Biography
Rebelution is a reggae rock band formed in 2004 in the college town of Isla Vista, California. The original lineup consisted of Eric Rachmany (vocals/guitar), Matt Velasquez (vocals/guitar), Rory Carey (keyboards), Marley D. Williams (bass), and Wesley Finley (drums). The members met while attending the University of California, Santa Barbara, and bonded over their shared passion for reggae music. Their diverse backgrounds and musical influences laid the foundation for a unique sound that blends reggae with elements of rock, dub, and hip-hop.
In 2006, Rebelution independently released a self-titled EP, which garnered local attention and set the stage for their debut full-length album, "Courage to Grow," in 2007. The album was praised for its crafty melodies, socially conscious lyrics, and savvy musicianship. It peaked at number four on the Billboard Top Reggae Albums chart and was selected as iTunes Editor's Choice for Best Reggae Album of 2007. Following the release, Matt Velasquez departed from the band, leaving Rebelution as a four-member ensemble. The band's second album, "Bright Side of Life," released in 2009, showcased their evolving sound and lyrical depth.
It dominated the iTunes charts, reaching the number one spot in the reggae genre and number three for top albums downloaded in the United States across all genres. The album also topped the Billboard Top Reggae Albums chart and reached number 54 on the Billboard 200. This success solidified Rebelution's position in the reggae music scene and expanded their fan base. In 2012, Rebelution released "Peace of Mind," a triple album featuring studio, acoustic, and dub versions of all twelve tracks. The album debuted at number 13 on the Billboard 200, number one on the Independent Albums chart, and number one on the Reggae Albums chart, selling 16,000 copies in its first week.
This innovative release demonstrated the band's versatility and commitment to their craft. The band's fourth album, "Count Me In," released in 2014, continued their streak of success, debuting at number 14 on the Billboard 200 and number one on the Reggae Albums chart. The album featured collaborations with reggae legends Don Carlos and Collie Buddz, further cementing Rebelution's credibility within the genre. In 2016, they released "Falling Into Place," which earned them a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album, highlighting their significant contributions to reggae music. Rebelution's live performances have become legendary, with sold-out shows at iconic venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Greek Theatre.
They have graced the stages of major festivals, including Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, and Glastonbury, bringing their energetic and uplifting music to audiences worldwide. Their relentless touring schedule and dedication to their fans have solidified their reputation as one of the most successful reggae bands of the 21st century. In 2021, Rebelution released their seventh studio album, "In The Moment," recorded remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. The album features collaborations with Jamaican artists Kabaka Pyramid, Keznamdi, and Busy Signal, as well as American soul singer Durand Jones. "In The Moment" debuted at number two on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and showcased the band's ability to adapt and innovate in challenging times.