Hawthorne Heights

Hawthorne Heights are an American post-hardcore and alternative rock band formed in Dayton, Ohio, in the early 2000s, part of the wave of emo-tinged rock acts that broke through in the mid-2000s alongside groups like Underoath and My Chemical Romance. Their sound combined melodic pop-punk hooks with screamed vocals and heavier, hardcore-leaning guitar work, a formula that helped their breakout single «Ohio Is for Lovers» become an anthem of the era.

The band's early success was shadowed by tragedy: guitarist and founding member Casey Calvert died in 2007, a loss that profoundly shaped the group's later work and public identity. Despite this, Hawthorne Heights continued releasing music and touring, with vocalist JT Woodruff remaining the band's constant creative anchor alongside bassist Matt Ridenour.

Beyond «Ohio Is for Lovers», the band built a catalog of fan favorites including «Niki FM», «Saying Sorry», «This Is Who We Are» and «Pens and Needles», songs that remain staples of mid-2000s emo playlists. Their current lineup includes Mark McMillion and Chris Popadak alongside Woodruff and Ridenour, and the band continues to perform and record, retaining a loyal fanbase built during the genre's commercial peak.