Biography
Memphis May Fire is an American metalcore band formed in Denton, Texas in December 2006, officially adopting their name in February 2007 after initially performing as "Oh Captain, My Captain." The band was founded by original vocalist Chase Ryan, guitarist Ryan Bentley, and bassist Tanner Oakes, and quickly caught the attention of Trustkill Records president Josh Grabelle, signing to the label in September 2007. Their debut album Sleepwalking, released in July 2009, established their signature sound—described as "a new breed of rock n' roll" with aggressive guitar work, melodic sensibilities, and distinctive southern swagger.
The band's lineup has evolved significantly over their nearly two-decade career, with lead guitarist Kellen McGregor remaining as the sole original member. Current members include lead vocalist Matty Mullins (since 2008), bassist Cory Elder (since 2008), and drummer Jake Garland (since 2010). Memphis May Fire has released seven studio albums and two EPs, with their fourth album Unconditional debuting at No. 4 on the US Billboard 200 and topping the Alternative Albums chart. The band's most recent album, Shapeshifter, was released in March 2025. Known for blending metalcore with southern rock influences and post-hardcore elements, Memphis May Fire has maintained a prominent presence in the metalcore scene while evolving their sound from their earlier post-hardcore roots to heavier, more aggressive material in recent years.
Fun Facts
- The band's song 'Ghost in the Mirror' from their debut album Sleepwalking was featured on the soundtrack for the horror film Saw VI, giving them early mainstream exposure.
- Original lead vocalist Chase Ryan left the band in 2008 to prioritize his newborn child, demonstrating the band's willingness to prioritize members' personal lives over touring commitments.
- Kellen McGregor is the only remaining original member of Memphis May Fire, having survived multiple lineup changes while maintaining the band's creative direction since 2006.
- The band's fourth album Unconditional achieved significant commercial success by debuting at No. 4 on the US Billboard 200 chart, marking a peak in their mainstream recognition.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Josh Grabelle - President of Trustkill Records who discovered and signed the band early in their career (Signed Memphis May Fire and released their self-titled EP and debut album Sleepwalking) [2007-2009]
- Cameron Mizell - Producer who worked with the band on their third studio album (Produced Challenger album)
Key Collaborators
- Kellen McGregor - Lead guitarist and founding member; produced their debut album and has been the creative backbone of the band (All studio albums from 2006-present) [2006-present]
- Matty Mullins - Lead vocalist who joined in 2008 and has been the primary voice of the band through their most successful period (All albums from Sleepwalking (2009) to Shapeshifter (2025)) [2008-present]
- Rise Records - Record label that has released the majority of the band's albums since 2012 (Challenger, Unconditional, This Light I Hold, Broken, Remade in Misery, Shapeshifter) [2012-present]
Artists Influenced
- Ten Crowns - Memphis-based screamo band influenced by early 2000s scene bands; part of the broader metalcore/post-hardcore scene that Memphis May Fire helped establish (Ten Crowns' screamo material) [2021-present]
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Memphis May Fire has been played 32 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.