Panic! at the Disco was an American pop rock band from Las Vegas, Nevada, formed in 2004 by childhood friends Ryan Ross, Spencer Smith, Brent Wilson, and Brendon Urie. Following several lineup changes, Panic! at the Disco operated as the solo project of frontman Urie from 2015 until its discontinuation in 2023.
Panic! at the Disco at the Pepsi Center in 2018. From left to right: Kenneth Harris (guitar), Dan Pawlovich (drums), Brendon Urie (vocalist), and Nicole Row (bass)
In 2006, the band headlined their first tour and achieved platinum status on their debut album.
Former guitarist and vocalist Ryan Ross performing with the band in 2007. Ross was responsible for writing most of the music and lyrics until his departure in 2009.
The band's musical style changed after the release of their psychedelic-inspired album Pretty. Odd.
Pop rock is a fusion genre characterized by a strong commercial appeal, with more emphasis on professional songwriting and recording craft, and less emphasis on attitude than standard rock music. Originating in the late 1950s as an alternative to normal rock and roll, early pop rock was influenced by the beat, arrangements, and original style of rock and roll. It may be viewed as a distinct genre field rather than music that overlaps with pop and rock. The detractors of pop rock often deride it as a slick, commercial product and less authentic than rock music.
Paul McCartney and Wings performing in 1976 (Paul and Linda McCartney pictured)
Panic! at the Disco performing in 2008