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An Enriching Dialogue with Art Alexakis and the Remarkable Journey of Everclear

By
9/1/2023

Everclear, a prominent alternative rock band that emerged in the ’90s, commemorated its 30th Anniversary in 2022. The band’s founder, vocalist, and guitarist, Art Alexakis, remains steadfast in his commitment to an active musical career. Formed in 1992, Everclear boasts an impressive trajectory, including 11 studio albums. Four of these albums have achieved Gold or Platinum certifications, contributing to a record sales figure exceeding 6 million. The band has achieved remarkable success with 12 Top 40 Hit Singles across Mainstream Rock, Alternative, and Adult Top 40 radio, featuring hits like “Santa Monica,” “Father of Mine,” “I Will Buy You A New Life,” “Wonderful,” and “Everything To Everyone.” Additionally, they have produced numerous music videos, played countless shows, and garnered accolades, including a Grammy nomination in 1998.

Alexakis, after the disbandment of Colorfinger in 1992, faced challenges while striving to establish himself in Portland after relocating from San Francisco. This period, marked by personal and creative struggles, molded Alexakis into the passionate songwriter evident in the early Everclear demos, the Nervous & Weird EP (1993), and the subsequent World of Noise LP. Initially released in 1993 on the independent label Tim/Kerr Records, World of Noise, combined with the band’s dedication to breaking into college radio and their impact on the Portland music scene, captured the attention of major labels. Capitol Records soon signed the group, marking the beginning of their mainstream journey. Their major-label debut, 1995’s platinum-selling album “Sparkle and Fade,” propelled them into the spotlight with the chart-topping hit “Santa Monica,” establishing Everclear as a household name and fueling their enduring three-decade career.

In 2019, during treatment for a minor car accident-related injury, Alexakis received a multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis, revealing that he had likely lived with the disease for nearly two decades. Since his diagnosis, Alexakis has contributed one dollar from each ticket sale for his performances to charities such as Sweet Relief Musicians Fund and the National MS Society.

In 2022, Everclear released a remastered deluxe edition of “World Of Noise” to commemorate its 30th Anniversary. This edition featured the album’s original 12 tracks alongside 6 bonus songs, now available on digital streaming platforms. The band also shared a retrospective video, “Everclear – 30 Years Gone: A Retrospective,” hosted by former MTV VJ and current radio host Matt Pinfield. They embarked on an extensive North American Tour, including a significant performance in Alexakis’ hometown of Los Angeles, which was recorded and filmed for a forthcoming live album titled “Live at The Whisky a Go Go.” Scheduled for release on September 8, 2023, via Sunset Blvd. Records, the album comprises hits and lesser-known gems from Everclear’s extensive catalog, alongside two new original studio tracks.

Beyond the numerous Everclear performances across their enduring career, Art Alexakis curates the annual Summerland Tour, spotlighting popular ’90s alternative rock bands. He also introduced his inaugural solo album, “Sun Songs,” in 2019. More than three decades later, Everclear maintains an unwavering legacy, continuing to captivate audiences with their live performances.

For tour dates and information, click here.

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