Straight No Chaser

Biography

Straight No Chaser were the only male a cappella vocal ensemble on campus when they formed at Indiana University in Bloomington in 1996. Taking an unconventional approach , Straight No Chaser began working up a repertoire that included not only traditional songs, but also modern pop tunes more befitting a rock band than an a cappella ensemble. Various local performances, including a storied early-morning appearance at the university's annual 36-hour dance marathon, caught the public's attention and helped the ensemble gather a large and loyal fan base. The original lineup of Straight No Chaser released several albums, toured, and even competed nationally at Carnegie Hall before the students graduated from college and went their separate ways.

In 2006, a reunion show was planned for the founding members of Straight No Chaser at Indiana University, and a DVD recording of a 1998 concert was made to sell to fans. Subsequently, video clips of the concert were posted on YouTube and started gathering hundreds of views. One such viewer was Atlantic Records Chairman/CEO Craig Kallman, who flew the singers out to L.A. and ultimately signed Straight No Chaser to a recording contract. Straight No Chaser released their debut holiday-themed album, Holiday Spirits, in 2008. A year later, the group returned with the follow-up holiday album Christmas Cheers. ~ Matt CollarYouTube and started gathering hundreds of views. One such viewer was Atlantic Records Chairman/CEO Craig Kallman, who flew the singers out to L.A. and ultimately signed Straight No Chaser to a recording contract. Straight No Chaser released their debut holiday-themed album, Holiday Spirits, in 2008. A year later, the group returned with the follow-up holiday album Christmas Cheers. ~ Matt Collar, All Music Guide