Europe is a Swedish rock band that rose to fame in the 1980s with their hit song "The Final Countdown." The band's members include lead vocalist Joey Tempest, guitarist John Norum, bassist John Levén, keyboardist Mic Michaeli, and drummer Ian Haugland. Over the years, Europe has established itself as one of the most successful rock bands in the world, with millions of records sold and numerous hit songs.
The band was formed in 1979 in Upplands Väsby, a suburb of Stockholm. Originally known as Force, the band's members included Tempest, Norum, Levén, and Haugland. Michaeli joined the band in 1984, completing the lineup. The band's early years were marked by a series of lineup changes and struggles to find success, but they eventually caught a break when they won a talent competition in 1982.
Europe's breakthrough came in 1986 with the release of their third album, "The Final Countdown." The title track became an instant hit and is still widely recognized as one of the most iconic rock songs of all time. The album also spawned several other hits, including "Rock the Night" and "Carrie." "The Final Countdown" went on to sell over 15 million copies worldwide, cementing Europe's place in the pantheon of rock music.
Over the years, Europe has released a number of successful albums, including "Out of This World" (1988), "Prisoners in Paradise" (1991), and "Start from the Dark" (2004). The band has experimented with different styles over the years, blending hard rock, heavy metal, and pop influences to create their signature sound.
One of the things that sets Europe apart from other rock bands is their emphasis on melody and songcraft. While many rock bands focus on raw power and energy, Europe has always prioritized memorable melodies and catchy hooks. This has helped them appeal to a wider audience, including fans of pop and mainstream rock.
Another factor in Europe's success has been their ability to adapt to changing trends in the music industry. In the 1990s, as grunge and alternative rock became more popular, many 80s hair metal bands struggled to maintain their relevance. But Europe was able to evolve their sound and stay relevant, even as the music landscape shifted around them.
Today, Europe remains one of the most respected and beloved rock bands in the world. They continue to tour and record new music, and their influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary rock bands. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of rock music, Europe is a band that's worth checking out.
