28 Facts About Broken Social Scene

Who Are Broken Social Scene?

Broken Social Scene is a Canadian indie rock band known for their eclectic sound and large ensemble of musicians. They have been a significant force in the indie music scene since the early 2000s.

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   Formed in 1999: The band was created by Kevin Drew and Brendan Canning in Toronto, Ontario. They started as a duo but quickly expanded to include many other musicians.

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   Large Ensemble: At times, the band has included up to 19 members. This rotating lineup contributes to their unique and varied sound.

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   Debut Album: Their first album, "Feel Good Lost," was released in 2001. It was mostly instrumental and set the stage for their future work.

Musical Style and Influence

Broken Social Scene's music blends various genres, creating a sound that's both familiar and innovative. Their influence can be seen across the indie music landscape.

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   Genre-Blending: Their music incorporates elements of rock, pop, and experimental sounds. This genre-blending has helped them stand out in the crowded indie scene.

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   Influential Albums: "You Forgot It in People," released in 2002, is considered one of their most influential albums. It received critical acclaim and helped them gain a wider audience.

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   Collaborations: The band often collaborates with other artists. Members have worked with acts like Feist, Metric, and Stars, further expanding their musical reach.

Notable Members

The band's rotating lineup includes many notable musicians who have contributed to their success.

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   Kevin Drew: One of the founding members, Drew has been a constant presence in the band. He also has a successful solo career.

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   Brendan Canning: Another founding member, Canning has been instrumental in shaping the band's sound. He also releases music as a solo artist.

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   Feist: Leslie Feist, known for her solo work, has been a frequent collaborator with the band. Her contributions have added a unique dimension to their music.

Awards and Recognition

Broken Social Scene has received numerous awards and accolades throughout their career, cementing their status in the music industry.

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    Juno Awards: They have won multiple Juno Awards, including Alternative Album of the Year for "You Forgot It in People."

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    Polaris Music Prize: Their album "Forgiveness Rock Record" was shortlisted for the Polaris Music Prize in 2010.

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    Critical Acclaim: Many of their albums have received high praise from music critics, further solidifying their reputation as a leading indie band.

Live Performances

Known for their energetic and dynamic live shows, Broken Social Scene has built a reputation as a must-see live act.

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    Festival Favorites: They have performed at major music festivals like Coachella, Glastonbury, and Lollapalooza. Their festival sets are often highlights of the events.

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    Extended Tours: The band frequently embarks on extensive tours, bringing their music to fans around the world. Their live performances often feature a rotating cast of musicians, adding to the excitement.

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    Unique Setlists: No two Broken Social Scene concerts are the same. They often change their setlists, keeping each performance fresh and engaging.

Side Projects and Solo Work

Many members of Broken Social Scene have pursued successful solo careers and side projects, further showcasing their musical talents.

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    Kevin Drew's Solo Work: Drew has released several solo albums, including "Spirit If…" and "Darlings." His solo work often explores more personal themes.

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    Brendan Canning's Projects: Canning has also released solo albums, such as "Something for All of Us…" and "You Gots 2 Chill." His music often features a more laid-back, introspective sound.

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    Feist's Success: Feist's solo career has been incredibly successful, with hits like "1234" and "My Moon My Man." Her work has earned her numerous awards and a dedicated fanbase.

Impact on the Indie Music Scene

Broken Social Scene has had a lasting impact on the indie music scene, influencing countless artists and bands.

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    Pioneers of Indie Rock: They are often credited with helping to shape the sound of modern indie rock. Their innovative approach to music has inspired many other artists.

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    Mentorship: The band has mentored and supported many up-and-coming musicians, helping to foster a sense of community within the indie music scene.

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    Collaborative Spirit: Their collaborative approach to music-making has encouraged other bands to experiment with similar methods, leading to a more diverse and vibrant indie music landscape.

Memorable Moments

Throughout their career, Broken Social Scene has had many memorable moments that have left a lasting impression on fans and critics alike.

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    2003 Juno Awards Performance: Their performance at the 2003 Juno Awards is often cited as one of the most memorable moments in the show's history. The band's energy and enthusiasm captivated the audience.

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    "Halfway Home" on The Late Show: In 2017, they performed "Halfway Home" on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The performance was praised for its intensity and passion.

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    Reunion Shows: The band has reunited for special shows and tours, much to the delight of fans. These reunion performances often feature a mix of old favorites and new material.

Albums and Discography

Broken Social Scene's discography is extensive, featuring a mix of studio albums, live recordings, and compilations.

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    "Broken Social Scene" (2005): Their self-titled album is considered one of their best works. It features a mix of upbeat tracks and more introspective songs.

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    "Forgiveness Rock Record" (2010): This album marked a return to form for the band. It received critical acclaim and was shortlisted for the Polaris Music Prize.

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    "Hug of Thunder" (2017): Their most recent album, "Hug of Thunder," features contributions from many of the band's original members. It was well-received by fans and critics alike.

Legacy and Future

Broken Social Scene's legacy is secure, but they continue to push boundaries and explore new musical territory.

28. 28Continued Innovation: The band shows no signs of slowing down. They continue to experiment with new sounds and collaborate with other artists, ensuring their music remains fresh and exciting.

The Legacy of Broken Social Scene

Broken Social Scene has left an indelible mark on the indie music scene. Their unique blend of rock, pop, and experimental sounds has captivated fans for over two decades. With a revolving door of talented musicians, they've managed to keep their sound fresh and exciting. Albums like "You Forgot It in People" and "Forgiveness Rock Record" are considered classics, showcasing their ability to craft memorable, emotionally resonant songs.

Their influence extends beyond their own music. Many members have gone on to successful solo careers, further spreading the band's innovative spirit. Broken Social Scene's collaborative nature has also inspired countless other artists to experiment and push boundaries.

In a world where music often feels formulaic, Broken Social Scene stands out as a beacon of creativity and authenticity. Their legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence future generations of musicians.