Muse is a British rock band formed in Teignmouth, Devon, in 1994. Known for their elaborate live performances and blending of rock, alternative, electronic, and symphonic elements, Muse has become one of the biggest acts in modern rock. The band, led by Matt Bellamy, gained a reputation for their thematic albums, often exploring subjects like dystopia, politics, and science fiction. Over the years, Muse has won multiple awards and maintained a loyal global fan base, becoming one of the most successful and innovative bands of their generation.
1994: Muse is formed by Matt Bellamy, Chris Wolstenholme, and Dominic Howard after playing in separate bands during their school years.
1999: Debut album, Showbiz, is released, showcasing their early sound with songs like "Sunburn" and "Muscle Museum."
2001: Release of Origin of Symmetry, which features hits like "Plug In Baby" and "New Born." The album establishes them as a prominent band in the UK rock scene.
2003: Absolution is released, marking their breakthrough in the United States with singles like "Time Is Running Out" and "Hysteria."
2006: Black Holes and Revelations is released, featuring "Starlight," "Supermassive Black Hole," and "Knights of Cydonia." The album receives critical acclaim and expands their global following.
2009: The Resistance is released, exploring themes of rebellion and featuring "Uprising" and "Undisclosed Desires." The album wins a Grammy for Best Rock Album.
2012: The 2nd Law is released, introducing electronic and dubstep influences with tracks like "Madness" and "Survival."
2015: Drones, a concept album about warfare and surveillance, is released. It includes hits like "Psycho" and "Dead Inside" and earns Muse another Grammy Award for Best Rock Album.
2018: Simulation Theory is released, with a retro-futuristic, synth-driven sound. The album includes tracks like "Pressure" and "Thought Contagion."
2022: Muse releases Will of the People, an album addressing themes of societal and political unrest, with singles like "Compliance" and "Won’t Stand Down."
2011: Best Rock Album for The Resistance
2016: Best Rock Album for Drones
2004: During the 2004 Glastonbury Festival, drummer Dominic Howard’s father tragically passes away shortly after the band’s performance, deeply affecting the band.
2009: Muse performs at the MTV Video Music Awards, marking one of their first major television performances in the U.S. and boosting their popularity stateside.
2015: Known for his conspiracy theories, Matt Bellamy speaks publicly about themes of surveillance, control, and government, which heavily influence Drones.