Raised in a deeply religious environment, the Followill brothers spent much of their youth traveling across the southern United States with their father, Leon, a United Pentecostal Church pastor, and their mother, Betty Ann, who led worship services . This upbringing influenced their early musical style, which blended Southern rock, garage rock, and blues elements.
The band’s debut album, Youth & Young Manhood (2003), garnered significant attention in the UK, where it peaked at number three on the charts . Their fourth album, Only by the Night (2008), marked a commercial breakthrough, featuring hit singles like “Sex on Fire” and “Use Somebody.” “Sex on Fire” became their first number-one single in several countries and earned them a Grammy Award for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group in 2009 .
Over the years, Kings of Leon has released several albums, including Come Around Sundown (2010), Mechanical Bull (2013), Walls (2016), and When You See Yourself (2021) . Their ninth studio album, Can We Please Have Fun, was released on May 10, 2024, marking their first release under Capitol Records and showcasing a blend of indie rock, alternative rock, and garage rock influences .
Known for their dynamic live performances, Kings of Leon has headlined major festivals and toured extensively worldwide. As of 2025, they continue to be a prominent force in the rock music scene, with a dedicated fan base and a legacy of influential music.
