For pop-rock quartet We The Kings, it’s all about staying connected with each other, with their hometown roots, and especially with their fans. Named for hometown Bradenton, Floridas King Middle School where they first made music together, the band Travis Clark (lead vocals, guitar), Hunter Thomsen (guitar, backing vocals), Drew Thomsen (bass) and Danny Duncan (drums) has grown into one of the most engaging and exciting acts on the pop-rock circuit. Talent, ambition, and hard work have all played a part, but for We The Kings, nurturing the bonds between the band and their fans is what makes it all happen.
In the age of Twitter, MySpace, and YouTube, interactivity and engagement are key to success, and the band has worked hard over the past two and a half years to stay as close to their fans as possible. The results are obvious in what they’ve accomplished. Their self-titled debut album hit #1 on Billboard’s New Alternative Album sales chart and spawned the Billboard-charting tracks “Secret Valentine” and “Check Yes Juliet,” which is nearing Platinum status. They’ve sold over 2 million tracks and had over 56 million plays on MySpace, 15 million YouTube video plays (including the #1 most played music video), and three of MTV.com’s most requested videos.
The infectious first single from second album “Smile Kid”, titled “Heaven Can Wait,” is gaining nationwide airplay in the US, climbing the Billboard Singles chart, and has already reached the Top 10 on the Alternative Singles chart. It’s the band’s third Top 40 charting single in their home country. On the road and in the studio the band has had the opportunity to collaborate with artists like teen sensation Demi Lovato who appears on the new album on the pop ballad Well Be A Dream.
With all their travels and recent success, the band remains bonded by their network of fans, friendship, and hometown pride, always coming back to their home. In fact, We The Kings were awarded the key to the city of Bradenton last year and Travis wears the key around his neck, so wherever the band may travel, they’re never far from home.
