Grouplove emerged from a serendipitous meeting in Greece to become one of the most recognizable alternative rock bands of the 2010s, known for their exuberant, anthemic sound and vibrant aesthetic. The band's origin story began in 2009 when vocalist and keyboardist Hannah Hooper and vocalist and guitarist Christian Zucconi met at an artist residency on the island of Crete. They quickly bonded and, upon returning to Los Angeles, connected with British bassist Sean Gadd, guitarist Andrew Wessen, and drummer Ryan Rabin, the latter of whom would become their producer. This fusion of personalities and backgrounds coalesced into Grouplove, a name that perfectly encapsulated their communal creative spirit.
The band independently released their self-titled debut EP in 2010, which was later re-released by Atlantic Records. The track "Colours" gained significant traction, setting the stage for their breakthrough. Their rise to mainstream prominence was cemented in 2011 with the infectious single "Tongue Tied." The song became a crossover hit, peaking within the top 50 of the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually achieving quintuple platinum certification from the RIAA, a testament to its enduring popularity on radio and in commercials. This success propelled their debut studio album, Never Trust a Happy Song, which presented a fuller picture of their dynamic range, from raucous indie rock to more introspective moments.
Building on their initial success, Grouplove proved to be consistent hitmakers. Their 2013 sophomore album, Spreading Rumours, featured the platinum-certified single "Ways to Go" and the popular "Borderlines and Aliens." The band's lineup saw a change in 2014 when bassist Sean Gadd amicably departed and was replaced by Dan Gleason. This solidified core of Zucconi, Hooper, Wessen, Rabin, and Gleason carried the band forward, releasing a string of well-received albums including Big Mess (2016), which contained the gold-certified track "Welcome to Your Life," Healer (2020), and This Is This (2021). Their music frequently appeared in film, television, and advertising, broadening their cultural footprint.
As of 2024, Grouplove maintains an active touring schedule and a deep connection with their fanbase, having released six studio albums and two EPs over their career. Their sound, characterized by dual vocal harmonies, driving rhythms, and optimistic energy, continues to define them. The band's journey from a chance encounter in a Greek village to platinum records and festival headlines remains a defining narrative of modern rock, built on a foundation of genuine friendship and a shared love for creating uplifting, guitar-driven pop.