About
The Arctic Monkeys are a hugely popular English alternative rock band led by the witty Alex Turner, known for hits such as “Do I Wanna Know?” and “Fluorescent Adolescent.”
Turner and guitarist James Cook began playing music when they received guitars for Christmas in 2001. In just two years, the duo had linked with drummer Matt Helders and bassist Andy Nichols, and were playing shows in their native Sheffield, England. Arctic Monkeys’ early music gained popularity initially through the Internet, through which they built a fan base even before signing with a label. The band did eventually signed with Domino Records in 2005, releasing hit singles “I Bet You Look Good On the Dancefloor,” and “When the Sun Goes Down.” Their debut album, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, went on to sell over 350,000 copies in its first week, turning Arctic Monkeys into mainstream stars.
Arctic Monkeys’ momentum continued with the release of the EP Who the F**k Are Arctic Monkeys and a subsequent U.S. tour. The band took home various awards in 2006, including Best British Breakthrough Act at the Brit Awards and Best New Band at the NME Awards. 2007’s follow-up was Favourite Worst Nightmare, a louder, faster album which sold 85,000 copies in its first day and garnered a Mercury Prize as well as two additional Brit Awards. Humbug, released in 2009, went platinum in the U.K. and led to a world tour.
The band went on hiatus after the Humbug tour, working on individual side projects and giving occasional surprise performances. In 2013, they headlined Glastonbury, where they opened with “Do I Wanna Know?”, revealing the release of the long-awaited AM, a smash success. Another hiatus followed, until 2018’s slower, shorter Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino. Arctic Monkeys perform often, and are regularly booked for corporate entertainment events and private parties.
