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Vampire Weekend is an indie rock band formed in 2006 in New York City by Ezra Koenig, Rostam Batmanglij, Chris Baio, and Chris Tomson during their time at Columbia University. The band has released four studio albums: Vampire Weekend (2008), Contra (2010), Modern Vampires of the City (2013), and Father of the Bride (2019). They have received critical acclaim, including multiple Grammy nominations and wins for Best Alternative Music Album (Modern Vampires of the City in 2014 and Father of the Bride in 2020). Known for their eclectic sound blending indie rock with world music influences, the band has evolved over the years, notably with the departure of Rostam Batmanglij in 2016. Vampire Weekend continues to tour with a mix of original members and new collaborators.
Ezra Koenig
Ezra Koenig, born April 8, 1984, is the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter for Vampire Weekend, a band he co-founded in 2006. He is also a prolific producer, a two-time Grammy winner, and a cultural figure who has extended his influence into television, radio, and political activism. Vampire Weekend’s early success can be traced to Koenig’s creative vision, which shaped the band’s sound and themes across their five studio albums, including their acclaimed debut Vampire Weekend (2008) and Modern Vampires of the City (2013), which won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album. He has received multiple Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year for his contributions to Beyoncé’s Lemonade in 2016.
Born in New York City to a psychotherapist mother and a set dresser father, Koenig’s upbringing was steeped in the arts and diverse cultural influences. He began writing music at the age of ten and attended Columbia University, where he formed key relationships with his future Vampire Weekend bandmates. Koenig’s time at Columbia not only introduced him to his bandmates but also led to his involvement in various musical projects, including the comedic hip-hop group L’Homme Run and a stint playing saxophone for the Dirty Projectors.
Koenig’s versatility extends far beyond music. He created and produced the Netflix animated series Neo Yokio, which debuted in 2017, and has hosted the Apple Music radio talk show Time Crisis with Ezra Koenig since 2015. His guests have included notable figures such as Jonah Hill and Florence Welch. In addition to his work with Vampire Weekend, Koenig has collaborated with artists like Major Lazer, Charli XCX, and Phoenix. His songwriting and production credits include Beyoncé’s “Hold Up” and Liam Gallagher’s “Moscow Rules.”
Koenig’s influence on Vampire Weekend’s albums has been transformative, with his songwriting addressing themes of love, identity, and existentialism. Albums like Father of the Bride (2019) showcase Koenig’s ability to blend eclectic sounds with deeply introspective lyrics. Outside of music, Koenig has made significant contributions to the cultural landscape, from advocating for political candidates to representing Vampire Weekend at major festivals like Glastonbury. He continues to shape the trajectory of Vampire Weekend while maintaining a robust presence across multiple artistic platforms.
Chris Baio
Chris Baio, born October 29, 1984, is the bassist for Vampire Weekend, a role he has held since the band’s inception in 2006. Beyond his work with the band, Baio has carved out a significant solo career, releasing electronic and dance-inspired music under the mononym Baio. His first solo album, The Names, debuted in 2015, followed by Man of the World in 2017 and Dead Hand Control in 2021. Each album has showcased his diverse musical influences, ranging from Afrobeat to electronic dance music, and his ability to craft deeply introspective yet rhythmically engaging compositions.
Baio grew up in Bronxville, New York, where his love for music began early. By the age of seven, he had purchased his first album and was deeply influenced by bands like Pixies, often falling asleep to their Doolittle album. Baio attended Columbia University, majoring in Russian and Eurasian Regional Studies and minoring in Mathematics. During his time at Columbia, Baio became deeply involved in the campus music scene, serving as the College Rock Music Director for WBAR and forming the country-influenced band The Midnight Hours with future Vampire Weekend drummer Chris Tomson. After The Midnight Hours disbanded, Baio briefly pursued DJing before Vampire Weekend was formed.
As a member of Vampire Weekend, Baio has been integral to the band’s success. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2008, introduced their unique blend of indie rock and global influences. Songs like “A-Punk” and “Oxford Comma” gained widespread acclaim, with “A-Punk” being featured in films and television shows. The band’s sophomore effort, Contra (2010), debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, cementing their place in the indie rock scene. Baio’s basslines, known for their melodic complexity, have been a defining element of the band’s sound across their five studio albums, including the Grammy-winning Modern Vampires of the City (2013) and Father of the Bride (2019).
Outside of Vampire Weekend, Baio’s solo career highlights his versatility. His debut EP, Sunburn, released in 2012, demonstrated his ability to blend “hopeful melancholy” with danceable beats. His second album, Man of the World, explored themes of identity and globalism, while his third album, Dead Hand Control, took a darker and more introspective turn. Baio has also collaborated on projects such as a Simlish rendition of his song “The Key Is Under The Mat” for The Sims 4 and contributed to various musical endeavors outside the band.
Musically influenced by artists ranging from Queen to Afrobeat pioneers, Baio’s contributions to Vampire Weekend and his solo career reflect a dedication to blending diverse sounds. His work continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, solidifying his place as a multifaceted artist in the modern music landscape.
Chris Tomson
Christopher William Tomson, born March 6, 1984, is best known as the drummer for Vampire Weekend, a role he has held since the band’s formation in 2006. Additionally, Tomson has ventured into solo work as the lead vocalist and guitarist for his side project, Dams of the West, under which he writes and records all the music. His first solo album, Youngish American, was released in February 2017, showcasing his ability to explore themes of adulthood and self-reflection through a blend of indie rock and Americana influences.
Tomson grew up on a farm in the Imlaystown section of Upper Freehold Township, New Jersey, and this rural upbringing influenced parts of his musical journey. Notably, elements of Vampire Weekend’s first self-titled album were recorded on his family farm. Tomson graduated from the prestigious Peddie School as salutatorian before attending Columbia University, where he studied economics and music. It was during his time at Columbia that he met his future bandmates, including Ezra Koenig, with whom he played in the rap group L’Homme Run before forming Vampire Weekend. The group’s unique blend of indie rock, Afrobeat, and global influences quickly gained attention, and they released their self-titled debut album in 2008. Tomson contributed not only as a drummer but also as an integral part of the band’s tight-knit creative dynamic.
With Vampire Weekend, Tomson has played on all of the band’s major studio albums, including the Grammy-winning Modern Vampires of the City (2013) and Father of the Bride (2019). His drumming style has been praised for its versatility, seamlessly adapting to the band’s diverse influences, from classical music to African rhythms. Outside of his work with the band, Tomson has displayed his passion for music through his solo project, which delves into deeply personal themes while exploring a different sonic palette.
Beyond his music career, Tomson is known for his love of photography and his enthusiasm for soccer, particularly as a devoted supporter of Tottenham Hotspur. His eclectic musical influences include Phish, The Band, and the Grateful Dead, which are reflected in the broader scope of his creative work. Tomson continues to be an essential part of Vampire Weekend’s success while maintaining his individuality as a solo artist.
Rostam Batmanglij
Rostam Batmanglij, a multi-instrumentalist and producer, was a founding member of Vampire Weekend and contributed significantly to their first three albums. Known for his innovative use of world music influences and electronic production, Rostam left the band in 2016 to pursue solo projects but has occasionally collaborated with Vampire Weekend since. His solo career includes the album Half-Light and production work for artists like HAIM and Clairo.
Will Canzoneri
Will Canzoneri has been a touring keyboardist and backing vocalist for Vampire Weekend since 2018. While not a core member, his contributions have enriched the band’s live performances, particularly during the Father of the Bride tour.
Garrett Ray
Garrett Ray joined Vampire Weekend as a touring percussionist in 2018. His dynamic drumming has complemented Chris Tomson’s work, enhancing the band’s live shows.
Ray Suen
Ray Suen, a touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, began performing with Vampire Weekend in 2024. His contributions include guitar, keyboards, and violin, adding depth to their live arrangements.
Colin Killalea
Colin Killalea joined as a touring musician in 2024, playing guitar, keyboards, and saxophone. His versatile skill set has been a valuable addition to the band’s evolving live performances.
Brian Robert Jones
Brian Robert Jones was a touring guitarist and backing vocalist from 2018 to 2022, with a guest appearance in 2024. His energetic stage presence and musicianship were highlights of the Father of the Bride era.
Greta Morgan
Greta Morgan served as a touring keyboardist and backing vocalist from 2018 to 2022. Her performances brought a new dimension to the band’s live shows, particularly during their later tours.
Check out our other Vampire Weekend articles here on ClassicRockHistory.com
Complete List Of Vampire Weekend Albums And Discography
Top 10 Vampire Weekend Songs
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