Chris DeMakes has maintained a career as a musician, songwriter, author, and podcaster for nearly three decades, continually engaging audiences through various creative endeavors.
Released Chris DeMakes's book 'Blast From the Past' and a solo EP.
Chris DeMakes, as part of Less Than Jake, has collaborated with Vans, indicating involvement in brand promotions or specific events, as shared on social media.
Less Than Jake released two studio albums, Losing Streak (1996) and Hello Rockview (1998), on Capitol Records, increasing their exposure.
Less Than Jake released their album 'Borders and Boundaries' (2000) on Fat Wreck Chords. Additionally, 'Greetings and Salutations' (2012) and 'See the Light' (2013) were also released through this label.
Less Than Jake released their fifth studio album, 'Anthem' (2003), on Warner Bros./Sire Records, which became their most commercially successful album at the time.
In 2008, Less Than Jake founded their own label, Sleep It Off Records, and released their seventh full-length album, 'GNV FLA', through it.
In February 2017, Less Than Jake released the EP 'Sound the Alarm' via Pure Noise Records.
Chris DeMakes, born in Port Charlotte, Florida, established his musical career by co-founding Less Than Jake in 1992 alongside Vinnie Fiorello and Shaun Grief. Initially, the band began with DeMakes on vocals and guitar, Fiorello on drums, and Grief on bass. The group quickly evolved, with Roger Lima joining as bassist in 1993, followed by Jessica Mills on saxophone and Buddy Schaub on trombone. Less Than Jake self-released their first 7-inch record, “Smoke Spot,” in 1993, pressing all 300 copies themselves. Their debut full-length album, “Pezcore,” was released in August 1995 on Dill Records.
Following the release of “Pezcore,” Less Than Jake signed with Capitol Records, releasing “Losing Streak” in 1996 and “Hello Rockview” in 1998, which featured the college radio hit “History of a Boring Town.” In 2000, the band released “Borders & Boundaries” on Fat Wreck Chords after buying out their Capitol contract. DeMakes co-founded Sleep It Off Records in 2008 for the release of Less Than Jake’s album “GNV FLA” and for reissuing their back catalog. Beyond his work with Less Than Jake, DeMakes has pursued solo music and contributed to side projects. In 2020, he released his book “Blast From the Past” and an accompanying EP of his own songs through Smartpunk Records. He also launched “Chris DeMakes A Podcast” in 2020, where he interviews musicians about their songwriting processes.
DeMakes’ career progression highlights his dedication to music and his ability to adapt to industry changes. He has consistently toured, describing Less Than Jake as “working class musicians” who made a living on the road. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted him to diversify his professional activities, leading to the development of custom song writing, jingle creation, and one-on-one video consultations for aspiring musicians. This period marked a significant pivot, allowing him to focus on individual projects while continuing to support his family through his passion for music. His role as a podcast host further showcases his expertise and desire to connect with and educate other artists and music enthusiasts.
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