Fitz and The Tantrums

Biography

Fitz and The Tantrums is an American indie pop and neo-soul band from Los Angeles, California, that formed in 2008. The band consists of Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick (lead vocals), Noelle Scaggs (co-lead vocals and percussion), James King (saxophone, flute, keyboard, percussion, and guitar), Joseph Karnes (bass guitar), and Jeremy Ruzumna (keyboards). Drummer John Wicks was a member until 2022.

Formation and Early Years

The band was founded by Michael Fitzpatrick in 2008. He was inspired to write the song "Breakin' the Chains of Love" the same night he acquired an old Conn electronic organ. He then contacted his college friend, saxophonist James King, who recommended vocalist Noelle Scaggs and drummer John Wicks. Wicks, in turn, brought in bassist Joseph Karnes and keyboardist Jeremy Ruzumna. The band had their first rehearsal and a week later played their first show at the Hotel Café in Hollywood in December 2008. They released their debut EP, "Songs for a Breakup, Vol. 1," in 2009.

Musical Style

Fitz and The Tantrums' music is described as soul-influenced indie pop. While influenced by classic Motown and Stax records, the band aims to create their own fresh sound. A distinctive feature of their early music was the intentional absence of guitars, a decision Fitzpatrick made to create a big sound without the instrument he felt was overly prevalent in band music. Their influences are diverse, ranging from new wave to artists like Santigold and Rihanna.

Studio Albums

The band released their debut studio album, "Pickin' Up the Pieces," in August 2010 on the Dangerbird Records label. The album was a critical success and reached number one on the Billboard Heatseekers chart. In 2013, they signed with Elektra Records and released their second album, "More Than Just a Dream." This album featured the hit singles "Out of My League" and "The Walker," both of which reached number one on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. Their self-titled third album, released in 2016, included their most well-known song, "HandClap." Subsequent albums include "All the Feels" (2019) and "Let Yourself Free" (2022). Their sixth studio album, "Man on the Moon", is set to be released in 2025.

Key Members

Michael Fitzpatrick: Lead vocals, keyboards (2008–present)
Noelle Scaggs: Co-lead vocals, percussion (2008–present)
James King: Saxophone, flute, harmonica, keyboards, percussion, guitar (2008–present)
Joseph Karnes: Bass guitar (2010–present)
Jeremy Ruzumna: Keyboards (2008–present)

Past Members

John Wicks: Drums, percussion (2008-2022)
Ethan Phillips: Bass guitar