39 Facts About Passion Pit

Passion Pit's Formation

Passion Pit, an American indietronica band, has an interesting origin story. Let's dive into how this unique group came to be.

1. 01Michael Angelakos, the band's frontman, started Passion Pit as a solo project while attending Emerson College in Boston.
2. 02The name "Passion Pit" comes from a slang term used in the 1950s to describe drive-in theaters, which were often referred to as "passion pits" due to their popularity as make-out spots.
3. 03The band's first EP, "Chunk of Change," was initially a Valentine's Day gift from Angelakos to his then-girlfriend.

Early Success and Breakthrough

Passion Pit quickly gained popularity with their catchy tunes and energetic performances. Here are some key moments from their early years.

4. 04After the release of "Chunk of Change," Passion Pit signed with Frenchkiss Records in 2008.
5. 05Their debut album, "Manners," was released in 2009 and received critical acclaim, helping the band gain a larger following.
6. 06The single "Sleepyhead" from "Chunk of Change" became a viral hit, further boosting the band's popularity.
7. 07Passion Pit performed at major music festivals like Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Glastonbury, solidifying their place in the indie music scene.

Musical Style and Influences

Passion Pit's music is known for its unique blend of electronic and indie pop elements. Let's explore what makes their sound so distinctive.

8. 08The band's music features a mix of synth-pop, indietronica, and electropop, creating a vibrant and energetic sound.
9. 09Michael Angelakos cites artists like Brian Wilson, The Beach Boys, and New Order as major influences on Passion Pit's music.
10. 10Angelakos' falsetto vocals are a signature element of the band's sound, adding an ethereal quality to their songs.
11. 11Passion Pit's lyrics often explore themes of love, mental health, and personal struggles, giving their music an emotional depth.

Albums and Notable Songs

Passion Pit has released several albums and numerous hit songs over the years. Here are some highlights from their discography.

12. 12"Manners" (2009) includes popular tracks like "The Reeling," "Little Secrets," and "To Kingdom Come."
13. 13Their second album, "Gossamer" (2012), features hits such as "Take a Walk," "Carried Away," and "Constant Conversations."
14. 14"Kindred" (2015) continued the band's success with songs like "Lifted Up (1985)," "Where the Sky Hangs," and "Until We Can't (Let's Go)."
15. 15In 2017, Passion Pit released "Tremendous Sea of Love," an album that Angelakos made available for free to fans as a thank-you for their support.

Mental Health Advocacy

Michael Angelakos has been open about his struggles with mental health, using his platform to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges.

16. 16Angelakos was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2012, a topic he has addressed in interviews and through his music.
17. 17In 2013, he launched the Wishart Group, an organization dedicated to providing mental health support for musicians and artists.
18. 18Passion Pit's song "I'm Perfect" from "Tremendous Sea of Love" directly addresses Angelakos' experiences with mental health issues.
19. 19Angelakos has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, participating in panels and speaking engagements to share his story.

Collaborations and Side Projects

Passion Pit has collaborated with various artists and explored side projects over the years. Here are some notable examples.

20. 20In 2010, Passion Pit remixed the song "Tonight" by the band Saint Lucia, adding their signature electronic touch.
21. 21Angelakos collaborated with rapper Juicy J on the track "All I Need" from Juicy J's 2013 album "Stay Trippy."
22. 22Passion Pit contributed to the soundtrack of the 2013 film "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" with a cover of the song "Dreams" by The Cranberries.
23. 23Angelakos has worked with other artists as a producer, including Ellie Goulding and Madeon.

Awards and Recognition

Passion Pit's talent and hard work have earned them numerous accolades and recognition in the music industry.

24. 24In 2009, Passion Pit was nominated for the BBC Sound of 2009 poll, which highlights promising new artists.
25. 25The band's song "Take a Walk" was featured in a Taco Bell commercial, bringing their music to a wider audience.
26. 26Passion Pit's music has been used in various TV shows, movies, and commercials, further increasing their visibility and popularity.
27. 27In 2013, the band received a nomination for Best Alternative Music Album at the Grammy Awards for "Gossamer."

Touring and Live Performances

Passion Pit is known for their energetic and engaging live performances. Here are some memorable moments from their tours.

28. 28The band embarked on their first headlining tour in 2009, playing sold-out shows across the United States and Europe.
29. 29Passion Pit has performed at major music festivals like Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, and Reading and Leeds, captivating audiences with their dynamic stage presence.
30. 30In 2015, the band played a special acoustic set at the Newport Folk Festival, showcasing a different side of their music.
31. 31Passion Pit's live shows often feature elaborate light displays and visuals, enhancing the overall concert experience for fans.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Passion Pit's journey is filled with interesting tidbits and lesser-known facts. Here are some fun pieces of trivia about the band.

32. 32Michael Angelakos wrote the song "Sleepyhead" in just one night, using a sample from the Irish folk song "Óró Mo Bháidín."
33. 33The music video for "Take a Walk" was filmed using a drone, capturing stunning aerial shots of various locations.
34. 34Passion Pit's song "Carried Away" was featured in a commercial for the video game "The Sims 4."
35. 35Angelakos has a background in classical music, having studied piano and composition from a young age.
36. 36The band once performed a surprise show at a small bar in Boston, playing an intimate set for a lucky group of fans.
37. 37Passion Pit's song "Little Secrets" was used in a commercial for the Samsung Galaxy S4, further boosting its popularity.
38. 38Angelakos has cited the film "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" as a major influence on his songwriting and creative process.
39. 39The band has a strong online presence, frequently interacting with fans on social media and sharing behind-the-scenes content.

Wrapping Up Passion Pit Facts

Passion Pit's journey from a college dorm project to an indie pop sensation is nothing short of remarkable. Their unique sound, driven by Michael Angelakos' creativity, has left a lasting impact on the music scene. From their breakout hit "Sleepyhead" to their critically acclaimed albums, Passion Pit has consistently pushed boundaries. The band's dedication to mental health awareness adds another layer to their legacy, showing that music can be both entertaining and meaningful. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their tunes, there's no denying the influence Passion Pit has had. Their story is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and resilience. So next time you listen to their tracks, remember the journey behind the music. Passion Pit isn't just a band; they're a symbol of what can be achieved with a bit of talent and a lot of heart.