Foster the People
American indie pop band formed in Los Angeles, known for their catchy melodies, electronic-infused sound, and breakout hit 'Pumped Up Kicks'.
Foster the People emerged in 2009, founded by singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Mark Foster. The band quickly gained international fame in 2010 with their viral single 'Pumped Up Kicks'. Their debut album 'Torches' (2011) was a critical and commercial success, earning a Grammy nomination. Subsequent albums like 'Supermodel' (2014), 'Sacred Hearts Club' (2017), and the 2021 EP collection explored diverse sounds while maintaining their core indie pop identity. Known for energetic live shows and Foster's songwriting, the band remains active.
- The band's name originates from Mark Foster's early career writing advertising jingles; he imagined 'fostering the people' through music.
- 'Pumped Up Kicks' became a massive viral hit via blogs and social media before its official release, sparking intense debate due to its dark lyrical content about school violence contrasted with its upbeat sound.
- Despite the controversy, the song propelled them to instant fame, landing them major festival slots like Coachella within a year of forming.
- Mark Foster has been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety, themes that sometimes surface in his lyrics.
- The band is known for its social consciousness, supporting various causes like environmentalism and LGBTQ+ rights, and Mark Foster has collaborated with the United Nations Foundation.