Five for Fighting

Five for Fighting is a prominent pop rock music project known for its introspective lyrics and soulful melodies. The man behind the music is Vladimir John Ondrasik III, who uses the pseudonym "Five for Fighting" to represent the five-minute penalty given to a hockey player who has committed a major infraction. Born in 1965 in Los Angeles, California, Ondrasik began playing the piano at age three and has been writing and recording his music since the late 1990s.

About Five for Fighting

Five for Fighting, the alternative rock act which emerged onto the North American music scene a couple of decades ago, is best known for its timeless and soulful anthems. The band’s signature sound, characterized by a thoughtful and introspective bent, has made it one of the most influential rock bands of the 21st century.

Five for Fighting was founded in the late 1990s by singer-songwriter-pianist John Ondrasik. Ondrasik drew inspiration from the likes of Elton John, The Beatles, and Stevie Wonder, and released a series of compelling songs that immediately caught the attention of music lovers and industry insiders alike.

After releasing his debut album, Message for Albert, in 1997, Ondrasik quickly gained a passionate following. But it was his sophomore album, America Town (2000), which really launched Five for Fighting into the stratosphere. The album contained several hits, including “Superman (It's Not Easy)” and “100 Years,” which charted on the Top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 and became instant classics.

In subsequent years, Ondrasik continued to release compelling songs, penetrating the hearts of his audience with his straight-from-the-heart songwriting style and memorable choruses. Albums such as Two Lights (2006), Slice (2009), and Bookmarks (2013) are testaments to Ondrasik’s enormous talent as a songwriter, pianist, and producer.

Five for Fighting Albums and Hits

Ondrasik has released six studio albums to date, all of which showcase his humble yet extremely insightful lyricism and his talent for crafting addictive hooks and melodies. His hits, including “The Riddle,” “100 Years,” and “Superman (It's Not Easy),” have become staples of alternative rock and are still beloved by fans around the world.

After America Town, Five for Fighting released its sophomore album, The Battle for Everything, in 2004. The album reached the Top 20 on the Billboard 200 charts, propelled by the success of its lead single, “100 Years.” The song tells the story of a man reflecting on his life, looking back at the milestones that have passed him by. Its powerful message and memorable melody have struck a chord with listeners of all ages.

Ondrasik's subsequent releases have shown a similar degree of sensitivity and craft. Two Lights, released in 2006, produced the hits “The Riddle” and “World.” Slice, released in 2009, included the anthemic “Chances,” which is widely regarded as one of the highlight tracks of the album.

But what makes Ondrasik's work so special is that he doesn't stop at catchy tunes. His songs are full of depth and nuance, exploring universal themes like love, loss, time, and hope in such a way that they strike a chord with listeners all over the world.

Five for Fighting Live

Fans of Ondrasik's music consider him one of the best live performers around. For over two decades, the artist has dazzled audiences all over the world, performing with the help of a full band or simply his own piano playing. He's created a body of work that's as timeless as it is moving, and his live shows are an experience to behold, full of energy and heartfelt emotion.

Ondrasik's music is a must-listen for anyone who's looking for inspiring melodies, well-written lyrics, and heartfelt emotions. His music has touched the lives of millions, and will undoubtedly continue to do so for years to come.

If you haven’t had the chance to listen to Five for Fighting yet, all you have to do is head to your favorite streaming platform and press play. You won't regret it.