12 WEEKS At #1! The UNUSUAL Rise of Fuel! (Hemorrhage, Shimmer)

The story of the rise of the band Fuel with their one two punch of 1998's Sunburn, featuring the hit 'Shimmer' and their follow up 'Something Like Human' featuring the mega hit 'Hemorrhage (In My Hands). 0:00 - Introduction/Early Years 2:36 - Fuel Moves 5:05 - Label Deal/Early Success 6:57 - Sunburn 10:48 - Something LIke Human Have a video request or a topic you'd like to see us cover? Fill out our google form! https://bit.ly/3stnXlN -----CONNECT ON SOCIAL----- TIKOK:https://www.tiktok.com/@rocknrolltruestory Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rocknrolltruestories Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RNRTrueStories Twitter: https://twitter.com/rocktruestories Blog: www.rockandrolltruestories.com #fuel #brettscallions #carlbell I cite my sources and they may differ than other people's accounts, so I don't guarantee the actual accuracy of my videos. These videos are for entertainment purposes only. READ OUR DISCLAIMER https://rockandrolltruestories.com/youtube-disclaimer/ Fuel's journey from a small-town band to rock radio dominance is a testament to persistence and DIY spirit. Guitarist Carl Bell, raised in a TV-restricted household in Tennessee, discovered music through his brother's contest win of 500 records. Along with bassist Jeff Abercrombie and drummer Jody Abbott, they formed various bands before finding vocalist Brett Scallions in 1993, officially becoming Fuel. Rise to Success The band relocated to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in 1995, strategically positioning themselves near major East Coast cities. They worked tirelessly, becoming house band at various venues while self-funding and self-producing their first cassette, Porcelain, which sold 10,000 copies. Each member took on specific business roles, from promotion to merchandising. Major Label Breakthrough Their persistence paid off when Sony's 550 Records signed them after a memorable performance at Millersville University. Despite nearly becoming an English teacher, Bell's musical aspirations prevailed. Their 1998 debut album "Sunburn" was recorded at Long View Farm Studios, though drummer Abbott's departure created tensions during recording. Chart Success "Shimmer," their breakthrough single, dominated alternative radio in 1998, becoming the most-played song on alternative stations that year. The album went platinum, spawning multiple charting singles including "Bittersweet" and "Jesus or a Gun." The band toured with rock giants like Aerosmith and Van Halen. Evolution and Peak Their sophomore album, "Something Like Human," showcased the band's evolution. The lead single "Hemorrhage (In My Hands)" spent 12 weeks at #1 on the alternative airplay chart, becoming their highest-charting single. The album achieved double platinum status, featuring other hits like "Innocent" and "Bad Day." Musical Impact Fuel's music transcended radio, appearing in films like Daredevil and Scream 3, television shows, and WWE events. Their songs later became downloadable content for Rock Band 4. Though the band faced lineup changes in later years, including Brett Scallions' departure, their impact on late '90s and early 2000s rock radio remains significant. They even caught the attention of Chris Daughtry during his American Idol run, though he declined their offer to become their new lead singer. The band's success stemmed from their dedication to fan relationships, with Scallions famously stating they were "more interested in making friends than fans." Their musical versatility and authentic approach to songwriting helped establish them as one of the era's defining rock bands.

Added 29 Jun 2026