The Best: Pioneers of Modern Heartland Rock

The Best is an American rock band known for its anthemic, heartland-inspired sound blending classic rock energy with contemporary production. Formed in Chicago in 2008, the group achieved mainstream success with their multi-platinum second album, "Crossroads," which debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 chart.

Early career

The core duo of vocalist Sam Vance and guitarist Leo Carter formed The Best after meeting at a Chicago open mic night in 2007. Their self-released debut EP, "Midwest Echoes," in 2009 caught the attention of independent label Rustbelt Records, which signed them and released their first full-length album, "Gravel & Gold," in 2011.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 2014 with their sophomore album, "Crossroads," released on major label Atlas Records. Propelled by heavy radio play for its lead single, the album was certified double platinum in the United States and spent 78 consecutive weeks on the Billboard 200.

Key tracks

Long Way Home — This 2014 single became their first top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart and defined their heartland rock anthem style.

Neon Hearts — A collaboration with singer-songwriter Maya Rivers, this track expanded their audience and earned a gold certification in 2015.

Steel and Sky — The opening track from their 2018 album "Horizons," it is a staple of their live shows and a fan favorite for its soaring guitar solos.

Crossroads — The title track from their breakthrough album is noted for its lyrical themes of choice and destiny, resonating deeply with their core audience.

Following "Crossroads," The Best headlined major festivals and released their third album, "Horizons," in 2018. This album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and featured a notable collaboration with veteran producer Brendan O'Malley, known for his work with rock acts. Their most recent studio work is 2022's "Resilient," which saw the band experimenting with more atmospheric sounds while maintaining their guitar-driven core.

Fans of The Best's earnest, anthemic rock often appreciate the work of similar artists. The Gaslight Anthem shares a similar foundation in punk-infused Americana storytelling. The Hold Steady offers comparable lyrical density and rock energy rooted in character-driven narratives. The heartland rock influence is also evident in the music of The War On Drugs, though with a greater emphasis on sonic texture and atmosphere.

The music of The Best maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on classic rock FM stations that program modern rock acts and alternative rock radio stations seeking guitar-driven anthems. Their catalog from "Crossroads" onward receives consistent spins, ensuring their sound reaches a broad audience of rock listeners across multiple formats.

Listeners can discover the powerful anthems of The Best on the rock radio stations featured on our website. Tune in to stations available on onairium.com to hear their key tracks and latest music in regular rotation.