Rascal Flatts have become one of the most successful vocal groups in country music over the course of the last 15 years. The group actually formed from the backup bands of Christian singer Michael English -- singer Gary LeVox and bassist/vocalist Jay DeMarcus worked together on one of his albums -- and Chely Wright, where DeMarcus served as bandleader. He recruited Wright's guitarist, Joe Don Rooney, for a new band he and LeVox were forming, and the trio performed together for the first time at a small music venue in Nashville. Rascal Flatts were instantly successful upon the release of their debut single, 'Prayin' for Daylight.' in 2000, reaching No. 3. 'I'm Movin' On' from their debut album won Song of the Year honors at the ACM Awards, and 'These Days' gave the trio their first No. 1 hit. They've gone on to a string of hits that includes 'Fast Cars and Freedom' and 'Why Wait,' as well as crossover hits like 'Bless the Broken Road' and 'What Hurts the Most.' After their label, Lyric Street, closed in 2010, Rascal Flatts moved to Big Machine for 2010's 'Nothing Like This, and 2012's 'Changed' provided a career rejuvenation. They followed with 'Rewind' in 2014, which showed the group continuing to explore new directions. They have become one of the largest concert draws in country music, and recently announced a residency at the Hard Rock in Las Vegas for 2015.
- Founding Date: 1999 in Nashville, Tenn.
- Top Songs: ‘Bless the Broken Road,’ ‘What Hurts the Most’
- Did You Know? Jay DeMarcus and Gary LeVox are second cousins.
- Further Reading: Top 10 Rascal Flatts Songs