History of Andrew W.K. in Timeline

Andrew W.K., born Andrew Fetterly Wilkes-Krier, is an American musician known for his energetic blend of rock, metal, and pop. Hailing from Michigan, he started his musical journey in the mid-1990s, playing in local bands before moving to New York. It was in New York that he began producing music under the name Andrew W.K., gaining recognition for his anthemic party songs.

May 9, 1979: Birth of Andrew W.K.

Andrew Fetterly Wilkes-Krier, widely recognized as Andrew W.K., was born on May 9, 1979. He would become renowned for his energetic blend of rock, metal, and pop music, particularly his anthems about partying.

1993: Andrew W.K. Joins His First Band

At the age of 14, Andrew W.K. joined his first band, "Slam," later renamed "Reverse Polarity." This marked his entry into the world of band performances.

1993: Andrew W.K. Attends Community High School

From 1993 to 1997, Andrew W.K. attended Community High School, where he nurtured his passion for music. This period marked a formative stage in his development as a musician.

1996: First Public Release

In 1996, Andrew W.K.'s song "Mr. Surprise" was included in "Plant the Flower Seeds," a compilation album. This marked his first publicly released recording.

1997: Andrew W.K. Graduates from Community High School

In 1997, Andrew W.K. graduated from Community High School, marking the end of his high school journey and the beginning of a new chapter in his life.

1998: Move to New York City and Early Solo Work

Andrew W.K. moved to New York City in 1998, where he briefly held various jobs. He also began recording solo material, releasing a cassette-only single, "Room to Breathe," marking a significant step in his solo career.

1999: Relocation to Florida and Band Formation

In 1999, Andrew W.K. moved to Seffner, Florida, to form a live band. This move signified his dedication to pursuing music full-time.

March 2000: Release of "Girls Own Juice" EP

March 2000 saw the release of Andrew W.K.'s first EP under his now-famous moniker, "Girls Own Juice" (AWKGOJ). This release introduced his signature hard rock-influenced style and experimental approach to music.

October 2000: Release of "Party Til You Puke" and Signing with Island Records

Following the release of his second EP, "Party Til You Puke," in October 2000, Andrew W.K. signed with Island Records, marking a pivotal moment in his career.

2000: Andrew W.K.'s Early Musical Ventures

Andrew W.K. entered the music scene with his EP "Girls Own Juice" in 2000. This marked the beginning of his journey toward becoming a prominent figure in the world of party rock.

November 13, 2001: Release of "I Get Wet" Album

On November 13, 2001, Andrew W.K. released his debut major-label studio album, "I Get Wet," which incorporated metal and punk rock influences and cemented his reputation for high-energy live shows.

November 2001: Release of "I Get Wet"

In November 2001, Andrew W.K. released his debut studio album, "I Get Wet," propelling him to fame. The album showcased his signature blend of rock, metal, and pop, solidifying his image as a party music icon.

2002: Ozzfest Appearance and Soundtrack Contributions

Andrew W.K. joined Ozzy Osbourne's Ozzfest in 2002, further solidifying his presence in the rock music scene. His music also gained recognition through its inclusion in various media, including the "Jackass: The Movie" soundtrack.

2002: Andrew W.K. Begins Advice Column in "Rockin' On"

Andrew W.K. started writing a monthly advice column in the Japanese magazine "Rockin' On" in 2002.

2003: First Appearance on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien"

Andrew W.K. appeared as a guest on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" in 2003 to discuss his show "Your Friend, Andrew W.K."

2003: Release of "The Wolf"

Andrew W.K. released his second studio album, "The Wolf," in 2003, featuring a distinct recording process where he played all instruments. Although it achieved his highest Billboard 200 chart position at the time, it experienced a relatively short chart run.

November 2004: Website Hacking and Blackmail Attempt

In November 2004, Andrew W.K.'s official website faced a hacking incident where an individual claiming to be "Steev Mike" threatened blackmail. The hacker alleged involvement in creating Andrew W.K.'s persona and demanded participation in the production of his third album. Andrew W.K. refuted the claims, asserting that "Steev Mike" was an old moniker and urging fans not to believe the hacker.

2004: Collaboration with To Live and Shave in L.A. Begins

Andrew W.K. began performing and producing music with the avant-garde group To Live and Shave in L.A. in 2004, appearing on their album "God and Country Rally!"

2004: Beginning of Legal Disputes

Andrew W.K.'s legal troubles began in 2004, as he later revealed. The issues stemmed from a former friend's actions, significantly impacting his career and personal life.

2004: "Tear It Up" Featured in "Nascar Thunder TM 2004"

Andrew W.K.'s single "Tear It Up" was featured in the video game "Nascar Thunder TM 2004," expanding his music's reach to a wider audience.

2004: "Your Friend, Andrew W.K." Premieres on MTV2

Andrew W.K.'s television show, "Your Friend, Andrew W.K.", premiered on MTV2 in 2004 and ran for 11 episodes.

2004: Kit Kat Jingle and Collaboration

In 2004, Andrew W.K. stepped outside his usual solo work to record a jingle for Kit Kat, even transforming their "Give Me a Break" slogan into a new song. He expressed a shift from his previous aversion to collaboration, stating a newfound enjoyment in making music with others.

March 2006: Debut of "I'm a Vagabond"

In March 2006, Andrew W.K. premiered his new song, "I'm a Vagabond," on Steve Jones' radio show, "Jonesy's Jukebox," offering fans a glimpse of his evolving musical direction.

2006: Continued work with To Live and Shave in L.A.

Andrew W.K. co-produced To Live and Shave in L.A.'s album "Noon and Eternity" and appeared on their project "Horoscopo: Sanatorio de Molière" in 2006.

2006: "Fun Night" becomes "Sundogs (It Just Got Hotter)"

Andrew W.K.'s song "Fun Night" was reworked into a theme song for the Arizona Sundogs hockey team, titled "Sundogs (It Just Got Hotter)" in 2006.

2006: Cartoon Network Music Video

Cartoon Network featured Andrew W.K. in a music video using his song "Not Going to Bed" (retitled "Hearing What I Say") in 2006.

2006: Cherie Lily Joins Andrew W.K.'s Band

Cherie Lily became a part of Andrew W.K.'s band in 2006, contributing as a vocalist and hypewoman. This marked the beginning of their professional collaboration, which coincided with their personal relationship.

March 2007: Andrew W.K. Featured on The New York Times Arts Section

In March 2007, Andrew W.K.'s impactful lectures earned him a prominent feature on the front page of The New York Times' Arts section.

April 2007: Performance at Donau Festival

Andrew W.K. performed with Current 93 at the Donau Festival in Krems, Austria in April 2007.

May 2007: Performance at UK All Tomorrow's Parties Festival

Andrew W.K. performed with Current 93 at the UK All Tomorrow's Parties festival in May 2007.

July 7, 2007: 77 Boadrum Concert

Andrew W.K. joined 76 other drummers for the 77 Boadrum concert, organized by Boredoms, at the Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park in Brooklyn, New York on July 7, 2007.

September 2007: "électricité" Release

Andrew W.K.'s piano playing was featured on the jazz fusion album "électricité" with Mike Pachelli, Rich Russo, and Dennis Harding, released by Fullblast Recordings in September 2007.

October 2007: Production Work with Wolf Eyes and Sightings

Andrew W.K.'s earliest known production work outside his own music was with the band Wolf Eyes on their EP "Fortune Dove." He provided vocals for the track "What Kind of Band?" Later, in October 2007, he produced the album "Through The Panama" for the band Sightings.

2007: Second Appearance on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien"

Andrew W.K. made another appearance on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" in 2007, this time to discuss his motivational performance tours.

2007: Relocation and Temporary Living Situations

Around 2006 or 2007, Andrew W.K. decided to leave his Midtown Manhattan residence. Following his move, he found himself living in various temporary accommodations outside of New York.

2007: Production of Lee "Scratch" Perry's Album

In 2007, Andrew W.K. took on the role of producer for reggae artist Lee "Scratch" Perry's album "Repentance." The collaboration stemmed from a previous encounter where Andrew interviewed Perry for DirecTV.

2007: Andrew W.K.'s "One Man Show" Tour

Throughout 2007, Andrew W.K. embarked on his distinctive "One Man Show" tour, characterized by unpredictable performances. The events often transformed into lively parties with audience participation.

February 20, 2008: Release of "Sonna no Kankei Ne Rock"

On February 20, 2008, Andrew W.K. released "Sonna no Kankei Ne Rock," a ringtone exclusively for the Japanese mobile phone market. Commissioned by Universal Music Japan, the song celebrated a popular catchphrase and achieved significant commercial success, topping charts and garnering thousands of downloads.

April 2008: European Tour with Current 93

Andrew W.K. embarked on a European tour with Current 93 in April 2008.

October 4, 2008: Marriage to Cherie Lily

Andrew W.K. married Cherie Lily on October 4, 2008, in a traditional Persian ceremony. Lily was also a part of W.K.'s band as a vocalist and hypewoman from 2006 to 2018.

November 2008: Time Magazine Calls Andrew W.K. "Truly Cute"

In November 2008, Time magazine published an article featuring Andrew W.K. in which they described him as "truly cute."

November 26, 2008: Release of "The Japan Covers" and "The Very Best So Far"

On November 26, 2008, Andrew W.K. released his fourth studio album, "The Japan Covers," a collection of J-pop cover songs, along with a compilation album titled "The Very Best So Far."

December 5, 2008: Tribute to Dominic Owen Mallary

Andrew W.K. played classical piano at the wake of fan Dominic Owen Mallary, honoring Dominic's wish, on December 5, 2008.

2008: "The McLaughlin Groove" Release

Andrew W.K. released "The McLaughlin Groove," inspired by "The McLaughlin Group," in 2008 after a commission from Public Radio International's "Fair Game."

2008: Opening of Santos Party House

In the spring of 2008, Andrew W.K. and his partners opened Santos Party House, a nightclub and live concert venue in downtown Manhattan. The venue quickly gained popularity and recognition, receiving accolades and awards for its atmosphere and design.

February 2009: Andrew W.K. Forms Skyscraper Music Maker

In February 2009, Andrew W.K. announced the formation of his own record label, Skyscraper Music Maker, after finding a loophole in his existing contractual constraints. The label, based in London and Manhattan, would go on to release projects like "DAMN! The Mixtape Vol. 1" and W.K.'s fifth studio album, "55 Cadillac."

April 2, 2009: The Brill Sisters' First Show

Andrew W.K.'s group, The Brill Sisters (with Matt Sweeney), played their first show at Santos Party House on April 2, 2009.

April 21, 2009: The Brill Sisters' First Performance as a Trio

The Brill Sisters, including Don Fleming, performed together for the first time on April 21, 2009.

May 2009: New York Magazine Feature on Santos Party House

Andrew W.K.'s involvement with Santos Party House was prominently featured in a May 2009 issue of New York Magazine. The article delved into the nightclub's success and his role in its operation.

May 25, 2009: DAMN! The Mixtape Vol. 1 Release

On May 25, 2009, Andrew W.K. released "DAMN! The Mixtape Vol. 1" under his newly formed record label, Skyscraper Music Maker. The mixtape featured a compilation of W.K.'s production work for artists signed to his label, including Bad Brilliance, Aleister X, and Cherie Lily.

September 7, 2009: Release of 55 Cadillac

On September 7, 2009, Andrew W.K. released his fifth studio album, "55 Cadillac." The album featured solo piano improvisations and marked the second release under his label, Skyscraper Music Maker. He described the album as a reflection of his journey to freedom after experiencing legal challenges.

September 2009: Public Acknowledgment of Legal Disputes

Andrew W.K. publicly addressed legal challenges surrounding his name in September 2009. He attributed the disputes to an old friend's actions, stating that they had disrupted his career and personal life.

2009: Grammy Nomination for "Repentance"

Andrew W.K.'s production work on Lee "Scratch" Perry's album "Repentance" earned a Grammy nomination for "Best Reggae Album" in 2009.

March 2010: Andrew W.K. Launches Steev Mike Label

Following legal disputes over his previous label, Andrew W.K. launched Steev Mike in March 2010. The label's first release was a repackaged two-disc version of "Close Calls with Brick Walls."

June 2010: Release of "I Want to See You Go Wild" Music Video

The music video for "I Want to See You Go Wild," a single from "Close Calls with Brick Walls," was released in June 2010. The video was directed by Peter Glantz.

2010: Zagat Rating for Santos Party House

Santos Party House, co-founded by Andrew W.K., achieved the top spot as the "Best Dance Club" in New York City according to the 2010 Zagat Survey.

March 2011: The "Party All Goddamn Night" EP Release

March 2011 saw the release of Andrew W.K.'s EP, "The 'Party All Goddamn Night' EP." The EP contained five new tracks and two previously released singles.

2011: Appearance in A Day to Remember's "All I Want" Music Video

Andrew W.K. made a cameo appearance in the music video for A Day to Remember's song "All I Want," released in 2011.

2011: Pyrotechnic Stunt at Cartoon Network's Hall of Game Awards

Andrew W.K. participated in a pyrotechnic stunt with Robbie Maddison at Cartoon Network's Hall of Game Awards in 2011.

2011: Production and Mixing of Baby Dee's "Regifted Light"

Andrew W.K. produced and mixed Baby Dee's album "Regifted Light", released in 2011.

2011: Tattoo from Kesha and Infection

In a memorable encounter, singer Kesha gave Andrew W.K. a tattoo using a pen and safety pin in 2011. Unfortunately, the impromptu tattoo led to an infection.

June 2012: Andrew W.K. Presents at Canterlot Gardens

In June 2012, Andrew W.K. made an appearance at the "My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic" fan convention, Canterlot Gardens. He delivered a motivational seminar titled "How to Party like Pinkie Pie."

September 2012: Andrew W.K. Hints at New Album at My Little Pony Convention

While attending the "My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic" fan convention in September 2012, Andrew W.K. hinted at the possibility of recording a new album.

2012: End of Andrew W.K.'s "Rockin' On" Column and Publication of "I Will Change Your Life"

After a decade-long run, Andrew W.K.'s advice column in the Japanese magazine "Rockin' On" concluded in 2012. A compilation of his advice from the column was published as a book titled "I Will Change Your Life."

2012: U.S. Cultural Ambassador to Bahrain (Misidentified)

Andrew W.K. was misidentified as the U.S. Cultural Ambassador to Bahrain in 2012. He was invited to speak at the Embassy but the invitation was later rescinded.

2012: Collaboration on The Evaporators' "Busy Doing Nothing"

Andrew W.K. worked with Nardwuar the Human Serviette and The Evaporators on their 2012 album "Busy Doing Nothing."

June 20, 2013: Longest Drum Session in a Retail Store World Record

Andrew W.K. set a world record for the Longest Drum Session in a Retail Store at the MTV Music Awards on June 20, 2013, drumming for 24 hours straight.

September 2013: Andrew W.K. Announces "The Party Bible"

In September 2013, Andrew W.K. announced his forthcoming book, "The Party Bible," to be published by Simon & Schuster. The book would focus on his philosophy of partying.

January 2014: "Ask Andrew W.K." advice column debut

In January 2014, Andrew W.K. began an advice column called "Ask Andrew W.K." in The Village Voice, appearing both in print and online.

June 12, 2014: Relentless Kerrang! Awards Co-Host

Andrew W.K. co-hosted the Relentless Kerrang! Awards with Scott Ian of Anthrax at East London's Troxy on June 12, 2014.

June 2014: Andrew W.K. Lectures at Oxford Union

In June 2014, Andrew W.K. was invited as a guest lecturer at the prestigious Oxford Union. His keynote, "Andrew W.K. and The Philosophy of Partying," delved into his philosophy of positivity, self-confidence, and celebration.

August 2014: "Andrew W.K.'s Party Hard 100" Premieres on Kerrang! TV

Andrew W.K. hosted his own show, "Andrew W.K.'s Party Hard 100," on Kerrang! TV in August 2014, focusing on party videos.

September 2014: Andrew W.K. Lectures in Baltimore and New York City

September 2014 saw Andrew W.K. delivering a lecture on his philosophy of partying at the Baltimore School for the Arts and bringing his "Ask Andrew W.K." advice column to life at the Santos Party House nightclub in New York City.

October 2014: Andrew W.K. Expresses Desire to Release New Album in Reddit AMA

During a Reddit "Ask Me Anything" session in October 2014, Andrew W.K. expressed a strong interest in recording a new album, stating that he had been collecting material for several years.

2014: Various Television Appearances

Andrew W.K. made a number of television appearances in 2014, including on "Insane Clown Posse Theater," "Lil BUB's Special Special," and "Destroy Build Destroy."

June 2, 2015: Appearance on Nekrogoblikon's "Heavy Meta"

Andrew W.K. was featured on Nekrogoblikon's album "Heavy Meta," released on June 2, 2015.

December 11, 2015: Appearance on Ken Reid's TV Guidance Counselor Podcast

Andrew W.K. appeared as a guest on Ken Reid's TV Guidance Counselor podcast on December 11, 2015.

May 29, 2016: Closure of Santos Party House

After eight years of operation, Andrew W.K.'s nightclub, Santos Party House, closed its doors for the final time on May 29, 2016.

September 28, 2016: Andrew W.K.'s Vice Column Debut

On September 28, 2016, Andrew W.K. began writing a weekly column for Vice Media, covering a different topic each week.

September 2017: Andrew W.K. Announces New Studio Album

In September 2017, Andrew W.K. delighted fans by announcing that a new studio album was in the works. The album would later be titled "You're Not Alone."

February 2018: Andrew W.K. Named Person of the Year by American Association of Suicidology

Andrew W.K. was honored as the Person of the Year by the American Association of Suicidology in February 2018. This recognition was given for his consistent positive messaging and its positive influence on people's lives.

March 2, 2018: Release of You're Not Alone

Andrew W.K.'s new studio album, "You're Not Alone," was released on March 2, 2018, through Sony Music. The album had been announced the previous year.

August 2018: Andrew W.K. Starts Recording Next Album

In August 2018, Andrew W.K. revealed to Riff Magazine that he had commenced recording his next album, following the release of "You're Not Alone."

September 2018: "I Get Wet" Sales Milestone

By September 2018, Andrew W.K.'s debut album, "I Get Wet," had sold an impressive 267,000 copies in the U.S., a testament to its enduring popularity.

2018: Departure of Cherie Lily from Andrew W.K.'s Band

After a decade of performing together, Cherie Lily departed from Andrew W.K.'s band in 2018. She had been a consistent presence as a vocalist and hypewoman since joining in 2006.

2019: Beginning of Divorce Proceedings from Cherie Lily

Andrew W.K. and Cherie Lily began divorce proceedings in late 2019, as he later disclosed in May 2021. The couple had been married for over a decade and had worked together professionally in his band.

October 2020: Andrew W.K. Signs With Napalm Records, Announces New Album

In October 2020, Andrew W.K. announced his partnership with Napalm Records and shared the news of a new album in progress.

February 17, 2021: Release of "Babalon"

On February 17, 2021, Andrew W.K. released "Babalon," the lead single from his upcoming album. The release marked a departure from his typically uplifting themes, showcasing a heavier, more intense sound.

May 13, 2021: Engagement to Kat Dennings

Andrew W.K. and actress Kat Dennings announced their engagement on May 13, 2021, via Instagram. This news came shortly after W.K.'s announcement of his divorce from Cherie Lily.

May 2021: Announcement of Divorce from Cherie Lily and New Relationship

In May 2021, Andrew W.K. publicly shared that he and his wife, Cherie Lily, had initiated divorce proceedings in late 2019. Additionally, he confirmed his relationship with actress Kat Dennings, whom he had met in Los Angeles earlier that year.

July 14, 2021: Release of "Everybody Sins" Music Video

The music video for "Everybody Sins," a single from Andrew W.K.'s upcoming album "God Is Partying," was released on July 14, 2021. The video featured a notable appearance by actress Kat Dennings.

September 10, 2021: God Is Partying Released

Andrew W.K.'s sixth studio album, "God Is Partying," was released on September 10, 2021. The album was produced in collaboration with Ted Young.

November 27, 2023: Marriage to Kat Dennings

On November 27, 2023, Andrew W.K. married actress Kat Dennings at their Los Angeles home. This marked a new chapter in his personal life following his divorce from Cherie Lily.