Family Force 5 Biography
Family Force 5 is a Christian crunk rock band formed in 2004 in Atlanta, Georgia. The group, which initially began as "The Brothers" in 1993 with members Solomon "Soul Glow Activatur" Olds, Joshua "Fatty" Olds, and Jacob "Crouton" Olds, is known for its high-energy performances and eclectic mix of genres, blending rock, dance, and rap metal influences. The band's expanded lineup included Nathan "Nadaddy" Currin and Brad "20 Cent" Allen, who was later replaced by Derek "Chapstique" Mount.
Their debut full-length album, "Business Up Front/Party in the Back" (2006), gained significant attention, with its unique sound contributing to the band's early success. This album was later re-released in 2007 as a "Diamond Edition" with additional tracks, reflecting its popularity. "Business Up Front/Party in the Back" earned Family Force 5 a GMA Dove Award for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year in 2007.
The band's follow-up album, "Dance or Die" (2008), continued to solidify their reputation with a more polished sound that leaned heavily into electronic and dance music influences. This album was supported by a tour and spawned the remix album "Dance or Die with a Vengeance" in 2009, showcasing the band's adaptability and appeal across different music scenes.
Family Force 5's discography includes several other albums, such as "III" (2011), which marked a significant shift as Solomon Olds departed the band, and Jacob Olds took over lead vocals. "Time Stands Still" (2014) followed, featuring the hit single "Let It Be Love," which charted on Christian music charts. In addition to their studio albums, the band has released several EPs, remix albums, and holiday-themed records, demonstrating their versatility and willingness to experiment with different sounds and concepts.
Throughout their career, Family Force 5 has been recognized not just for their music but also for their ability to engage with fans through their dynamic live performances and humorous approach to the music industry. Their unique blend of genres and innovative approach to music videos and online content have helped them build a dedicated fanbase, often referred to as the "FF5 Family."
Family Force 5's influence extended beyond music, as they engaged in various philanthropic efforts and appeared at numerous Christian music festivals and events. Despite lineup changes and the evolution of their sound over the years, the band remained a significant presence in the Christian music scene until their eventual hiatus in 2018.