Ace FTW: The High-Energy Architect of Modern Pop Punk
Ace FTW is a dynamic pop punk artist from Chicago, Illinois, who has carved a distinct niche in the modern rock landscape. His major label debut album, Burnout Anthems, charted within the Billboard 200 in 2022, cementing his transition from a prolific independent act to a recognized name on the national stage.
Early career
Formed as a solo project in 2015, Ace FTW began with songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Alex "Ace" Carter releasing DIY recordings directly to online platforms. These early tracks, blending melodic punk urgency with candid, narrative lyrics, quickly cultivated a dedicated online following. This grassroots success led to a deal with independent label Upstart Records in 2018, which released his first two EPs, Static Dreams and Midwest Echoes.
Breakthrough
The artist's breakthrough arrived in 2021 with the viral single Radio Silence, a track that captured the frustration and longing of the pandemic era. Its success attracted major label attention, leading Ace FTW to sign with Capitol Records later that year. The subsequent album, Burnout Anthems, debuted at number 187 on the Billboard 200 and spawned several tracks that received heavy rotation on alternative rock radio.
Key tracks
Radio Silence — This viral hit broke the artist beyond the pop punk scene and led to his major label signing.
Exit Wounds — The lead single from Burnout Anthems became his first track to chart on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart.
Paper Towns — A fan-favorite album cut known for its anthemic gang vocals and driving rhythm section.
Better Off Dead (feat. Chrissy Costanza) — This 2023 collaboration with Against The Current's vocalist expanded his reach into the wider pop rock audience.
Last Call for Heroes — The opening track from his 2024 EP Damage Control, showcasing a matured, more refined production style.
Following the momentum of his debut, Ace FTW has maintained a steady output, including the 2024 EP Damage Control. He has become a frequent collaborator, working with producers like John Feldmann and artists such as State Champs' Derek DiScanio, further solidifying his standing within the genre's community. His energetic live performances are a staple on the Vans Warped Tour successor circuits and similar festival stages.
For fans of Ace FTW's brand of heartfelt, high-octane pop punk, similar artists featured on our site include State Champs, who share a similar focus on huge melodies and polished production. The Story So Far parallels the raw, emotive vocal delivery and punchy instrumentation. Neck Deep represents the same UK-influenced pop punk lineage, and Hot Mulligan explores adjacent territories of emo-infused punk with verbose lyricism.
The music of Ace FTW is regularly featured across a variety of rock-focused stations on our network. Listeners can find his hits on mainstream alternative rock radio stations, dedicated pop punk online streams, and independent music stations that champion guitar-driven music. His tracks are a consistent part of the modern rock rotation, appealing to both longtime genre enthusiasts and new listeners.
You can hear the explosive sound of Ace FTW on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover his catalog, from early independent releases to his latest major label anthems, through our curated selection of rock and alternative radio streams.
