Soul Asylum

Soul Asylum

Soul Asylum is an alternative rock band from Minneapolis, United States, active since 1983. Their sound is associated with alternative rock, grunge, pop punk, pop rock, post-grunge and power pop.

History

The group begins in Minneapolis in 1981 under the name Loud Fast Rules, with Dave Pirner, Dan Murphy, Karl Mueller and Pat Morley in the line-up. It takes the name Soul Asylum in 1983, and Pat Morley is replaced by Grant Young in 1984. The band’s members over time include Pat Morley, Dan Murphy, Grant Young, Sterling Campbell, Karl Mueller and Dave Pirner.

Albums and success

Soul Asylum releases three albums on Twin/Tone Records and two on A&M Records before its commercial breakthrough. In 1992, it issues Grave Dancers Union, a triple-platinum album that includes “Runaway Train.” The song wins the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song in 1993. The band also performs at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in early 1993.

Its 1995 album Let Your Dim Light Shine reaches platinum status. Later releases include Candy from a Stranger in 1998, followed by four more albums over the next 15 years: The Silver Lining (2006), Delayed Reaction (2012), Change of Fortune (2016), Hurry Up and Wait (2020) and Slowly but Shirley (2024).

Other events

Karl Mueller is diagnosed with cancer in 2004, and the band organises a benefit concert in support of him. Mueller dies in 2005.