About
Formed in 1984 by high-school friends Sammy Llanas and Kurt Neumann, the BoDeans mixed Midwestern roots rock with elements of adult contemporary pop, fashioning a sound that earned critical acclaim during the '80s and commercial recognition during the following decade. Llanas and Neumann fronted the group by sharing vocal and guitar duties, while bassist Bob Griffin and drummer Guy Hoffman populated the rhythm section. Although based in Waukesha, Wisconsin Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- jangle pop
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the BoDeans biggest hit?
- The BoDeans' biggest hit is undoubtedly "Closer to Free."
- What happened to the lead singer of The BoDeans?
- The lead singer of the BoDeans, Kurt Neumann, remains an active member and the driving force behind the band. Co-founder and guitarist/vocalist Sam Llanas left the group in 2011. Llanas' departure stemmed from "differences of opinion"
- Who are the members of the BoDeans?
- The BoDeans were originally formed by Kurt Neumann (vocals, guitar) and Sam Llanas (vocals, guitar) in Waukesha, Wisconsin, in 1983. Over the years, the band's lineup has shifted, but Neumann remains the constant and central figure. Other notable past and present members include Bob Griffin (bass), Michael Ramos (keyboards, accordion), Nick Kitsos (drums), and Kenny Aronoff (drums, session/touring). After Sam Llanas departed in 2011, Kurt Neumann continued to lead the band, bringing in talented musicians like Stefano Intelisano (keyboards), Brian Ferguson (drums), and Eric Holden (bass) for live tours and studio work. This evolving lineup has helped the BoDeans stay fresh and innovative, while Neumann's presence ensures the group's authentic sound endures. Today, BoDeans performances feature Kurt Neumann alongside top-tier touring musicians, delivering the classic hits and new material that fans love.
- Where did the name BoDeans come from?
- The name "BoDeans"
- What kind of music is BoDeans?
- BoDeans are best known for their blend of heartland rock and pop, often described as Americana or roots rock. Their music fuses elements of classic rock, alternative rock, folk, and pop, resulting in an accessible yet emotionally resonant sound. With catchy melodies, earnest lyrics, and a driving rhythm section, BoDeans songs often explore themes of love, hope, and everyday struggles. Their style draws comparisons to artists like Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, and John Mellencamp, but with a distinctive Midwestern twist. Over the decades, the BoDeans have remained relevant by evolving their sound while staying true to their roots, moving from raw, guitar-driven tracks in their early albums to more polished, radio-friendly pop-rock anthems like "Closer to Free."