Tait (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2000 |
| Founder | Michael Tait |
| Defunct | 2007 |
| Headquarters | Nashville, Tennessee , United States |
| Products | Christian rock music albums |
Tait was a Christian rock ensemble from the United States, established by Michael Tait, who was previously part of dc Talk and later took on the role of lead vocalist for Newsboys.
Before Tait's Formation (1996–1999)
In 1996, Michael Tait of dc Talk connected with Chad Chapin, and the two began collaborating on songwriting. Michael created a cover band called Curious George, performing tracks ranging from Pearl Jam to King's X and The 77s. Together, Tait and Chapin intended to establish a stable band aimed at international touring.
Additionally, Michael worked alongside Pete Stewart, who had contributed guitar work to dc Talk’s album Supernatural. After Stewart’s alternative metal group Grammatrain dissolved in 1998, he teamed up with Tait to co-produce his solo record.
Empty Era (2000–2002)
Following dc Talk’s break around 1999, Michael embarked on a solo venture, bringing in Pete Stewart along with Chad and Lonnie Chapin, who had relocated to Nashville, Tennessee in 1996 to advance their musical pursuits. The band officially came together in 2000 under the name Tait, honoring Michael’s father, Rev. Nathel Tait.
After spending a year recording, Tait unveiled their first album, Empty, which made its way onto the Top Contemporary Christian charts. The record explored themes such as doubt ("Spy"), racial injustice ("American Tragedy")—which sparked controversy due to its inclusion of a racial slur—and Michael’s personal mourning following the loss of his father, sister, and brother all within one year ("Unglued").
Lose This Life Period (2003–2007)
Post-debut, Pete Stewart exited the group and was succeeded by nineteen-year-old guitarist Justin York. The band returned to the studio in 2002 and released the Dove Award-winning album Lose This Life in 2003. This project showcased a transition toward a heavier hard rock sound compared to the softer tones of Empty. During this timeframe, members also participated in !Hero, a rock opera presenting a contemporary retelling of the life of Jesus Christ.
Between 2004 and 2006, the band toured sporadically alongside other CCM performers. Concerning changes in personnel, Tait emphasized that while his leadership shapes the band’s overall direction, alterations in membership have little effect on its core vision.
Break Period (2007–2009)
Tait halted touring activities after October 6, 2007. On March 9, 2009, Michael was introduced as the new lead vocalist for Christian pop rock group Newsboys. He had intended to produce a third album titled Loveology, announced in 2006, which was described as combining elements akin to "Stevie Wonder meets Maroon 5 meets Lenny Kravitz". Although some songs, including "Glimmer", were recorded, the album has not been released and its status remains uncertain.
Michael confirmed ongoing development on Loveology with collaborators such as Ben Moody, indicating that the final result will probably differ significantly from its initial concept.
Former band members
- Michael Tait – vocals, piano (2001–2007)
- Chad Chapin – drums, percussion (2001–2007)
- Evan Weatherford – guitar (2004–2007)
- Jordan Hester – bass (2004–2007)
- Pete Stewart – guitar, keyboards (2001–2002)
- Justin York – guitar (2002–2004)
- Brian Nutter – guitar (2004–2005)
- Lonnie Chapin – bass guitar (2001–2004)
- Dave Clo – guitar (2005)
- Brian Tait – keyboards (2005)
Albums
| Year | Album Title | Label(s) | Chart Rankings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Christian Albums | Top Heatseekers | |||
| 2001 | Empty | ForeFront | 10 | — |
| 2003 | Lose This Life | ForeFront | 23 | 19 |
External links
- Official Tait website [archived]
- Official dc Talk website
- dcTalkSolo fan site [archived]