From the depths of Colorado’s electro-pop scene emerged 3OH!3, a duo more known for their infectious party anthems and quirky persona than their birth names, Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte. Their sound, a vibrant mix of crunkcore, electroclash, and pop, took the 2000s by storm, leaving a trail of glitter, dance moves, and catchy hooks in their wake. This is the story of 3OH!3, a journey from Boulder basements to international stages.
3OH!3: Boulder Beginnings (2004-2007):
It all started in 2004, when college buddies Sean and Nathaniel, united by a shared love for music and mischief, began tinkering in homemade studios. Their playground? Sean’s basement, their muse? The Denver-Boulder area code, 303, which became their band name, pronounced “three oh three.” Their early tunes were raw, energetic, and infused with DIY spirit, carving a niche in the local scene.
Independent releases like “Megaloblast” and “Electroman” caught the attention of Photo Finish Records, leading to their self-titled debut album in 2007. While commercially modest, the album showcased their signature sound: distorted synths, robotic vocals, and lyrics that danced between party anthems and introspective musings. Tracks like “Holler Til You Pass Out” and “Chokechain” became underground hits, building a dedicated fanbase drawn to their unique energy.
Mainstream Breakthrough and Party Anthems (2008-2010):
The release of their second album, “Want,” in 2008, propelled them into the mainstream. Produced by Matt Squire, the album was polished and radio-friendly, retaining their core sound while embracing pop sensibilities. Singles like “Don’t Trust Me” (featuring Weezer’s Rivers Cuomo) and “Starstrukk” (featuring Katy Perry) became ubiquitous, climbing charts and igniting dance floors worldwide. The latter, thanks to its playful lyrics and Katy’s infectious pop presence, reached #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, establishing them as chart-topping artists.
Their energetic live shows, complete with outlandish costumes and playful theatrics, mirrored their music’s vibrant spirit. They toured alongside big names like Katy Perry and Snoop Dogg, further solidifying their party-friendly image. They weren’t shy about their rebellious streak, often pushing boundaries with tongue-in-cheek lyrics and outrageous stage antics.
Evolution and Experimentation (2011-2013):
Their third album, “Streets of Gold” (2011), showcased a more mature sound, experimenting with elements of funk, soul, and hip-hop. The collaboration with Kesha on “My First Kiss” maintained their pop appeal, while tracks like “Touchin’ on My” and “This is How We Party” retained their signature electro-pop sound. Although commercially successful, this shift alienated some fans who yearned for the purer electro-pop of their earlier days.
3OH!3: Hiatus and Beyond (2014-Present):
Following a 2013 tour, 3OH!3 announced an indefinite hiatus, leaving fans wondering about their future. During this period, Sean launched a solo career and Nathaniel focused on production work. Occasional performances and sporadic new music kept their name alive, but a full-fledged return seemed unlikely.
However, in 2022, to the delight of their dedicated fanbase, 3OH!3 announced a reunion tour. Their energy and signature sound remained intact, proving their music’s lasting appeal. While new music remains a mystery, their legacy as purveyors of party anthems and electro-pop mischief lives on.
Legacy and Impact:
3OH!3’s impact transcends chart positions and radio play. They were part of a new wave of artists who pushed the boundaries of electronic music, blending genres and embracing a DIY spirit. Their catchy hooks, playful image, and energetic live shows inspired a generation of musicians and partygoers. Even with their hiatus, their music continues to be enjoyed by old and new fans alike, serving as a reminder of the electrifying and irreverent party vibe they brought to the scene.
Whether you loved their party anthems or appreciated their playful experimentation, 3OH!3 left an undeniable mark on the pop landscape. Their music remains a testament to the power of DIY music, infectious energy, and a healthy dose of mischief. So, put on your dancing shoes, crank up the volume, and remember, with 3OH!3, you never quite know what you’re going to get, but you can be sure it’ll be anything but boring.
