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Papa Roach is an American rock band from Vacaville, California, formed in 1993. The original lineup consisted of lead vocalist Jacoby Shaddix, drummer Dave Buckner, guitarist Jerry Horton, bassist Will James, and trombonist Ben Luther.

Key Information

After releasing two EPs, James departed and was replaced by Tobin Esperance. The band independently released two additional EPs before signing with DreamWorks Records in 1999, subsequently releasing the triple-platinum Infest in 2000, the gold album Lovehatetragedy in 2002, and the platinum album Getting Away with Murder in 2004. Following the release of The Paramour Sessions in 2006, Buckner left the band in 2007 and was succeeded by Tony Palermo. Papa Roach then released Metamorphosis (2009), Time for Annihilation (2010), The Connection (2012), F.E.A.R. (2015), Crooked Teeth (2017), and Who Do You Trust? (2019). The group's eleventh studio album, Ego Trip, was released in 2022.

History

[edit]

Early years (1993–1995)

[edit]

Papa Roach's formation began in January 1993 when lead singer Jacoby Shaddix and drummer Dave Buckner met on the Vacaville High School football field. They were later joined by lead guitarist Jerry Horton from nearby Vanden High School, rhythm guitarist Anne Mikolajcik, trombonist Ben Luther, and bassist Will James.[1] They decided to enter the school's talent show, performing a rendition of Jimi Hendrix's song "Fire". Ultimately, they did not win the talent show. In March 1993, Ben Luther left the band, followed by Anne Mikolajcik. During this period, Papa Roach practiced daily and toured extensively, playing every gig they could secure. The band's first tour van was named Moby Dick, which inspired Shaddix to adopt his initial stage name, "Coby Dick." Initially, the band was called "Papa Gato," as suggested by Buckner, but Shaddix changed it to Papa Roach, combining the nickname of his maternal grandfather, Herbert Fischer "Papa," with "Roach," derived from his paternal grandfather, John "Grandpa" Roatch. Both grandparents were musicians.[2]

In 1994, Papa Roach released its first EP, titled Potatoes for Christmas. Drummer Dave Buckner was temporarily replaced by Ryan Brown while he spent the year in Seattle, studying art. In 1995, the band released a demo at Sound Farm Studios titled Caca Bonita. By this time, Buckner had returned. In 1996, the group replaced original bassist Will James with longtime roadie Tobin Esperance, as James' involvement in a church summer camp limited the band's summer rehearsals and touring.

Old Friends from Young Years and record deal (1996–1999)

[edit]
Main article: Old Friends from Young Years

On February 4, 1997, the band's debut studio album, titled Old Friends from Young Years, was released. At this time, the group was actively touring, supporting bands such as Incubus, Powerman 5000, Hed PE, Snot, Far, and Static-X.

In 1998, Papa Roach released an EP titled 5 Tracks Deep, which sold more than 1,000 copies within its first month of release. In 1999, the band produced another EP, their final independent release, titled Let 'Em Know. Its success attracted the attention of Warner Music Group, which, as part of a development deal, provided a modest amount of funding for the production of a five-track promotional demo CD.[3] The band sought out influential rock producer Jay Baumgardner to produce the record.[3] In an interview with HitQuarters, Baumgardner stated, "At first, I wasn't really convinced it would work out, but then I saw a video of them performing at a club – I saw all these kids going wild, knowing the songs by heart – and that's when I realized that they definitely had potential."[3]

Warner Bros. was unimpressed with the demo and chose not to sign the group.[3] The unreleased disc included the tracks "Infest," "Last Resort," "Broken Home," "Dead Cell," and "She Loves Me Not".

Shortly thereafter, DreamWorks Records offered the band a recording contract.

Mainstream success, Infest, Lovehatetragedy and Getting Away with Murder (2000–2005)

[edit]
Main articles: Infest (album), Lovehatetragedy, and Getting Away with Murder (album)
The band in 2006. From left to right: Dave Buckner, Tobin Esperance, Jacoby Shaddix, Jerry Horton.

After signing with DreamWorks Records in October 1999, Papa Roach promptly entered the studio to record their major-label debut album, titled Infest.[4][5] The album featured songs from their earlier independent releases, including "Infest," "Last Resort," "Broken Home," and "Dead Cell" from the Warner Bros. demo CD; "Revenge In Japanese" as "Revenge" and "Thrown Away" from their 5 Tracks Deep EP; and "Legacy," "Binge," "Snakes," and a softer version of the originally heavier "Tightrope" from the Let 'Em Know EP. These tracks were re-recorded, along with three additional newly written songs: "Obsession" (later known as "Between Angels and Insects"), "Blood Brothers," and "Never Enough." Infest was released on April 25, 2000, and sold 30,001 copies in its first week.[6]

With the release of their second album and the recording of the music video for "Last Resort," Papa Roach embarked on the Vans Warped Tour and several other major tours, including the Anger Management Tour alongside Limp Bizkit and rap acts such as Eminem, Xzibit, D12, Ludacris, and X-Ecutioners.[7][8] In 2000, they launched their headlining "Master Bay" tour, supported by Linkin Park and Hed PE.[9] The band received a nomination for "Best New Artist in a Video" at the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards for "Last Resort."[10]

In late 2000, the band toured the United Kingdom, demonstrating the rapid expansion of their global popularity. On Saint Patrick's Day in 2001, Papa Roach began the "Raid The Nation" tour in the U.S, which included Alien Ant Farm and Orgy as opening acts.[11] During that year, the band also participated in Ozzfest, where they performed on the prestigious main stage during both the United States and United Kingdom tours.[12] The song "Blood Brothers" was also featured in the popular video game Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2.[13]

After touring worldwide, the band returned to the studio to record their third album, initially titled Born to Rock, but later renamed Lovehatetragedy.[14] The album was released in the United States on June 18, 2002. Although it did not outsell Infest, it achieved higher chart positions in both the United States and United Kingdom album charts. The album has sold over 500,000 copies and has been certified gold.[15] The album featured a greater emphasis on singing rather than rapping, while the band retained their nu metal sound. It produced two singles: "She Loves Me Not" and "Time and Time Again", both of which included elements of rapping along with the rap metal sound characteristic of Infest.[16] The music video for "Time and Time Again" was featured in a Pepsi Blue commercial.[17] That same year, the band embarked on a tour to support Lovehatetragedy, which included performances on the second Anger Management Tour. This tour was co-headlined by Eminem and Papa Roach, alongside Ludacris, Xzibit, X-Ecutioners, and Bionic Jive.[18]

Drummer Dave Buckner, who was in the band from 1993 to 2007

In late 2003, Papa Roach wrote and recorded their third album, initially titled Dancing In the Ashes, which was released as Getting Away with Murder.[19] The band collaborated with well-known producer Howard Benson.[19] After completing the album, the band filmed a music video for the title track, "Getting Away with Murder", and went on a brief summer club tour to prepare for the subsequent tours.[20] The album marked a departure for the band, as it was their first album not to incorporate the nu metal style of their previous works.[21] Additionally, it was the band's first album that did not feature rapping.[21] Getting Away with Murder outsold Lovehatetragedy, primarily due to the success of the album's second single, "Scars". To date, the album has sold over one million copies and has been certified Platinum. On November 9, 2004, the band released their fifth EP, Rolling Stone Original, an EP that was only available digitally.[22] On November 22, 2005, they released their first live album, Papa Roach: Live & Murderous in Chicago.[23]

In 2005, the band spent a significant amount of time on tour, which included a full United States and European tour alongside bands such as Dead Poetic, Trust Company, Chronic Future, Skindred, 311, and Unwritten Law.[24][25][26]

The Paramour Sessions and Buckner's departure (2006–2008)

[edit]
Main article: The Paramour Sessions
The previous Papa Roach logo, used from 2006 to 2012

On September 12, 2006, Papa Roach released their fourth album, The Paramour Sessions.[27][28] The band named the album after the recording location, the Paramour Mansion.[29] The idea for an album recorded in a mansion emerged while the band was working on Getting Away with Murder.[30] "...To Be Loved" was the first single released from the album and served as the official theme song for WWE Raw from 2006 to 2009.[31] The album debuted at No. 16 on the Billboard 200 chart.[32]

The band began touring in support of the album in August 2006, starting with an American tour followed by a European leg.[33] In October 2006, Papa Roach toured with Guns N' Roses during their Chinese Democracy tour.[34] They also served as the special guest band during the Zippo Hot Tour, alongside Hed PE and Stealing December.[35]

On October 10, 2006, a String Quartet tribute album titled Perfect Murder: Strung Out on Papa Roach was released by Vitamin Records.[36]

The band initially planned to release a compilation of acoustic recordings of their songs, including "Forever," "Scars," and "Not Coming Home," which was recorded for KROQ-FM's charity Christmas album, Kevin and Bean's Super Christmas. However, the acoustic compilation was later shelved. In an interview with Billboard, Shaddix expressed his belief that fans were not yet ready for an acoustic direction from the band.[37]

On April 25, 2007, it was announced that drummer Dave Buckner would be sitting out the band's touring schedule due to personal matters, with expectations for him to rejoin the group shortly thereafter. Shaddix later confirmed in an interview with Launch Radio Networks that Dave had entered rehab to "go clean his act up 'cause he was out of his mind." Unwritten Law drummer Tony Palermo filled in on drums.[38]

In the summer of 2007, the band went on the Bad Boys of Rock tour, supporting Hinder. During this tour, frontman Shaddix and Hinder lead singer Austin Winkler developed a strong friendship, leading to the band touring with Hinder on multiple occasions in subsequent years. It was revealed in 2015 that Shaddix and Austin wrote and recorded a song together for part of Winkler's solo project, although both expressed uncertainty about whether the song would ever be released.[39]

In 2008, it was announced that the band would officially part ways with drummer Dave Buckner. It was also revealed that Buckner had sued the band, claiming he wasn't "receiving his fair share of the group's earnings."[40]

Metamorphosis and Tours (2008–2010)

[edit]
Main article: Metamorphosis (Papa Roach album)

In an interview in February 2008 with 99.7 The Blitz, Shaddix stated that the band was working on their next album, initially titled Days of War, Nights of Love. However, the album was later renamed to Metamorphosis to commemorate the band's tenth anniversary of signing with DreamWorks Records in 1999 and to reflect the various changes the band had experienced during that time.

On April 15, Papa Roach announced they would be touring as part of Mötley Crüe's Crüe Fest, alongside Buckcherry, Sixx:A.M., and Trapt. The tour commenced on July 1 in West Palm Beach, Florida.[41] The release date for the album was confirmed as August 26 during Crüe Fest.

Later in the year, the band also toured with Seether, Staind, and Red. During this tour, the release date for Metamorphosis was changed to March 24, 2009.

On October 26, Papa Roach released the music video for the song "Hollywood Whore", which was also released as an EP in Canada and as a digital single on October 28. The album's first official single, "Lifeline", was made available on the band's MySpace profile on January 9, 2009. Additionally, the band toured with Buckcherry, Avenged Sevenfold, and Burn Halo in early 2009. The Crüe Fest DVD was released on March 24, coinciding with the release of Metamorphosis. The second single, "I Almost Told You That I Loved You", was released on June 1. On June 23, they released their ninth EP, Naked and Fearless: Acoustic EP, which became available through the Zune Marketplace, iTunes, and Rhapsody.

"Metamorphosis" reached the top 10 on the Billboard 200, peaking at number 8, marking the band's first top ten album since 2002.[42]

Papa Roach toured with Nickelback on their Dark Horse Tour, performing at Live Nation outdoor amphitheaters alongside Hinder and Saving Abel during the summer, as well as with Breaking Benjamin.

"Lifeline" was nominated for Fuse TV's Best Video of 2009 contest, surpassing Metallica's "All Nightmare Long", Daughtry's "No Surprise", Shinedown's "Sound of Madness", and Paramore's "Ignorance". Ultimately, it finished 2nd to Britney Spears for her song "Circus" in the final round.

Time for Annihilation (2010–2012)

[edit]
Main article: Time for Annihilation
Papa Roach performing in 2010.

On January 8, 2010, Shaddix announced on Papa Roach's official Twitter account that the band was about to begin working on new material.[43] On February 8, 2010, Jerry Horton mentioned that he was in the studio beginning to write.

On February 23, 2010, Jerry Horton officially announced that the band would be releasing a new album, which was recorded during the last leg of their 2009 co-headlining tour with Shinedown in Binghamton, New York.[44]

In April, the band performed two new songs: "Burn" at the Chili Cook Off in Richmond, Virginia on April 17, 2010, and "Kick In the Teeth" on April 30, 2010. In May, Jerry Horton stated in an interview that the album would be titled Time for Annihilation and would feature nine live tracks alongside five new songs, making it a combined live album and EP. He also mentioned that the first single would be "Kick In the Teeth" and that the band had switched labels to Eleven Seven Music.[45] Later, Shaddix added that the album would be released on August 31.[46] "Kick In the Teeth" was released as a single on June 22, 2010.[47]

On June 29, 2010, the band's former label, Geffen Records, released a greatest hits compilation titled ...To Be Loved: The Best of Papa Roach, featuring the band's biggest hits. However, the band advised fans against purchasing it, stating that they were not profiting from the album's sales and that the label had released it against their wishes.[48] The masters and/or copyrights of Papa Roach's music are represented by Downtown Music Publishing.[49] Although the band no longer owns the rights to their songs, they continue to perform them live.

Time for Annihilation was released on August 31, 2010.[50] The band announced that the next singles from the album would be "Burn" and "No Matter What." They also expressed interest in releasing another live DVD but wanted to wait until they had a headlining show in Europe.

In October 2010, Papa Roach kicked off the "Monsters of Annihilation" tour with Skillet.[51] From November 15, 2010, to December 13, 2010, the band toured with Disturbed, Buckcherry, and Halestorm on the Taste of Chaos tour. From March 1 to March 18, 2011, Papa Roach co-headlined the Canada leg of the Jägermeister Music Tour with Buckcherry, featuring special guests My Darkest Days and Bleeker Ridge.

In an interview, guitarist Jerry Horton mentioned that the band was planning to release a new album in 2012, indicating that Papa Roach would explore "electronic sounds" for this upcoming release.[52]

In a separate interview with Upvenue, bassist Tobin Esperance commented on Time for Annihilation, stating, "We put out five major label, full-length records, and we were transitioning from a major label to going independent. We wanted to do something different [...] we'd always talked about doing a live record, and it turned into 'let's add a couple of bonus songs' [...] and now it's half live, half new songs and it's kind of the past and present of Papa Roach. I think it's a good representation and a good reminder of what this band's about, [...] and it gives you a look at where our sound can go."[53]

Starting April 25, 2011, Papa Roach headlined the Raid The Nation tour, with the first leg featuring Finger Eleven.[54] The second leg featured Escape the Fate, with both legs of the tour also including special guests Pop Evil. On June 23 and 25, the band co-headlined the Sonisphere Festival alongside Linkin Park.[55]

In July 2011, Papa Roach performed two intimate shows in London and Sheffield with the band Yashin.[56] They also co-headlined the Rock Allegiance Tour from August 24 to September 25, 2011, alongside Buckcherry.[57] The tour also featured performances by Puddle of Mudd, P.O.D., Red, Crossfade, and Drive A.[57]

The Connection (2012–2013)

[edit]
Main article: The Connection (Papa Roach album)

Papa Roach entered the studio in November 2011 to begin work on their next album,[58] aiming for a mid-2012 release.[59] While in the studio, the band released the single "Even If I Could," which was featured on the Avengers soundtrack.[60]

On June 15, 2012, the band announced during a live chat with fans on YouTube that their next album would be released on October 2.[61] The album was subsequently titled "The Connection."[62]

Papa Roach began touring in 2012 with co-headlining dates alongside Shinedown, supported by acts such as Adelitas Way and In This Moment. Following the brief co-headlining tour, Papa Roach embarked on a short headlining tour, featuring bands like In This Moment, Art of Dying, and Mindset Evolution. Additionally, Papa Roach participated on the main stage of the 2012 Uproar Festival, performing alongside Shinedown, Godsmack, Staind, and Adelitas Way.[63][64]

The band released their first music video for the album on August 30, 2012.[65] The concept for the "Still Swingin'" video originated from Jacoby's eight-year-old son.[66]

On September 8, 2012, Papa Roach announced dates for a European tour that would include performances in Belarus, Russia, Poland, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and the UK.[67] They performed two co-headlining dates with Stone Sour in London on December 10 and 11, part of Stone Sour's UK tour.[68] Following these shows, they toured the United States with Stone Sour, starting on January 20, 2013,[69] and performed on the main stage at the 2013 Download Festival at Donington Park, UK, on Friday, June 14.[70] In September, the band was joined by original drummer Dave Buckner for a one-off performance of "Last Resort."[71] In October 2013, the band performed across Canada and the U.S. in support of The Connection, with Pop Evil and Age of Days also on the bill.[72]

F.E.A.R. (2014–2016)

[edit]
Main article: F.E.A.R. (Papa Roach album)
Papa Roach live in 2015

On February 3, 2014, the band announced they would be entering the studio to record a new album.[73] On February 18, 2014, Jerry Horton tweeted that the first single was expected to be released "somewhere around July."[74] They held a live studio chat on YouTube on February 25, 2014.[75] During the chat, they mentioned that they had already written four songs and revealed the titles of three tracks: "Just as Broken as Me," "Gravity," and "War Over Me."

On April 24, 2014, in an interview with Loudwire, Jacoby Shaddix disclosed additional song titles from the upcoming album, including "Never Have to Say Goodbye" and "Face Everything and Rise."[76]

On July 10, 2014, it was announced that the band would release their new album, titled F.E.A.R., in early 2015.[77][78] On October 9, 2014, it was confirmed that the new album would be released on January 27, 2015, via Eleven Seven Music.[79][80] In an interview, bassist Tobin Esperance admitted that the new release was heavier than previous albums and described how F.E.A.R. marked the first time they allowed other artists to feature on their records.[81]

On May 19, 2015, the band announced a co-headlining North American tour with longtime friends Five Finger Death Punch. They will be joined by In This Moment as special guests, with support from From Ashes to New for the tour.[82][83][84]

Crooked Teeth (2016–2018)

[edit]
Main article: Crooked Teeth (album)

On January 26, 2016, Papa Roach announced that they would begin writing their new album the following week.[85] In July, they performed live at the Alternative Press Music Awards.[86] In an interview, they stated that the new record would be released in early 2017, with the first single anticipated to drop later that year.[87] The recording of the album was supported through the crowdfunding service PledgeMusic.[88]

On November 1, 2016, "Crooked Teeth" became the first song released from the upcoming record.[89] The first official single, titled "Help", was released on February 17, 2017.[90] On March 24, 2017, the band announced that their new album, Crooked Teeth, would be released on May 19, 2017.[91] A second single, "American Dreams", was released in April 2017,[92] followed by a third single, "Born for Greatness", released towards the end of the year.[93] "Born for Greatness" was selected as the official main theme for WWE Raw in February 2018, replacing "Enemies" by Shinedown.[94] Both "Help" and "Born for Greatness" reached number 1 on the Mainstream Rock Charts, marking the first time the band had two songs from a single album achieve this feat.[95]

Who Do You Trust? (2018–2020)

[edit]
Main article: Who Do You Trust? (album)
Papa Roach live 2018

In October 2017, the band revealed they had already written six songs for the follow-up to Crooked Teeth,[96] with plans to begin recording the album in June 2018.[97] On October 5, 2018, Papa Roach released two singles, "Renegade Music" and "Who Do You Trust?", with the latter accompanied by a music video featuring frontman and vocalist Jacoby Shaddix as news reporter Larry Dickman.[98] Subsequently, it was leaked that the new album would be titled Who Do You Trust?, which was released on January 19, 2019. An interview with Papa Roach on November 9 confirmed this information. On November 16, 2018, the band released the new song "Not the Only One".[99] A third single, "Come Around", was released in September 2019.[100] In November 2020, the fourth single, "The Ending", was released.[101]

On December 25, 2020, the band released a compilation titled 20/20, which included the Infest studio recordings they had previously uploaded to YouTube, as well as re-recordings of "Tightrope," "Last Resort," "Scars," "Getting Away with Murder," and "Between Angels and Insects." On March 19, 2021, the band released their second greatest hits compilation, Greatest Hits Vol. 2: The Better Noise Years.[101][102]

Ego Trip (2021–2024)

[edit]
Main article: Ego Trip (Papa Roach album)

On August 1, 2021, the band released a new single titled "Swerve," featuring Jason Aalon Butler of Fever 333 and American rapper Sueco.[103] On September 9, 2021, Papa Roach released the first radio single, "Kill the Noise," from their upcoming eleventh studio album, set for release in 2022.[104] On October 29, 2021, the band released a new song, "Dying to Believe."[105] On January 21, 2022, "Stand Up" was released as the album's fourth single.[106] A fifth single, "Cut the Line," was released on March 1, 2022.[107] The album Ego Trip was announced on the same day and released on April 8, 2022;[107] it is the band's first independent release on their own New Noize imprint.[108] The day of the album's release, the band performed at a Shakey's Pizza, and reportedly incited a wall of death.[109] On June 14, 2022, the band released the sixth single, "No Apologies," accompanied by a music video.[110]

Upcoming twelfth studio album (2025–present)

[edit]

On January 22, 2025, the band released "Even If It Kills Me" as the lead single from their upcoming untitled twelfth studio album.[111][112][113] It was released on the same day in as the band kicked off their European Tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of Infest in Berlin, Germany, that is scheduled to conclude in Liverpool, England on February 9 at the M&S Bank Arena.[114] "Even If It Kills Me" was used at WWE's Royal Rumble event as the theme song for Cody Rhodes vs Kevin Owens's ladder match promo package.[115]

Papa Roach toured with Rise Against in the Rise of the Roach Tour.

Musical style, influences, and legacy

[edit]

Papa Roach has been described as alternative rock,[116][117][118][119] nu metal,[120][119][121] alternative metal,[122][123][124] rap metal,[103][125][126] hard rock,[127][128][129] rap rock,[130] punk rock,[106] pop rock,[126] and rapcore.[126] The band also incorporates elements of pop, electronic, and hip hop.[131]

The band began as a hardcore punk group,[129] and evolved towards nu metal and rap metal styles on their early independent releases, and on their first two major label albums, Infest and Lovehatetragedy.[125][132][133] Before Papa Roach released their major label albums, Jacoby Shaddix's singing style was compared to Chino Moreno and Lynn Strait of Snot. Additionally, with their 2009 album, Metamorphosis, the band felt their music was undergoing a transformation to "stuff that's...harder and faster."[134] AllMusic has compared the band's recent work to 1980s glam metal,[122][135] while Allmusic staff writer Stephen Thomas Erlewine noted that "at the close of the 2000s, the quartet has shed the rap and the angst, ditching all the alt-metal accoutrements to become a knowing update of an '80s Sunset Strip sleaze rock outfit."[122] With the release of F.E.A.R., both MetalSucks and Metal Injection noted that the band had incorporated some djent influences.[136][137]

In 2004, frontman Jacoby Shaddix said the following in an interview with the Dallas Music Guide regarding the band no longer using rapping in their music: "...the rapping's gone! I don't feel like rapping. I'm just over that...I just want to be a rocker. It's what I wanted to be when I was a kid". Shaddix has added this remark in another interview: "We're a band that tries to walk that line between metal, hardcore, punk rock and pop music, and we do our best at trying to make it all cool".[138]

Prior to the release of The Connection, guitarist Jerry Horton said in an interview by VerdamMnis Magazine that "It's kind of a natural thing for us, we've always been changing throughout the years. Of course, there are some things that stay the same in our sound but we do like to try new things to sort of stretch out a little bit our basis and therefore make it more interesting". He also said that the band was going to explore "electronic sounds for the next record".[52]

The band's influences include Faith No More, Social Distortion, Metallica, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Wu-Tang Clan, Fugees, Refused, Queen, and Led Zeppelin.[139][140][141][142] Jacoby Shaddix cites Faith No More's Mike Patton and Social Distortion's Mike Ness as significant influences, stating, "The way that I sing, I definitely was inspired by Mike Patton, but I appreciate the storytelling that Mike Ness does. I kind of fused those two influences together at an early age, and it inspired me to become my own thing."[139]

Initially, Papa Roach's most significant influence was the experimental band Mr. Bungle, fronted by Mike Patton of Faith No More. This influence is evident in the adventurous nature of their 1994 debut release, Potatoes for Christmas.[143]

In a 2021 interview, Jacoby Shaddix reflected on the band's longstanding association with the nu metal genre, stating, "I love being one of the forefathers of nu metal, that's dope, but we've been able to outlive it and celebrate it at the same time."[144]

Papa Roach is regarded as one of the bands that helped define the nu metal sound. Alternative Press stated: "Despite distancing themselves from their distinctive sound in recent years, Papa Roach's early output shaped the aspect of nü metal that the mainstream embraced with open arms—riff-laden, radio-friendly (at least, after a few bleeps) singles with dark, earworm lyrics designed to upset parents. Jacoby Shaddix's in-your-face tones introduced many teenagers to their nü-metal awakening, supported by completely singable and seductive guitar lines that made this outfit so instrumental in the genre. So much so that a feature from Shaddix serves as a seal of approval for any album."[145]

Regarding the band's album "Infest," Kerrang! magazine remarked: "Straining vocal cords and detonating dancefloors with 'Last Resort,' tugging the heartstrings with 'Broken Home,' and embedding themselves under our skin with 'Between Angels And Insects,' Jacoby Shaddix's Californian group didn't just deliver an overload of angst—they unleashed every ounce of emotion through arguably the catchiest songwriting nu metal would ever see. Adolescence never truly ends, and even now, these are absolutely essential sounds."[146]

Band members

[edit]

Current members

  • Jacoby Shaddix – lead vocals, keyboards, programming, percussion (1993–present)
  • Jerry Horton – guitars, backing vocals (1993–present)
  • Tobin Esperance – bass, programming, backing vocals (1996–present)
  • Tony Palermo – drums (2007–present)

Former members

  • Will James – bass, backing vocals (1993–1996)
  • Dave Buckner – drums (1993–1994, 1994–2007)
  • Ben Luther – trombone (1993, 1995, 2011, 2024)
  • Anne Mikolajcik – guitar (1993)
  • Ryan Brown – drums (1994)

Touring members

  • Anthony "Twan" Esperance – guitar, keyboards, percussion, backing vocals (2017–present)[147][148]

Former touring members

  • Shawn Westmeister – drums (2001)
  • Mike Doherty – rhythm guitar (2002)
  • Wesley Geer – rhythm guitar (2006)

Timeline

[edit]

Discography

[edit]
Main article: Papa Roach discography

Studio albums

Awards and nominations

[edit]

iHeart Radio Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2018 Papa Roach Rock Artist of the Year Nominated [149]
2018 "Help" Rock Song of the Year Nominated [149]
2023 Papa Roach Rock Artist of the Year Won [150]

BDS Spin Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result
2004 "She Loves Me Not" 100,000 Spins Won
2005 "Getting Away With Murder" 100,000 Spins Won
2006 "Scars" 300,000 Spins Won
2007 "Forever" 100,000 Spins Won
2007 "To Be Loved..." 50,000 Spins Won
2012 "Last Resort" 400,000 Spins Won

Billboard Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2000 "Last Resort" Modern Rock Track of the Year Nominated [151]
2005 Papa Roach Rock Artist of the Year Nominated [152]

California Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result
2001 "Last Resort" Outstanding Single Won
2003 "Lovehatetragedy" Outstanding Hard Rock/Alternative Album Nominated

Echo Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result
2001 "Infest" Echo Award for Best International Rock/Alternative Group Nominated

Grammy Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2001 Papa Roach Best New Artist Nominated [153]
"Broken Home" Best Music Video, Short Form Nominated
2022 "Born For Greatness (Cymek Remix)" Best Remixed Recording Nominated

Hungarian Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2002 Infest Best Foreign Rock Album Nominated [154]
2003 Lovehatetragedy Nominated [155]

Kerrang! Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2001 Papa Roach Best International Live Act Won [156][157]
"Last Resort" Best Video Won
2009 Hollywood Whore Nominated [158]

Loudwire Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result
2012 "Still Swingin'" Best Rock Song Nominated
2015 "Face Everything and Rise" Best Rock Song Nominated
2015 Papa Roach Best Rock Band Nominated
2017 Papa Roach Hard Rock Artist of the Year Nominated
2017 "Crooked Teeth" Hard Rock Album of the Year Nominated

MTV Video Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2000 Papa Roach (for "Last Resort") Best New Artist Nominated [159]

Pollstar Concert Industry Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2001 Tour Best New Artist Tour Nominated [160]

Radio Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result
2001 "Last Resort" Song of the Year/Rock Alternative Radio Won

Teen Choice Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result
2001 Papa Roach Choice Rock Group Nominated
2005 "Scars" Choice Rock Track Nominated

Zebrik Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result
2000 Papa Roach Best International Surprise Nominated

References

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Papa Roach

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Papa Roach is an American rock band from , formed in 1993, renowned for pioneering the genre in the late 1990s and early 2000s before evolving into a act with themes of personal struggle, resilience, and awareness. The band achieved mainstream breakthrough with their second studio album, Infest (2000), which sold over three million copies in its first year in the United States and was later certified four-times platinum by the RIAA for four million units shipped. The lead single "Last Resort" became a global hit, peaking at number 57 on the and exemplifying their aggressive rap-rock fusion that resonated with a generation grappling with angst and alienation. Comprising vocalist , guitarist , bassist Tobin Esperance, and drummer , Papa Roach has released 11 studio albums, selling more than 20 million records worldwide, with subsequent successes including the singles "Scars" from Getting Away with Murder (2004) and recent collaborations like "Leave a Light On (Talk Away the Dark)" with in 2024, certified gold by the RIAA as of September 2025. Despite the decline of in the mid-2000s, the band adapted by incorporating melodic elements, addressing Shaddix's battles with and on albums like The Connection (2012) and Ego Trip (2022), while maintaining a dedicated fanbase through consistent touring. In 2025, they are celebrating the 25th anniversary of Infest with the "Rise of the Roach" tour, including arena shows across and the , underscoring their enduring relevance in .

History

Formation and early career (1993–1999)

Papa Roach was formed in January 1993 in , when vocalist and drummer Dave Buckner met on the football field at Vacaville High School during an off-season practice. Shortly thereafter, they recruited guitarist and bassist Will James to complete the initial lineup, with additional early members including trombonist Ben Luther and guitarist Anne Mikolajcik. The band's name originated from a nickname given to Shaddix's grandfather, "Papa Roach," reflecting a gritty, resilient image that aligned with their emerging sound. The group adopted a DIY , performing their first show in 1994 and building a local following through gigs in the scene, often facing challenges like small venues and limited resources. Drummer Dave Buckner was temporarily replaced by Ryan Brown during this period, as Buckner handled other commitments. They self-released their debut EP, Potatoes for Christmas, that year, followed by another EP, Caca Bonita, in 1995. In 1997, Papa Roach self-released their debut full-length album, Old Friends from Young Years, produced independently and limited to approximately 1,000 copies, which sold out quickly in the local area. The album featured tracks such as "Orange Drive Palms" and "Liquid Diet," showcasing a raw fusion of rap-rock and alternative influences that captured their high school-era energy. They continued regional tours across California, honing their live performance amid the competitive Bay Area music scene. By 1996, bassist James departed, and the band recruited longtime roadie Tobin Esperance as his replacement. Additional EPs, including 5 Tracks Deep in 1998 and Let 'Em Know in 1999, further demonstrated their evolution and garnered attention from major labels after Warner Bros. passed on an early demo. This persistence paid off when Papa Roach signed with DreamWorks Records in late 1999, marking the end of their independent phase and setting the stage for their major-label breakthrough.

Breakthrough and mainstream success (2000–2005)

Papa Roach achieved widespread commercial success with the release of their major-label debut album, Infest, on April 25, 2000, through DreamWorks Records. The album, which blended nu-metal aggression with introspective lyrics, sold over 5 million copies worldwide and was certified 3× Platinum by the RIAA in the United States by 2001, later reaching 4× Platinum in 2024. Its breakout single, "Last Resort," released in September 2000, peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart for seven weeks and became a staple of early 2000s rock radio, with its music video depicting the band's high-energy performance interspersed with scenes of angsty teenagers transitioning from isolated bedrooms to a chaotic mosh pit crowd, symbolizing release from personal turmoil. Other key singles from Infest included "Between Angels and Insects" and "Broken Home," both of which charted on the Modern Rock Tracks list and contributed to the album's momentum in the nu-metal scene. The band's visibility exploded through high-profile tours and events in 2000. Their performance at in July 1999, marked by a raw set amid the festival's escalating tensions and riots, drew significant media attention and helped secure their DreamWorks deal, propelling them into the mainstream. In 2000, Papa Roach joined the main stage of alongside acts like and , exposing them to massive audiences across . They also performed at the , delivering "Last Resort" and "Broken Home" on the marquee, which amplified their presence on rotation. Global expansion followed with tours in and , including headline slots on the Infest Tour, solidifying their international fanbase during the peak of the nu-metal era. Building on this foundation, Papa Roach released their follow-up album, , on June 18, 2002, which debuted at No. 2 on the and was certified Gold by the RIAA. Singles like "She Loves Me Not" and "Time and Time Again" maintained radio play, with the former reaching No. 9 on Modern Rock Tracks, though the album shifted slightly toward punk influences while retaining nu-metal edges. Their third major-label effort, Getting Away with Murder, arrived on August 31, 2004, debuting at No. 17 on the and eventually certified . The album's lead single "Scars," released in November 2004, earned certification from the RIAA for over 1 million units sold and peaked at No. 15 on the , while "" further showcased their evolving melodic . By , Papa Roach had progressed to headlining major arena tours, such as the Never Say Never World Tour, and their cumulative album sales had surpassed 15 million copies worldwide.

Lineup changes and mid-career evolution (2006–2012)

In 2006, Papa Roach released their fifth studio , The Paramour Sessions, which debuted at No. 4 on the chart. The was recorded at the historic Paramour Mansion in , a location chosen to foster creative immersion amid the band's evolving sound. Key singles from the record included "...To Be Loved," which addressed themes of vulnerability in relationships, and "Forever," a reflecting on enduring commitment. Despite critical mixed reception for its shift toward melodic , the sold approximately 459,000 copies in the United States, signaling a stabilization in sales following the band's earlier mainstream peak. The band's lineup underwent its first major change in 2007 when original drummer Dave Buckner departed due to family commitments, prioritizing time with his children over touring demands. , previously of the band Unjust, joined as his replacement and has remained with Papa Roach since, bringing a fresh energy to their live performances. This transition occurred amid internal tensions, including creative disagreements and the pressures of maintaining relevance in a post-nu metal landscape, as frontman later reflected on the challenges of balancing personal life with band obligations. The change prompted a period of reevaluation, with the band embarking on European tours, such as their 2007 headline shows across the and , to test new material and reconnect with international fans. Papa Roach's sixth studio album, Metamorphosis, arrived in 2009 and peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard 200, marking a deliberate genre shift toward alternative rock with cleaner production and introspective lyrics. Produced by James Michael, the record featured singles like "Hollywood Whore," a critique of fame's superficiality that reached No. 4 on the Mainstream Rock chart, and "Lifeline," an uplifting anthem about resilience. This evolution aimed to broaden their appeal beyond aggressive rap-rock roots, incorporating pop-punk and electronic elements while addressing personal struggles like addiction and recovery. Album sales hovered around 500,000 units globally, reflecting a steady but diminished commercial footprint compared to prior releases. In 2010, the band issued Time for Annihilation... On the Record and On the Road, a hybrid live album capturing performances from their high-energy tours, supplemented by five new studio tracks such as "Burn" and "Kick in the Teeth" to bridge their old and emerging styles. Accompanying this was the "...Ish" EP, a digital release compiling remixed and acoustic versions of recent material to engage fans digitally. That year, Papa Roach toured extensively, including slots on the Rockstar Mayhem Festival alongside acts like Disturbed and Godsmack, which helped sustain their live draw amid lineup adjustments. European legs of these tours, including festival appearances at and Sonisphere, further solidified their international presence despite ongoing internal dynamics. By 2012, Papa Roach delivered The Connection, their seventh studio album, which debuted at No. 16 on the Billboard 200 and explored themes of sobriety and interpersonal bonds through a hard rock lens. Standout singles included "Still Swinging," a defiant track on perseverance that peaked at No. 16 on the Mainstream Rock chart, and "Leader of the Lost," emphasizing leadership in adversity. The album featured collaborations with producer and subtle guest inputs from artists like on backing vocals, enhancing its polished, radio-friendly edge. Sales figures aligned with prior efforts at roughly 500,000 worldwide, underscoring the band's mid-career adaptation to a niche audience while navigating tensions over artistic direction.

Later albums and experimentation (2013–2020)

In 2015, Papa Roach released their eighth studio album, F.E.A.R. (Face Everything and Rise), on January 27 through Eleven Seven Music, marking a continued partnership with the label they had joined in 2011. The album debuted at number 15 on the chart and number 2 on the Top Rock Albums chart, with 24,000 copies sold in its first week according to Nielsen SoundScan. Lead single "Face Everything and Rise" emphasized themes of resilience, while "Gravity" explored emotional vulnerability, contributing to the record's blend of intensity and introspective lyrics. Overall, F.E.A.R. sold approximately 50,000 units in the U.S., reflecting the band's adaptation to a shifting music landscape where physical sales were supplemented by growing digital streams. Building on this momentum, Papa Roach issued their ninth studio album, Crooked Teeth, on May 19, , again via Eleven Seven Music. It entered the at number 20, moving 18,000 units in its debut week, and topped the Albums chart. The release showcased genre experimentation with rap-rock elements, including a collaboration with Machine Gun Kelly on the track "Sunrise Trailer Park," which fused hip-hop flows with the band's signature aggression. Singles "" addressed societal disillusionment, while "Born for Greatness" became a mainstream rock staple, reaching number one on the Mainstream Rock Airplay for three weeks and serving as the official theme for WWE's pay-per-view event in as well as the opening sequence for Monday Night Raw from 2018 onward. The album ultimately sold around 70,000 units domestically, bolstered by robust streaming performance as the band embraced platforms like to reach younger audiences. Papa Roach's experimentation peaked with their tenth studio album, Who Do You Trust?, released on , , under Eleven Seven Music. Debuting at number 13 on the with about 20,000 equivalent album units in the first week, it incorporated electronic synths and pop sensibilities alongside traditional rock riffs, signaling a deliberate evolution to stay relevant in the streaming-dominated era. Singles "Renegade" and "Come Around" highlighted this sonic shift, with the former critiquing personal betrayal through pulsating beats and the latter blending melodic hooks with raw energy. By , the band had amassed over one billion streams on alone, underscoring their successful pivot to digital consumption amid declining traditional sales. Throughout the late 2010s, Papa Roach maintained a rigorous touring schedule to support these releases, including the extensive Crooked Teeth Tour in 2017, which featured high-energy sets blending new material with classics. They performed at major festivals such as Rockfest in 2019, where their set drew large crowds with hits like "Last Resort," and shared stages with collaborators like Machine Gun Kelly during joint appearances. This period of creative risk-taking and live resurgence solidified the band's endurance, with total album sales for these three records hovering between 50,000 and 100,000 units each in the U.S., driven more by touring revenue and streaming than pure physical copies.

Ego Trip and 25th anniversary celebrations (2021–2025)

In early 2022, Papa Roach launched their independent label, New Noize Records, and released their eleventh studio album, Ego Trip, on April 8 through the imprint in partnership with ADA Worldwide. The album debuted at No. 16 on the chart, marking a return to introspective themes amid the pandemic's aftermath, with production handled by band members and Tobin Esperance alongside Nicholas "RAS" Furlong. Lead singles "," which addressed struggles, and "Cut the Line," a collaboration with , both preceded the full release and helped propel the record's reception, emphasizing the band's shift toward self-released creative control after years with major labels. Supporting Ego Trip, Papa Roach embarked on the Ego Trip World Tour from late 2022 through 2023, spanning , , and with dates including arena shows and festival appearances that showcased tracks from the album alongside career staples. In 2024, the band joined as special guests on select legs of the Saviors Tour, performing at major stadium venues across and contributing to high-energy billings that drew over 500,000 attendees collectively. These tours underscored Papa Roach's post-pandemic resurgence, with live performances highlighting fan interaction and setlist evolutions that blended new material like "Ego Trip" with classics. The year 2025 brought further momentum with new releases tied to the band's ongoing evolution. On January 22, Papa Roach issued the single "," a raw on resilience produced by the band and Furlong, accompanied by a lyrics video and later acoustic reimaginings that amplified its emotional depth for streaming platforms. Follow-up "," featuring vocals from H2O's , arrived on June 25 and topped the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart in , securing the band's 12th No. 1 there and reinforcing their radio dominance with themes of societal disconnection. Acoustic versions of both tracks extended their reach, offering stripped-down interpretations that resonated in intimate settings. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of their breakthrough album Infest, Papa Roach announced the "Rise of the Roach" tour on November 8, 2024, co-headlining North American dates with and featuring on select dates, kicking off on March 20, 2025, and extending through amphitheaters and arenas with over 180,000 tickets sold by year's end. The tour included deep cuts and full-album performances from Infest, blending nostalgia with pyrotechnic production. In the UK, they headlined their largest show to date at OVO Arena Wembley on February 7, part of the broader Rise of the Roach Tour, which incorporated anniversary visuals and fan-voted elements. These events built on the band's win for Rock Artist of the Year, whose ongoing impact—recognized through sustained streaming and sales—pushed their career album equivalents past 20 million units worldwide by late 2025.

Upcoming twelfth studio album

In January 2025, Papa Roach frontman announced that the band's twelfth studio album is in development, with a planned release in late 2025 or early 2026. The project will be released through the band's own label, New Noize Records, in partnership with ADA. Shaddix described the album as "very diverse," incorporating a blend of heavy, experimental, and emotional tracks produced with multiple collaborators to explore evolving sounds. Recent singles "Even If It Kills Me," released in January 2025, and "BRAINDEAD" featuring H2O vocalist , released in June 2025, are expected to feature on the album. These tracks emphasize themes of resilience and , with "Even If It Kills Me" serving as an anthemic call to persevere through adversity and "BRAINDEAD" addressing societal numbness and the urgency of emotional awakening. By June 2025, the band had completed approximately half the album, including five or six songs, with recording sessions ongoing since earlier in the year. The album's promotion is set to integrate with Papa Roach's 2025 25th anniversary tour celebrating their breakthrough album Infest, including festival appearances and headline shows through the end of the year. As of November 2025, no official tracklist or artwork has been revealed.

Musical style, influences, and legacy

Musical style

Papa Roach's musical style originated in the late 1990s and rap-rock scenes, characterized by aggressive rap-infused verses, heavy guitar riffs, and hip-hop elements such as turntable scratches and electronic beats. Their breakthrough album Infest (2000) exemplified this sound with tracks blending shout-rapped aggression and melodic hooks, creating a thick, high-energy sonic palette that emphasized raw intensity over subtlety. Over time, the band incorporated influences, shifting toward more accessible structures while retaining core elements like driving rhythms and dynamic contrasts between verses and choruses. By the mid-2000s, Papa Roach evolved away from overt rap-rock toward and , introducing cleaner vocals and arena-ready melodic choruses, as heard in Getting Away with Murder (2004). This progression continued into the , with Crooked Teeth (2017) incorporating sensibilities through upbeat tempos and catchy, riff-driven hooks that balanced aggression with radio-friendly polish. In their more recent work, such as Ego Trip (2022), the style has further diversified with modern electronic synths, trap-inspired drum patterns, and genre-blending rap sections, resulting in a versatile fusion that maintains nu metal's rhythmic bounce while embracing contemporary production flair. Lyrically, Papa Roach's songs consistently explore themes of personal struggles, , fractured relationships, and emotional resilience, often delivered with visceral intensity to convey . Frontman Jacoby Shaddix's screamed and yelled vocal style amplifies these narratives, as in "Last Resort" from Infest, where raw shouts underscore lyrics about suicidal despair drawn from real-life experiences of loss and crises. This approach fosters a sense of urgency and relatability, turning individual pain into anthemic calls for perseverance. Production techniques in Papa Roach's discography emphasize live-wire energy, capturing band performances to preserve organic aggression, while selectively incorporating guest rappers for added hip-hop texture, such as Machine Gun Kelly on Crooked Teeth. This method has allowed their sound to evolve dynamically, prioritizing impactful hooks and layered instrumentation without losing the foundational grit of their roots.

Influences

Papa Roach's formation in the mid-1990s was shaped by a blend of rap-metal fusion, heavy metal riffs, and funk-rock energy from key artists. The band drew significant inspiration from , whose innovative mix of hip-hop rhythms and aggressive rock influenced Papa Roach's early sound and vocal delivery. Lead singer has repeatedly praised as one of his favorite bands, calling frontman a top influence on his singing style and crediting them with pioneering the rap-metal genre that later became known as nu-metal. The heavy, riff-driven approach of Metallica also impacted the band, particularly guitarist , who has said that Metallica's 1988 album ...And Justice for All sparked his interest in guitar playing and metal music. Additionally, the energetic funk-rock grooves of the contributed to Papa Roach's rhythmic intensity and live performance style, helping to infuse their music with a dynamic, danceable edge. In their formative years, Papa Roach incorporated elements from hip-hop, punk, and genres that added rap-infused verses, aggressive attitudes, and introspective lyrics to their evolving style. Hip-hop acts like and the provided early inspiration for the rap components in songs such as "Last Resort," reflecting the band's roots where hip-hop was prevalent alongside rock. Punk influences came from bands like and , with Shaddix citing Social Distortion's as a favorite singer for his storytelling prowess and Bad Religion noted by bassist Tobin Esperance as a source of punk aggression and energy. pioneers Nirvana influenced the emotional rawness and lyrical vulnerability in Papa Roach's work, drawing from the scene's focus on personal turmoil amid heavy instrumentation. Shaddix has personally acknowledged icons like for their broader impact on rock and metal, describing Osbourne as "one of the greats" with a "massive impact" on music due to his resilience and stage presence, ties reinforced through Papa Roach's performances. Emerging amid the late-1990s nu-metal wave with contemporaries like Korn and , Papa Roach distanced themselves from the label, with Shaddix expressing frustration at being categorized alongside them and emphasizing their roots in earlier, more diverse influences rather than the scene's trends.

Legacy

Papa Roach's enduring presence in the rock music landscape spans over three decades, having formed in 1993 and remaining active through 2025, a testament to their adaptability amid the genre's shifts. The band has sold more than 20 million albums worldwide, achieving this milestone despite the mid-2000s backlash against nu-metal that marginalized many contemporaries. Their sustained touring schedule, including the 2025 Rise of the Roach tour with support from and , which concluded its U.S. leg in October 2025 after selling out arenas, underscores their resilience and continued draw for live audiences. This longevity reflects a strategic evolution from early aggression to broader rock explorations, allowing them to outlast the nu-metal era's decline. A cornerstone of their cultural impact is the 2000 single "Last Resort," which became an anthem for early 2000s youth culture, capturing themes of personal struggle and desperation that resonated deeply with millennial audiences navigating mental health challenges and societal pressures. The track, from their breakthrough album Infest, has amassed over 1.4 billion streams on Spotify alone as of late 2025, cementing its status as a defining hit of the era and a symbol of raw emotional expression in rock. Papa Roach's music, particularly this song, provided a soundtrack for "angry young men" during the Vans Warped Tour era, influencing perceptions of vulnerability in hard rock. In terms of genre evolution, Papa Roach played a pivotal role in bridging nu-metal's intensity with modern rock's melodic accessibility, transitioning from rap-infused aggression in their early work to and alternative styles by the mid-2000s, which helped revitalize their career and expand their appeal. This shift influenced subsequent acts, such as , with whom they collaborated on the 2023 track "Swerve (Rockzilla Remix)" from the album Ego Trip, and , whose frontman has acknowledged Papa Roach as an early inspiration for their own genre-blending sound. By evolving beyond nu-metal stereotypes, Papa Roach contributed to the foundation for post-2010s rock acts that fused electronic, , and pop elements. The band's fanbase demonstrates remarkable endurance, with a dedicated live following that fills arenas and festivals, as evidenced by sold-out shows like their 2025 performance at the in . Their adaptability to digital platforms has further strengthened this loyalty; "Last Resort" experienced renewed virality on in 2020-2021 through user-generated remixes, leading to an official collaboration with TikTok creator Jeris Johnson on "Last Resort (Reloaded)," which amplified the song's reach to younger generations. This streaming-era resurgence, including billions of total plays across services, highlights Papa Roach's ability to maintain relevance through fan-driven content and cross-generational appeal. In 2025, Papa Roach continued their output with singles like "" and "" (feat. ), ahead of their twelfth studio album slated for late 2025, further showcasing their evolution.

Band members

Current members

Jacoby Shaddix (born July 28, 1976) is the lead vocalist and primary lyricist of Papa Roach, serving as the band's frontman since its inception in 1993. Known initially by the stage name Coby Dick, Shaddix brings high-energy performances and lyrics that often explore themes of and personal resilience, shaping the band's emotional core. Jerry Horton (born March 10, 1975) has been the rhythm and lead guitarist, as well as a , since co-founding Papa Roach in 1993. A key creative force, Horton contributes to the band's guitar-driven sound and has been involved in aspects of recording and engineering for their albums. Tobin Esperance (born November 14, 1979) joined Papa Roach in 1996 as the bassist, succeeding Will James, and has since become a primary songwriter and co-producer on several albums, including later releases like Ego Trip (2022). His bass work provides the rhythmic foundation for the band's style. Tony Palermo (born November 22, 1979), the drummer since 2007, previously played with punk rock bands Pulley and Unwritten Law before becoming Papa Roach's full-time percussionist following Dave Buckner's departure. Palermo's drumming adds a dynamic, hard-hitting element to the band's live shows and recordings.

Former members

Dave Buckner co-founded Papa Roach in 1993 and served as the band's drummer until 2007. His tenure spanned the group's breakthrough success with albums like Infest and Lovehatetragedy, contributing to their nu-metal sound through energetic percussion. Buckner took a leave in spring 2007 for personal matters and officially parted ways in January 2008 to focus on family life, a decision the band described as one of the hardest they had faced. His departure represented a pivotal shift in the band's lineup during their mid-career evolution, prompting a search for a permanent replacement amid ongoing touring and recording commitments. Following his exit, Buckner entered music production, co-owning publishing rights to early Papa Roach albums and exploring songwriting projects. Will James was Papa Roach's original bassist from 1993 to 1996, joining shortly after the band's formation in . His contributions appeared on early independent releases like the EP Potatoes for Christmas, helping shape the group's initial rap-rock style during local gigs and self-released efforts. James departed amicably in 1996 as the band sought to professionalize, with no publicized conflicts surrounding his exit. Since leaving, he has maintained a low profile outside the music spotlight, with limited public details on subsequent activities. Other early and touring members included trombonist Ben Luther in 1993, who left during the band's formative months as they refined their lineup. Ryan Brown briefly filled in on drums in 1994 for the recording of Potatoes for while Buckner was temporarily unavailable. Anne Mikolajcik, an early member on guitar in 1993, left during the band's formative period. No major conflicts have been publicized regarding these departures, which occurred primarily during Papa Roach's pre-major label phase.

Timeline

Papa Roach's lineup has undergone several changes since its formation, primarily in the rhythm section, while maintaining a core group of members tied to key milestones in their career. The following table outlines the major personnel shifts:
YearEventActive Members
1993Band formed in , by high school friends. (vocals), (guitar), Dave Buckner (drums), Will James (bass)
1996Bassist Will James departs; Tobin Esperance joins as bassist ahead of early recordings. (vocals), (guitar), Dave Buckner (drums), Tobin Esperance (bass)
2007Drummer Dave Buckner leaves due to personal matters during a touring break; joins as drummer. (vocals), (guitar), Tobin Esperance (bass), (drums)
2008–2025Lineup stabilizes as a , supporting album releases and tours including the 2025 Rise of the Roach Tour. (vocals), (guitar), Tobin Esperance (bass), (drums)

Discography

Studio albums

Papa Roach's debut studio album, , was released independently on February 4, 1997. It did not chart on the . The band's major-label breakthrough came with Infest, released on April 25, 2000, by . It peaked at No. 5 on the and was certified 4× Platinum by the RIAA on December 6, 2024, for sales of 4 million units in the United States. Lovehatetragedy followed on June 18, 2002, also via , reaching No. 2 on the and earning Gold certification from the RIAA on July 19, 2002, for 500,000 units sold. In 2004, Getting Away with Murder was issued on August 31 by , debuting at No. 2 on the and certified Platinum by the RIAA on October 12, 2005, for exceeding 1 million units. The Paramour Sessions, released on September 12, 2006, by , peaked at No. 4 on the and received Gold certification from the RIAA on December 6, 2024. came out on March 24, 2009, under , achieving a peak of No. 8 on the . The seventh album, The Connection, was released on October 2, 2012, by Eleven Seven Music, reaching No. 16 on the 200. F.E.A.R. arrived on January 27, 2015, via Eleven Seven Music, debuting at No. 17 on the 200. Crooked Teeth, the ninth studio effort, was issued on May 19, 2017, by Eleven Seven Music, peaking at No. 16 on the 200. Who Do You Trust? followed on January 18, 2019, through Eleven Seven Music, attaining No. 13 on the Billboard 200. The band's eleventh album, Ego Trip, was released on April 8, 2022, by Papa Roach Recordings/, and peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard 200. Papa Roach's studio albums have collectively sold over 10 million copies worldwide.

Other releases

Papa Roach has released several non-studio albums, including live recordings, extended plays, and compilations that complement their main . Their sole live album, Time for Annihilation... On the Record & On the Road (2010), is a hybrid release featuring nine live performances captured during their 2009 tour alongside five new studio tracks, marking a transitional effort between their Geffen and Eleven Seven eras. The band's extended plays include early demos that foreshadowed their breakthrough sound. 5 Tracks Deep (1998), released on Onion Hardcore Records, served as a pre-Infest demo EP with raw nu-metal tracks like "Revenge in Japanese" and "Thrown Away," which were later re-recorded for their major-label debut. Other notable EPs encompass Let 'Em Know (1999), an independent release promoting their rising profile, and acoustic-focused efforts such as Naked and Fearless: Acoustic EP (2009) and Live Session (iTunes Exclusive) (2007), which highlighted stripped-down arrangements of fan favorites. More recent EPs include Leave a Light On (Talk Away the Dark) [New Edition] (2023), expanding on their mental health advocacy single with additional versions and collaborations. Compilations have provided retrospective collections of the band's hits. ...To Be Loved: The Best of Papa Roach (2010), released via Geffen, compiles 14 tracks spanning their early peak, including staples like "Broken Home" and "Scars." Later, 2010-2020 Greatest Hits Vol. 2: The Better Noise Years (2021) on Eleven Seven Music aggregates 21 remastered tracks from their post-2010 output, emphasizing radio successes such as "Born for Greatness" and "Help," with some acoustic and remixed variants. No major B-sides collection exists, though these compilations incorporate select rarities. Key singles from Papa Roach's catalog have achieved significant commercial success and cultural impact. "Last Resort" (2000) from Infest became their signature hit, certified 4× Platinum by the RIAA for over 4 million units sold in the U.S., and topped modern rock charts worldwide. "Scars" (2004) from Getting Away with Murder earned Platinum certification by the RIAA, reflecting their shift toward melodic rock. Later releases like "Help" (2017) from Crooked Teeth addressed mental health themes and peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart, while "Braindead" (2025, featuring Toby Morse of H2O) marked a heavier, hardcore-infused return, released as a standalone single. Additional highlights include "Born for Greatness" (2015), certified Gold by the RIAA, and "Leave a Light On (Talk Away the Dark)" (2023, featuring Carrie Underwood), also Gold-certified for its suicide prevention message. Papa Roach's music videos and licensing appearances have extended their reach into pop culture, particularly wrestling. "Last Resort" (2000) features a gritty, narrative-driven video that amplified its rotation. Their track "...To Be Loved" (2006) served as the theme from 2006 to 2009, enhancing the show's high-energy intros. "Born for Greatness" (2015) later became an official Raw theme in 2018, underscoring the band's enduring ties to .

Awards and nominations

Grammy Awards

Papa Roach earned two nominations at the in 2001. The band was nominated for Best New Artist, a category recognizing emerging talent, but the award went to for her album . Additionally, they received a nod in Best Short Form Music Video for the "Broken Home" clip, directed by , which lost to the Foo Fighters' "," directed by . These honors highlighted the band's rising profile following the multi-platinum success of their 2000 album Infest, underscoring the visibility of nu-metal acts in mainstream award recognition during the early 2000s. At the 64th Annual Grammy Awards in 2022, Papa Roach was nominated for Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical for "Born for Greatness (Cymek Remix)" by Spencer Bastin, but did not win. Papa Roach has not secured any Grammy wins throughout their career.

Other awards and nominations

Papa Roach has received several nominations and wins across various music awards outside of the Grammy Awards, recognizing their impact in rock and alternative genres. In 2023, the band won the iHeartRadio Music Award for Rock Artist of the Year, highlighting their enduring popularity in the rock scene. They were also nominated for Rock Song of the Year at the 2018 iHeartRadio Music Awards for their track "Help," which underscored their songwriting prowess during that period. The band was nominated for Choice Music: Rock Track at the 2005 Teen Choice Awards for "Scars," a song that resonated widely with younger audiences and solidified their nu-metal influence. In recognition of their early work, Papa Roach received a nomination for Outstanding Hard Rock/Alternative Album at the 2003 California Music Awards for lovehatetragedy, acknowledging their regional roots and artistic evolution. They also won the Outstanding Single award at the 2001 California Music Awards for "Last Resort". Additionally, they were named one of the Top 5 Live Bands of 2022 by the CrowdUltra Awards, praising their dynamic performance energy and fan engagement in the live music space. On the charts, Papa Roach has achieved significant milestones, securing 12 No. 1 hits on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Airplay chart as of 2025, tying them among the acts with the most leaders in the ranking's history. Their most recent chart-topper, "" featuring of H2O, reached No. 1 in September 2025, marking their twelfth such success and demonstrating their continued relevance in rock radio.

Activism and philanthropy

Mental health advocacy

Papa Roach has consistently incorporated mental health themes into their lyrics, drawing from frontman Jacoby Shaddix's personal experiences to address issues like suicide ideation, depression, and addiction recovery. Their breakthrough single "Last Resort" from the 2000 album Infest serves as a raw depiction of suicidal thoughts and desperation, with Shaddix describing it as "a cry for help" that resonated with fans facing similar struggles. Later tracks like "Help" from the 2017 album Crooked Teeth explicitly urge listeners to seek support during dark times, with Shaddix stating, "This song is about reaching out when you’re in a dark place." More recently, "Cut the Line" from the 2022 album Ego Trip explores themes of overcoming addiction, reflecting Shaddix's journey toward sobriety and self-empowerment. Shaddix has been candid about his own battles with depression and , which have profoundly shaped the band's messaging. He has described a history of harsh that exacerbated his challenges, leading to periods of intense emotional turmoil. Achieving in February 2012 after years of relapses, Shaddix marked 12 years alcohol-free in 2024 and 13 years in 2025, and has since emphasized and forgiveness as key to his recovery, incorporating practices like and writing to maintain stability. By sharing these experiences publicly, he aims to normalize discussions around mental illness and encourage others to confront their struggles without shame. A notable initiative in the band's advocacy efforts is the "Rise of the Roach" tour, launched in 2025 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Infest and extending through the year, where they actively promote conversations during performances. At tour stops, Shaddix and the band foster community-building moments, such as performing songs like "Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark)" to highlight and urging fans to support one another. Shaddix has articulated the tour's purpose as creating tangible change, noting, " and aren’t just causes for us — they’re part of our story. This tour was about building community and creating change." Through interviews, Shaddix has broadened the band's role in stigma reduction, positioning himself as a "testament of strength and hope" to inspire fans to pursue and open dialogue about . He frequently recounts how Papa Roach's music has saved lives, with fans approaching him to say, "Your music saved my life," reinforcing his commitment to using the band's platform for awareness and compassionate support. This advocacy extends to collaborations that amplify resources for those in need, emphasizing that vulnerability in art can lead to healing and connection.

Donations and partnerships

Papa Roach has maintained a long-standing partnership with the (AFSP) since 2020, supporting its "Talk Away the Dark" campaign through various fundraising efforts. In 2025, the band raised $230,000 for AFSP from ticket sales and initiatives during the U.S. leg of their 25th anniversary "Rise of the Roach" tour, which concluded in October. This donation built on prior contributions, including a $150,000 gift in 2023 from their joint tour with and . In early 2025, Papa Roach extended their philanthropy to the UK-based (CALM), a charity. Following their sold-out UK tour, including a headline performance at London's OVO Arena Wembley on February 7, the band donated £20,000 in February, generated from £1 per ticket sold across the tour dates. The band also headlined the fifth annual Rock 2 Freedom benefit on October 18, 2025, at the , organized by the Slave 2 Nothing Foundation to support substance abuse recovery and healing. During their September 27 tour stop in —near the hometown of the nonprofit—Papa Roach pledged a portion of proceeds to Marshmallow's , a Rockford-based organization providing resources for youth. The Canadian leg of the Rise of the Roach tour, scheduled for November and December 2025, includes $1 per ticket donated to the Centre for Addiction and (CAMH) and 9-8-8 to support initiatives. Papa Roach integrates charitable giving into their tours through merchandise sales, fan meet-and-greets, and direct donation prompts, contributing to a cumulative total of nearly $500,000 raised for and related causes since 2020.

References

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