All About Hanson (ET Spotlight)
There's really no way to describe that, getting on stage, and the energy, going on. When that happens, it's just awesome. -- Taylor Hanson
Their first single, the terminally-catchy "MMMBop," skyrocketed to the top of the Billboard Top 100 Singles chart in just four weeks. Their album, "Middle of Nowhere," debuted in the Top Ten - and stayed there for more than three weeks selling 10 million copies to date. Now, that trio of talented teenyboppers known as HANSON are back in the limelight to perform at this year's Grammy ceremony. The boys have been nominated for three Grammys - "Best New Artist," "Best Pop Performance By Duo Or Group" and "Record Of The Year."
The golden-haired trio ISAAC (17), TAYLOR (15) and ZAC HANSON (12) were born and raised in the oil-drilling town of Tulsa, Oklahoma. They began their career in 1992 -- recording and releasing two self-distributed CDs years before oldest brother Isaac was old enough to drive a car! Their distinctive sound -- relying on well-crafted, hooky pop tunes and plenty of harmony - was born from a love of the pop and soul music of the '60s, combined with their own youthful exuberance and love of life.
Without a trace of grunge artifice, Hanson creates a sweetly nostalgic feel, without resorting to high gloss. Youwon't hear any candy choruses or swelling strings -- instead you'll hear the brothers' natural harmonies with their love for traditional rock and roll.
Just play anywhere you can play. You play birthday parties, you play block parties, you play fairs, festivals. You know, anywhere you can be seen. -- Taylor Hanson
So what does a group of teens write songs about? Friendship, girls, loneliness, girls, family members, girls - and aliens. Yes, aliens. Zac's other-worldly composition, "Man From Milwaukee," was inspired by his sitting by the side of the road in Albuquerque waiting for his family to fix their broken-down van - and certainly offers a change-of-pace in their subject matter.
With their innate talent, Hanson just might have the staying power other teen idols have lacked. Long after the teen magazines have moved on to the next big thing, it's possible the brothers Hanson will still be crafting pleasures as indelible as "MMM-Bop."
Email: totallytaylor83@hotmail.com
