Kings of Leon

American rock band Kings of Leon formed in Nashville, Tennessee in 1999. Founding members are brothers Anthony Caleb Followill (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Ivan Nathan Followill (drums, percussion, backing vocals) and Michael Jared Followill (bass, backing vocals), with their cousin Cameron Matthew Followill (lead guitar, backing vocals). Each member of the family group is known by his middle name (second given name) as opposed to his first given name.

Early on, the band’s music was an upbeat blend of southern rock and blues influences. Gradually, though, the Kings of Leon expanded their sound to include a variety of genres and a more alternative rock or arena rock sound.

Kings of Leon achieved initial success in the United Kingdom with nine Top 40 singles, two BRIT Awards in 2008. After the release of Only by the Night in September 2008, the band finally achieved chart success in their native United States.