Hubbry Logo
EmarosaEmarosaMain
Open search
Emarosa
Community hub
Emarosa
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Emarosa
Emarosa
Emarosa
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Emarosa (/ɛməˈroʊsə/ EM-ə-ROH-sə) is an American rock band formed in Lexington, Kentucky, in 2006. The band currently consists of lead guitarist and founding member ER White and lead vocalist Bradley Walden, who joined the band in 2013. The group has undergone several line-up changes throughout its career, with lead guitarist ER White being the sole remaining founding member. Originally oriented towards post-hardcore and alternative rock, Emarosa has gravitated towards a more pop rock sound in recent years.

Key Information

Upon the band's formation, they released one extended play (EP) in 2007, titled This Is Your Way Out, and shortly after, the group underwent significant line-up and sound changes, dropping their metalcore influence and leaning towards a more rock sound.[1][2] The band released their debut studio album, Relativity (2008), which featured vocalist Jonny Craig and rhythm guitarist Jonas Ladekjaer. Their eponymous second studio album was released in June 2010, to critical acclaim, and was Craig's final album with the group.

Following Craig's departure, the band toured briefly with Tilian Pearson filling in on vocals before entering a period of inactivity. Eventually, Craig was formally replaced by Walden. Emarosa then released their third studio album, Versus, on September 9, 2014, which peaked at No. 61 in the Billboard 200. The band signed to Hopeless Records and released their fourth and fifth studio albums, 131 (2016) and Peach Club (2019). The sixth, Sting, was released in January 2023 through Out of Line Music.

History

[edit]

2006–07: Formation and This Is Your Way Out

[edit]

Emarosa began with keyboardist Jordan Stewart, drummer Lukas Koszewski and guitarist ER White having the decision of either attending college, or staying in their hometown of Lexington, Kentucky to start a new band. Stewart stated that "There's too much of an itch to do this," regarding the band he helped start in February 2006.[3] The band origins date back to early high school, which was said by keyboardist Jordan Stewart on Indiestar.tv. Stewart states some of the members had been playing in high school before "taking it serious", referring to four of the original members on the current line-up (ER White, Will Sowers, Lukas Koszweski, Jordan Stewart).[4] Emarosa, formed in 2006 as Corsets Are Cages, recorded a three-song demo with vocalist Chris Roberts and rhythm guitarist Mike Bryant, however they left the band. The band recruited Chris Roetter and Madison Stolzer as replacements for the lost members and changed their name to Emarosa. They were signed to StandBy Records to record their 7 track EP This Is Your Way Out, which included a re-recording of the demo of "Utah, But I'm Taller", renamed just "Utah". It was released on May 1, 2007, by StandBy Records through Rise Records because StandBy had no distribution at the time.

Shortly after the release of their debut EP, Chris Roetter and Madison Stolzer left the band. On November 19, 2007, Jonny Craig, former Dance Gavin Dance vocalist, was officially announced as the new vocalist.[5] Jordan Stewart (keyboardist) and Lukas Koszewski (drummer) were interviewed in which they referred to the problems regarding Jonny Craig and the transitions: "In the beginning it was pretty intense. We would receive rather nasty comments and messages on Myspace asking what happened to Chris and why Jonny was no longer with Dance Gavin Dance. Sometimes when we play, kids will think it is funny to throw in remarks about the change and how they liked the old stuff better. The time between us realizing Chris wasn't working out to the time Jonny joined was extremely short. But even with Chris in the band, it was already decided that our full-length wouldn't have as much screaming. We just kept writing the way we had been before parting ways with Chris."[6] Jonas Ladekjaer also joined the band as their new rhythm guitarist, forming their first solid line-up.

2008–09: Relativity

[edit]
Main article: Relativity (Emarosa album)

On January 26, 2008, Emarosa posted their first official song with Jonny Craig titled, "New Demo" (now known to be "Set It Off Like Napalm"). Two weeks later, the demo of "Pretend. Release. The Close." was put on their player. On May 3, three new post-production songs were added to the MySpace player and the name of the album, Relativity, was revealed. The album was released on July 8, 2008, and received high praise from critics and fans alike. The band embarked on a tour across Canada and the United States with Arise and Ruin and Dead and Divine.[7]

In Emarosa's latest and first video interview with Indiestar, Craig stated that "Set It Off Like Napalm" and "Pretend Release the Close" were "about the life [Craig] was having, [his departure from] Dance Gavin Dance, and how much better [he] was feeling about being in this band [Emarosa]." They were written in one practice session and played live 2 days later. He also said that "Even Bad Men Love Their Mothers" was co-sang by his mother. Boyz II Men was also said to be one of Jonny Craig's main musical influences. Craig states that most of the instrumentals were already completed prior to joining Emarosa, in which Jordan Stewart (keyboardist) says five were completed, to be exact. Jerry Roush, formerly of Sky Eats Airplane and Of Mice & Men, makes an appearance stating he's the new screamer for Emarosa but is joking the entire interview.[8]

Emarosa has been touring for the previous two years with such bands as; Fiora, Akissforjersey, Before Their Eyes, and The Wedding. Emarosa toured with A Skylit Drive, Sky Eats Airplane, and Breathe Carolina the entire month of July. They began another tour in Canada with Canadian headliners Dead and Divine for the month of August and played with Chiodos on August 30, 2008, as a special event in their hometown of Lexington, Kentucky. Emarosa was the headline for the "Rise Records Tour" the entire month of September and first week of October, with support from In Fear and Faith and Attack Attack!. They held their headlining, "The Delicious Tour" alongside Pierce the Veil and Breathe Carolina. Emarosa toured the UK alongside You Me at Six and The Spill Canvas from March 6 until March 13, 2009.[9] A Day to Remember announced their latest US Tour (The Sweet Brag Tour) which included Emarosa along with metalcore bands The Devil Wears Prada and Sky Eats Airplane. The tour stretched from March 14 until May 1, 2009. June 19 – August 1, 2009, Emarosa headlined The Artery Foundation Across the Nation Tour supported by I See Stars, Our Last Night, In Fear and Faith, Burden of a Day, and Broadway.

2010–12: Self-titled second album and Craig's departure

[edit]
Main article: Emarosa (album)

Emarosa informed fans that they had begun recording material for their new album via their YouTube channel.[10] On January 2, 2010, the band entered the studio to record their second studio album working with producer Brian McTernan who had contacted Emarosa previously with plans to record their second album. While recording the band posted updates for fans from the studio which can be seen on their Tumblr blog.[11]

The album was released on June 29, 2010, through Rise Records and received a good amount of praise. In an interview with Punktastic, the band spoke about the overall sound of this album. "I remember during the recording process, ER and I talked a lot about wanting to do more folk/indie stuff for the next record. Really bare bones, mellow and raw." Shrednews said "Emarosa have taken this album to a higher level, with more complex and animated guitar riffs, and pounding drum beats that you will make you headbang without even realizing it."[12]

Craig stated that the band would be traveling to Portland after his solo tour to record a B-side for the self-titled album.[13] He also stated that a version of "The Game Played Right" featuring Modsun would be released in.

While on tour, the band is known to occasionally play "Casablanca" with a guest vocalist. So far Cody Anderson (formerly of In Fear and Faith), Chris Roetter (of Like Moths to Flames, formerly Emarosa and Agraceful, who actually wrote the song), Austin Carlile, Jon Mess (of Dance Gavin Dance), Kyle Tamosaitis (formerly of Burden of a Day), Chris Moore, and Jerry Roush have performed this song alongside the band.

During the summer of 2010, Jonny Craig and Jon Mess both rejoined Dance Gavin Dance (of which they were original members). Although Craig had not announced his plans for his relationship with Emarosa, he concentrated on his work with Dance Gavin Dance whose new album Downtown Battle Mountain II was released March 8, 2011. In Craig's absence Emarosa picked up former Tides of Man touring vocalist, Tilian Pearson.[14][15] On February 27, 2011, Alternative Press broke the news that Craig had turned himself into detox, stemming from reports of Twitter scams and from a longtime addiction.

On April 11, Alternative Press announced that Craig had been kicked out of Emarosa. The band stated that "as of today, Jonny Craig is no longer a member of Emarosa. This decision has been a hard one to make, but we feel it is in the best interest for the band going forward." Tilian Pearson, formerly of Tides of Man, filled in for Craig for 2011's remaining tour dates.[16][17] According to an Alternative Press interview with the band, their ideal vocalist would not be like Craig tone wise. Stewart states "We're not looking for Jonny Craig 2.0. We just want to find someone who can bring something unique to the band."[18]

2013–17: Versus, line-up changes and 131

[edit]
Main article: Versus (Emarosa album)
Main article: 131 (album)

On April 6, 2013, the band posted that they were still looking for a new vocalist.[19] Bassist Will Sowers stated that the band will release a new album in the summer of 2012, although this did not materialize.

On August 15, Emarosa stated that pre-production for their third studio album had begun[20] and confirmed that the album had been tracked in December[21] and would feature Letlive's vocalist Jason Aalon Butler as a guest vocalist on one of the tracks.[22] It was rumored that Pearson had joined the band on a full-time basis, but was later discredited by Pearson himself.[23] However, in December 2013, a demo song from their sessions with Tilian called "Supercow" was leaked on Tumblr and YouTube.[24] Coincidentally, Tilian eventually replaced Craig in his former band, Dance Gavin Dance. On March 28, 2014, the band posted a new video that featured studio interviews and a new song preview, announcing that the new album would be titled Versus.[25] On April 24, the band released the first single, "Mad".[26] According to vocalist Bradley Walden, the album would be released on September 9, 2014.[27]

Emarosa toured in support of Versus with Pvris, Beautiful Bodies and Too Close to Touch.[28] A music video for the "I'll Just Wait" was released on September 18, 2014.[29] On September 19, during an interview with Alternative Press, frontman Bradley Walden finally gave the statement of the departure of members Lukas Koszewski (drums, percussion) and Jonas Ladekjaer (rhythm guitar, backing vocals), with them saying that Koszewski left to pursue a modeling career and Ladekjaer left to go back to school. Walden indicated that there was no animosity between the band and its departing members.[30]

In December 2015, the band's updated Facebook information showed its new member line-up featuring Matthew Marcellus who has toured with the band since 2014. Founding bassist, Will Sowers, left the band after accepting a job and returning to school. On January 19, 2016, Emarosa announced they had begun recording for their next album. They released their fourth studio album, 131, on July 8, 2016, through Hopeless Records.[31] It was led by the single "Cloud 9", which was released on April 28, 2016.

2018–24: Peach Club, line-up changes and Sting

[edit]
Main article: Peach Club
Main article: Sting (Emarosa album)

On October 17, 2018, Emarosa announced their fifth studio album, Peach Club, which was released on February 8, 2019, via Hopeless Records.[32] The lead single, "Givin' Up", was released on November 16, 2018.[33] Another single, "Don't Cry", was released on January 8, 2019.[34] Peach Club ventures towards pop, synth-pop, and pop rock elements, further departing from the group's early post-hardcore sound.

On March 25, 2019, it was announced that Emarosa would embark on the third leg of 'The Midnight World Tour' alongside Set It Off, Broadside, and later Selfish Things. They toured across 25 cities in the United States between June and July 2019. On November 18, the band released the single "Ready to Love" and its corresponding music video.[35]

On July 1, 2020, the band were reportedly dropped from their label, Hopeless Records, and by their management, Roc Nation, following allegations of sexual misconduct that surfaced against vocalist, Bradley Walden.[36] On August 28, Walden denied the allegations made against him and through further investigations, the statements were proved to be false.[37] On March 9, 2021, the band announced on social media that they are working on new material for their upcoming sixth studio album.[38]

On April 27, 2022, the band released their first new single in nearly three years, "Preach", along with a music video. It was also revealed that the band had reverted to a duo, now consisting entirely of Walden and White.[39] On July 6, the band unveiled a second single, "Attention".[40] On September 15, the band released their third single of the year, "Stay", and its corresponding music video. At the same time, they officially announced that their sixth studio album, Sting, would be released on January 27, 2023, whilst also revealing the album cover and the track list.[41] On November 11, two months before the album release, Emarosa released the fourth and final single "Again".[42]

In May 2023, the band played an EU/UK tour including a performance at Slam Dunk festival.[43] In September–October 2023, Emarosa played "The Halloween Havoc" US Tour.[44] In September–October 2024, the band toured "American Deja Vu Tour" celebrating a 10-year anniversary of their album Versus, supported by Val Astaire and Laur Elle.[45]

2025–present: High Horse Heaven

[edit]

On September 4, 2025, Emarosa released the first single "The Edge", along with a music video.[46] On October 16, the second single, "Cherry Coke", arrived.[47] On December 8, 2025, the third single, "Good Enough", was released. The band also announced their upcoming seventh studio album, High Horse Heaven, is set for release on April 24, 2026.[48]

Band members

[edit]

Timeline

Discography

[edit]

Albums

[edit]
Year Title Label Chart positions[49]
US US Indie US Heat
2008 Relativity Rise 191 33 15
2010 Emarosa 69 9 —
2014 Versus 61 15 —
2016 131 Hopeless 132 7 —
2019 Peach Club 137 2 —
2023 Sting Out of Line — — —

EPs

[edit]

Demos

[edit]
  • 2006 Demo (released as Corsets Are Cages) (2006, self-released)
  1. "Jesus Plays a Firebird"
  2. "Too Close for Missiles, I'm Switching to Guns"
  3. "Utah, But I'm Taller"
  • Emarosa Demos (contained two demos that did not make the cut for the self-titled) (2010, unreleased)
  1. "Share the Sunshine Young Blood"
  2. "Live It. Love It. Lust It."
  3. "I Still Feel Her, Part IV"
  4. "We Are Life"
  5. "Truth Hurts While Laying on Your Back"
  6. "Pretend.Relive.Regret."
  7. "The Game Played Right"
  8. "The Weight of Love Blinds Eyes"
  9. "Untitled #2"
  10. "A Toast to the Future Kids!"
  11. "Untitled #1"
  12. "Broken vs. the Way We Were Born"
  1. "Mamba"[53]
  2. "Moonraker"
  3. "Supercow"[54]
  4. "Forest Whimsical"

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Emarosa

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia

Emarosa is an American rock band formed in 2006 in , initially operating within the genre under the leadership of founding guitarist ER White. The group has undergone repeated lineup shifts, most prominently the 2011 dismissal of original vocalist due to his ongoing problems and incidents of defrauding fans through online scams, which prompted a stylistic pivot toward and influences in subsequent eras. assumed vocal duties in 2013, enabling the band to release albums including the self-titled Emarosa (2010, final with Craig), Versus (2014), Peach Club (2017), and Sting (2020), while touring extensively on circuits like the Vans Warped Tour. Emarosa's trajectory reflects resilience amid internal disruptions, with ER White as the enduring core member driving reinventions that prioritize hook-driven alt-pop structures over aggressive hardcore roots. The band's persistence includes addressing further member-related allegations in 2020, such as claims of against , which temporarily severed ties with their label before independent continuation and announcements of new material like the forthcoming High Horse Heaven in 2026.

History

2006–2007: Formation and This Is Your Way Out

Emarosa originated in , in 2006, initially operating under the name Corsets Are Cages, during which the band recorded a demo release featuring vocalist Chris Roberts. The core founding members were guitarist ER White, drummer Lukas Koszewski, and keyboardist Jordan Stewart, who opted to pursue music over college attendance in their hometown. Following the name change to Emarosa, the lineup expanded to include vocalist Chris Roetter, rhythm guitarist Madison Stolzer, and bassist Will Sowers, establishing the configuration for their debut output. The band's first official release, the EP This Is Your Way Out, emerged on May 1, 2007, through Standby Records, comprising seven tracks that showcased a post-hardcore style infused with metalcore aggression and screamed vocals from Roetter. The tracklist featured "He Is Ocean," "I Am Waves," "Armageddon," "Utah," "Breather," "Casablanca," and "Epoch Coda," with production emphasizing raw energy and atmospheric keyboards. This EP marked the sole recording with Roetter on vocals, who departed shortly thereafter to form the metalcore band Like Moths to Flames; three tracks later appeared in reworked forms on subsequent releases.

2008–2009: Relativity

In 2008, Emarosa signed with to release their debut full-length album, Relativity, which featured vocalist and rhythm guitarist Jonas Ladekjaer. The album was produced by at Interlace Audio in . Relativity was released on July 8, 2008, comprising 11 tracks that blended elements with Craig's emotive, R&B-influenced vocals over intricate guitar work and dynamic rhythms. The band supported the album release with extensive touring throughout 2008, performing over 100 shows across , including appearances on bills with acts like and . In late 2008, Emarosa headlined the Rise Records Tour from September through early October, joined by In Fear and Faith and Attack Attack!. Touring continued into 2009 with more than 140 documented performances, encompassing packages such as the March-to-May run with Silverstein and the summer dates alongside . These efforts helped establish Emarosa within the scene, though no major chart success or awards were reported for the album during this period.

2010–2012: Self-titled album and Jonny Craig's departure

Emarosa began recording their self-titled third studio album in early 2010 with producer at Salad Days Studio in Baltimore, Maryland. The sessions built on the band's sound, incorporating elements and emphasizing clean production alongside Jonny Craig's soaring vocals. Released on June 29, 2010, through , the album marked the final release featuring Craig as lead vocalist and bassist Will Sowers. Critics noted the record's competent musicianship, with tight vocal performances from Craig and blended instrumentation, though some highlighted its formulaic approach within the genre. Tracks such as "A Toast to the Future Kids!" and "Pretend. Relive. " showcased rhythmic guitar work and infectious hooks, contributing to the album's reception as a solid continuation of the band's style. In April 2011, Emarosa announced Craig's departure, citing his persistent drug addiction, erratic behavior, and lack of commitment as undermining the band's progress. The decision culminated from repeated issues, including Craig's early in a headlining tour and his involvement in an online where he solicited funds from fans under the pretense of purchasing MacBooks, only to fail to deliver, prompting him to enter rehabilitation. Sowers described the as "without a doubt the ," while Lukas Koszewski emphasized Craig's unwillingness to prioritize recovery for the group's sake. The band stated the split, though difficult, served their long-term interests, allowing them to continue touring and seek a replacement vocalist. Through 2012, Emarosa performed select shows with temporary vocal stand-ins amid lineup transitions.

2013–2017: Bradley Walden era begins, Versus, and 131

In July 2013, Emarosa announced Bradley Walden, formerly the frontman of band Squid The Whale, as their new lead vocalist following the departure of . Walden's integration marked a shift toward a more melodic and alternative rock-oriented sound, though he later described the initial period as challenging due to intense public scrutiny and adjustment to the band's established fanbase. The band recorded their third studio album, Versus, with Walden's vocals, releasing it on September 9, 2014, through Rise Records. The album featured 11 tracks, including singles "People Like Me, We Just Don't Play," "American Déjà Vu," "A Hundred Crowns," and "I'll Just Wait," which were promoted via music videos and streams. Versus debuted at number 49 on the U.S. iTunes albums chart and reached number 61 on the Billboard 200, marking the band's highest charting release at the time. Following Versus, Emarosa signed with Hopeless Records and began work on their fourth album, 131, produced by Casey Bates. The album, comprising 11 tracks, was released on July 8, 2016, with lead singles "Hurt," "One Car Garage," and "Sure" receiving official videos and streams. 131 debuted at number 132 on the Billboard 200 and number 7 on the Independent Albums chart. During this period, the band maintained a consistent lineup centered on founding E.R. White, Walden, Robert Joffred, Matthew Marcellus, and Bryan Uhl; no personnel changes were reported. Emarosa supported the releases with extensive touring, including appearances on the Warped Tour in 2015 and 2016, a fall 2016 headlining run with Anarbor and Cold Collective, and the We Will Detonate! tour supporting and in early 2017.

2018–2022: Peach Club, lineup adjustments, and external challenges

In late 2018, Emarosa announced their fifth studio album, Peach Club, slated for release on February 8, 2019, via . The band previewed the project with the lead single "Givin' Up" on November 15, 2018, followed by on January 9, 2019, and "Cautious" on January 29, 2019. Peach Club featured 10 tracks, including "Get Back Up," "So Bad," and "Help You Out," and represented a departure from the band's roots toward and 1980s-inspired production with cascading synths and upbeat melodies. The album's release coincided with internal lineup adjustments, as the band continued to evolve beyond its original configuration, with founding guitarist ER White as the sole remaining early member amid shifts driven by the new pop-oriented direction. These changes reflected ongoing tensions from previous era transitions, though specific departures around this time were not publicly detailed beyond the broader stabilization around core members Bradley Walden (vocals) and . External challenges intensified in mid-2020 when allegations surfaced against vocalist Bradley Walden involving inappropriate communications with a minor, reportedly leading to Emarosa being dropped by on June 30, 2020. Walden issued a public response denying predatory intent on August 31, 2020, framing the interactions as consensual among adults after the individual's . These events contributed to a period of reduced band activity and effective hiatus through 2021, amid broader industry disruptions from the that halted live tours and performances for many acts, though no Emarosa-specific cancellations were announced prior to the label split. The band resumed output in 2022 with standalone singles, signaling a gradual return amid the fallout.

2023–present: Sting and ongoing singles releases

Emarosa released their sixth studio album, Sting, on , 2023, via Out of Line Music. Produced by Courtney Ballard, the 10-track record spans 34 minutes and features songs such as "Preach," "Attention," "Stay," "Cinnamon," "Forgiveness," "INLA," "Again," "Woman," "Rush," and "Danger." The album marked a continued toward and elements, building on the band's prior work under vocalist Bradley Walden. In 2023, following Sting, Emarosa issued a cover single of Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)." This release highlighted the band's willingness to reinterpret pop classics amid their original material output. No full-length albums followed in 2024, during which the group focused on live performances, including tours supporting their catalog. By 2025, Emarosa resumed original single releases to promote their seventh studio , High Horse Heaven, slated for 2026. The , "The Edge," debuted on September 4, 2025, serving as the album opener. This was quickly followed by "Cherry Coke" on October 16, 2025, co-written and produced by Ballard, which previews further tracks on the forthcoming record including "Good Enough," "Give It Away," and "Automatic." These singles reflect ongoing activity, with the band maintaining a core lineup centered on Walden and guitarist ER White while teasing an emotionally expansive sound for High Horse Heaven.

Musical style and influences

Post-hardcore origins and shifts in sound

Emarosa formed in , in 2006 as a act drawing from influences, evident in their debut EP This Is Your Way Out (2007), which included heavy riffs, breakdowns, and screamed passages alongside melodic undertones. The band's early sound emphasized raw energy and emotional intensity, typical of mid-2000s with structured aggression and vocal versatility. Jonny Craig's recruitment as in 2007 refined this foundation on Relativity (2008), where atmospheric guitar layers and Craig's soaring clean vocals tempered the heaviness, creating a more melodic palette without fully abandoning aggressive dynamics. The self-titled (2010) built on this, integrating intricate riffs, infectious choruses, and soul-tinged singing within a structure, prioritizing emotional delivery over breakdown-heavy . Craig's exit in 2012 prompted a pivotal lineup change, with Bradley Walden joining as vocalist in 2013 and steering the band toward . Walden's rock-soul influences and pop-leaning sensibilities honed the sound on Versus (2014) and 131 (2016), diminishing edge in favor of polished instrumentation and accessible melodies. This trajectory culminated in Peach Club (2019), a hook-driven alt-pop/rock effort that marked a substantial departure from origins, embracing broader pop elements for mainstream appeal.

Key influences and production techniques

Emarosa's early sound drew from acts such as , which guitarist ER White cited as a significant influence during the band's formative years under vocalist . This era's production, exemplified by the 2008 album Relativity, was handled by at Interlace Audio, who employed techniques like expansive reverb, time-based effects, and punchy drum mixing to create broad, dynamic guitar tones that amplified the genre's emotional intensity. Following Craig's departure and Bradley Walden's arrival in 2012, the band's influences shifted toward pop, R&B, and 1980s synth elements, with Walden identifying Michael Jackson as his primary inspiration alongside 1980s and 1990s female R&B artists. Albums like Versus (2014) and 131 (2016), produced by Brian McTernan and Casey Bates respectively, retained some rock foundations but incorporated smoother vocal layering and mid-tempo grooves, using cleaner mixes to blend post-hardcore remnants with accessible pop structures. Later works such as Peach Club (2019) and Sting (2023), both produced by Courtney Ballard, emphasized glossy synth-wave production techniques, including heavy reliance on electronic instrumentation, falsetto-heavy vocals, and spatial synth walls to evoke retro pop aesthetics while minimizing traditional guitar aggression. This evolution reflected Walden's pop-oriented background, prioritizing melodic hooks and atmospheric depth over the raw energy of their origins.

Controversies

Jonny Craig's issues and band impact

Jonny Craig's problems with escalated during his time with Emarosa, leading to erratic behavior that strained band relations. In early , Craig engaged in a where he solicited payments from over 20 fans via , promising to sell them used MacBooks for $600 each, but diverted the approximately $13,000 collected to fund his drug purchases instead. The scheme was exposed when victims shared screenshots of unfulfilled transactions and Craig's evasive responses, prompting public outrage within the community and forcing him to drop off Emarosa's tour dates. Craig subsequently checked into a North Hollywood detoxification facility on March 23, , with financial support from and the Artery Foundation, but the damage to his professional standing was irreparable. Emarosa issued a statement on April 15, , confirming his removal: "As of today, Jonny Craig is no longer a member of Emarosa. This decision has been a hard one to make, but we feel it is in the best interest for the band going forward." In subsequent interviews, remaining members attributed the split to Craig's repeated unreliability, including missed commitments and addiction-fueled instability that disrupted rehearsals, recordings, and tours following the 2011 self-titled album. The departure marked a pivotal shift for Emarosa, necessitating an immediate search for a replacement vocalist and halting momentum from their Relativity Records era. With Craig's soulful, R&B-inflected style central to their identity, the band initially relied on touring fill-ins before permanently installing Bradley Walden in 2012, which enabled the production of Versus (2014) and a pivot toward more melodic rock elements. This transition preserved Emarosa's viability, allowing them to tour extensively and release further material, though it alienated some fans loyal to Craig's era and required rebuilding credibility amid the scandal's fallout.

Bradley Walden allegations and responses

In June 2020, anonymous posts accused Bradley Walden, Emarosa's vocalist from 2013 to 2017, of involving the grooming of a minor fan and solicitation of explicit images. The accuser, identified pseudonymously as "Jane," claimed the interactions began when she was 17 and hosted Walden's prior band, Squid the Whale, at her home, escalating to texting and exchanges where he allegedly requested . She had emailed Emarosa's management about the matter in April 2019, prompting an internal acknowledgment of the communications as consensual and non-coercive, with offers of a charitable donation in her name and a possible meeting with Walden for closure, though no admission of wrongdoing was made. The claims, originating from unverified Twitter threads without police involvement or public evidence beyond the accuser's account, contributed to Emarosa's abrupt removal from ' roster and separation from management by late June 2020. No criminal investigation or charges followed, as the allegations remained confined to discourse and private correspondence rather than formal legal channels. On August 28, 2020, publicly responded via a detailed statement, admitting to emotional through texting during a personal crisis involving profound loss but denying any grooming or pedophilic behavior. He described the relationship as text-based only, ended years prior, and asserted the accuser was not at the time, framing her renewed anonymous posts as part of five years of targeted harassment against him personally and professionally. apologized for past selfishness that hurt others, including the accuser, but emphasized the accusations' severity warranted authorities' involvement over , announcing intent to pursue litigation through his counsel to hold the accuser accountable while protecting genuine victims. No subsequent outcomes or further band statements on the matter have been reported.

Band members

Current members

As of 2023, Emarosa functions as a core duo comprising lead vocalist Bradley Walden, who joined in 2013 following the departure of previous singer , and founding lead guitarist ER White, an original member since the band's formation in 2006. The pair has driven the band's evolution toward and , as evidenced by their 2023 album Sting and subsequent singles like "Cherry Coke" released in 2025. While earlier lineups included supporting players such as rhythm guitarist Matthew Marcellus (2016–2022) and bassist Robert Joffred (2018–2022) for albums like Peach Club (2019), recent productions and reviews describe Walden and White as the primary creative force without fixed additional full-time members, relying on session musicians for live performances and recordings.

Former members

Emarosa has undergone multiple lineup changes since its formation in , with lead guitarist E.R. White remaining the sole founding member throughout. These shifts have primarily affected vocalists and supporting instrumentation, often tied to creative directions and personal issues among members. Key former vocalists include Chris Roberts, who served as briefly in before departing early in the band's history. Chris Roetter followed as from to 2007, contributing to the band's initial sound prior to his exit. joined as in 2007 and remained until 2011, recording the albums Relativity (2008) and Emarosa (2010) during a period marked by the band's growing prominence in the scene, though his tenure ended amid personal controversies including allegations. After a transitional phase, Bradley Walden assumed lead vocals in 2013, but prior interim vocalists such as Chris Roberts in a later stint have been noted in fan recollections of lineup instability. Other notable former members encompass rhythm guitarist Mike Bryant (2006), rhythm guitarist Madison Stolzer (2006–2008), and drummer Gabe Wozniak, all part of the early configuration that released the EP This Is Your Way Out in 2007. Bassist Will Sowers contributed from 2006 to around 2012, appearing on early full-length releases before the band restructured. More recently, rhythm guitarist Matthew Marcellus served from 2016 to 2022, departing during the Peach Club era amid the band's pivot toward elements.
MemberInstrumentTenure
Chris RobertsLead vocals2006
Mike Bryant2006
Chris RoetterLead vocals2006–2007
Madison Stolzer2006–2008
Jonny CraigLead vocals2007–2011
Gabe WozniakEarly era
Will SowersBass2006–2012
Matthew Marcellus2016–2022
This table summarizes verified tenures based on discography and tour records; exact dates for some supporting roles remain approximate due to informal announcements. Departures have occasionally led to side projects, such as ex-members forming The Difference Between in 2021.

Discography

Studio albums

Emarosa's debut studio album, Relativity, was released on July 8, 2008, through and featured vocalist . The self-titled second album, Emarosa, followed on June 29, 2010, also on , marking a shift toward more melodic elements while retaining roots. Versus, the third studio album, came out on December 9, 2014, via , with Bradley Walden assuming lead vocals after Craig's departure. After signing with , the band issued 131 on February 12, 2016, emphasizing electronic influences and Walden's falsetto-driven style. Peach Club, released February 8, 2019, on , incorporated and alt-rock production, peaking at number 16 on the Independent Albums chart. The sixth album, Sting, arrived independently on January 27, 2023, blending emotional introspection with polished rock arrangements. A seventh studio album, High Horse Heaven, is scheduled for 2026.
TitleRelease dateLabel
RelativityJuly 8, 2008
EmarosaJune 29, 2010
VersusDecember 9, 2014
131February 12, 2016
Peach ClubFebruary 8, 2019
StingJanuary 27, 2023Independent

Extended plays

Emarosa's debut , This Is Your Way Out, was released on May 1, 2007, through , featuring original vocalist Chris Roetter and marking the band's initial sound with tracks emphasizing aggressive riffs and screamed vocals.
TitleRelease dateLabelNotes
This Is Your Way OutMay 1, 2007Debut EP with Chris Roetter on vocals; 5 tracks including "The Vault" and "My Christmas List Doesn't Include You."
Versus ReimaginedJuly 24, 2015Surprise release with acoustic reimaginings of four tracks from the Versus album: "Say Hello to the Bad Guy," "Mad," "Gold Dust," and "I'll Just Wait."
131 ReimaginedSeptember 15, 2017Reimagined versions of songs from the 131 album, starting with lead single "Helpless"; shifted toward electronic and atmospheric elements.
Again2022Short EP continuing the band's evolution into , with focus on Bradley Walden's vocals and synth-driven production.

Singles and demos

Emarosa's initial recording was a self-released three-track demo in 2006, originally issued under the band's pre-formation name Corsets Are Cages, featuring vocalist Chris Roberts. The tracks included "Jesus Plays a Firebird" (6:08), "Too Close for Missiles, I'm Switching to Guns" (4:11), and "Utah, But I'm Taller" (3:57). This demo captured the group's early sound prior to lineup changes and their signing with . The band has released multiple digital singles, often as standalone tracks or precursors to albums and EPs, shifting toward alternative rock and synth-pop influences in later years. Key singles include "Peach Club" (2019), "Sting" (2023), and a cover of "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)" (2023). More recent releases encompass "Stay", "Attention", and "Preach". In 2025, Emarosa issued "Cherry Coke" and "The Edge".
TitleRelease Year
Peach Club2019
Sting2023
I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)2023
Stay2021–2022
Attention2021–2022
Preach2017–2018
Cherry Coke2025
The Edge2025
Additional singles from album promotional cycles, such as "One Car Garage" (2016) with an official music video, highlight the band's evolution but are tied to extended plays like 131. Unreleased or early demos beyond the 2006 EP, including versions of "Set It Off Like Napalm" and "Pretend. Release. The Close.", have circulated among fans but lack official distribution.

References

  1. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/emarosa-mn0001000177
  2. https://riserecords.com/collections/artist-emarosa
  3. https://propertyofzack.com/post/4935518167/emarosa-discuss-reasons-behind-kicking-out-craig
  4. https://dyingscene.com/archive/jonny-craig-booted-from-emarosa-after-accusations-of-scamming-fans-on-the-internet/
  5. https://www.discogs.com/artist/1918443-Emarosa
  6. https://substreammagazine.com/2020/07/emarosa-bradley-walden-accusations/
  7. https://web.phenixxgaming.com/2020/07/03/the-rise-and-fall-of-emarosa/
  8. https://www.emarosa.us/
  9. https://almostanythingmedia.wordpress.com/2021/07/05/chris-roberts-ex-emarosa-creates-new-project-the-difference-between/
  10. https://archive.org/details/CACe-CAC-2006
  11. https://rateyourmusic.com/artist/emarosa
  12. https://rateyourmusic.com/release/ep/emarosa/this-is-your-way-out/
  13. https://www.discogs.com/master/1402796-Emarosa-This-Is-Your-Way-Out
  14. https://genius.com/albums/Emarosa/This-is-your-way-out
  15. https://www.last.fm/music/Emarosa/This%2BIs%2BYour%2BWay%2BOut
  16. https://www.qobuz.com/us-en/interpreter/emarosa/313470
  17. https://genius.com/albums/Emarosa/Relativity
  18. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/26471/Emarosa-Relativity/
  19. https://www.discogs.com/release/3068219-Emarosa-Relativity
  20. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/emarosa
  21. https://lambgoat.com/music/Emarosa
  22. https://www.discogs.com/master/1466017-Emarosa-Relativity
  23. http://www.alterthepress.com/2010/07/album-review-emarosa-emarosa.html
  24. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/44973/Emarosa-Emarosa/
  25. https://www.discogs.com/release/2945400-Emarosa-Emarosa
  26. https://www.thepunksite.com/reviews/emarosa-self-titled/
  27. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/45046/Emarosa-Emarosa/
  28. https://www.ryansrockshow.com/news/jonny-craig-kicked-out-of-emarosa
  29. https://blog.ourstage.com/2013/07/29/bradley-walden-joins-emarosa/
  30. https://highlightmagazine.net/2016/07/19/interview-i-want-it-all-bradley-walden-on-the-rebirth-of-emarosa/
  31. https://www.altpress.com/bradley_walden_on_joining_emarosa_it_was_a_nightmare_because_it_was_so_publ/
  32. https://www.allmusic.com/album/versus-mw0002703453
  33. https://www.discogs.com/master/742886-Emarosa-Versus
  34. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKcGEIO7V0rWt3tviaBCnCOid_DonovFh
  35. http://itunescharts.net/us/artists/music/emarosa/albums/versus/
  36. https://www.last.fm/music/Emarosa/131
  37. https://genius.com/albums/Emarosa/131
  38. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKAm0swRNcktKDNj5RXgcwUydrYbWbIxu
  39. https://creativedisc.com/2016/07/billboard-200-album-chart-24-july-2016
  40. https://warped-tour.fandom.com/wiki/Emarosa
  41. https://highlightmagazine.net/2016/08/29/emarosa-announces-fall-headlining-tour-with-anarbor-cold-collective/
  42. https://frontrowmusicnews.com/emarosa/
  43. https://substreammagazine.com/2018/11/emarosa-new-song-peach-club/
  44. https://substreammagazine.com/2019/01/emarosa-dont-cry/
  45. https://chorus.fm/news/emarosa-cautious/
  46. https://emarosa.bandcamp.com/album/peach-club
  47. https://toolsandtoys.net/peach-club-album-by-emarosa/
  48. https://altwire.net/interview-emarosa/
  49. https://rockthepigeon.com/2022/09/15/emarosa-release-stay-announce-new-album-in-2023/
  50. https://emarosa.bandcamp.com/album/sting
  51. https://www.discogs.com/release/25881571-Emarosa-Sting
  52. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/emarosa/252144676
  53. https://www.songkick.com/artists/567512-emarosa
  54. https://www.facebook.com/emarosa/videos/the-edge-official-music-video-out-now-only-on-youtube/24641704345464027/
  55. https://music.apple.com/gr/album/cherry-coke-single/1839979352
  56. https://open.spotify.com/artist/7JQOXJZ7h88fhYy9cRws5v
  57. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/36493/Emarosa-This-is-Your-Way--Out/
  58. https://www.punktastic.com/album-reviews/emarosa-relativity/
  59. https://www.alterthepress.com/2010/07/album-review-emarosa-emarosa.html
  60. https://www.altpress.com/bradley_walden_on_emarosas_new_life/
  61. https://popcrush.com/emarosa-peach-club-pop-interview/
  62. https://www.forbes.com/sites/matthewleimkuehler/2018/11/15/emarosa-interview-pop-sound-bradley-walden-givin-up-peach-club-hoepless-records/
  63. https://www.punktastic.com/interviews/emarosa/
  64. https://www.theaquarian.com/2017/05/03/an-interview-with-emarosa-on-cloud-nine/
  65. https://www.discogs.com/release/6200960-Emarosa-Versus
  66. https://www.sfshameless.com/blog/2016/7/8/emarosa-131
  67. https://www.discogs.com/release/13183150-Emarosa-Peach-Club
  68. https://regenmag.com/reviews/review-emarosa-sting/
  69. https://www.reddit.com/r/PostHardcore/comments/1d5ce76/why_is_emarosa_actually_the_way_it_is_now_why_did/
  70. https://dyingscene.com/archive/jonny-craig-emarosa-dance-gavin-dance-does-drugs-steals-money-from-fans-does-more-drugs-gets-caught-goes-to-rehab/
  71. https://themusic.com.au/news/emarosa-speak-after-jonny-craig-firing/CuoWHB8eAQA/26-04-11
  72. https://medium.com/the-riff/music-bio-jonny-craig-73dfa77a6b64
  73. https://chorus.fm/news/emarosa-apparently-dropped-due-to-allegations/
  74. https://lambgoat.com/news/33400/emarosa-vocalist-bradley-walden-addresses-allegations/
  75. https://substreammagazine.com/2020/08/emarosa-bradley-walden-response-allegations/
  76. https://distortedsoundmag.com/album-review-sting-emarosa/
  77. https://x.com/Emarosa
  78. https://manvmusic.com/2023/03/28/emarosa-sting-album-review-modern-pop-soda-michael-jackson/
  79. https://www.reddit.com/r/Emarosa/comments/vumcne/what_happened_to_emarosa/
  80. https://www.spirit-of-metal.com/en/band/Emarosa
  81. https://scream-it-like-you-mean-it.fandom.com/wiki/Emarosa
  82. https://www.revolvermag.com/music/fans-glassjaw-hear-ex-emarosa-singers-new-band-difference-between/
  83. https://www.albumoftheyear.org/artist/26736-emarosa/
  84. https://open.spotify.com/artist/68tKVjVvcqUfKFFLr2j0Ek
  85. https://www.altpress.com/emarosa_release_surprise_versus_reimagined_ep/
  86. https://music.apple.com/us/album/versus-reimagined-ep/1675498651
  87. https://chorus.fm/news/emarosa-announce-new-ep/
  88. https://www.discogs.com/release/15155377-Emarosa-Demo-2006
  89. https://www.last.fm/music/Emarosa/Demos
  90. https://thecoreradio.bandcamp.com/album/old-demos-unreleased-songs
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.