The Palace Theater in Los Angeles served as a surprising venue for a punk concert in 2023. The historic theater, previously a movie house and stage for stars like Harry Houdini, hosted the reunion show of influential 1990s band Unwound, marking the 20th anniversary of the archival record label Numero Group. Among the diverse audience was Chris Sheppard, a guitarist and vocalist for Everyone Asked About You, who was nervous about performing for over 3,000 attendees, the largest crowd his band had ever faced.
Everyone Asked About You: From High School Punk to Japanese Stardom
As Sheppard explored the venue, he overheard a disoriented group questioning the inclusion of Everyone Asked About You on the lineup. This query struck a chord, reflecting weeks of self-doubt shared by Sheppard and his bandmates regarding their unexpected comeback. Originally formed in Little Rock, Arkansas, in the late 1990s, the band had initially thought they had faded into obscurity after their breakup as teenagers.
The Band’s Origins and Breakup
Everyone Asked About You began when Sheppard and drummer Lee Buford met at Little Rock Central High School. Along with guitarist Collins Kilgore and vocalist Hannah Vogan, they experimented with a sound influenced by emo and noise rock. The name of the band drew from a children’s book, and their songs explored themes of teenage angst and love.
- Formation: Late 1990s in Little Rock, Arkansas.
- Influences: Unwound, Rainer Maria, Braid.
- First shows: Often played with chaotic punk ensembles.
Despite initially gaining some traction, Everyone Asked About You disbanded after high school, as members pursued various careers. Sheppard stopped playing music altogether, selling his equipment and moving to Boston. The band seemed to have vanished, but a twist of fate was on the horizon.
A Surprise Revival
In 2015, Sheppard discovered a YouTube video of a band in Japan performing his songs. This moment revealed the unexpected reach of Everyone Asked About You’s past. The video, which had amassed over 100,000 views, sparked renewed interest in their music.
Reunion and New Beginnings
In 2021, Ken Shipley of Numero Group contacted Buford, encouraging a reunion amid growing online interest. Although initial reactions from the band were skeptical, they eventually agreed, recognizing the potential for a special story that should not be dismissed.
- First reunion practice: Christmas 2022 in Little Rock.
- First performance post-reunion: February 2023 in Los Angeles.
The show, which shocked several attendees who had no prior knowledge of the band, quickly became a memorable experience. As younger fans moshed in the front, the band felt a resurgence of energy and excitement. The dynamics of the group mirrored their teenage selves, reconnecting them to their original passion.
Legacy and Modern Impact
As Everyone Asked About You continues to tour, they have intrigued a new generation of fans. Their music reflects authentic emotions, resonating with today’s youth on platforms like TikTok. This revitalization has led to upcoming shows and a new album titled *Never Leave*, featuring lyrics that reflect their life experiences now that they are approaching middle age.
Conclusion: Bridging Generations
The story of Everyone Asked About You illustrates a unique connection between past and present punk scenes. Their unexpected rise to stardom, particularly in Japan, speaks to the timeless nature of music. As the band prepares for more performances, they celebrate friendships rekindled from high school and the joy of reconnecting with both old and new fans.
