The Get Up Kids

The Get Up Kids

Company type	Band
Industry	Music
Founded	1995
Headquarters	Kansas City , United States
Products	Music albums, EPs

The Get Up Kids are a Midwest emo group originating from Kansas City, formed in 1995. They played a significant role in the mid-1990s Midwest emo movement, often referred to as the "second wave" of emo music. Their sophomore release, Something to Write Home About, is highly regarded and considered a defining album of this genre. The band is acknowledged as pioneers of emo, impacting peers such as Saves the Day and influencing subsequent acts including Fall Out Boy, Taking Back Sunday, and the Wonder Years.

As their popularity grew, they toured alongside prominent bands like Green Day and Weezer, eventually leading their own tours internationally in regions like Japan and Europe. They established Heroes & Villains Records, an imprint under indie label Vagrant Records, initially to distribute their own music but also to support side projects such as the New Amsterdams and Reggie and the Full Effect.

In 2002, with the release of On a Wire, they transitioned away from their signature sound towards a more textured alternative rock style, consciously distancing themselves from the "emo" genre label. Internal disagreements culminated in their disbandment in 2005. The group reunited in 2008 to celebrate the tenth anniversary reissue of Something to Write Home About and soon resumed creating new music. Their first fresh release in six years, Simple Science, came out in 2010, followed by the full-length album There Are Rules in 2011. Their most recent studio album, Problems (2019), was seen as a return to their earlier musical roots.

Early years (1995–1997)

During their high school years, Ryan Pope, Rob Pope, and Jim Suptic briefly played together in a band named Kingpin. Meanwhile, Matt Pryor had been composing songs since adolescence and performed with Secret Decoder Ring. After both groups disbanded in 1995, The Get Up Kids officially formed on October 14, 1995—coinciding with Suptic's eighteenth birthday. Initially considering the name Suburban Get Up Kids, they ultimately chose Get Up Kids to secure a favorable position alphabetically in record store listings. Their debut performance was as an opening act for Mineral on the night of their high school prom.

The founding members were Pryor (guitar and vocals), Suptic (guitar), Rob Pope (bass), and Thomas Becker (drums). Becker left to pursue college studies and was succeeded by Nathan Shay, who attended the Kansas City Art Institute. In 1995, Pryor, Suptic, and Kevin Zelko independently released their first 7-inch record titled "Shorty/The Breathing Method". Due to Shay’s unwillingness to tour, Ryan Pope replaced him on drums in April 1996.

The band began establishing themselves within the Midwest underground music circuit, collaborating with acts like Rocket Fuel Is the Key, Coalesce, and Braid. After releasing the "Shorty" 7-inch, they followed up with "A Newfound Interest in Massachusetts" through Contrast Records. Capitalizing on this progress, they recorded their debut EP, Woodson. Contrast Records issued a 7-inch version of "A Newfound Interest in Massachusetts," while Doghouse Records compiled both 7-inches into a CD-EP format. Doghouse then offered them a deal for two albums along with $4,000 to produce their first full-length record.

Four Minute Mile (1997–1998)

Following their signing with Doghouse Records, the band entered the studio with producer Bob Weston of Shellac in Chicago, completing their debut full-length album in just two days, wrapping up early on a Sunday morning. Two months afterward, they embarked on their inaugural national tour alongside Braid and Ethel Meserve, kicking off immediately after Ryan Pope’s high school graduation.

During this tour, they connected with James Dewees, drummer for Coalesce, which sparked a strong friendship and resulted in a split 7-inch record produced by Ed Rose titled "The Get Up Kids / Coalesce". Each band contributed a cover of the other's track: Coalesce delivered a post-hardcore take on "Second Place," while The Get Up Kids offered a power-pop version of "Harvest of Maturity."

The group toured relentlessly, establishing relationships with bands such as Jimmy Eat World, Mineral, and Boys Life, frequently performing in basement venues to cultivate a loyal following. In September 1997, they released Four Minute Mile, which impressively sold over 40,000 copies within two years—a notable feat for an independent label—garnering interest from larger record companies. Their first European tour took place in 1998 alongside Braid, marking their initial performances outside the continental United States.

Despite increasing recognition nationally and abroad, dissatisfaction grew regarding Doghouse Records' ability to adequately support their expanding success. When they announced their departure from Doghouse, major labels including Sub Pop, Geffen, and Mojo Records expressed interest. Although initially inclined to sign with Mojo, the band reconsidered due to the label’s insistence on controlling merchandising rights—a primary revenue stream—and a demand to re-record "Don't Hate Me" from Four Minute Mile, which the band found disrespectful.

Prior to committing with Mojo, they met Rich Egan, founder of Los Angeles–based Vagrant Records, who proposed a $50,000 budget for recording their second album along with establishing their own imprint, Heroes & Villains Records. Reflecting in 2000, Rob Pope emphasized that their goal was to build a sustainable career rather than chase a single hit record.

Something to Write Home About (1999–2001)

In 1998, James Dewees released his debut solo project under the name Reggie and the Full Effect, collaborating with Matt Pryor and Rob Pope on instrumental parts. This collaboration led Pryor to invite Dewees into The Get Up Kids for the Red Letter Day EP, produced by Ed Rose to fulfill contractual obligations with Doghouse Records. The EP’s cleaner production incorporated keyboards, serving as a bridge between their raw debut and the more refined sound of their forthcoming album.

Dewees became an official member during the recording sessions for their second studio album in Los Angeles in June 1999 with producer Alex Brahl. To finance the production costs, Vagrant Records co-owner John Cohen secured funds by borrowing from his parents, who mortgaged their home. Released on September 21, 1999, Something to Write Home About encapsulated the band’s frustrations with label difficulties and feelings of homesickness. Widely regarded as their quintessential emo album, it aligned closely with the genre’s definition at that time. The record sold over 140,000 copies, propelling Vagrant into prominence as a leading indie label and significantly raising the band’s status within emo circles.

The album’s commercial success enabled Vagrant to expand its artist roster; however, some fans were alienated by the addition of keyboards, perceiving it as a departure from punk’s DIY principles. The Get Up Kids toured vigorously for nearly three years across Europe, Japan, and Australia, sharing stages with acts such as Green Day, the Anniversary, Hot Rod Circuit, Jebediah, Weezer, and Ozma. Their 2000 tour alongside the Anniversary and Koufax was notably sponsored by Napster. Frequently, audience demand exceeded venue capacities, reflecting their growing popularity.

Strong sales attracted investment from Interscope Records, which acquired a minority stake in Vagrant, enhancing the label’s industry standing. To sustain momentum ahead of their next release, Vagrant issued the rarities collection Eudora in 2001 featuring alternate versions, covers, and B-sides. Simultaneously, Doghouse re-released a remastered edition of Four Minute Mile along with a compilation combining two EPs titled The EPs: Woodson and Red Letter Day on one disc.

On a Wire (2002–2003)

Following an extensive three-year tour supporting Something to Write Home About, the band experienced creative exhaustion and decided to depart from their signature energetic power-pop style. Their musical palette broadened, incorporating elements inspired by classic rock legends such as Led Zeppelin; Pryor later reflected in 2021 that this period showcased a diversification in their songwriting influences. Rob Pope referred to this phase as a "peculiar developmental stage," publicly acknowledging the impact of groups like The Beatles on their sound.

Pryor emphasized a progression in their musicianship, particularly highlighting the Pope brothers' enhanced rhythmic precision and Jim Suptic's growth as lead guitarist. The band invested increased effort into song demos, although their manager Rich Egan expressed doubts regarding the significant change in musical direction.

In pursuit of a more unified and polished production for their third album, they approached several notable producers including Stephen Street, John Leckie, Nigel Godrich, and Gil Norton, all of whom declined involvement. They briefly considered Jerry Finn but ultimately selected Scott Litt, recognized for his work with R.E.M., the Replacements, and Nirvana. Rob Pope recalled their goal was to achieve broader radio appeal, placing confidence in Litt’s successful track record.

Pre-production sessions led by Litt took place in Lawrence, Kansas before recording commenced at Tarquin Studios in Connecticut with engineer Peter Katis. The band resided at the studio for a month during winter. Pryor temporarily departed for the birth of his daughter while the Pope brothers continued mixing alongside Litt and Katis amid creative disagreements over production decisions.

Released on May 14, 2002, On a Wire showcased a gentler alternative rock approach that distanced some long-time fans accustomed to the band's previous vigor. Alternative Press commented on the album’s maturity but noted a decline in raw intensity.

Although some fans were disappointed, mainstream critics responded positively. Entertainment Weekly described it as "the group at their finest," while Rolling Stone praised its introspective tone over previous distortion and tempo-driven tracks.

The album’s modest commercial performance affected both the band’s visibility and label support. Touring shortly after release revealed waning fan enthusiasm and reduced backing from Vagrant Records. Capitalizing on the success of Something to Write Home About, Vagrant shifted focus toward other emo acts such as Alkaline Trio, Dashboard Confessional, and Saves the Day. Consequently, The Get Up Kids lost priority within the label after On a Wire's underwhelming reception. Pryor admitted that this stylistic change hindered the band’s momentum, allowing emerging groups like Dashboard Confessional to capture their audience. He also conceded that neither the band nor Vagrant adequately supported the album’s potential. During this time, the band intentionally distanced themselves from the "emo" classification, aiming to shed its pop-centric connotations. Pryor expressed confidence in overcoming that stigma regardless of listener reactions.

Reflecting in 2021, Pryor acknowledged their stubbornness during this era: "I think if anyone told us we were making a bad decision, we would have fired them."

Guilt Show (2003–2004)

In 2003, work began on their fourth studio album using an advance from their label to acquire and refurbish Black Lodge Studios located in Eudora, Kansas, which they co-owned alongside producer Ed Rose. The songwriting process was less collective than before; most compositions were created by three members due to personal circumstances—Jim Suptic was on honeymoon while James Dewees was focused on his solo work amid a challenging divorce. This change allowed the Pope brothers to take on expanded songwriting responsibilities. Notably, Rob Pope penned "Never Be Alone," inspired by his own divorce in 2003.

This fragmented creative approach caused tension within the group and nearly led Suptic to depart. Lyrically, Pryor explored themes rooted in personal experiences involving abuse, betrayal, guilt, and infidelity. The lead single "The One You Want" portrayed a character who "sucks the soul out of people."

Produced by Ed Rose and released in March 2004, Guilt Show combined elements of the restrained style found on On a Wire with renewed energy reminiscent of earlier releases. Its pop-oriented sound rekindled interest among fans disillusioned by the previous album while attracting new listeners and favorable critical attention. Despite positive reviews and commercial success relative to its predecessor, their resurgence was overshadowed by growing emo bands such as Dashboard Confessional, who invited them to participate in the 2004 Honda Civic Tour.

Breakup and solo activity (2004–2008)

During their tour with Dashboard Confessional, internal conflicts escalated, with Rob Pope and Jim Suptic threatening departure multiple times. Matt Pryor suffered a breakdown while touring Australia due to family-related stress and expressed a desire to step away from band activities. After completing an international tour encompassing Europe, Japan, and Australia, live performances noticeably declined. Pryor occasionally refused to perform vocal parts during shows, culminating in a confrontation with Ryan Pope in England. The group mutually agreed to disband quietly following this tour. They remained inactive until reuniting for a tenth-anniversary concert at Lawrence’s Granada Theater. This event was recorded and issued as their inaugural live album titled Live! @ The Granada Theater.

On March 8, 2005, The Get Up Kids formally announced their dissolution. They completed a farewell national tour ending with a sold-out show on July 2, 2005, at Kansas City's Uptown Theater.

Following disbandment, the Pope brothers managed Black Lodge Studios, which had been established during production of Guilt Show with Ed Rose. They briefly played with Koufax before pursuing separate endeavors. Rob co-founded Lawrence-based ensemble White Whale, releasing their debut album WWI via Merge Records in 2006 to moderate acclaim, then joined indie rock band Spoon full-time. Ryan became drummer for Lawrence’s experimental rock group the Roman Numerals.

Matt Pryor expanded his acoustic alt-country project the New Amsterdams and formed children's music group the Terrible Twos in 2007, releasing two albums through Vagrant Records. He subsequently embarked on a solo career with his debut Confidence Man in 2008 followed by May Day. Afterward, he dissolved the New Amsterdams releasing Outroduction, a compilation of B-sides.

Jim Suptic created indie rock outfit Blackpool Lights alongside former Butterglory members; their debut album This Town's Disaster appeared in 2006 featuring tracks originally intended for The Get Up Kids. Suptic also launched independent label Curb Appeal Records, which issued records by Smoking Popes and New Amsterdams before ceasing operations around 2008. Subsequently, Suptic worked at Home Depot to support his family financially.

After the breakup, James Dewees toured as keyboardist for New Found Glory, having contributed to their 2003 release Catalyst. His battle with substance abuse led him to enter rehab in New York City; this experience inspired Reggie and the Full Effect’s fifth album Last Stop: Crappy Town. Following tours with Hellogoodbye in 2006, he joined My Chemical Romance as full-time touring keyboardist and member.

Reunion and new music (2008–2011)

Towards late 2008, James Dewees hinted during his Reggie and the Full Effect tour that The Get Up Kids would reunite for the tenth anniversary of their second album Something to Write Home About. Confirmation came via The Kansas City Star's music blog announcing an unannounced show at The Record Bar in Kansas City scheduled for November 16, 2008. The band decided over summer months to regroup; Dewees leaked details early to assess fan enthusiasm.

The reunion performance along with a nationwide tour planned for 2009 were officially publicized on November 14; simultaneously they announced a tenth-anniversary reissue of the album featuring bonus demos accessible via download codes plus a DVD containing retrospectives and live footage. On November 16, they performed the entire album live followed by an encore comprising six additional songs.

In summer 2009 sessions at Black Lodge Studios produced twelve new tracks intended for release as three separate EPs over twelve months. Their reunion tour spanned Europe and North America between August and October with support from Youth Group, continuing into November across US venues accompanied by Mansions. On April 13, 2010, they issued the first EP titled Simple Science on Flyover Records. Due to other commitments limiting touring availability, Nate Harold substituted for Rob Pope on bass during parts of the 2010 tour, while Dustin Kinsey filled keyboard duties replacing Dewees in 2011.

Following Simple Science, remaining tracks were combined with three newly written songs into full-length album There Are Rules. Opting against Vagrant Records’ release model, they self-released it through Quality Hill Records. Produced by Ed Rose with mixing by Bob Weston, it debuted January 25, 2011 supported by a joint headlining tour alongside Saves the Day.

Second hiatus and Problems (since 2012)

After There Are Rules failed to achieve significant commercial success, The Get Up Kids entered another period of inactivity during which members pursued careers outside music. This hiatus was punctuated only by occasional tours. In preparation for the When We Were Young festival in 2017, they recommitted fully as an active band. That year marked their inaugural Latin American tour featuring six shows across Mexico, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil.

On March 29, 2018 it was announced through Polyvinyl Records and Big Scary Monsters that The Get Up Kids had signed new deals with plans for upcoming releases. They debuted a thirteen-minute EP titled Kicker on June 8 followed by full-length album Problems released May 10, 2019—their first studio album after an eight-year gap. Critics lauded Problems as an impressive comeback reaffirming their status as seminal figures within '90s emo/alternative music.

Between 2024 and 2025 The Get Up Kids toured extensively across North America, Europe, and the UK celebrating twenty-five years since release of Something To Write Home About.

Musical style and influences

The Get Up Kids are primarily identified within genres such as emo, Midwest emo, punk rock, and pop-punk. Additionally, they have described their sound using terms like indie rock alongside punk rock influences. Their inspirations include bands such as Superchunk, Jawbreaker, Fugazi, Rocket from the Crypt, Sunny Day Real Estate, Cap'n Jazz, Vitreous Humor, and Jimmy Eat World.

Legacy

The Get Up Kids have exerted substantial influence over subsequent music scenes by inspiring pivotal bands and helping shape emo prior to its mainstream breakthrough during early-2000s.

A retrospective published in 2017 credited them alongside Lifetime and Hot Water Music as instrumental architects advancing emo's evolution.

Their most notable impact emerged through early-2000s acts such as My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy, both of whom cited Four Minute Mile as formative inspiration. Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz stated in 2005 that without The Get Up Kids his band might not exist.

Mark Hoppus of Blink-182 is also an admirer; he notably used their song "I'll Catch You" during his marriage proposal. Blink-182 acknowledged influence from The Get Up Kids even amid peak popularity surrounding Take Off Your Pants and Jacket. New Jersey bands like Midtown (band) and Early November have credited them as well—the latter referencing "No Love" lyrically and melodically. In addition, members of Hellogoodbye invited them onstage for a cover performance of "Action & Action" in 2007. Canadian post-hardcore group Silverstein (band) covered "Coming Clean" in tribute during 2013 illustrating ongoing legacy.

Claudio Sanchez from Coheed and Cambria cited Something to Write Home About as crucial influence while recording breakthrough material. Dan Campbell of The Wonder Years (band) similarly credits The Get Up Kids extensively—naming his company after their song "Forgive & Forget", frequently acknowledging their songwriting creativity.

Jordan Pundik of New Found Glory partially derived his band's moniker inspired by their track "A Newfound Interest in Massachusetts."

Despite these accolades, members have distanced themselves from many artists influenced by them. Guitarist Jim Suptic expressed unease about contemporary punk scenes evolved from their era; he apologized if this affects perceptions but remains grateful for recognition received.

Conversely in 2020 Matt Pryor offered an optimistic perspective praising newer emo acts including Evan Weiss’s Into It. Over It., Modern Baseball, and PUP for exhibiting work ethics reminiscent of early days shared by The Get Up Kids.

Since reuniting they have supported emerging emo bands such as Tigers Jaw, PUP,Steel Train, and The Hotelier, demonstrating ongoing dedication towards nurturing genre growth.

Band members

Template:Col-begin Template:Col-2 Current members

• Matt Pryor – lead vocals, rhythm guitar (1995–2005; 2008–present)
• Jim Suptic – lead guitar; backing vocals; occasional lead vocals (1995–2005; 2008–present)
• Rob Pope – bass guitar (1995–2005; 2008–present)
• Ryan Pope – drums, percussion (1996–2005; 2008–present)
• Dustin Kinsey – keyboards (2011; 2019–present)

Template:Col-2 Former members

• Thomas Becker – drums/percussion (1995)
• Nathan Shay – drums/percussion; backing vocals (1996)
• James Dewees – keyboards; backing vocals (1999–2005; 2008–2019)

Former touring musicians

• Nate Harold – bass guitar (2010)

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Discography

Main article: The Get Up Kids discography

Studio albums

• Four Minute Mile (1997)
• Something to Write Home About (1999)
• On a Wire (2002)
• Guilt Show (2004)
• There Are Rules (2011)
• Problems (2019)