The Strokes, a band that revolutionized rock music in the early 21st century, brought back style, fun, and catchy songwriting to the genre. Drawing inspiration from music legends like Buddy Holly, the Velvet Underground, and Ramones, their direct and hooky sound set new trends while paying homage to rock history. With the release of their acclaimed debut album ‘Is This It’ in 2001, The Strokes rejuvenated a rock scene dominated by post-grunge and nu-metal, influencing the sound and look of alternative rock throughout the 2000s. Alongside bands like the White Stripes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Kings of Leon, and Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes made a lasting impact in the U.S. and the U.K.
The roots of The Strokes trace back to the late ’90s when singer/songwriter Julian Casablancas, drummer Fabrizio Moretti, and guitarist Nick Valensi started playing together in 1997. The addition of bassist Nikolai Fraiture in their lineup set the stage for the formation of the band. Influenced by iconic bands like the Doors, Bob Marley, the Velvet Underground, and Jane’s Addiction, The Strokes solidified their style into a punk-, new wave-, and garage-inspired sound. Officially named The Strokes in 1999, the band quickly gained recognition through their incendiary live shows, leading to a record deal and the release of their debut EP ‘The Modern Age’ in 2001.
Embarking on a journey of musical exploration, The Strokes evolved their sound with each album, from the back-to-basics approach of ‘Is This It’ to the more experimental ‘First Impressions of Earth’ and the synth-pop elements of ‘Comedown Machine.’ Despite individual projects taking precedence in the 2010s, The Strokes regrouped in 2020 for ‘The New Abnormal,’ showcasing their passion and creativity. With a Grammy-winning legacy and continuous innovation, The Strokes remain a cornerstone of modern rock music, paving the way for generations to come.