Yellowcard
Biography
Yellowcard is an American rock band formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1997. They are known for their unique blend of pop-punk and alternative rock, distinguished by the use of a violin. The band's classic lineup, which achieved mainstream success, consisted of Ryan Key (vocals, guitar), Sean Mackin (violin, vocals), Ben Harper (guitar), Longineu Parsons III (drums), and Pete Mosely (bass). The current lineup includes Key, Mackin, Ryan Mendez (lead guitar), and Josh Portman (bass).
Formation and Early Years (1997-2002)
The original members of Yellowcard met at the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. The initial lineup featured Ben Dobson on vocals, Todd Clary on guitar and vocals, Ben Harper on guitar, Warren Cooke on bass, and Longineu Parsons III on drums. Sean Mackin was featured on their early recordings and later became a full-time member. The band recorded their first album, "Midget Tossing," in 1997. After vocalist Ben Dobson was replaced by Ryan Key, the band's sound shifted from hardcore punk to pop-punk. They released the "Still Standing EP" in early 2000, followed by their third album, "One for the Kids," in 2001, and "The Underdog EP" in 2002.
Mainstream Breakthrough with Ocean Avenue (2003-2005)
Yellowcard signed with Capitol Records and released their major-label debut, "Ocean Avenue," in July 2003. The album was a massive success, propelled by hit singles like "Way Away," "Only One," and the title track, "Ocean Avenue." The album was certified double platinum in the U.S. The song "Ocean Avenue" became their biggest hit, reaching the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 and winning the MTV2 Award at the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards. During this period, Pete Mosely briefly left the band and was replaced by Alex Lewis, but Mosely later rejoined.
Subsequent Albums and Hiatus (2006-2010)
The band's follow-up album, "Lights and Sounds," was released in 2006. While it experimented with a more alternative rock sound, it achieved gold certification. Guitarist Ben Harper left the band in 2005 and was replaced by Ryan Mendez. They released "Paper Walls" in 2007, which saw a return to their pop-punk roots. After touring for "Paper Walls," the band went on an indefinite hiatus in 2008.
Reunion, Later Albums, and Second Disbandment (2010-2017)
Yellowcard officially announced their return in 2010. They signed with Hopeless Records and released "When You're Through Thinking, Say Yes" in 2011. This was followed by "Southern Air" in 2012. Longtime drummer Longineu W. Parsons III departed in 2014. The band released their self-titled album, "Yellowcard," on September 30, 2016, and announced that it would be their final album before disbanding after a farewell world tour.
Second Reunion and Present Day
After a five-year absence, Yellowcard reunited in September 2022 for a performance at Riot Fest. The positive reception led to a 20th-anniversary tour for "Ocean Avenue" and new music. They released the EP "Childhood Eyes" in 2023. In May 2025, the band announced their new album, "Better Days," scheduled for release on October 10, 2025, with Travis Barker on drums.