We the Kings is a Florida-born pop-rock band that’s been winning hearts since forming in 2005 in the coastal town of Bradenton. Childhood friends Travis Clark, Hunter Thomsen, Drew Thomsen, and Danny Duncan started the band while attending King Middle School—hence the name, a tribute to their roots.

Their big break came in 2007 with the release of their self-titled debut album, featuring the massive hit “Check Yes Juliet.” The track became a defining anthem of 2000s pop-punk and helped launch them into mainstream success. By 2009, they followed up with Smile Kid, a fan favorite packed with catchy tracks like “Heaven Can Wait” and “We’ll Be a Dream,” which featured a duet with Demi Lovato.

Over the years, the lineup shifted: Drew Thomsen left in 2011, replaced by bassist and YouTube personality Charles Trippy. That same year, Coley O’Toole joined, adding keys, rhythm guitar, and backing vocals. Longtime drummer Danny Duncan remained with the group until 2024.

Despite changes, We the Kings kept the music coming. Albums like Sunshine State of Mind, Somewhere Somehow, Six, and Sincerely reflected their evolution without losing their pop-punk charm. They’ve remained a constant in the live scene, playing everything from intimate shows to massive festival stages.

With heartfelt lyrics, infectious melodies, and a loyal global fanbase, We the Kings have carved out a lasting space in the ever-changing world of pop rock—still making music for anyone who remembers the joy of yelling “Run baby run!” at the top of their lungs.