Few songs encapsulate the early 2000s as vividly as Nine Days' "Absolutely (Story of a Girl)." The catchy pop-rock anthem, which reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, has become a cultural touchstone over the years, celebrated for its infectious melody and relatable lyrics. Now, as the band prepares to embark on their first-ever Australian tour to commemorate the 25th anniversary of this beloved track, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a memorable experience. This article delves into the significance of Nine Days' journey, the impact of "Absolutely," and the excitement surrounding their upcoming performances.
Formed in 1994 in Long Island, New York, Nine Days originally consisted of John Hampson (vocals, guitar), Justin McRoberts (bass, vocals), and a rotating cast of drummers. The band gained national attention with the release of their album The Madding Crowd in 2000, which featured "Absolutely (Story of a Girl)." The song's success was not an overnight phenomenon; it was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
The band's rise to fame was somewhat serendipitous. Initially, they were part of the burgeoning pop-punk scene, but their sound evolved, blending elements of alternative rock with mainstream pop sensibilities. "Absolutely" became a staple on radio stations across the U.S., earning the band a spot in the hearts of listeners who identified with its themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience.
Originally released in 2000, "Absolutely" gained double-Platinum status and has remained a fan favorite for decades. Its recent resurgence can be attributed to its inclusion in the Oscar-winning film Everything Everywhere All At Once, which introduced the song to a new generation. The film, known for its unique storytelling and emotional depth, provided a fresh context for the track, leading to an increase in streams and renewed interest in Nine Days.
As of 2023, "Absolutely" has amassed over 175 million streams on Spotify, solidifying its status as a timeless anthem. Frontman John Hampson noted, “It’s surreal to see a song we wrote so long ago still resonating with people today. It’s like a gift that keeps on giving.”
In preparation for their tour, Nine Days will perform three intimate shows on the East Coast of Australia. The dates and venues are as follows:
Tickets for these performances went on sale on June 26, with pre-sale access starting a day earlier. Hampson expressed his excitement about finally touring Australia, stating, “We have been waiting 25 years for this opportunity! Over the years, fans from Australia have reached out to us wanting to know when we were going to make it there to play some shows. Well, now we can finally give them an answer – this November!”
During interviews, Hampson reflected on the band's historical connection to Australia, noting an exclusive CD single released only in Australia, which featured unplugged recordings. This unique connection has made the upcoming tour even more meaningful for the band, as they look forward to performing for fans who have long awaited their arrival.
Despite being labeled a “one-hit wonder” by some, Nine Days has released eight studio albums since their formation, with their latest, Snapshots, debuting in 2016. The band has continued to evolve their sound while maintaining the essence of what made them popular in the first place.
"Absolutely (Story of a Girl)" continues to earn accolades, securing a spot on Rolling Stone’s list of the best one-hit wonders of the 2000s, and it was also featured in Billboard’s top 10 songs of the summer from the same decade. This enduring popularity speaks to the song's emotional resonance and the band's ability to connect with listeners.
The upcoming Australian shows promise to be a nostalgic celebration for longtime fans. Attendees can expect to hear "Absolutely" performed live, along with other tracks from their extensive catalog. Hampson emphasized the importance of these performances, stating, “It’s not just about the songs; it’s about the memories they evoke and the experiences we share with our fans.”
As Nine Days prepares for this milestone tour, the implications for their future are profound. With the resurgence of their music and renewed interest from fans, the band may find new opportunities to expand their reach. The Australian tour could open doors for further international performances, allowing them to connect with audiences worldwide.
Moreover, the success of their earlier hits could inspire Nine Days to explore new creative avenues, potentially leading to fresh material that resonates with both long-time fans and new listeners. This tour marks not only a celebration of the past but also a promising step toward the future.
The upcoming tour by Nine Days is more than just a series of concerts; it represents a significant milestone in the band’s career and a heartfelt acknowledgment of their fans' enduring support. As they prepare to celebrate the 25th anniversary of "Absolutely (Story of a Girl)," the band invites audiences to join them in reliving the memories and emotions tied to their music. The anticipation surrounding these performances highlights the timeless appeal of Nine Days and their ability to touch the hearts of listeners across generations.
Nine Days will perform on November 13 in Melbourne, November 14 in Sydney, and November 15 in Brisbane.
Tickets went on sale on June 26 via MRG Live, with pre-sale access starting a day earlier. You can visit mrglive.com for ticket information.
The tour celebrates the 25th anniversary of their hit single "Absolutely (Story of a Girl)" and their album The Madding Crowd, providing a nostalgic experience for longtime fans.
The band released their latest album, Snapshots, in 2016. They have released a total of eight studio albums since their formation.
The song has seen a resurgence in popularity due to its inclusion in the Oscar-winning film Everything Everywhere All At Once and continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.
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