The String Cheese Incident: A Detailed History of the Beloved Jam Band

Introduction

The String Cheese Incident is a renowned American jam band known for its eclectic musical style, improvisational live performances, and dedicated fan base. Formed in 1993 in Crested Butte, Colorado, the band has garnered a loyal following over the years, becoming a staple of the jam band scene.

Early Years and Formation

The String Cheese Incident was founded by keyboardist Kyle Hollingsworth and mandolinist/vocalist Michael Kang. The duo was joined by guitarist/vocalist Billy Nershi, bassist Keith Moseley, and drummer Michael Travis, completing the original lineup.

The band's early performances were characterized by a blend of bluegrass, rock, and funk influences, and they quickly gained a reputation for their energetic live shows.

Rise to Prominence

In 1995, The String Cheese Incident released their debut album, "Born on the Wrong Planet," which helped establish their unique sound and attracted a wider audience.

The band continued to tour extensively throughout the late 1990s, building a devoted fan base known as "Cheesers." In 1998, they released their breakthrough album, "Carnival '99," which featured a more polished sound and showcased the band's improvisational abilities.

Continued Success and Evolution

Over the years, The String Cheese Incident has released numerous albums and toured extensively, solidifying their status as one of the top jam bands in the world.

The band has collaborated with various artists, including Karl Denson, Bruce Hornsby, and Keller Williams, and has performed at major festivals such as Bonnaroo, Coachella, and Lollapalooza.

Musical Style and Influences

The String Cheese Incident's music is characterized by its eclectic blend of genres, including bluegrass, rock, funk, reggae, and electronic music.

The band's improvisational live performances are a key part of their appeal, with each show featuring unique setlists and extended jams that allow for musical exploration.

Fan Base and Community

The String Cheese Incident has a devoted fan base that has played a significant role in the band's success.

Cheesers are known for their enthusiastic live performances, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere at concerts. The band has fostered a sense of community among its fans, who often travel to multiple shows and connect through online forums and social media.

Impact on the Jam Band Scene

The String Cheese Incident has had a profound impact on the jam band scene.

The band's success has helped popularize the genre and has inspired numerous other jam bands to emerge. The band's emphasis on improvisation and live performance has set a high standard for other bands in the genre.

Conclusion

The String Cheese Incident remains one of the most beloved and influential jam bands of all time.

With their eclectic musical style, improvisational live performances, and dedicated fan base, the band has left an indelible mark on the music industry and continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

String Cheese Incident