History of Bear Rinehart in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 14, 2025

William Stanley "Bear" Rinehart III is the lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist for the rock band Needtobreathe. He established a solo career in 2019 under the moniker Wilder Woods. His debut solo album was released via Atlantic Records in August 2019. His second solo album, FEVER / SKY, was released on Dualtone Records in March 2023. Rinehart is known for his work with Needtobreathe and his exploration of a solo musical path.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

September 6, 1980: Bear Rinehart's Birth

On September 6, 1980, William Stanley "Bear" Rinehart III was born. He is also known as Wilder Woods.

Others born on this day/year

1999: College Football Career at Furman University

In 1999, Bear Rinehart began playing college football at Furman University, where he was a teammate of Billy Napier.

2002: College Football Career at Furman University

In 2002, Bear Rinehart was a teammate of Billy Napier and set numerous school records together at Furman University.

2015: Grammy Nomination

In 2015, as a member of NEEDTOBREATHE, Rinehart was nominated for a Grammy Award.

April 2019: Release of 'Someday Soon' and 'Sure Ain't'

In April 2019, Bear Rinehart, under the name Wilder Woods, started releasing music, beginning with the songs "Someday Soon" and "Sure Ain't".

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August 2019: Debut Solo Album Release

In August 2019, Wilder Woods' debut solo album was released on Atlantic Records.

August 2019: Debut Solo Album Release and Chart Success

In August 2019, Wilder Woods' eponymous debut solo album was released by Atlantic Records, debuting at No. 20 on Billboard Emerging Artists and No. 2 on Top Heatseekers. The single "Supply & Demand" peaked at No. 19 on the Adult Alternative Songs chart.

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December 2019: Release of 'Keep It Simple'

In December 2019, the single "Keep It Simple" was debuted by Norwegian DJ Matoma, Michigan-born producer Petey Martin, and Wilder Woods.

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2020: Acoustic Version and Remix Release

In 2020, an acoustic version and remix of "Keep It Simple" with Rayet followed.

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February 2021: Release of 'sink our love now (work tape)'

In February 2021, Rinehart independently released "sink our love now (work tape)" under his Wilder Woods moniker.

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April 2021: Release of 'work tapes ep'

In April 2021, Rinehart released the 'work tapes ep', which included the songs "sink our love now (work tape)", "man made weather" and "heavenly light". Rinehart recorded each of the demos by himself in his home studio in Franklin, Tennessee.

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