X Ambassadors

Over 3.1M+ followers on spotify, Popular for music genre.

X Ambassadors, an acclaimed American rock band known for their poignant lyrics and powerful sound, hails from Ithaca, New York. The band was formed by brothers Sam and Casey Harris alongside Adam Levin. Sam Harris, the frontman, was born on April 26, 1988. Their musical roots are deeply embedded in their upbringing, influenced by an eclectic mix that their parents introduced them to, including legends like Pearl Jam and Nirvana. Casey Harris, who is visually impaired, is the striking keyboardist that brings their unique sound to life, and his incredible talent was honed from a young age by playing a myriad of instruments despite his handicap. The boys' journey into music began in their teenage years. Their childhood friends and the vibrant music scene in Ithaca fostered their innate talents, prompting their dive into music creation and performance. Graduating from Ithaca High School, the brothers, alongside Adam Levin, pursued music while attending college. Their love for bands such as Radiohead and Coldplay further shaped their early sound, eventually leading to the formation of X Ambassadors.

X Ambassadors began their music career earnestly in 2009, initially performing in small venues while independently releasing their first EP. Their vibrant energy and intense lyrics quickly made waves, catching the attention of Imagine Dragons' frontman Dan Reynolds who recommended them to Interscope Records. This pivotal moment marked their breakthrough, leading to the release of their debut major-label EP, 'Love Songs Drug Songs' in 2013. The band continued to evolve, seamlessly blending rock, soul, and hip-hop, to create music that resonates deeply with a broad audience. Their major breakthrough came with the full-length album, 'VHS' released in 2015, which showcased bold sonic explorations and introspective narratives. This album not only solidified their reputation but also demonstrated a marked evolution in their sound. Over the years, X Ambassadors have continued to grow, both musically and lyrically. They frequently experiment with different genres, resulting in an ever-evolving discography that exhibits both innovation and intrinsic emotional depth.

X Ambassadors' discography reflects their dynamic journey and growth as artists. The band's major releases include the groundbreaking debut album 'VHS' (2015) featuring enigmatic hits like 'Renegades' and 'Unsteady'. Their sophomore album 'Orion', released in 2019, further expanded their sound and included singles such as ‘Boom’ and ‘Hey Child’. In 2021, they released 'The Beautiful Liar', a thematic exploration of myth and reality, which deepens their eclectic sound. Besides albums, their EP releases, such as 'Love Songs Drug Songs' (2013) and 'The Reason' (2014), contributed significantly to their initial rise in popularity. The band's willingness to explore various musical styles within these albums demonstrates their versatility and desire to push creative boundaries. Each project builds upon their last, both sonically and thematically, capturing their continuous evolution as they engage broader audiences globally.

X Ambassadors have produced a multitude of impactful tracks that resonated with fans worldwide, becoming staples in the rock scene. 'Renegades', released in 2015, became their highest-charting single, peaking at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was pivotal in defining their signature sound and securing mainstream success, with its anthemic melody and relatable lyrics. Another standout track, 'Unsteady', poignantly captures themes of struggle and resilience, reaching number 20 on the Hot 100 and earning multi-platinum status in the US. Their ability to craft songs with deep emotional resonance further cemented their reputation as a band capable of topping charts. Their singles consistently perform well on streaming platforms, with 'Renegades' surpassing 400 million streams on Spotify alone. These successes underscore their growth and presence in the competitive music landscape, combining lyrical depth with memorable melodies.

X Ambassadors have been recognized for their collaborative prowess, contributing to several notable projects with artists across various genres. One of their prominent collaborations includes working with rapper Eminem on the track 'Wicked Ways', showcasing their diverse musical influences. They've also teamed up with the electronic duo, Illenium, on the heart-touching track 'In Your Arms'. These collaborations highlight their adaptability and ability to infuse their unique sound into a variety of musical landscapes. Their interpretative skills and vocal prowess have made them sought-after collaborators, as seen with their work alongside artists like Jamie N Commons on 'Jungle'. Such projects not only expand their musical repertoire but also immerse them within a dynamic and inclusive music community, further enriching their artistic experience.

X Ambassadors command a formidable presence across digital streaming platforms. On Spotify, they boast over 7 million monthly listeners, demonstrating their widespread appeal and consistent listenership. Notably, tracks such as 'Renegades' and 'Unsteady' have amassed over 400 million and over 300 million streams, respectively, highlighting their enduring popularity. On YouTube, their music videos collectively garner millions of views, contributing significantly to their global visibility. Their impressive streaming figures echo their resonance with fans and underscore their impact in the digital music age. This consistent performance across platforms reflects their ability to connect emotionally with audiences, maintaining relevance in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2020, 'Hey Child' alone saw a significant surge, indicative of their continued engagement and appeal to a diverse listener demographic.

Though X Ambassadors have not yet clinched a Grammy, their contribution to music has been widely recognized through numerous accolades and nominations. They have received nominations at the iHeartRadio Music Awards and Teen Choice Awards, reflecting their impact on both the music industry and popular culture. Their single 'Renegades' was certified Platinum in multiple countries, a testament to its global success and widespread acclaim. Billboard has also acknowledged them on their Hot 100 lists, illustrating their commercial success and influence. Their music not only attracts critical acclaim but also engages listeners across various age groups, solidifying their reputation as versatile and impactful musicians. Each recognition fuels their journey to new creative heights and solidifies their place within the pantheon of contemporary rock music.

The musical style of X Ambassadors is a testament to their ability to blend multiple genres seamlessly, creating a sound uniquely their own. Drawing from rock, hip-hop, and pop, their music exhibits a rich tapestry of influences that include the likes of Radiohead, Coldplay, and Imagine Dragons. Sam Harris' emotive vocal delivery paired with Casey Harris' intricate keyboard tunes blend with robust drumming from Adam Levin to form a sound marked by emotional depth and aural complexity. Their songs often explore themes of resilience, identity, and introspection, resonating with listeners on a personal level. They deftly balance raw, heartfelt lyrics with infectious melodies, crafting tracks that are both sonically engaging and emotionally compelling. This innovative approach, combined with their authentic sound, defines their music and resonates deeply with audiences around the world, making them a standout in the contemporary music scene.