Copeland

Copeland is an American rock band that formed in 2001, originating from Lakeland, Florida. The band was founded by singer and pianist Aaron Marsh, along with bassist James Likeness. Their initial journey in the music industry began with Bryan Laurenson also joining the band.

In 2002, Aaron Marsh and Bryan Laurenson secured a record deal with the independent label The Militia Group. This partnership led to the release of their debut album, “Beneath Medicine Tree,” in 2003. The album’s lyrical content was influenced by Marsh’s personal experiences, including the hospitalization of his girlfriend and the loss of his grandmother. The album booklet featured hospital scenes photographed by James Likeness, underscoring the medical theme. Following their debut, Copeland performed at the annual Cornerstone Florida Festival in Orlando various times, including in 2004, 2005, and 2006. Their second full-length album, “In Motion,” was released on March 22, 2005. This album was co-produced by Matt Goldman and Aaron Marsh, with mixing handled by Ken Andrews. Early copies of “In Motion” included a four-song acoustic EP and tracks from “Beneath Medicine Tree.”

Their career progression included signing with Columbia Records in 2006, though they departed from the label by September 2007. In July 2007, James Likeness left the band to pursue a career in graphic design. Copeland continued their musical output, releasing “Dressed Up & in Line” in November 2007, a collection of B-sides, remixes, and rarities. Their final album before a hiatus, “You Are My Sunshine,” was released in 2008 under Tooth & Nail Records, followed by a Farewell Tour. The band later reunited in 2014, releasing their fifth studio album, “Ixora,” which saw Marsh, Bryan Laurenson, Stephen Laurenson, and Jonathan Bucklew collaborate again. This reunion was followed by the album “Blushing” in 2019. In 2022, Copeland performed with the Sewanee Symphony Orchestra in the Caverns in Pelham, TN.