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

FireHouse (also Firehouse) is an American hard rock band that formed in 1984 in Richmond, Virginia. They then moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, where they signed with Epic Records in 1989.[5] The band reached stardom during the early 1990s with charting singles like "Don't Treat Me Bad," "All She Wrote," and "Reach for the Sky," as well as their signature power ballads "Love of a Lifetime," "When I Look into Your Eyes," and "I Live My Life for You." At the 1992 American Music Awards, FireHouse won the award for "Favorite New Heavy Metal/Hard Rock Artist."[6]

Key Information

As the 1990s progressed, the band remained very popular in Asia, mainly in Japan and Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, India, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia and Singapore. They also maintained popularity in South America and Europe.[5] FireHouse continued to release new material throughout the late 1990s and into the early 2000s, most of which successfully charted in Japan. The band has also continued to tour internationally, having participated twice in the annual Rock Never Stops Tour with other bands from the same genre. FireHouse is estimated to have sold over 7 million albums worldwide since their debut.[7]

Originally composed of vocalist/keyboardist C. J. Snare, guitarist Bill Leverty, drummer Michael Foster and bassist Perry Richardson, the band has maintained its original members with the exception of Richardson, who departed in 2000. Richardson was replaced two times before current bassist, Allen McKenzie, was given the position in 2004.[8] Snare remained as the lead singer of FireHouse until his death on April 5, 2024.[9] He was replaced by a former American Idol Season 21 contestant Nate Peck, who has been touring with the band since 2023 taking Snare's place as a temporary lead vocalist, citing health issues. Snare would pass away in April of 2024, and Peck continues to provide lead vocals. [10]

History

[edit]

Early beginnings

[edit]
Band font logo

The history of FireHouse can be traced back to 1984, when Leverty's band White Heat needed a drummer. After over 20 auditions, current FireHouse drummer Michael Foster answered the ad and when Leverty was impressed by his skill, he quickly hired him. When the band wasn't on tour, Leverty and Foster would visit rock clubs, and it was at one of these clubs where they caught sight of a band called Maxx Warrior.[5] Singing for the band was C. J. Snare, and the band's bassist was Perry Richardson. Leverty and Foster were impressed with Snare's vocal ability, and became determined to unite the bands.[5] As soon as Maxx Warrior broke up, Leverty sent Snare some of his songs and asked him to sing on his tape. Foster and Leverty were again impressed, so they brought Snare in to be the band's lead singer for a show in Virginia several weeks later.[5]

FireHouse bassist Allen McKenzie in North Dakota in 2007

The three-member group took their tape to Perry Richardson, the ex-bassist for Maxx Warrior, who said he liked it but had made a six-month commitment to the band that he was a member of at the time. When the commitment was fulfilled, Richardson and his new bandmates moved to Charlotte, North Carolina and began recording demos in Leverty's bedroom. The band would record all day and play hotel shows at night to earn income. Since Leverty and Foster's band name of White Heat was trademarked, the band chose FireHouse instead. In December 1989, Michael Caplan of Epic Records flew to Charlotte, NC to see a FireHouse show, and told the band immediately following the performance that they were ready for a record deal. The band went into the studio with David Prater as producer.[5] Prater, who later produced bands such as Dream Theater and having drummed with Santana, produced the band's first two albums.

Success in the 1990s

[edit]

The band's self-titled debut in 1990, FireHouse, was met with much critical acclaim. The band won the American Music Award for Best New Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Band of 1992 (which the band also presented the same category to grunge band and Epic Records labelmate Pearl Jam in 1993), Metal Edge Magazine's Best New Band of 1991, Young Guitar Magazine's Best Newcomer of 1991, and Music Life Magazine's reader's pop poll Best Newcomer of the Year 1992.[5] The band's first album sold over two million copies in the United States, and was certified double platinum by the RIAA. The band's third and most successful single, "Love of a Lifetime", reached No. 3 selling over 500,000 copies. Other singles also charted including the harder-rocking "Don't Treat Me Bad" at No. 14. The first single from the album, "Shake & Tumble" enjoyed success on the radio and brought attention to the band, but it failed to chart on the Pop charts, although it did at Metal radio.[11] The album went on to become certified gold in Canada, Singapore, and Japan.

The band followed their impressive debut with Hold Your Fire in 1992. Although not as successful as its predecessor due to the recent explosion of grunge and alternative rock, Hold Your Fire produced three more charting singles and was certified gold in the US. To date, Hold Your Fire has soundscanned over 873,000 copies in the United States alone. Singles from the album included "Sleeping with You", "Reach for the Sky", and the power ballad "When I Look into Your Eyes". The latter single became a top 10 hit in the United States.[11]

For the band's third album, aptly titled 3, they changed producers. Ron Nevison, who had served as producer for Led Zeppelin, Ozzy Osbourne, Europe, Heart, and many other groups, produced this album.[5] While the band's success had waned in the United States by 3's release in 1995, the album brought them more success overseas than ever before. Despite the album not selling well in the United States compared to previous albums, it was certified gold in several Asian countries, giving the band an opportunity to tour in countries like India and Thailand. The lead single from the album, "I Live My Life for You", was the band's third Top 40 ballad in the United States.[11] Snare remarked that despite drastic changes in the industry, FireHouse was the only band of its genre that managed to have a Top 40 hit as late as 1995, without having to make drastic changes to their sound.[12] 3's follow-up, Good Acoustics, was a collection of acoustic arrangements of several of their greatest hits, as well as four new songs. Good Acoustics, produced by the band's guitarist Bill Leverty, went gold in six countries around the world including Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines.[11] Tracks "In Your Perfect World", "You Are My Religion", and "Love Don't Care" became hits in many Asian countries. After the album's release, the band launched their second tour of Asia which ended in late 1996. It was followed by another tour of Indonesia, Thailand, and Japan in February 1997, including several sold-out shows. The band returned to Southeast Asia in July and played an unprecedented 25 city sold-out tour of Indonesia.[11]

After this time, the band asked to be released from their contract due to their label's lack of promotion in the United States, after eight years of being signed to Epic Records in 1989. They made a significant change when they signed with Pony Canyon from Japan. With the decline in popularity among rock acts of the 1980s in the US, and their steady fame in Asia and elsewhere abroad, they agreed to release Category 5 with their new label. They toured heavily throughout Asia during 1998 and 1999, achieving great success with their album. They continued to tour heavily in the United States as well, performing on the first ever "Rock Never Stops Tour" all over America in 1998. This tour featured fellow 1980s rock bands including Slaughter and Quiet Riot. On April 22, 1999, FireHouse recorded a live show in Osaka, Japan, and released it with the title Bring 'Em Out Live later that year.

2000 and beyond

[edit]
FireHouse, 2008. Vocalist and songwriter CJ Snare with guitarist and songwriter Bill Leverty

Sometime in 2000, the band parted ways with bassist Perry Richardson due to personal conflict and hired Bruce Waibel, who had played in The Gregg Allman Band for 10 years. Leverty met Waibel in Sarasota, Florida, and was impressed with his bass guitar skills.[13] When the band had an opening for a bassist due to Richardson's departure, Leverty contacted Waibel and asked him to join the band. With Waibel, they recorded their next album, O2, and toured on the Metal Edge 2002 tour with Dokken, Ratt, Warrant, and L.A. Guns. After the twelve-week tour, Waibel parted ways with the band to spend more time with his family.[13] In 2003, Waibel died unexpectedly at age 45. Guitarist Bill Leverty expressed the band's sadness over his death in a statement shortly after the news broke.[13] Initially, Waibel was replaced by Brazilian Dario Seixas, who played bass on the band's 2003 critically acclaimed album Prime Time, but Seixas left the band shortly after, so the band announced that they were in need of a bass player. Allen McKenzie, who was playing bass for Jani Lane's solo project at the time, sent in his audition tape, and the band agreed that he was the right musician for the job.[12]

In December 2004, FireHouse became the first major international rock band to play concert dates in northeast India.[14] The band's first Indian concert date was in Shillong, followed by two more dates in Dimapur, and Aizawl.[14] The band's first Indian date, in Shillong when the Maharaja of Tripura Kirit Pradyot Deb Burman invited them, took place in front of a sold out stadium crowd of over 40,000, setting a record for that city.[12] The band toured in 2005, 2006, and launched another tour in 2007 visiting states in the Midwest United States such as North Dakota and playing at several festivals including Rocklahoma.[15] In a March 2007 interview, when asked about the band's next album, guitarist Bill Leverty said "we plan on going into the studio this coming winter. Hopefully, we'll be able to get all the songs together and record them for a spring/summer release."[7] Regarding the future of the band, C. J. Snare commented that "this has been an incredible, incredible career. To do something that you love, to be an artist, to be an entertainer and to actually go out there and have fans all over the world and be able to make a living at it... as long as that's perpetuated, I don't see any reason to ever stop."[12]

In 2011 the band released their eighth studio album titled Full Circle, which featured re-recorded versions of some of their older tracks.

Longtime FireHouse singer C. J. Snare died on April 5, 2024.[9] At the time of his death, Snare had taken a hiatus from the band due to health concerns and was replaced by American Idol season 21 contestant Nate Peck, who had filled in for him during their 2023 live performances.[9][16] A month after Snare's death, FireHouse announced that Peck would officially be taking over as the band's new frontman. On June 25, 2025, the band released their first new material in over 20 years in the form of a single titled Mighty Fine Lady with Nate Peck on lead vocals.[10]

Band members

[edit]

Current members

  • Bill Leverty – guitar, backing vocals (1984–present)
  • Michael Foster – drums, percussion, backing vocals (1984–present)
  • Allen McKenzie – bass guitar, backing vocals (2004–present)
  • Nate Peck – lead vocals (2024–present; substitute 2023)

Former members

  • C. J. Snare – lead vocals, keyboards (1987–2024; his death)
  • Perry Richardson – bass guitar, backing vocals (1988–2000)
  • Bruce Waibel – bass guitar, backing vocals (2000–2003; died 2003)
  • Dario Seixas – bass guitar, backing vocals (2003–2004)

Timeline

[edit]

Discography

[edit]
Main article: FireHouse discography

Studio albums

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

FireHouse

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
FireHouse is an American band formed in , in the early 1980s, renowned for their contributions to the and pop-metal genres during the late 1980s and early 1990s, with multi-platinum albums and chart-topping singles such as "Don't Treat Me Bad" and "Love of a Lifetime." The band's origins trace back to 1984, when guitarist and drummer Michael Foster met during an audition for the local group White Heat, later recruiting vocalist and bassist after attending a performance by Snare's band, Maxx Warrior. A demo tape handed to caught the attention of executives, leading to a signing in 1989 following production work with and ; the group adopted the name FireHouse to avoid a from another band named White Heat. Their self-titled debut album, released on , 1990, and produced by David Prater, achieved double-platinum status in the United States, propelled by the Top 20 hit "Don't Treat Me Bad" and the No. 5 single "Love of a Lifetime" in 1991. Subsequent releases like (1992) and 3 (1995) continued their commercial success, with the band amassing 16 gold and platinum records worldwide, over 7 million albums sold globally, one Top 5 hit, three Top 25 hits, and seven Top 100 hits. FireHouse earned an American Music Award and two ASCAP Songwriter's Awards, while tracks like "Love of a Lifetime"—voted the No. 1 wedding song—have appeared in films, television, and video games. The original lineup remained intact until bassist departed in 2000, replaced by , with the band continuing to tour extensively for over 30 years. Following the death of founding vocalist in 2024, FireHouse announced Nate Peck, a 2023 American Idol contestant, as their new lead singer, releasing their first single with him, "Mighty Fine Lady," in May 2025; core members Leverty and Foster remain active, alongside McKenzie.

History

Formation and early career (1984–1989)

FireHouse originated in , in 1984, when guitarist Bill Leverty's band White Heat recruited drummer Michael Foster following a series of auditions. Foster impressed Leverty during his audition by demonstrating strong drumming and backing vocals on Fastway's "Say What You Will." This duo formed the core of the group, initially focusing on crafting original material within the local club scene. In the mid-1980s, Leverty and Foster relocated to , seeking greater music industry access and opportunities in the Southeast. There, they expanded the lineup: vocalist and keyboardist joined in 1987 after the band spotted his talent while he performed with the group Maxx Warrior, leading to both bands disbanding and Snare recording demos of Leverty's songs. Bassist completed the quartet in 1988, following a brief delay due to prior commitments. Due to a trademark conflict with another band using the name White Heat, the group rebranded as FireHouse in the late 1980s, a name suggested by Foster. From 1985 to 1989, FireHouse honed their sound through independent demo recordings—often produced in low-budget setups like Leverty's bedroom studio—and extensive performances on the Southeast U.S. club circuit, spanning , , , , and . These efforts included passing demos to industry figures, such as during an encounter with on the . Their persistence paid off in December 1989, when vice president Michael Caplan attended a show, reviewed their material, and secured a record deal for the band. Early on, their music drew from influences, blending melodic hooks with energetic rhythms.

Breakthrough and 1990s success

FireHouse achieved their breakthrough with the release of their self-titled debut album in 1990, produced by David Prater and issued by Epic Records. The album peaked at number 21 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified double platinum by the RIAA in the United States for sales exceeding 2 million copies. It also received gold certifications in Canada, Japan, and Singapore. The record's success was driven by three hit singles: "Don't Treat Me Bad," which reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100; "Love of a Lifetime," peaking at number 5; and "All She Wrote," which charted at number 58. Building on this momentum, FireHouse released their second album, , in June 1992, which debuted at number 23 on the and earned a gold certification from the RIAA for over 500,000 units sold in the United States. The album produced further hits, including "Reach for the Sky" at number 83 on the Hot 100, "When I Look into Your Eyes" reaching number 8, and "Sleeping with You" at number 78. That year, the band won the American Music Award for Favorite New Heavy Metal/ Artist, beating out nominees including Nirvana and . The band's third studio album, simply titled 3, arrived in 1995 and peaked at number 66 on the Billboard 200. It featured the power ballad "I Live My Life for You," which reached number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 20 on the Adult Contemporary chart. By the mid-1990s, FireHouse had sold over 2 million albums in the United States alone, with significant international popularity in Asia, where their debut and follow-up records garnered gold status in multiple markets. The group supported these releases with extensive world tours, including multiple visits to Japan and performances across Europe. In 1996, FireHouse issued Good Acoustics, an acoustic reworking of their hits plus new material, which proved especially popular in and achieved gold certifications in Malaysia, , and the . This release underscored their enduring appeal overseas amid shifting tastes in the U.S. rock scene.

2000s and lineup changes

The rise of and in the mid-1990s significantly diminished radio play and commercial viability for hair metal bands like FireHouse in the United States, shifting industry focus away from their polished sound and leading to reduced domestic promotion by the . This transition forced the band to pivot toward independent releases and international markets after parting ways with . Their 1990s hits, such as "Love of a Lifetime," laid the foundation for an enduring global fanbase that sustained their career abroad. As a bridge from the into the new decade, FireHouse's fifth studio , Category 5, was initially released in in 1998 on Records before arriving in the U.S. in 1999 via Lightyear Records. Produced primarily at guitarist Bill Leverty's home studio, Leverty Sound Studios, the marked an toward a more mature style with tracks like "Acid Rain" and "Bringing Me Down," blending melodic hooks with introspective lyrics. Reception was mixed, with critics noting its solid musicianship but lamenting the lack of mainstream buzz amid the post-grunge landscape, earning it a middling 3-star rating for its competent yet uninnovative delivery. The record supported extensive touring into the early , including U.S. dates on the Rock Never Stops package tour alongside acts like Slaughter and Warrant, helping maintain visibility despite waning stateside interest. In 2000, FireHouse released their sixth album, O2, on the independent label Spitfire Records, following its initial issuance through in . The effort featured high-energy tracks like "Jumpin'" and "Take It Off," staying true to the band's glam-tinged roots, but it achieved no notable U.S. chart placement, reflecting the challenges of independent distribution and diminished radio support. That same year, original bassist departed the group after over a decade, citing personal conflicts and a desire for new opportunities; he subsequently toured with country artists including and . Guitarist temporarily handled bass duties during interim tours. FireHouse's seventh album, , arrived in 2003 on for the Japanese market and in 2004 via Spitfire in the U.S., continuing their pattern of independent output. Songs such as "" and "Crash" emphasized catchy riffs and anthemic choruses, but like O2, it failed to crack major U.S. charts, though it resonated better overseas where the band's style retained appeal. In 2003, joined as the permanent bassist on Leverty's recommendation, stabilizing the lineup for subsequent activities and contributing to albums and tours with his progressive rock background from prior bands like Quest. Throughout the 2000s, FireHouse sustained their career through relentless international touring, particularly in —where multiple albums charted successfully—and , where enthusiastic crowds kept demand high for their high-octane live shows. These efforts, including headlining spots and package tours, helped the band amass over 7 million albums sold worldwide by 2010, underscoring their resilience beyond the U.S. market. After a recording hiatus in the late focused on touring, FireHouse returned in 2011 with Full Circle, a self-released compilation on their own Firehouse Music label featuring re-recorded versions of fan-favorite tracks like "Love of a Lifetime" and "All She Wrote." The project was driven by persistent demand from longtime supporters, offering refreshed takes on classics to bridge their legacy with contemporary production while honoring the enduring appeal of their sound.

2020s: Recent activities and transitions

In September 2020, FireHouse lead vocalist was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer, which led to a hiatus from the band in September 2023 for as he continued treatment. Despite plans for his return to touring, Snare passed away unexpectedly on April 5, 2024, at the age of 64 due to related to his ongoing health battle. The band issued a statement expressing profound grief, describing the loss as a "sad day for Rock N Roll" and honoring Snare as a "rock and roll warrior" and founding member, which deeply affected their morale and prompted a period of reflection amid operational adjustments. To maintain their touring commitments, FireHouse introduced Nate Peck as a fill-in vocalist in late 2023, following Snare's health-related absences. , a contestant from American Idol Season 21, brought fresh energy to the stage with his vocal style reminiscent of Snare's. In May 2024, after Snare's passing, the band officially announced as their permanent frontman, signaling a commitment to continuity while honoring their legacy. Marking a new chapter, FireHouse released the single "Mighty Fine Lady" in May 2025, their first original material featuring on lead vocals and produced by and Peck themselves. The track, available on platforms like , blends the band's signature melodic sound with Peck's . The band has promised more fresh music in the future. Throughout 2024 and 2025, the band sustained global touring efforts, performing in the U.S., , and other international venues, with setlists centered on timeless hits like "Love of a Lifetime" to engage longtime fans. As of 2025, FireHouse reflects on a enduring legacy, boasting 16 gold and platinum records alongside over 7 million albums sold worldwide.

Musical style and influences

Genre characteristics

FireHouse is classified as a band incorporating and melodic rock elements, known for its high-energy guitar riffs and anthemic choruses that drive the band's energetic sound. The group's core instrumentation features prominent electric guitars delivering solid, pounding riffs alongside thundering drums, creating a larger-than-life mix suited for performances. Lead vocalist C.J. Snare's soaring, powerhouse delivery provides a distinctive, rousing quality to the tracks, often elevating mid-tempo structures into memorable hooks. Snare's signature keyboard work adds layered harmonies and embellishments, particularly in ballads, blending seamlessly with guitarist Bill Leverty's shredding solos inspired by for a melodic yet virtuoso edge. Lyrically, FireHouse's songs center on themes of , relationships, and youthful , conveyed through upbeat, accessible melodies that prioritize emotional resonance over spectacle. This focus on songcraft distinguishes the band from pure acts, emphasizing polished compositions with radio-friendly appeal in their 1990s Epic Records era. In the 2000s, following a shift to independent releases, the production adopted a rawer tone while retaining the band's melodic foundation, allowing for more direct, unpolished energy in later albums.

Key influences and evolution

FireHouse's musical style drew heavily from the and glam traditions of the and , with guitarist citing as a primary influence on his techniques, including tapped runs and dramatic bends that defined the band's melodic solos. The band's energetic foundation was shaped by and , whose raw power and showmanship informed FireHouse's anthemic structures and stage presence. Southern rock undertones emerged from Leverty's admiration for , adding gritty, blues-inflected riffs to their sound. In the early 1990s, FireHouse's debut era blended 1980s hair metal with pop-oriented hooks tailored for MTV's visual and radio-friendly demands, emphasizing soaring vocals and guitar-driven choruses that prioritized accessibility over aggression. This approach yielded a polished, radio-ready aesthetic that distinguished them amid the genre's saturation. The band's evolution reflected market shifts and creative experimentation, beginning with Good Acoustics (1996), an acoustic-focused release of reimagined hits and new tracks produced by Leverty, which achieved gold status in several Asian markets by emphasizing balladry and stripped-down arrangements. Category 5 (1998) marked a pivot to a harder, more diverse edge, incorporating introspective lyrics and varied instrumentation to stretch beyond their pop-metal roots while maintaining melodic intensity. By Full Circle (2011), FireHouse returned to their core melodic hard rock style through re-recorded classics updated with contemporary production techniques, reaffirming their foundational sound. In the post-2000s era, the band adapted to via independent releases on their Firehouse Music label, enabling direct-to-fan access and fan-influenced song selection that preserved their classic style amid streaming platforms. Leverty's solo projects, such as Drive (2013)—a covers drawing from his pre-FireHouse blues-rock influences—introduced experimental elements like genre-blending arrangements that subtly informed the band's later productions.

Band members

Current members

Bill Leverty serves as the lead guitarist and founding member of FireHouse, having joined in and co-founding the band after merging elements from his prior group, White Heat, with other musicians. As the primary songwriter, Leverty has co-written many of the band's signature tracks, contributing to their melodic sound through intricate guitar riffs and technical solos that define hits like "Love of a Lifetime" and "Don't Treat Me Bad." He has also taken on production duties for several FireHouse albums, including , Category 5, O2, , and Full Circle, shaping the band's polished studio output. Beyond FireHouse, Leverty maintains a prolific solo career, releasing albums such as (2004), Southern Exposure (2007), (2009), Drive (2013), and Divided We Fall, where he explores diverse styles including instrumental works and vocal performances on instruments like and . Michael Foster has been the drummer for FireHouse since its formation in 1984, providing the band's rhythmic foundation through his precise and energetic style that underpins their high-energy performances. Born in , on December 9, 1966, Foster began playing drums at age five and auditioned successfully for what would become FireHouse after responding to an ad from Leverty's band. His contributions extend to the band's early success, appearing on their multi-platinum debut album FireHouse (1990) and subsequent releases, helping to drive the group's arena-ready sound. Foster has also been involved in production aspects of FireHouse recordings, collaborating closely with bandmates to refine their tracks. joined FireHouse as bassist in 2004, bringing a solid low-end groove and backing vocals that enhance 's harmonies and live dynamics. With roots in the music scene, including stints with local acts like Quest and Peacetree, McKenzie was recommended to through industry connections and has since become a mainstay, contributing to albums such as and Full Circle. His experience from the Charlotte area has infused FireHouse with regional rock influences, supporting extensive worldwide tours and maintaining the group's tight-knit performance energy. Nate Peck became the lead vocalist for FireHouse in 2024, after touring with the band from 2023, delivering high-range melodies that capture the essence of the group's classic hits while adding fresh energy to their setlists. A native of Lake Fenton, Michigan, Peck first gained national attention as a contestant on American Idol Season 21 in 2023, where he earned a golden ticket for his vocal prowess, following earlier work fronting local cover bands and session performances. His background in reality television and regional rock scenes has prepared him for FireHouse's demanding stage presence, as evidenced in their recent single "Mighty Fine Lady," which marks the band's first release featuring Peck on lead vocals.

Former members

C.J. Snare served as the lead vocalist and keyboardist for FireHouse from the band's formation in 1989 until his death in 2024, co-founding the group's signature sound and providing lead vocals on all major hits, including "Love of a Lifetime" and "Don't Treat Me Bad." A classically trained , Snare co-wrote several of the band's chart-topping tracks and was instrumental in shaping their melodic, anthemic style during the breakthrough era. He passed away on April 5, 2024, at age 64 from following a battle with Stage IV colon cancer diagnosed in 2020. Perry Richardson was the original bassist for FireHouse, performing from 1989 to 2000 and contributing to the band's first four studio albums, including their self-titled debut and the platinum-certified Hold Your Fire. His tenure helped anchor the rhythm section during the group's rise to fame, supporting their 1992 American Music Award win for Favorite New Heavy Metal/Hard Rock Artist. Richardson departed in 2000 amid personal conflicts within the band. After leaving FireHouse, he toured with country artists such as Trace Adkins and Craig Morgan before joining the Christian metal band Stryper as bassist in 2017. Bruce Waibel was the bassist for FireHouse from 2000 to 2003, providing touring support following Richardson's departure and contributing to the band's live performances during the early . A veteran who had worked with artists like and , Waibel joined amid lineup transitions but passed away on September 2, 2003, at age 45 from an apparent . Dario Seixas served as bassist for FireHouse in 2003, appearing on the album and handling touring duties before departing at the end of the year. Known for his work with bands like Jack Russell's Great White and of , Seixas helped bridge the transition to the current lineup. Prior to the official lineup solidifying, FireHouse drew from earlier regional acts, with brief involvement from session players during demo recordings in the late , though specific contributions from pre-formation members like those from Snare and Richardson's prior band Maxx Warrior remain more tied to individual paths than direct band history.

Timeline

FireHouse's lineup has evolved over the decades, with key changes centered on the rhythm section and vocals. The band began as White Heat before solidifying its classic configuration and later adapting to departures through replacements. The timeline below outlines major personnel shifts, with the original lineup responsible for their breakthrough albums FireHouse (1990) and Hold Your Fire (1992).
YearEvent
1984Guitarist Bill Leverty and drummer Michael Foster form White Heat in Richmond, Virginia.
1989Vocalist/keyboardist C.J. Snare and bassist Perry Richardson join, completing the classic lineup; the group changes its name to FireHouse to avoid a lawsuit.
2000Bassist Perry Richardson departs the band due to personal conflicts; Bruce Waibel joins as bassist.
2003Bassist Bruce Waibel dies on September 2; Dario Seixas joins as bassist.
2004Bassist Dario Seixas departs; Allen McKenzie joins FireHouse, becoming a long-term member.
2023–2024Vocalist Nate Peck begins touring with the band in late 2023 amid C.J. Snare's health issues; following Snare's death on April 5, 2024, Peck is announced as the official permanent vocalist.

Discography

Studio albums

FireHouse's self-titled debut studio album, FireHouse, was released on September 11, 1990, by Epic Records. It peaked at number 21 on the US Billboard 200 chart and achieved double platinum certification from the RIAA in the United States for sales exceeding 2 million copies, along with gold certifications in Canada, Japan, and Singapore. This hits album introduced the band's signature hard rock sound, propelled by singles like "Don't Treat Me Bad" and "Love of a Lifetime." The band's sophomore effort, , arrived on June 16, 1992, also via , reaching number 23 on the and earning gold certification from the RIAA for 500,000 units sold in the US. Produced by the band with , it shifted toward more ballads while retaining high-energy rock tracks, including "Reach for the Sky" and "When I Look into Your Eyes." 3, released on April 11, 1995, by Epic, peaked at number 66 on the . As a transitional album amid grunge's rise and industry shifts, it maintained the band's melodic formula but with slightly less emphasis on heavier elements, featuring tracks like "I Live My Life for You." Good Acoustics, issued on October 8, 1996, by Epic, focused on acoustic arrangements of past hits and new material, including a cover of the Eagles' "." Targeted at Asian markets, it received gold certification there. After parting with Epic, FireHouse released Category 5 independently on September 2, 1998 (Japan), adopting a harder-edged sound with experimental touches, such as electronica influences in hidden tracks. The follow-up, O₂, came out on September 20, 2000, via in and independent distribution elsewhere, showcasing post-label experimentation while staying true to the band's core style, highlighted by the nu-metal-infused "The Dark." Prime Time, released on August 12, 2003, by in , was a fan-oriented collection with multiple band members contributing vocals, emphasizing guitar-driven rockers like "Door to Door." Full Circle, a self-released comeback album on June 7, 2011, featured re-recorded versions of earlier songs without original bassist . Across their , FireHouse has earned a total of 16 and certifications in various international markets.

Singles and other releases

FireHouse released 11 official singles throughout their career, with four reaching the Top 25 on the . Their early hits established the band's presence in the scene, blending melodic hooks with power ballads that resonated on radio and . Key singles from their debut era include "Don't Treat Me Bad," which peaked at No. 19 on the in 1991, and "Love of a Lifetime," a power ballad that climbed to No. 5 the same year, becoming one of their signature tracks. These releases were supported by music videos directed by Mark Rezyka, a prominent filmmaker in rock videos known for his work with acts like Slaughter and Nelson. Subsequent singles from the album Hold Your Fire (1992) continued their chart momentum, with "When I Look into Your Eyes" achieving No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, another Rezyka-directed video that emphasized the band's emotional ballad style. Later, from the album 3 (1995), "I Live My Life for You" reached No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 20 on the Adult Contemporary chart, marking their final major U.S. hit and showcasing a shift toward softer, radio-friendly material. In 2025, FireHouse released "Mighty Fine Lady" as a digital single, their first with new lead vocalist Nate Peck following the death of C.J. Snare; the track maintains the band's classic melodic rock sound but has not yet charted significantly. Post-2011, the band issued several digital singles tied to independent releases, including tracks from the re-recorded album Full Circle (2011) and occasional holiday or standalone downloads available on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify. Beyond singles, FireHouse produced limited ancillary releases, with no major live albums but notable video compilations. Music videos for major hits, including "All She Wrote" (No. 58 Hot 100, 1991) and "" (No. 83 Hot 100, 1992), were also directed by Rezyka, contributing to the band's visual appeal on early rotations. Compilation albums include The Best of FireHouse (), which collected key tracks like "Don't Treat Me Bad" and "When I Look into Your Eyes," and various Japanese editions featuring exclusive bonus content and regional hits. These releases helped sustain the band's catalog sales internationally, particularly in where they maintained a strong fanbase.

References

  1. https://ultimateclassicrock.com/firehouse-debut-album/
  2. https://www.firehousemusic.com/
  3. https://www.billboard.com/artist/firehouse/chart-history/hsi/
  4. https://www.classicrockhistory.com/complete-list-of-firehouse-band-members/
  5. https://blabbermouth.net/news/firehouse-announces-new-singer-nate-peck
  6. https://www.leverty.com/bio
  7. https://powerrockpodcasts.com/bill-leverty/
  8. https://vinylwritermusic.wordpress.com/2021/03/03/an-interview-with-bill-leverty-of-firehouse/
  9. https://musicgoldmine.com/products/firehouse-debut-riaa-gold-album-award
  10. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?id=15606
  11. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=Love%2Bof%2Ba%2BLifetime&artist=FireHouse
  12. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=All%2BShe%2BWrote&artist=FireHouse
  13. https://musicgoldmine.com/products/firehouse-hold-your-fire-riaa-gold-album-award
  14. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=Reach%2Bfor%2Bthe%2BSky&artist=FireHouse
  15. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=When%2BI%2BLook%2Binto%2BYour%2BEyes&artist=FireHouse
  16. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=Sleeping%2Bwith%2BYou&artist=FireHouse
  17. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1992/01/28/CC-Music-Factory-Garth-Brooks-big-winners-at-American-Music-Awards/1963696574800/
  18. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=I%2BLive%2BMy%2BLife%2Bfor%2BYou&artist=FireHouse
  19. https://2loud2oldmusic.com/2022/10/20/firehouse-the-albums-ranked-worst-to-first/
  20. https://utopiaartists.com/artists/book-firehouse/
  21. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/concert-map/firehouse-63d6facf.html?year=1992
  22. https://www.kshe95.com/artist/3ca0ef91-3297-4ef8-a99a-1c1a54dc8ac7
  23. https://regencyradio.co.uk/artist/firehouse/album/906c58f9-9328-3ae2-98f3-8652367f10f9/
  24. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/firehouse-mn0000774723/biography
  25. https://www.allmusic.com/album/category-5-mw0000256699
  26. https://www.moondancejam.com/bands/2016/Firehouse.html
  27. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/firehouse-mn0000774723/discography
  28. https://blabbermouth.net/news/stryper-bassist-on-performing-without-guitarist-oz-fox-it-was-like-a-nightmare
  29. https://blabbermouth.net/news/firehouse-releases-first-song-with-new-singer-nate-peck-mighty-fine-lady-promises-more-fresh-music
  30. https://ultimateclassicrock.com/c-j-snare-firehouse-dead/
  31. https://blabbermouth.net/news/firehouse-singer-cj-snare-dead-at-64
  32. https://www.facebook.com/FireHouseMusic/posts/today-is-a-sad-day-for-rock-n-rollit-is-with-great-sorrow-we-are-letting-the-wor/946617750166705/
  33. https://misplacedstraws.com/2024/03/a-conversation-with-firehouse-vocalist-nate-peck.html
  34. https://sleazeroxx.com/firehouse-announce-new-lead-vocalist-nate-peck/
  35. https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/firehouses-first-single-with-new-vocalist-nate-peck-mighty-fine-lady-is-now-available-on-spotify
  36. https://blabbermouth.net/news/firehouses-first-single-with-new-vocalist-nate-peck-mighty-fine-lady-is-now-available-on-spotify
  37. https://www.firehousemusic.com/tour
  38. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/firehouse-mn0000175049
  39. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/31161/Firehouse-Firehouse/
  40. https://www.highresaudio.com/artist/view/e3eccc3c-a697-458b-951c-002a163362bb/firehouse
  41. https://substack.com/home/post/p-146572248
  42. https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/music/story/2024-04-08/c-j-snare-vocalist-for-pop-metal-group-firehouse-dies-at-64
  43. http://www.melodic.net/album/firehouse-prime-time
  44. https://outsiderrock.ca/2021/10/09/firehouse-1999-interview-with-guitarist-bill-leverty/
  45. https://defendersofthefaithmetal.com/top-10-firehouse-songs/
  46. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1553864998786904/posts/1802502100589858/
  47. https://returntothe80s.wordpress.com/2025/04/27/35-albums-of-1990-day-25-firehouse/
  48. https://sleazeroxx.com/interviews/interview-with-firehouse-guitarist-bill-leverty/
  49. https://www.rockeyez.com/interviews/int-firehouse-leverty.html
  50. https://www.newstribune.com/news/2025/jul/06/leverty-talks-about-firehouse-bands-new-musical/
  51. https://www.firehousemusic.com/music
  52. https://www.legendaryrockinterviews.com/2013/05/08/firehouse-guitarist-bill-leverty-talks-about-bands-beginnings-new-solo-cd-drive-and-his-original-influences/
  53. https://zildjian.com/blogs/artist/michael-foster
  54. https://www.last.fm/music/Michael%2BFoster
  55. https://indianmusicmug.com/features/interview-with-allen-mckenzie/
  56. https://sitstrings.com/artist/allen-mckenzie/
  57. https://wrif.com/2025/05/30/from-linden-to-the-limelight-firehouses-nate-peck-talks-new-music-idol-roots-and-michigan-ties/
  58. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/firehouse-singer-c-j-snare-dead-obituary-1235000301/
  59. https://people.com/cj-snare-firehouse-singer-dead-64-sad-day-rock-n-roll-8628150
  60. https://www.northcentralpa.com/life/90s-rock-legend-with-local-ties-dead-at-64/article_41624bda-f5be-11ee-a327-ef88735d1c5c.html
  61. https://grandstrandmag.com/feature/a_musical_life_perry_richardson_keeps_the_faith
  62. https://www.last.fm/music/Firehouse/%2Bwiki
  63. https://blabbermouth.net/news/firehouse-guitarist-comments-on-bassist-s-passing
  64. https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Maxx_Warrior/1563
  65. https://loadedradio.com/firehouse-announces-new-vocalist/
  66. http://recordsandcharts.com/albumsan.php?aid=871
  67. https://www.allmusic.com/album/o2-mw0000604301
  68. https://www.allmusic.com/album/prime-time-mw0000144698
  69. https://www.billboard.com/charts/hot-100/1991-06-29/
  70. https://www.billboard.com/charts/hot-100/1991-10-19/
  71. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8690150/
  72. https://sleazeroxx.com/firehouse-launch-new-single-mighty-fine-lady-with-nate-peck-on-lead-vocals/
  73. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/firehouse/462413
  74. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8690186/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.