The Barenaked Ladies, who are anything but, have been part of Canada’s music scene since 1988 but are now only receiving the recognition that they deserve. Hailing from Toronto, BNL released a few independent cassettes before their breakthrough self-titled tape in 1991. This was the first independent release to reach the top 20 and go platinum in Canada’s music history.
The group’s third cassette The Yellow Tape proved the saying “third time lucky.” Upon having this cassette go gold in Canada, a bidding war by major labels got underway. In the end, Sire Records signed BNL. After finishing up as independent artists, their 1992 albumGordon sold over 500,000 copies.
The enthusiasm of BNL’s music is seen in the reaction of the millions of people who have bought it. In 1997, their live album Rock Spectacle was well received but the pay-off for all of their hardwork came in 1998 with the release of Stunt and the single “One Week.”
After 10 grueling years for BNL, Stunt sold over two million copies and went double platinum in November 1998. The second single released, “It’s All Been Done” helped push sales to a level, once thought by many, unattainable for this group.
Through extensive touring the group has developed a loyal fan base across North America and is finally being appreciated they way they deserve to be. They have become one of Canada’s most well known bands by singing about a box of Kraft Dinner…now that’s talent!