Lovejoy is an English indie rock band formed in Brighton in 2021. The group consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist William Gold, also known by his stage name Wilbur Soot, lead guitarist Joe Goldsmith, drummer Mark Boardman, and bassist Ash Kabosu. Each member contributes to songwriting, creating a cohesive and dynamic sound. The band initially went by the name “Hang the DJ,” but they later changed it to “Lovejoy,” inspired by Benedict Lovejoy, a friend who was involved in their early songwriting sessions.
The origins of Lovejoy can be traced back to the meeting between Gold and Goldsmith, who previously played in the same folk band. Gold, known for his popular Twitch streams and YouTube videos, teamed up with Goldsmith to form the band. The lineup was completed when Gold recruited Kabosu, whom he met in a Smashburger shop in Brighton, and Boardman, whom the band initially hired through Fiverr before inviting him to join as a permanent member. The band recorded their debut EP, Are You Alright?, in March 2021 at Brighton Electric. Released on May 8, 2021, the EP debuted at number 10 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart, marking a strong start for the group.
Following this, Lovejoy released their second EP, Pebble Brain, on October 14, 2021. Recorded at Small Pond Recording Studios in Brighton, the EP delved into themes of failed relationships and political unrest, and it peaked at number 12 on the UK Albums Chart. In October 2022, the band issued their first two EPs and a cover of “Knee Deep at ATP” on vinyl for the first time, reflecting their growing popularity. The band began to gain mainstream attention with increased radio play on BBC Radio 1 and Dutch radio shows, as well as features on BBC Music Introducing.
On February 10, 2023, Lovejoy released the single “Call Me What You Like,” which became the lead single for their third EP, Wake Up & It’s Over. This single peaked at number 32 on the Official UK Top 40 chart and contributed to the EP’s success. Released on May 12, 2023, Wake Up & It’s Over debuted at number 5 on the UK Albums Chart, marking the band’s first top 10 release. The EP also featured the track “Portrait of a Blank Slate,” which was included in the soundtrack for EA Sports FC 24.
The band continued to expand their presence with the surprise release of an acoustic EP titled From Studio 4 on April 7, 2023, featuring acoustic versions of their debut EP’s songs and a new track, “Tomorrow.” Lovejoy’s performance at major festivals such as Glastonbury, Rock Werchter, TRNSMT, and Lollapalooza, as well as their tour supporting Wake Up & It’s Over, helped solidify their reputation as a rising force in the indie rock scene. They also performed on notable platforms like the Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
In October 2023, Lovejoy announced their upcoming single “Normal People Things” and their Road to 100 tour. However, on March 21, 2024, they canceled their appearances at Coachella, Boston Calling, Bonnaroo, and Fox Theater Pomona due to concerns over Wilbur Soot’s mental health. Despite this setback, the band announced their first Australian shows set for August 2024 and released the single “I’ll Look Good When I’m Sober” on August 8, 2024. With their music described as indie rock and pop punk, Lovejoy’s influences include Los Campesinos!, The Strokes, Crywank, and Arctic Monkeys. Their unique sound and energetic performances continue to captivate audiences.