How to Hire THE WALTERS For Your Event!
Members:
Luke Olson, Walter Kosner, Danny Wells, Charlie Ekhaus
Based in: Illinois
Based in: Chicago
Hire: The Walters
The Walters are an American indie pop band formed in Chicago in 2014. Known for their catchy and heartfelt songs, the band garnered a cult following during their early years due to their unique blend of jangly guitars, soothing melodies, and nostalgic themes. The group consists of four members: Luke Olson (vocals), Walter Kosner (lead guitar), Danny Wells (bass), and Charlie Ekhaus (drums).
Early Formation and Sound
The Walters first made a mark on the Chicago music scene with their 2014 debut EP, Songs for Dads. This EP featured some of their most beloved tracks, such as “I Love You So” and “Goodbye Baby,” which embodied the band’s signature sound—characterized by warm, retro-styled indie pop melodies, heartfelt lyricism, and breezy vocals. Their sound is often compared to that of 1960s jangle pop and has been described as nostalgic and dreamy.
The band’s music draws from influences like The Beach Boys, The Smiths, and R.E.M., combining vintage pop with modern indie sensibilities. Their music also evokes a sense of wistfulness, as their lyrics often touch on themes of love, longing, and relationships, with Luke Olson’s vocals providing an emotional, sincere delivery.
– Hire The Walters for your festival or concert plans. – (t,s)
Rise to Fame
After their initial release, The Walters quickly developed a strong following, especially in Chicago. Their music’s approachable, feel-good vibe made them popular among fans of indie and alternative music, and their live performances were noted for being intimate and energetic.
In 2015, the band released their second EP, Young Men, which built on their growing momentum. This EP was also well-received, with songs like “Fancy Shoes” further solidifying their reputation as a band capable of crafting catchy, anthemic indie pop. Despite their rising popularity, The Walters remained an underground act, with their fan base spreading mainly through word of mouth and online streaming platforms.
Breakup and Solo Projects
In 2017, at the height of their popularity, The Walters announced their breakup, much to the disappointment of their fans. Luke Olson, the band’s lead singer, pursued a solo career under the moniker L. Martin. Walter Kosner and other members also worked on various individual projects following the split.
Their breakup, however, did little to diminish the band’s influence, as their songs continued to grow in popularity through platforms like TikTok. Notably, their song “I Love You So” went viral on the platform several years after its release, introducing The Walters‘ music to a whole new generation of fans.
Reunion
In November 2021, The Walters surprised fans by announcing their reunion after a four-year hiatus. They quickly followed this announcement with the re-release of their most famous single, “I Love You So,” which once again charted on streaming platforms due to its renewed popularity on TikTok.
In 2022, they released their new EP Try Again, marking their official return to the indie music scene. The EP retains much of the warm, nostalgic sound that originally endeared them to listeners but also reflects their growth as a band. The release was well-received by both fans and critics, marking the beginning of a new chapter for The Walters.
Legacy and Impact
The Walters’ blend of indie pop and nostalgic, vintage influences has left a lasting impact on the indie music scene. Despite their relatively short initial run, their music has had an enduring influence, particularly through viral moments on social media. The band’s emotionally driven lyrics, catchy melodies, and relatable themes have resonated with fans, ensuring that their songs continue to be popular even after their initial release.
Their unexpected reunion in 2021 sparked renewed interest in their discography and showcased that the band still has a dedicated following eager to hear new music
How do I book The Walters? See below.
Hire The Walters for your party or event!
How much does it cost to book The Walters? See below.
The Walters may be available for your next special event!
What is the The Walters booking fee? See below.
Book The Walters, now!
For other great suggestions for booking music acts, look here.
Watch The Walters Videos:
Listen to The Walters:
- Hire The Walters. -