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The Lumineers was formed in 2005 in Ramsey, New Jersey. Initially started by Wesley Schultz (vocals and guitar) and Jeremiah Fraites (drums and percussion), they later moved to Denver, Colorado, and expanded their lineup. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2012, propelled them into the spotlight, buoyed by the hit single “Ho Hey,” which not only received extensive radio play but also featured in multiple commercials and TV shows, helping it climb to the top of the music charts. Following their debut, the band released three more albums: Cleopatra in 2016, III in 2019, and Brightside in 2022. Each album has contributed to solidifying their presence in the indie music scene, with Cleopatra debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200. The band’s music has earned them several awards and nominations, highlighting their significant impact on the folk-rock genre.
Wesley Schultz
Wesley Schultz, a founding member of The Lumineers, has served as the lead vocalist and guitarist since the band’s inception in 2005. Before forming The Lumineers, Schultz performed with Jeremiah Fraites, who would also become a founding member, in the New York City music scene. Their decision to relocate to Denver marked a new beginning for the duo, where they met cellist Neyla Pekarek. Schultz has played a critical role in writing and composing the majority of the band’s music, contributing significantly to all four studio albums. His distinct voice and storytelling are pivotal to the band’s sound and success. Outside of The Lumineers, Schultz released a solo album in 2020 titled Vignettes, showcasing his versatility and depth as a musician by covering songs that have influenced his artistic journey.
Jeremiah Fraites
Jeremiah Fraites co-founded The Lumineers with Wesley Schultz and has been the band’s drummer and pianist. Like Schultz, he was heavily involved in the early music-making process that defined their distinctive style. His contributions extend beyond the drums; he plays the piano and other instruments, offering a rich layering to the band’s music that has been evident across all their albums. Fraites’ ability to blend traditional rock instruments with more classical ones, like the piano, helps create the folk-rock sound that the band is known for. In 2021, Fraites released his own solo album, Piano Piano, which comprises instrumental piano compositions, highlighting his broad musical talents beyond the band’s work.
Neyla Pekarek
Neyla Pekarek joined The Lumineers in 2010 after answering a Craigslist ad posted by Schultz and Fraites. Her skills as a cellist added a new dimension to the band’s sound, contributing to their debut album and Cleopatra. Pekarek’s cello played a fundamental role in the orchestration of many tracks, enriching the band’s melody lines and harmonic structures. In 2018, she decided to leave The Lumineers to pursue a solo career. Her debut solo album, Rattlesnake, was released in 2019, and it tells the story of Rattlesnake Kate, a figure from Colorado folklore, further showcasing her inclination towards narrative-rich compositions.
Maxwell Hughes
Maxwell Hughes briefly joined The Lumineers prior to the release of their first album. As a skilled guitarist, Hughes contributed to the early development of the band’s sound, although he was not a part of any major recordings that made it to the debut album. After departing from the band, Hughes continued his career as a solo artist, emphasizing his virtuoso guitar skills and has received accolades for his acoustic work, including being a finalist in the International Fingerstyle Guitar Championship.
Ben Wahamaki
Ben Wahamaki was a part of The Lumineers during their early years, playing bass during the tours that followed their debut album’s release. His tenure with the band was short-lived, and he left after touring with them for a couple of years. Post his time with The Lumineers, Wahamaki has kept a low profile in the music industry.
Jay Van Dyke
Jay Van Dyke, former member of The Lumineers, played with the band during its formative years before they achieved mainstream success. His contributions were primarily during live performances rather than in studio recordings. After his departure, Van Dyke continued to pursue music with various other projects, focusing on his growth as a musician and exploring different musical styles.
Read More: Top 10 Lumineers Songs
Complete List Of Lumineers Band Members article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
About The Author
SKIP ANDERSON
Skip Anderson has written for various musical journals and historical periodicals. Skip spends his times writing and cooking a mean barbecue on his ranch in Southern Georgia.