AWOLNATION

The band name is a reference to the military term "AWOL," meaning "Absent Without Leave." Lead singer Aaron Bruno earned that nickname in high school because he would vanish from parties and other gatherings without saying goodbye. When he dabbled in freestyle rapping, he used the name "AWOL," and when he formed the band, he named it Awolnation.

Although the group is considered a hard rock band, singer Aaron Bruno says he listens to all different kinds of music, including country, pop, and hip-hop. The first album he bought was a cassette version of Run-D.M.C.'s Raising Hell. He's also a huge fan of Led Zeppelin because of Jon Bonham's drumming.

Awolnation had a big hit with their first single, "Sail," in 2011. They were so happy with their success that they gave their fans a free Christmas EP that year to say "thank you." The 6-song Holiday EP features live favorites and unreleased tracks, including "MF."