It’s 1997.  I’m 11 years old and completely, utterly obsessed with the hottest band on the market: Hanson - their songs, their long blonde locks, their terrible choice in clothing – all of it.  If someone told me I’d be seeing them perform five, full-length albums 13 years later, I probably would have said, “see you there!” 

Flash forward to 2010.  It’s the end of April and I’ve been gearing up for a legendary event that most people will never have the chance to experience.  Yes, Hanson, the band that fell off the face of the Earth in the 90’s, was about to perform a five-night concert series at New York City’s Gramercy Theatre, playing their entire discography: one album each night. I never doubted that they would make it this far.

I’ve been on a long journey with Hanson, from obsession in 5th grade, to embarrassment in 8th grade and finally to empowerment and passion in high school and beyond.  They’ve inspired multiple facets of my life through both their music and experiences in the music industry.   In fact, I credit Hanson as a major player in my decision to pursue public relations and eventually become part of the staff here at Hunter Public Relations.

Here’s the back-story: While everyone else thought they disappeared after MMMBop, Hanson actually continued to work on recording music, struggling with their record label for four years.  Finally, they broke their contract and decided to start their own independent label, 3CG Records. In 2004, nearly seven years after their breakout song, they released their first independent album, Underneath.  I saw this new beginning as a huge opportunity for them to re-introduce themselves to both the media and consumers.  But did you know about their new album in 2004?  Or the one after that, The Walk, in 2007?  Probably not.  I admire Hanson for the hardships they’ve gone through and the music they’ve made as a result, but media-wise, they could have made much better decisions.  That’s why I decided to share with all of you some of Hanson’s NEW music from their forthcoming album Shout It Out, hitting stores June 8.

The band’s five-night series was brilliant – it was their way of thanking longstanding fans like me while also making a splash in the greatest city in the world, New York.  And they made their splash!  Hanson appeared on the TODAY Show, Late Night with David Letterman and had a full-page spread in this week’s New York Magazine.  A great start getting the word out!  They’re hitting the road this summer touring with Rooney and playing songs off Shout it Out – if they’re in your city go check them out!

A final thank you after a long week of music.

I invited a few Hunter’s with me to the concerts last week – some were excited, some were embarrassed and some were nervous to see what Hanson sounded like all these years later.  Take a look below!

Hope you enjoy re-discovering one of the greatest pop bands out there!

Nancy