36 Facts About The Shins

The Shins: A Brief Overview

The Shins, an American indie rock band, have captivated audiences with their unique sound and poetic lyrics. Formed in 1996, they have a rich history filled with interesting tidbits.

1. The Shins were formed by James Mercer in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
2. Their debut album, "Oh, Inverted World," was released in 2001.
3. The band's name was inspired by a family in the musical "The Music Man."

Early Years and Formation

Understanding the early years of The Shins gives insight into their musical journey and evolution.

4. Before The Shins, James Mercer was part of a band called Flake Music.
5. The Shins' first single, "Nature Bears a Vacuum," was released in 1999.
6. The original lineup included Jesse Sandoval on drums and Dave Hernandez on bass.

Breakthrough and Success

The Shins' rise to fame was marked by several key moments that propelled them into the spotlight.

7. Their song "New Slang" was featured in the 2004 film "Garden State."
8. "Garden State" director Zach Braff personally selected "New Slang" for the film's soundtrack.
9. The success of "Garden State" significantly boosted the band's popularity.

Albums and Music

The Shins have released several albums, each contributing to their legacy in the indie rock scene.

10. Their second album, "Chutes Too Narrow," was released in 2003.
11. "Chutes Too Narrow" received critical acclaim and was nominated for a Grammy.
12. The third album, "Wincing the Night Away," debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 in 2007.

Band Members and Changes

Over the years, The Shins have seen several changes in their lineup, each bringing a new dynamic to the band.

13. In 2009, James Mercer announced a major lineup change, replacing several members.
14. Jessica Dobson joined the band as a guitarist in 2011.
15. Richard Swift, a multi-instrumentalist, played with The Shins from 2011 until his passing in 2018.

Influence and Legacy

The Shins have left a lasting impact on the indie rock genre, influencing many artists and bands.

16. Their music has been described as a blend of folk, pop, and rock.
17. The Shins have been credited with helping to popularize indie rock in the early 2000s.
18. Bands like Vampire Weekend and Fleet Foxes have cited The Shins as an influence.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Beyond their music, there are plenty of fun and lesser-known facts about The Shins.

19. James Mercer has a side project called Broken Bells with producer Danger Mouse.
20. The Shins' song "Simple Song" was used in a commercial for the Windows 8 operating system.
21. The band has performed on popular TV shows like "Saturday Night Live" and "The Late Show with David Letterman."

Awards and Recognition

The Shins have received numerous accolades throughout their career, highlighting their contributions to music.

22. "Wincing the Night Away" was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album.
23. The Shins won the Shortlist Music Prize in 2007.
24. Their song "Phantom Limb" was nominated for a Grammy for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

Tours and Performances

Live performances have been a significant part of The Shins' career, allowing them to connect with fans worldwide.

25. The Shins have headlined major music festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza.
26. They embarked on a world tour in 2012 to promote their album "Port of Morrow."
27. The band is known for their energetic and engaging live shows.

Recent Activities

Even after decades in the music industry, The Shins continue to create and perform.

28. In 2017, they released their fifth studio album, "Heartworms."
29. "Heartworms" received positive reviews and showcased the band's evolving sound.
30. The Shins celebrated the 20th anniversary of "Oh, Inverted World" with a special reissue in 2021.

Interesting Collaborations

The Shins have collaborated with various artists, adding diversity to their musical repertoire.

31. James Mercer collaborated with Modest Mouse on their song "We've Got Everything."
32. The band worked with producer Phil Ek, known for his work with Fleet Foxes and Band of Horses.
33. They have also collaborated with singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens.

Impact on Pop Culture

The Shins' influence extends beyond music, making a mark on pop culture as well.

34. Their music has been featured in numerous TV shows and movies, including "Scrubs" and "The OC."
35. The band's unique sound has inspired countless covers and tributes by other artists.
36. The Shins' lyrics often explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, resonating with a wide audience.

The Shins: A Band to Remember

The Shins have left an indelible mark on indie rock. From their humble beginnings in Albuquerque to becoming a household name, their journey is nothing short of inspiring. With hits like "New Slang" and "Simple Song," they’ve captured hearts worldwide. Their unique blend of catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics sets them apart. James Mercer’s distinctive voice and songwriting prowess have been pivotal in their success. Over the years, the band has evolved, experimenting with different sounds while staying true to their roots. Their influence on the indie music scene is undeniable, inspiring countless artists. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, The Shins offer something special. Dive into their discography, and you’ll find a treasure trove of musical gems. Here’s to many more years of great music from The Shins!