SouthFM
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2000 |
| Defunct | October 2006 (initial disbandment) |
| Fate | Disbanded in 2006; reunited in 2010 and officially reassembled by 2016 |
| Headquarters | Dallas, Texas , United States |
| Products | Music albums and singles |
| Website | https://myspace.com/southfm |
SouthFM is a Dallas, Texas-based alternative rock group that formed in 2000 and disbanded in October 2006. Their discography includes two studio albums: Drama Kids (2003) and Swallowing the Pill (2005). The band briefly reunited in 2010 and officially reassembled by 2016, focusing on creating new music.
Drama Kids (2001–2004)
The band's first album, Drama Kids, was originally issued through Brando Records, an independent label located in Dallas, before receiving a national re-release via MCA. The single "Dear Claudia" achieved radio play across the United States and appeared on an episode of Law & Order SVU. Although the album was well-received, MCA Records ceased operations during SouthFM’s tour. While many MCA artists transitioned to Geffen Records, SouthFM was released from their contract.
Swallowing the Pill and breakup (2005–2006)
Following nearly two years of songwriting after their separation from MCA/Geffen, SouthFM launched their sophomore album, Swallowing The Pill, once again under Brando Records. The tracks "Killing Me" and "Blue & Grey" were promoted as singles to radio stations. The band toured regionally throughout 2005 and 2006 before concluding with their final performance on October 28, 2006, at the Curtain Club in Dallas.
Reformation and Letters That Were Never Sent (2007–2011)
On June 12, 2010, SouthFM reunited for a sold-out show featuring songs spanning their career, including performances by the original lineup playing selections from Drama Kids. This event coincided with the release of a triple digital album titled Letters That Were Never Sent, which contained demos, live recordings, and rare tracks primarily recorded before their 2005 releases Drama Kids and Swallowing The Pill. Some of these songs were later professionally re-recorded while others remain unreleased.
Following this reunion concert’s success, SouthFM performed three additional shows in November 2010 without original guitarist G.I. Sanders; Dan Rivera stepped in on guitar. A few scheduled appearances in Dallas, Tyler, and San Antonio were partially canceled due to illness. Confirmed performances took place on November 20 at The Venue @ The Down Under Pub in Tyler and November 27 at Trees in Dallas, supported by opening acts Mothers Anthem, Eyes Burn Electric, and Meridian.
The Day of the Rose (2012–present)
At SXSW 2011, vocalist Paco Estrada collaborated with Ryan Holley and Matt Noveskey of A+ Machines—a group previously connected to SouthFM. Holley had contributed vocals to SouthFM’s track "Regret / The Grieving" from Swallowing the Pill. This partnership led to the formation of Lambs to Lions, which included drummer Alphonso Lovelace and keyboardist Deuce Wanier. Their musical style was notably similar to SouthFM’s sound.
Due to other obligations from some members, Noveskey withdrew from the project. Subsequently, SouthFM’s bassist Dave Shafer and guitarist Chad Abbott joined Lambs to Lions. This transition resulted in Lambs to Lions evolving into a renewed version of SouthFM. The band is currently engaged in writing their forthcoming album titled The Day Of The Rose.
Band members
Original members Paco Estrada (vocals), G.I. Sanders (guitar), and Chad Abbott (guitar) remained central figures throughout SouthFM’s existence. At the time of disbandment, Dave Shafer (bass) and Tabber Millard (drums) were also integral parts of the lineup. Additional musicians who contributed included Moe Martinez (drums), Doug McGrath (bass), Spencer Estep (drums), and Scot Risch (bass).
During the band's reformation period, G.I. Sanders was unavailable; lead guitar responsibilities were assumed by Ryan Holley—a frequent collaborator and former touring partner—while Fonz Lovelace handled drums; both had previously played with Estrada’s Lambs to Lions. Later on, Cody Sowell took over lead guitar duties and Andrew Pederson joined as drummer.
Discography
- Drama Kids (2003)
- Swallowing the Pill (2005)
- Letters that Were Never Sent (triple album) (2010)
- Telegrams from the Dead: Knives//Razors (2025)
- Day of the Rose (upcoming)