In 1990, Faith No More experienced a pivotal transformation with the release of their single “Epic.” Following a lackluster response to their previous album, The Real Thing, the band faced dwindling support from their record label. However, the unexpected success of “Epic” revitalized their career and reshaped the landscape of alternative metal.
From Struggles to Success
The summer of 1989 saw Faith No More’s The Real Thing struggle commercially, leading to skepticism regarding their potential. With new vocalist Mike Patton replacing original singer Chuck Mosley, the band appeared to have deviated from their post-punk roots. An LA Times review even questioned their authenticity, suggesting they had become a “bandwagon-jumper.”
Initial attempts to promote the album were disheartening. The lead single, “From Out Of Nowhere,” failed to make an impact in the United States. As 1990 began, the label opted to allow the band to select their next single, which led to the unanimous choice of “Epic.” This track echoed the rap-metal style of their earlier hit, “We Care A Lot,” and showcased a more refined sound.
Producer Matt Wallace recalled that the band viewed The Real Thing as pop music, despite its inability to capture mainstream attention. “Their idea of what pop is was what helped to make pop different,” he stated in 2019. However, the journey to recognition was slow. Released on January 29, 1990, “Epic” initially struggled to gain traction, with limited radio play and minimal airings on MTV.
Turning Points and Breakthroughs
A breakthrough moment occurred during a chaotic performance at the London Astoria on February 7, 1990. The energetic atmosphere and a collapsed crash barrier prompted Randy Skinner, a Warner Brothers executive, to advocate for renewed promotional efforts. This included getting the “Epic” video back on MTV, which had previously been sidelined.
Following this performance, “Epic” climbed the UK charts, reaching No. 37 by February. As the single gained popularity in Australia, US radio and MTV began to take notice. By September 8, 1990, “Epic” had reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a significant moment for alternative metal as it began to enter the mainstream.
Drummer Mike Bordin acknowledged the shift in the metal community, reflecting on their identification with bands like Metallica and Slayer. “Before Nirvana blew it all up, there were people in the metal community that were holding tight to it all,” he noted. Despite their rising fame, Bordin emphasized that Faith No More never fully aligned with any specific genre or clique.
As “Epic” propelled Faith No More into the spotlight, it also brought challenges. Patton expressed discomfort with newfound fame, admitting to Spin magazine that he felt unworthy of the admiration. “Goddamn, it’s not right. I’ve never had anyone look up to me,” he said, highlighting the complexities of sudden celebrity.
Despite the pressures, “Epic” became a defining track in metal culture, influencing future bands like Korn and Killswitch Engage. Bordin reflected on the band’s intention to blend various musical styles, stating, “We just wanted to take the stuff we loved, cut out what we didn’t.” Their willingness to experiment set them apart in a rapidly evolving musical landscape.
Ultimately, “Epic” not only secured Faith No More’s place in the music industry but also opened doors for a new generation of metal that embraced diverse influences. With this single, they not only salvaged their career but also contributed significantly to the evolution of alternative music.
