Bon Iver
Biography
Bon Iver is an American indie folk band founded in 2006 by singer-songwriter Justin Vernon. The project was started by Vernon after the breakup of his previous band, DeYarmond Edison, a battle with mononucleosis, and the end of a relationship. He moved from Raleigh, North Carolina, back to his home state of Wisconsin, spending three months in isolation in a remote cabin. It was during this period of solitude that the majority of Bon Iver's debut album, *For Emma, Forever Ago*, was written and recorded. The name "Bon Iver" is a corruption of the French phrase "bon hiver," meaning "good winter."
Musical Career
For Emma, Forever Ago (2007–2010)
Initially self-released in July 2007, *For Emma, Forever Ago* was recorded with minimal equipment, including a few guitars and a basic recording setup. Vernon had not intended for the recordings to be a final album, but was encouraged by friends to release them. The album received critical acclaim upon its wider release in 2008 by the independent label Jagjaguwar, and later by 4AD in the UK and Europe. The raw, intimate sound, characterized by Vernon's falsetto and layered vocals, resonated with a wide audience. The success of the album led to extensive touring, with a live band that included Sean Carey on drums and vocals. In 2009, Bon Iver released the *Blood Bank* EP. That same year, the band also contributed the song "Roslyn" to the *New Moon* film soundtrack and collaborated with Kanye West on his album *My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy*.
Bon Iver, Bon Iver (2011–2012)
The band's second album, the self-titled *Bon Iver, Bon Iver*, was released in June 2011 and marked a significant sonic departure from its predecessor. It featured a more expansive, orchestral sound with a richer instrumental palette. The album was a commercial success, debuting at number two on the Billboard 200 chart in the US. It received widespread critical acclaim and earned the band two Grammy Awards in 2012 for Best New Artist and Best Alternative Music Album. Following the tour for this album, the band announced an indefinite hiatus from performing in late 2012.
22, A Million (2016–2018)
Bon Iver's third album, *22, A Million*, was released in 2016 and represented another bold evolution in their sound, incorporating experimental and electronic elements. The album was noted for its cryptic song titles and heavily processed vocals, a stark contrast to their earlier work. *22, A Million* received critical acclaim and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
i,i (2019–Present)
The fourth studio album, *i,i*, was released in 2019. It has been described as a culmination of the band's previous sounds, blending the folk roots of their early work with the experimental electronic textures of their more recent albums. The album was recorded in Texas and features a more collaborative approach, with numerous guest musicians. *i,i* received four Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year. In 2025, Bon Iver released the album *Sable, Fable*.
Musical Style and Legacy
Bon Iver's music is known for its stylistic diversity, evolving from the stark indie folk of their debut to a more experimental and electronic soundscape. Central to their sound is Justin Vernon's distinctive falsetto and introspective, often poetic lyrics. Initially a solo project, Bon Iver has grown into a full band, with current members including Vernon, Sean Carey, Matthew McCaughan, Michael Lewis, Andrew Fitzpatrick, and Jenn Wasner. The band has had a significant impact on the indie music scene, influencing numerous artists with their unique sound and artistic vision.