Troublemaker: The Unstoppable Force of Modern Rock

Troublemaker is a high-energy rock band from Chicago, Illinois, known for their raw, anthemic sound and relentless touring schedule. The group achieved mainstream success with their 2018 album No Apologies, which debuted at number 5 on the Billboard 200 chart and was later certified gold.

Early career

Formed in 2012, the band's original lineup consisted of vocalist Leo Vance, guitarist Max Holt, bassist Sam Rivera, and drummer Jax Keller. They cut their teeth playing in Chicago's gritty DIY punk and rock venues, self-releasing their first EP, Warning Signs, in 2014. This early work caught the attention of independent label Rustbelt Records, which signed them and released their debut full-length, Cross the Line, in 2016.

Breakthrough

Troublemaker's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of their sophomore album, No Apologies, on Rustbelt Records in partnership with a major label distribution deal. The lead single, "Echoes," became a staple on rock radio, propelling the album to gold certification and securing the band prominent festival slots across North America.

Key tracks

Echoes — This platinum-selling single became the band's first Top 10 hit on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and defined their signature blend of melodic hooks and heavy riffs.

Burn It Down — A live favorite known for its explosive chorus, this track from No Apologies showcases the band's powerful, driving rhythm section.

Guilty as Charged — Featured in several major sports broadcasts, this anthem from their 2021 album Pressure Point highlights their evolution into more polished, arena-ready rock.

Last Stand — This collaboration with veteran producer John Feldmann on their third album demonstrated a refined songwriting approach while maintaining their core aggressive energy.

The success of No Apologies established Troublemaker as a major force in the modern rock scene. Their 2021 follow-up, Pressure Point, debuted at number 3 on the Billboard 200, supported by extensive international touring. They have collaborated with artists like The Blue Stones and shared stages with acts such as Dirty Honey, further cementing their reputation as a must-see live act.

Fans of Troublemaker's brand of energetic, guitar-driven rock from the United States should also explore Goodbye June. This band shares a similar foundation in blues-infused, high-octane rock anthems. The raw, soulful power of The Blue Stones mirrors Troublemaker's gritty yet accessible approach. Listeners will also appreciate the melodic hard rock intensity of Dirty Honey, another group reviving classic rock energy for a new generation. The driving rhythms and anthemic choruses of Ayron Jones also align closely with Troublemaker's sound.

Troublemaker's catalog is a staple on rock radio stations featured on this website, from classic rock FM stations to modern alternative rock radio streams. Their hits receive regular airplay alongside new tracks, keeping their music in heavy rotation for rock audiences worldwide.

You can hear the powerful rock music of Troublemaker on radio stations featured on our website. Discover their discography and listen to their latest hits through the variety of rock radio stations available on onairium.com.