Hootie & the Blowfish was born in South Carolina in 1986, formed by lead singer Darius Rucker. By the 1990s, the band was dominating the mainstream pop and rock charts with hit after hit, including “Only Wanna Be With You,” “Hold My Hand,” “Time,” and “Let Her Cry.” Comprised of Darius on rhythm guitar and lead vocals, Mark Bryan on lead guitar and piano, Dean Felber on bass guitar, and Jim Sonefeld on drums, the band came to largely define the era with their distinct brand of alt rock.
The band would go on to win Favorite Pop/Rock New Artist at the 1996 American Music Awards, Best New Artist and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals at the 1996 Grammy Awards, and Best New Artist at the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards. See photos of the iconic band through the years in our official gallery.