Allstar Weekend
Allstar Weekend was an American emo-pop band formed in 2007 in San Diego by high school friends Zachary Porter and Cameron Quiseng, both natives of the area.[1] Based in Poway, California, the quartet consisted of Porter on lead vocals, Quiseng on bass, Nathan Darmody on guitar, and Michael Martinez on drums.[1] The band rose to prominence through online platforms like MySpace, where they amassed over 2.5 million plays, and by distributing promotional flyers outside a Jonas Brothers concert film screening in 2009, which led to a featured spot on Radio Disney.[1] Signed to Hollywood Records, a Disney-owned label, Allstar Weekend released their debut studio album, Suddenly Yours, in October 2010, followed by their second and final album, All the Way, in September 2011; they also contributed the track "Not Your Birthday" to the soundtrack for the film Prom.[1][2] The band's music blended high-energy pop rock with emo influences, earning them opening slots on tours with major artists including Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez, as well as consistent airplay on Radio Disney, where their single "A Different Side of Me" reached number one and sold over 100,000 copies.[1][3] In September 2011, guitarist Nathan Darmody departed the group to pursue solo endeavors, leaving the band as a trio for their subsequent releases and tours.[4] Allstar Weekend parted ways with Hollywood Records in early 2012, after which they independently released material like the American Dream EP.[5] In January 2013, the remaining members—Porter, Quiseng, and Martinez—announced an indefinite hiatus following their performance on the Vans Warped Tour that summer, with the trio planning to continue together under a new band name.[6]History
Formation and early career (2007–2008)
Allstar Weekend originated in Poway, California, in 2007, when high school friends Zachary Porter and Cameron Quiseng began collaborating on music.[1] The project initially involved local friends, including early collaborator Tom Norris on rhythm guitar and keyboards, with the group operating under names like Outerspace Politicians & Allstar, focusing on recording and producing tracks in a DIY fashion.[7] Norris contributed to production and technical aspects in the early stages.[7] By 2008, the band had solidified its core lineup with lead vocalist Zach Porter, bassist Cameron Quiseng, guitarist Nathan Darmody, and drummer Michael Martinez, all hailing from the San Diego area—Porter, Darmody, and Quiseng from Poway, and Martinez from nearby Mira Mesa. This group shifted the project's focus toward live performance while retaining an early pop rock sound characterized by energetic melodies and youthful themes. The band shortened its name to Allstar and began building momentum through grassroots efforts. To gain visibility, Allstar established a strong presence on MySpace, where they uploaded original songs and connected with fans, eventually amassing plays in the millions by late 2009.[8][9] They complemented this online strategy with local performances at venues around the San Diego area, emphasizing personal interactions to foster a dedicated following, as lead singer Porter noted: "face-to-face goes a long way."[9] The band's first significant professional breakthrough came in early 2009, when they traveled to Los Angeles to hand out promotional flyers to Disney fans outside screenings of Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience.[9] This bold move attracted the notice of a Disney casting director, leading to an invitation to compete in Radio Disney's "Next Big Thing" contest later that year.[8][9] Although they did not win the competition, the exposure propelled them forward, culminating in a name change to Allstar Weekend in November 2009 to resolve legal issues with the original moniker.[8]Breakthrough and debut album (2009–2010)
Following their grassroots efforts, Allstar Weekend garnered significant online buzz in early 2009, accumulating over 2.5 million plays on MySpace and early YouTube views through self-produced videos. The band, hailing from Poway, California, traveled to Los Angeles to distribute flyers outside theaters premiering the Jonas Brothers' Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience film, which attracted the attention of a Hollywood Records executive. This opportunity led to a private showcase, culminating in their signing to the Disney-owned label on August 28, 2009.[1][10][11] In 2010, Allstar Weekend made their initial foray into Disney Channel programming, featuring in promotional spots and tie-ins that amplified their visibility among teen audiences. Their debut single, "A Different Side of Me," released on March 2, marked a key milestone, appearing on the soundtrack for the Disney film The Last Song and showcasing their upbeat pop rock sound. Additionally, they contributed a cover of "I Just Can't Wait to Be King" to the compilation album Disneymania 7, released on March 9, further integrating them into Disney's ecosystem of family-oriented media.[12][13] The band's momentum built with the release of their debut EP, Suddenly, on June 22, 2010, via Hollywood Records; the seven-track project included the promoted single "The Weekend" alongside energetic tracks like "Come Down with Love," blending power pop hooks with youthful lyrics about romance and escapism. This EP debuted at number 62 on the Billboard 200, signaling early commercial traction. Their full-length debut studio album, Suddenly Yours, arrived on October 19, 2010, expanding on the EP with 11 songs such as "Dance Forever" and "Clock Runs Out," emphasizing themes of adolescent adventure and relationships. The album, characterized by critics as teen pop rock with glossy production and influences from acts like Blink-182, peaked at number 197 on the Billboard 200 but received mixed reviews for its heavy reliance on auto-tune and formulaic structures despite catchy melodies.[14][15][16] Media exposure accelerated their rise, including a performance of "A Different Side of Me" and "The Weekend" on ABC's Good Morning America on August 30, 2010, where they announced the upcoming album release. Fanbase growth surged via online platforms and Disney affiliations, with MySpace and YouTube serving as primary hubs for sharing music videos and live clips, transforming local enthusiasts into a national teen following.[17]Second album and lineup changes (2011–2012)
Allstar Weekend released their second studio album, All the Way, on September 27, 2011, through Hollywood Records. The album featured a blend of pop rock and dance elements, with production handled primarily by Sam and Sluggo alongside John Fields and additional contributions from the band's associates in Albany, New York. It debuted at number 49 on the US Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant improvement over their debut's position and reflecting growing commercial traction for the group. The lead single, "Not Your Birthday", was issued on March 22, 2011, and tied into the soundtrack for the film Prom, garnering over three million online views for its music video; a second single, "Blame It on September", followed on August 16, 2011. Tracks like "Mr. Wonderful" and "Bend or Break" exemplified the album's energetic, anthemic style, designed as a party soundtrack for fans. In addition to the album, the band contributed to the compilation Punk Goes Pop Volume 4 with a cover of Chris Brown's "Yeah 3x", released on November 22, 2011, by Fearless Records. This track showcased Allstar Weekend's ability to reinterpret contemporary pop hits within a punk-infused framework, aligning with the series' format of alternative bands tackling mainstream songs. The contribution helped maintain visibility during the album's promotional cycle, bridging their pop rock sound with broader alternative scenes. On September 17, 2011, shortly after All the Way's release, Allstar Weekend announced the departure of guitarist Nathan Darmody, citing personal issues as the primary reason; he had already sat out their summer tour with Selena Gomez & The Scene, with a temporary replacement filling in. This lineup change shifted the band to a trio consisting of Zach Porter, Cameron Quiseng, and Michael Martinez, altering group dynamics but allowing them to continue touring and performing. The band hired Eric Nicolau as a touring guitarist to support live shows, emphasizing resilience amid the transition. As a trio, Allstar Weekend began experimenting with a more mature sound, moving away from the debut's lighter bubblegum pop toward deeper lyrical themes and varied instrumentation on subsequent projects. Critical reception for All the Way was generally positive, with reviewers praising its fun, danceable energy and evolution from their earlier work, though some noted underdeveloped elements in certain tracks. For instance, outlets highlighted the album's seamless rock-pop fusion as a step forward, establishing it as a summery, high-impact release in the pop rock genre.Final releases and disbandment (2013)
Following their departure from Hollywood Records in early 2012, Allstar Weekend transitioned to independent status, self-releasing music under their own imprint, Diggit Records. This shift allowed the band greater creative control but marked the beginning of a transitional period leading into 2013, as they navigated the challenges of operating without major label support.[5] In late 2012, the band released their EP The American Dream on July 3, a five-track project that showcased a more mature pop-rock sound with introspective lyrics about personal growth and ambition. Highlights included the title track, which reflected on the band's roots and aspirations with lines like "I was born in Coastal Maine / Then moved away South of L.A.," and "Wanna Dance With Somebody," a high-energy closer emphasizing resilience. The EP was self-produced and distributed digitally, highlighting their hands-on approach to recording and promotion amid the independent landscape.[18][19] The band's final release came in 2013 with the cover song EP Kevin's Place on February 14, comprising five tracks reinterpreting classics across genres to pay homage to influences while experimenting with new arrangements. Standout covers included Train's "Drops of Jupiter" with its soaring harmonies, Bruce Springsteen's "Thunder Road" infused with pop-punk energy, and Taylor Swift's "Enchanted" delivered in an acoustic-driven style. Self-released once again through Diggit Records, the EP was recorded quickly in a home studio setting, allowing the trio to unwind creatively before their farewell activities.[20][21] On January 19, 2013, Allstar Weekend announced an indefinite hiatus through Alternative Press, stating that the core members—vocalist Zach Porter, bassist Cameron Quiseng, and drummer Michael Martinez—would cease performing under the band's name after completing their winter headlining tour and summer commitments. The statement emphasized personal evolution, noting, "We got signed to Hollywood Records when we were 17 & 18. Now we're 22 & 23! We have grown so much as people and as musicians. We want to explore other sounds and styles of music." This reflected underlying creative exhaustion from years of relentless touring and label constraints, coupled with a desire for fresh artistic directions.[6] The hiatus effectively became a disbandment, confirmed by their final performance on August 4, 2013, during the Vans Warped Tour in Houston, Texas, where they played a set including fan favorites like "Not Your Birthday" as a farewell gesture. Earlier Warped Tour dates throughout the summer served as a celebratory send-off, allowing the band to connect one last time with audiences amid the festival's high-energy atmosphere. In reflections shared around the announcement, members highlighted the toll of maintaining the group's original sound, with Porter noting the need to "put this chapter to bed" to pursue innovative projects unhindered by past expectations.[6][22]Post-disbandment (2014–present)
Following the disbandment of Allstar Weekend in 2013, lead vocalist Zach Porter, bassist Cameron Quiseng, and drummer Michael Martinez formed the American folk rock band The Tragic Thrills.[23] The group marked a stylistic shift from the pop rock of their previous project to a more introspective folk and indie sound, emphasizing acoustic elements and narrative-driven lyrics.[24] The Tragic Thrills released their self-titled debut album in October 2013, featuring tracks like "Tears" and "Creeps & Strangers," which showcased Porter's vulnerable songwriting and the band's evolving harmonies.[25] Their follow-up, On Florence Street, arrived in January 2017, produced independently and highlighting matured themes of relationships and introspection through songs such as "Persephone" and "Film Song."[26] Quiseng departed the band in early 2015, citing a desire to explore other interests while affirming his ongoing commitment to music; Martinez left subsequently.[27] As of November 2025, The Tragic Thrills consists of Porter (vocals), Chris Morrison (guitar), and Ans Gibson (drums), maintaining a lower profile with no new releases or tours announced.[28] Former guitarist Nathan Darmody, who exited Allstar Weekend in 2011, has focused on solo pursuits as a singer-songwriter and audio engineer under the moniker IWXO. He released an EP, IWXO Pt. 1, in 2012, blending rock and soul influences, and later founded IWXO Artist Development, a San Diego-based music production company aiding emerging artists in songwriting and recording.[29] Details on Darmody's activities remain limited post-2013, with occasional production credits but no major solo releases noted.[30] As of November 2025, Allstar Weekend has not reunited, and no new material has been released under the band's name. Porter continues songwriting and performing sporadically with The Tragic Thrills, while Quiseng has engaged in session work and collaborations, including co-writing tracks outside the band context.[31] Martinez has drummed for other projects, including the band Astro Safari USA.[32] The members' post-band endeavors reflect a broader pivot from teen pop toward independent and production-oriented careers, underscoring Allstar Weekend's legacy as a key act in the early 2010s Disney-affiliated teen pop landscape.[33]Artistry
Musical style
Allstar Weekend's music is primarily classified in the genres of power pop and pop rock, incorporating elements of emo-pop and teen pop. Their sound is characterized by upbeat melodies, catchy hooks, synth-driven arrangements, and energetic rhythms that blend pop accessibility with rock dynamics. Lyrics often explore themes of youthful romance, fun, and coming-of-age experiences, delivered with an infectious, high-energy vibe.[34][35][36] The band's style evolved notably across their discography, transitioning from a more playful, synth-heavy aesthetic on their debut album Suddenly Yours (2010), which emphasized danceable teen pop with Disney-inspired bubbliness, to a guitar-forward maturity on All the Way (2011), where rock influences and emotional depth became more prominent. This shift reflected a move away from overt pop polish toward subtler punk edges and broader sonic experimentation.[37][38][39][40] In terms of contemporaries, Allstar Weekend's polished yet edgy sound drew parallels to bands like The Maine and Forever the Sickest Kids, sharing a neon-tinged pop-punk ethos suited for radio and live energy. Production-wise, their recordings maintained a radio-friendly sheen through collaborations with established producers such as Howard Benson, resulting in seamless integrations of electronic flourishes and live instrumentation without sacrificing accessibility.[41][37][40]Influences
Allstar Weekend's music was profoundly shaped by the pop-punk scene of the early 2000s, particularly bands like Blink-182, whose high-energy performances and San Diego roots resonated deeply with the group as local high school students in Poway, California.[42][43] Frontman Zach Porter cited Blink-182 as a favorite, noting their impact on the band's sound during the transition to more mature material in their second album, inspired by a growing fanbase seeking edgier content.[42] This admiration extended to vocalist Tom DeLonge, whose style influenced Porter's own energetic delivery and songwriting approach.[42] The band's formation in 2007 amid the MySpace era instilled a DIY ethos, drawing from the platform's role in grassroots promotion and discovery within the indie and pop-punk communities.[44] Local San Diego clubs and the broader Warped Tour circuit further fueled their development, exposing them to the raw, fun-driven energy of pop-punk acts and contributing to their emphasis on live performance dynamics.[44][1] This environment, tied to the 2000s emo and pop-punk revival, encouraged a blend of youthful rebellion and accessibility that defined their early career. Individual members brought diverse inspirations, broadening the group's pop-rock foundation. Porter drew from classic rock icons like Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, and Fleetwood Mac for storytelling and performance flair, while bassist Cameron Quiseng admired Prince, Michael Jackson, Jimi Hendrix, and Blink-182 for their innovative guitar work and showmanship.[1][44] Drummer Michael Martinez incorporated R&B and hip-hop elements from artists like Drake, Trey Songz, and The-Dream, and guitarist Nathan Darmody integrated indie rock and electronica influences from La Roux and The Streets to add synth layers to tracks like "Dance Forever."[44] Additionally, the teen-oriented appeal of Disney acts such as the Jonas Brothers and Metro Station informed their initial bubbly, radio-friendly style aimed at a young audience.[1]Band members
Final lineup
The final lineup of Allstar Weekend consisted of the trio of Zachary "Zach" Porter, Cameron Quiseng, and Michael Martinez, who performed together following guitarist Nathan Darmody's departure in September 2011 and continued until the band's indefinite hiatus announcement in January 2013.[6] This configuration marked the band's concluding phase, during which they focused on independent releases and live performances without recruiting a permanent guitar substitute.[45] Zachary Porter served as lead vocalist and primary songwriter, driving the band's creative direction with lyrics often drawing from personal experiences and influences like Bruce Springsteen and Elton John.[46] As the frontman, he anchored the group's energetic pop-rock sound through his performances on their final tours.[43] Cameron Quiseng played bass guitar and contributed backing vocals, providing melodic support that complemented the band's upbeat style; he co-founded the group with Porter as high school friends in San Diego.[1] Michael Martinez handled drums and percussion, delivering the steady rhythmic foundation essential to Allstar Weekend's live energy and recordings since joining early in the band's 2007 formation.[1] Together, the three members produced the band's last project, the 2013 cover EP Kevin's Place - A Cover Song EP, featuring reinterpretations of tracks like Train's "Drops of Jupiter" and Taylor Swift's "Enchanted," released independently amid their transition to new endeavors.[20]Former members
Nathan Darmody, a founding member, served as lead guitarist and backing vocalist from 2007 to 2011, playing a key role in the band's early songwriting and contributing to their breakthrough with the 2010 debut album Suddenly Yours.[47] He co-wrote multiple songs on the album, including "Clock Runs Out" and "Come Down With Love," which helped establish the band's pop rock sound during their initial rise to popularity via MySpace and Disney Channel exposure. In June 2011, Darmody sat out the band's tour with Selena Gomez & The Scene for personal reasons, and in September, the group officially announced their parting ways in a statement expressing mutual respect and well-wishes.[48] His exit due to personal reasons prompted the band to proceed as a trio, influencing subsequent lineup stability for their final projects. Following his departure, Darmody focused on independent songwriting and production, collaborating on various projects outside the band.[49]Discography
Studio albums
Allstar Weekend released their debut studio album, Suddenly Yours, on October 19, 2010, through Hollywood Records. The album features 11 tracks blending pop rock with upbeat, adolescent-themed songs about romance and youthful escapades. Produced primarily by John Feldmann, it includes singles such as "Come Down with Love," "Hey, Princess," and "Dance Forever," which were promoted via Radio Disney and music videos. The tracklist is as follows:| No. | Title | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Come Down with Love | 3:05 |
| 2 | Hey, Princess | 3:18 |
| 3 | Dance Forever | 3:41 |
| 4 | Catching Up | 2:48 |
| 5 | A Different Side of Me | 3:08 |
| 6 | Here with You | 3:07 |
| 7 | Amy | 3:15 |
| 8 | Clock Runs Out | 3:00 |
| 9 | Can't Sleep Tonight | 3:26 |
| 10 | The Weekend | 3:11 |
| 11 | Not Your Birthday | 2:28 |
| No. | Title | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mr. Wonderful | 3:20 |
| 2 | Bend or Break | 3:30 |
| 3 | Not Your Birthday | 3:25 |
| 4 | Do It 2 Me | 3:20 |
| 5 | Blame It on September | 3:38 |
| 6 | Sorry... | 3:24 |
| 7 | James (Never Change) | 3:17 |
| 8 | All the Way | 3:15 |
| 9 | Ain't It Fun | 3:07 |
| 10 | Sex with Love | 3:20 |
| 11 | I Would | 3:32 |
Extended plays
Allstar Weekend released three extended plays during their career, serving as key transitional releases that bridged their early signed period with Hollywood Records to their independent phase and eventual disbandment. These EPs allowed the band to experiment with shorter formats, preview material for full-length albums, and maintain fan engagement amid label changes and creative shifts, though none achieved significant commercial chart success.[54] The band's debut EP, Suddenly, was released digitally and on CD on June 21, 2010, through Hollywood Records, acting as a precursor to their first studio album, Suddenly Yours.[14] This seven-track release featured upbeat pop rock songs that introduced the band's energetic style and helped build anticipation for their major-label debut, with tracks like "A Different Side of Me" and "Dance Forever" later appearing on the full album. The tracklist includes:- "Hey, Princess"
- "A Different Side of Me"
- "Dance Forever"
- "Clock Runs Out"
- "Amy"
- "Journey to the End of My Life"
- "The Weekend"
- "Life As We Know It"
- "The American Dream"
- "The Last Time"
- "I Was Born to Die With You"
- "Wanna Dance With Somebody"
- "Drops of Jupiter" (originally by Train)
- "Thunder Road" (originally by Bruce Springsteen)
- "Enchanted" (originally by Taylor Swift)
- "Perfect Situation" (originally by Weezer)
- "I Love You Always Forever" (originally by Donna Lewis)