plaque (a vivid memory they still cherish) and eventually went double-platinum.
Two years later, Sugar Ray took over popular culture with a sincere shit-eating grin. The band’s third album, 14:59, shut down the pervasive warning of “15 minutes of fame.” Not only did the record bow in the Top 20 of the Billboard Top 200 and go triple-platinum, but it also gave us “Someday,” “Falls Apart,” and their second #1 “Every Morning.” In 2001, Sugar Ray crashed the Top 200 at #6 as “When It’s Over” staked out a spot on the charts. It added yet another platinum plaque to their walls.
Along the way, Tonight Show, Late Night with David Letterman, Conan, Halftime of Game 5 2001 NBA Finals, Today Show, Rosie, Ellen, Billboard Music Awards, and dozens of other programs counted them among esteemed guests. Plus, they popped up in television series such as American Dad and The Drew Carey Show and on the big screen in Ivan Reitman’s Father’s Day (with the late Robin Williams) and in the live-action Scooby-Doo. Not to mention, they graced the covers of magazines, including Spin, Rolling Stone, and more.
Enjoying a renaissance, Sugar Ray headlined the summer shed Under the Sun Tour 2013-2015, inviting Smash Mouth and Gin Blossoms along for the ride. Meanwhile, they inked a deal with BMG in 2019 and dropped their seventh full-length, Lil Yachty. In addition to features from Rolling Stone and Billboard, NPR claimed, “The Newport Beach natives returned to their signature uplifting and airy rock sound.” However, it only set the stage for more touring and music.
No matter how much everything changes, we’ve thankfully got Sugar Ray forever.
“This band means everything to me,” Rodney leaves off. “It’s been my life for so long. We know each other’s strengths and can play to them. It just works out perfectly.”
“We’re friends who started a band to have fun,” concludes Mark. “When you come to see us live, I want you to have fun too. The idea is the same is it was in 1988. So many things have happened since then, but Sugar Ray is still my life. It’s what defines me. We’re the guys next door, yet we’ve made an impact. I know what the future’s going to be for Sugar Ray—and I love it. I also know if you’re having half as much fun as I am at a show, we’re doing something right.”
BOILER
Beyond sales of 10 million records, four top 10 songs, hundreds of millions of streams, and millions of tickets sold, Sugar Ray—co-founded by Mark McGrath [vocals] and Rodney Sheppard [lead guitar]—embody the endless summer of popular music and culture. How many artists still pack sheds a whole generation removed from their genesis? How many acts can claim sharing the stage with The Rolling Stones, KISS, and Sex Pistols, collaborating with Run-DMC, and being interpolated by Post Malone? Just Sugar Ray…
1994’s Lemonade & Brownies took the guys around the world and earned cult classic status for its frenetic and unpredictable hybrid. It set the stage for FLOORED in 1997. The latter’s immortal lead single “Fly” [feat. Super Cat] made them a household name. 21 years down the road, Post Malone incorporated “Fly” in “Sugar Wraith” on the triple-platinum beerbongs & Bentleys. Helmed by GRAMMY® Award-winning producer David Kahne [Sublime, Paul McCartney, The Strokes], FLOORED earned the band’s first gold plaque and eventually went double-platinum. Two years later, 14:59 bowed in the Top 20 of the Billboard Top 200, went triple-platinum, and gave us “Someday,” “Falls Apart,” and their second #1 “Every Morning.” In 2001, Sugar Ray crashed the Top 200 at #6 as “When It’s Over” staked out a spot on the charts. It added another platinum plaque to their walls. Enjoying a renaissance, Sugar Ray headlined the Under the Sun Tour 2013-2015. They inked a deal with BMG in 2019 and dropped their seventh full-length, Lil Yachty. In addition to features from Rolling Stone and Billboard, NPR claimed, “The Newport Beach natives returned to their signature uplifting and airy rock sound.” It only set the stage for more touring and music. No matter how much everything changes, we’ve got Sugar Ray forever.