Hit the Lights emerged from the fervent mid-2000s pop-punk scene as a dynamic and resilient force, characterized by energetic instrumentation, dual-vocal harmonies, and anthemic choruses. Over a career spanning more than two decades, the band has navigated significant lineup changes and sonic evolutions while maintaining a dedicated fanbase. Their work remains a cornerstone of the era’s musical landscape, celebrated for its technical proficiency and emotional resonance. This biography details the formation, breakthrough, evolution, and lasting cultural impact of Hit the Lights, a band whose legacy continues to be honored at events like Emo Night Pittsburgh.
Formation and Early Era
The foundation of Hit the Lights was laid in Lima, Ohio, a setting that proved to be a fertile ground for a group of musicians determined to make their mark on the burgeoning emo and pop-punk movement. Their story is one of grassroots effort, local scene-building, and the pivotal signing that propelled them to national recognition.
Origins and Formation
Hit the Lights formed in the summer of 2003, composed of high school friends with a shared passion for the prevailing sounds of bands like Saves the Day, The Starting Line, and New Found Glory. The original lineup consisted of dual vocalists Colin Ross and Nick Thompson (who also played rhythm guitar), lead guitarist Omar Zehery, bassist Nate Van Dame, and drummer Ryan Radebaugh. This dual-frontman dynamic became an early signature of their sound, allowing for intricate vocal interplay that distinguished them from many of their peers. They aggressively honed their craft by playing local shows in Ohio and the surrounding region, quickly gaining a reputation for their high-energy performances and polished, technically skilled musicianship. Their early material, circulated through demos and EPs, showcased a raw but promising blend of pop-punk melody and the driving intensity of post-hardcore.
Early Discography
The band’s early output was crucial in capturing the attention of independent record labels. Their first formal release was the 2004 EP From Ohio with Love, released via Red Leader Records. This initial offering, along with their relentless touring schedule, caught the ear of Triple Crown Records, a label renowned for cultivating influential acts in the emo and alternative rock scenes. After signing with Triple Crown, Hit the Lights released the Until We Get Caught EP in 2005, which featured re-recorded versions of earlier songs and new material that further refined their sound.
This momentum culminated in the release of their debut full-length album, This Is a Stick Up… Don’t Make It a Murder, on April 11, 2006. Produced by Matt Squire (Panic! at the Disco, All Time Low), the album was a quintessential document of mid-2000s pop-punk. It was defined by its rapid tempos, intricate guitar riffs, and the signature vocal trade-offs between Ross and Thompson. Tracks like “Body Bag,” “Talk Us Down,” and “The Call Out” became instant fan favorites, lauded for their infectious hooks and relatable lyrics about suburban life, relationships, and self-discovery. The album was a critical success within the genre, establishing Hit the Lights as a formidable new presence in the scene and setting the stage for extensive national and international touring.
The Mainstream Breakthrough
Following the successful launch of their debut, Hit the Lights faced their first major challenge with a significant lineup shift. However, this period of transition ultimately led to their most commercially successful album, cementing their status as leading figures in the pop-punk genre and expanding their audience considerably.
Pivotal Album(s) and Lineup Changes
In 2007, a pivotal change occurred when co-vocalist Colin Ross departed from the band. The separation was amicable, with Ross choosing to pursue a different life path. Rather than seeking a replacement, the band made the crucial decision to move forward with guitarist Nick Thompson assuming sole lead vocal duties. This change fundamentally altered the band’s sonic identity, shifting from a dual-vocal attack to a more focused, singular voice. The band addressed the transition directly with their fanbase and immediately began writing new material that would reflect this new configuration.
The result of this new era was their sophomore album, Skip School, Start Fights, released on July 8, 2008. Again produced by Matt Squire, the album represented a more polished and streamlined version of their sound. Thompson’s vocals proved more than capable of carrying the band, offering a smoother, more melodic tone that pushed their music further into the realm of emo pop. The album retained the band’s characteristic energy and instrumental complexity but packaged it in a more accessible format, primed for wider appeal.
Achieving Critical and Commercial Success
Skip School, Start Fights became the band’s commercial breakthrough. It debuted at number 97 on the Billboard 200 chart, a significant achievement for an independent band in the genre. The album was bolstered by the success of its lead single, “Stay Out,” which received airplay on music television and became an anthem for the summer of 2008. Another notable track, “Drop the Girl,” featuring a guest appearance by a member of the acclaimed group Augustana, also garnered positive attention. The album’s success was amplified by the band’s inclusion on the entire run of the 2008 Vans Warped Tour, placing them in front of massive crowds nightly. This period saw Hit the Lights touring relentlessly alongside contemporaries like All Time Low, Boys Like Girls, and Cobra Starship, solidifying their position as a staple of the late-2000s pop-punk scene.
Musical Evolution and Key Events
With their place in the scene secured, the subsequent years saw Hit the Lights explore new sonic territory, navigate the changing landscape of the music industry, and ultimately reaffirm their musical identity. This period was marked by ambitious artistic shifts and a celebrated return to their roots.
Mid-career Albums and Sonic Shifts
After parting ways with Triple Crown Records, the band signed with Razor & Tie for their third full-length album, Invicta, released on January 31, 2012. The nearly four-year gap between albums was a period of deliberate creative exploration. Invicta marked a significant sonic departure, showcasing a more mature and layered sound. The album traded some of the youthful exuberance of their past work for a more nuanced approach, incorporating elements of alternative rock and atmospheric textures. Tracks like “Gravity” and “Earthquake” demonstrated a band unafraid to evolve, exploring darker themes and more complex song structures. While it may have surprised some longtime fans, Invicta was praised by critics for its ambition and musical growth.
Following their stint with Razor & Tie, Hit the Lights found a new home at Pure Noise Records, a label at the forefront of the modern pop-punk revival. This move signaled a return to their origins, which was fully realized on their fourth album, Summer Bones, released on March 24, 2015. The album was widely seen as a powerful return to form, expertly blending the raw energy of their debut with the polished songwriting of their sophomore effort. It was a definitive pop-punk record, brimming with fast-paced anthems like “Fucked Up Kids” and “The Old Pro.” Summer Bones was embraced by both old and new fans, reaffirming the band’s enduring ability to craft compelling, high-energy rock music.
Hiatus, Reunions, or Significant Member Departures
Throughout their career, Hit the Lights has maintained a remarkably stable core lineup following Colin Ross’s departure. Thompson, Zehery, and Van Dame have remained constants, providing a consistent musical foundation. While the band has never officially entered a formal hiatus, they have had periods of decreased public activity between album cycles, allowing members to focus on personal lives and other projects. These quiet spells have often been broken by announcements of new music or anniversary tours, much to the excitement of their dedicated fanbase. They have successfully avoided the public drama of breakups and reunions that have plagued many of their peers, instead operating with a steady and professional consistency.
Modern Era
In recent years, Hit the Lights has transitioned from a full-time touring entity to a celebrated legacy act. While new full-length releases have been infrequent, the band remains active, continuing to release music and perform for a fanbase that has grown with them over the years.
Recent Albums and Contemporary Activity
Following the success of Summer Bones, the band released a four-song EP titled Just to Get Through to You in May 2016. This release continued in the vein of its predecessor, delivering a concise and powerful dose of their signature pop-punk sound. Since then, the band’s output has consisted of occasional singles and anniversary celebrations. They have remained connected with their audience through social media and special performances, including anniversary tours for their classic albums, which allow them to celebrate their legacy directly with the fans who made it possible. Though their pace of new releases has slowed, the quality and passion behind their music remain, indicating that the final chapter for Hit the Lights has yet to be written.
Cultural Impact and Connection to the Scene
The influence of Hit the Lights extends beyond their recorded output. They are an integral part of the narrative of 2000s pop-punk, and their music continues to be a source of energy and nostalgia, demonstrating a timeless appeal that connects with audiences at dedicated genre events.
Influence on Their Primary Genres
Within the emo and pop-punk genres, Hit the Lights carved out a unique space defined by a higher level of musical technicality than many of their contemporaries. Omar Zehery’s intricate lead guitar work and the band’s tight, energetic rhythm section set a high bar for performance. Their first album, This Is a Stick Up…, is often cited as a prime example of the dual-vocal style that became popular in the scene. More broadly, their career arc—from scrappy independent band to charting act to revered genre veterans—serves as a model of longevity and adaptation in a rapidly changing music industry. They are remembered not just for a few hit songs, but for a consistently strong body of work that has stood the test of time.
Relevance in Nostalgia Events like Emo Night Pittsburgh
The enduring popularity of the 2000s emo and pop-punk scenes has given rise to nostalgia-fueled events that celebrate the era’s definitive sounds. At an event like Emo Night Pittsburgh, the music of Hit the Lights is not just featured; it is essential. Songs like “Body Bag” and “Stay Out” are anthems that evoke a specific time and feeling, capable of igniting a crowd with their infectious energy. For attendees of a Pittsburgh Emo Night, hearing a Hit the Lights track is a transportive experience, bringing back memories of Warped Tour summers and youthful abandon. The band’s continued relevance in these settings underscores their lasting impact, proving that their music remains a vital part of the pop-punk canon for both original fans and a new generation discovering the genre.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hit the Lights
What genre of music is Hit the Lights?
Hit the Lights is primarily categorized as a pop-punk band. Their music also incorporates elements of emo, emo pop, and, particularly on their album Invicta, alternative rock. They are known for their high-energy sound, melodic hooks, and intricate guitar work.
Who is the original singer of Hit the Lights?
Hit the Lights originally had two vocalists: Colin Ross and Nick Thompson. Colin Ross was the primary lead vocalist on their debut album, This Is a Stick Up… Don’t Make It a Murder. He left the band in 2007.
What happened to Colin Ross?
Colin Ross chose to leave Hit the Lights in 2007 on amicable terms to pursue a college education and a life outside of being a full-time touring musician. Following his departure, guitarist Nick Thompson became the sole lead vocalist for the band.
What is the band’s most commercially successful album?
The band’s most commercially successful album is their 2008 sophomore release, Skip School, Start Fights. It was their first album to chart on the Billboard 200, debuting at number 97, and featured the popular single “Stay Out.”
Are Hit the Lights still an active band?
Yes, Hit the Lights is still considered an active band, though they are not as active with touring and releasing new music as they were in their peak years. They have released EPs and singles in recent years and occasionally perform live, particularly for anniversary tours or special events.
Who are the current members of Hit the Lights?
The core members of Hit the Lights consist of Nick Thompson (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Omar Zehery (lead guitar), Nate Van Dame (bass), and Kevin Mahoney (touring/session drums). Ryan Radebaugh was the original drummer for their first two albums.
