//04.02.2010
Dear Family, We Love You
Portugal. The Man has been our lives for the past four and a half recorded years. Together we have played near one thousand shows and we have released five full length albums and two EPs. We have done more traveling than my younger and more apprehensive brain would have told me. We traveled to Europe? I never would have ever expected this. To be perfectly honest, I would have been just as content with the handful of Portland shows that we played upon taking our first steps outside of our home of Alaska. It was amazing. Playing shows in the lower 48? I still find so much excitement in these memories. It was so absolutely massive to me. There was the realization that we could actually do this. We could play music and, yeah, maybe it was five or six people coming out at the time but you know what? It didn’t matter. I think about this daily. My mother and father and brothers and sister call me and with every conversation we start with “Can you believe this?”. We talk about where we come from and how small our world was. Every day I think of this. I remember the old house on Knik where we grew up. We watched beluga whales rolling and singing in the dark silt waters of the Cook Inlet. I remember my mother fixing our diesel generator whenever it would break down – building fires and chopping wood for the times when she couldn’t get it started again. Levi and Lindsay helping with the dog chores while my dad was away with work. What a strong woman, an amazing woman. I feel very lucky for this family. I have since left. Not because I wanted to move away but because of our love for music – my family’s love for music: our truck rides to town listening to KOOL 97.3 oldies radio, the sounds of Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Ben E. King, The Rolling Stones, and yeah, The Beatles… Lots of Beatles. We sang along together and loved every minute of it. Never at the time did I think I would ever be playing music today, but I do it and found myself in it because of these moments. I feel very lucky to have the family I have and the support they have given me. We all have been lucky in this, Ryan, Zach and Jason included. We do this because we love it and we are supported in it. We could not and would not do it without our families.
What I am trying to convey to you all right now is how much music means to us. We have worked very hard at this and only have plans to do more. It is necessary to our lives at this point, it is what we know and what we believe in and who we are. In the past year we have come a long way thanks to festivals such as Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Outside Lands, Southside and Hurricane as well as many others in Europe and the states alike, bringing us some attention that we never expected, and never pursued and really never thought we wanted. Well, at the end of last summer we started getting calls from labels. Calls that we brushed off without thinking much of it. We voiced our concerns and stood by our love of what we do and what we have built. Some of these label people tired of it and others didn’t, eventually bringing us into meetings. At the end of this chapter we were offered an amazing opportunity to begin the next walk of life in this project. We were approached by Atlantic Records about seven or eight months ago and as of a couple of days ago have made a decision to join their family, and let them into ours. This decision was not made based on one or two talks, or without other labels contacting us, but based on history of the label and the history of our band. Atlantic Records has been home to so many of our favorite artists and has done so many great things for these groups. You can go down the list: Rolling Stones, Crosby Stills and Nash (and Young), Ray Charles, Otis Redding, The Coasters… and so on until today. Oh yeah… Did I leave out that little group Led Zeppelin? When Ahmet Ertegun, founder of Atlantic Records, passed away in 2007 FUCKING LED ZEPPELIN got back together to honor this man’s legacy. He had an ear for music that is not often found – one of a kind even. He created a movement; he created something massive that artists wanted to be a part of. He has been a huge part of all of our lives in some way or another whether you know it or not. His talent for hearing what was there, within these artists is very truly a gift. This is an enormous talent in itself. This is something I learned as we went about these meetings with labels and A&R people. We understand it better through questions. “What type of band are we?” “Where do you see us fitting?” asking of them their thoughts on music, their love in music and, of course, my favorite, doing the playlist trades (thanks Craig, Pete, and Andrew!). So, we got to see this labels history from the inside and out and really, this label has history, true history, but, to be fair, most all major labels have history. That is why they are what they are. They made it and had great taste in music. Some great signings, real signings, that helped to sustain what they had created.
Now, we are back to square one. I have talked up Atlantic’s history and our feelings of overwhelming excitement then brought myself back to the reality. All major labels have this history and have their handful of great ears. I will continue on, but will take a little jump to form a new paragraph. This part is important.
We are people. We are people that happen to love music, we happen to live, eat, sleep, think and love within this bubble of music. Going into these talks we made it perfectly clear, painfully clear, that we love what we do. We live for it. No amount of money could change this band… to be fair to that statement, we already do this on our own and have done it for sometime now. Don’t expect to hear from our mouths things like paying our dues, or working towards this moment. No mention of eating poorly or sleeping on hardwood floors. That is what we do for music. We did not go through all that because we thought one day we would hit our payday, we did it because we love what we do. This will not change… It is who we are. We walked into this as skeptical as anyone would be. Why not, right? The general consensus on major labels is not that pretty. “Why is that?” I started asking myself throughout our blossoming relationship. What do we have against them? The Flaming Lips, Radiohead, The Beatles, The Beastie Boys, Oasis, Nirvana etc., etc. The list is enormous. The bands that shaped our lives all worked with them. They did that together. All of our favorite groups of all time had this very opportunity in front of them, and most from a much younger stage in their career. How lucky are we to have stepped in with this many shows under our belts, this many albums, and this much love and support from all of you? I find myself on this subject daily, if not hourly. We are so lucky to be here now. We are not a baby band. This is not our first or second or even third release. We are stepping into a new world with five albums of experience and enough touring to feel like we can handle ourselves. And you know what? I am very, very proud to say the negotiations went that way as well. They went this way because of all of you. Because of what we have built alongside our manager Rich Holtzman. They went this way because we have the smartest and most punk rock lawyer of all time in Dave Stein. It went this way because we talked – we really talked. We didn’t ask for money. Money has never been a priority in this band. The band has been the priority. We talked to some truly wonderful people at Atlantic, and I feel very lucky for this fact. We traded music playlists, and we spoke about our families and (for the millionth time) what music means to us. It was very important that that be understood.
I want to say thank you at the end of this to Andrew Luftman, Craig Kallman, Pete Ganbarg, Julie Greenwald, Livia Tortella, Torsten Luth, Paul Samuels and Max Lousada for making this process so enjoyable. I want to thank you for taking the time from your day to talk to us and show such enthusiasm. This is a dream job, and this is a great label. The level of trust that is so visible within your group, the work ethic and excitement that you all have for music is so inspiring. Thank you for allowing us to record music at our own pace and allowing us the freedom to still release music through Approaching AIRballoons when appropriate. Thank you most of all for being real people. There is a lot of love in what we do and we won’t let you down, nor will we let down the people that have supported us.
The biggest thank you goes to all of you. You lead us into the doors with the confidence we needed to stand our ground, to be ourselves and to fight for what we believe in. We love you all so very much. If you have any questions please feel free to leave them in the comments or call us on the phone, and I will do my best to update this blog with your questions and our response. We want you to fully understand this. This is not a moment to fear or be anxious about. This is a moment to be excited about. Let’s get some new lasers and get back on tour. That will not slow, and this will only grow if we continue to push. You all made a huge statement with American Ghetto. You prove to us every day that there is a reason we are doing this. I realize I have used the word “lucky” far too many times in writing this. It is not luck we have found, it is something real and something that I fully believe in and we are doing it together. Thank you again and again for everything you have all done with this band. Let’s continue to believe in this and continue to take our steps one at a time.
Love,
John
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congratulations! i’m so happy for you guys. and John, your posts are so inspiring to me. expect some calls later.
mike//04.02.2010
wrote a bunch but it didn’t post. oh well,
the main point was that we love you, you love music, and that I don’t think the label will get in the way, nor will you guys allow it.
Run with this opportunity and take us will you!
Brandon//04.02.2010
Well done chaps. Good luck with it all and keep the awesome music going!
Ant//04.02.2010
Congratulations guys you have earned all of this through hard work and love.
Jay//04.02.2010
just promise us small shows will still happen! i loved the shows in Lawrence, KS!
James//04.02.2010
I stumbled across you guys by accident looking for another band about a year ago. Your music is so amazing that I completely forgot about the other band that I was looking for. I just want to say thank you to all you guys for putting me in a good mood when I’m down and giving me some kick-ass music to listen to when I have my long drives to visit my family, (your cds seriously don’t come out the entire time). I have never pushed people to check out music more than I have for your music. It gives me great pleasure to spread the word and make others happy. I saw you perform in Atlanta this past time at The Earl and it was a great show. You all were so nice to me and I wasn’t feeling that well because I had just had surgery, but I made up my mind before I went to the hospital that I wasn’t going to miss the show and I couldn’t go back on my word. That is how much you have impacted my life. Thank you for all of your hard work from me and all of my family and friends.
Nicole//04.02.2010
I’m sooo glad you guys are doing good with this, and reading this really makes me happy that you guys are my favorite band. Your passion towards life and music really shows in how you guys perform, act, and produce music. Keep doing what you do. You guys are on so many different levels. Keep keeping your faith high as I know you guys will. P.S.- It was great talking to you (Zach) on the phone yesterday! NICE!!!!!!
Brad//04.02.2010
You guys deserve it above anyone else.
Billy//04.02.2010
Good luck! You definitely deserve this. Can’t wait to see what comes of it.
Andrej//04.02.2010
Hey guys,
I just wanted to say how much you all deserve this, and how much I love what you guys have done over the past couple of years! I’ve been listening to you all since waiter came out and you all NEVER dissapoint. Even if you did, who cares. You gotta love what you make, and sometimes that means who cares what everyone else thinks. I think thats why you all are so successful. I just wanted to thank you all for everything you have done for me! I may not be able to buy an album every time, but I have bought 7 tickets in the past couple of years, including bonnaroo last year. YOU ALL ROCK!
Andrew P//04.02.2010
congratulations — i’m stoked for you guys! #weenfans
Robbie//04.02.2010
Absolutely awsome. You guys definitely deserve this. My only concern with this is the fact that Atlantic migh not let you guys release new stuff as often.
Alex//04.02.2010
I´m excited!
Congratulations to all the band!
Please come to Portugal (the country) soon =D
fns//04.02.2010
you’re all amazingly talented musicians that put so much creativity and thought into every aspect of your music and performance. you guys definitely deserve this more than any band out there. i just hope new material is released as often as you guys see fit, and that smaller shows will continue. we have all the faith in the world for you though. congrats :]
Britany//04.02.2010
Hey Guys,
I have faith, but be careful. It was not to long ago that I was kissing the feet of Circa Survive, and they have kind of fallen to the wayside since. Good Luck!
Michael Lucas//04.02.2010
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, greatest band in music right now from a music standpoint and a human being stand point. So down to earth and IN IT FOR THE RIGHT REASONS!!! amazing… congratulations gentlemen, I truly hope for the best for all of you. God Bless.
Jared Marshall//04.02.2010
Congrats boys! This is great news. You deserve it <3
cheyenne//04.02.2010
So I think this is awesome, don’t get me wrong, but wasnt the reason for starting Approaching AIRballoons because of label problems a while back?
kolin//04.02.2010
Absolutely thrilled for you guys. Thanks for living and being the things that way too many talk about others needing to do more of. Real, I suppose. Oh, and putting on two of the best performances I’ve been to in the last year (Highline NYC, Johnny Brendas Philly) – that was nice too.
Tony//04.02.2010
oh my god, i was nearly crying.
congratulations guys!
this is so amazing.
Lu//04.02.2010
thats awesome news, i hope that all works out, the only thing im scared for is the connection between you and the fans, major lables turn into populatity contests i have noticed people see whats popular and thats what they are into once something new is out thats what they are into and im scared that a day will come when i have to pay a riduclious amount to see a show and then never have the chance to say hi and talk about music like we have in the past. its like deathcab for cuite i used to listen to them so much and would hear storys fom friends who saw them and met them and it was just a great experiance, when i finally had the chande to see them (it was a great show) but it was intamite i was so far away it was like watching live tv, and only a handfull of people got to meet them and talk to them, it gets overwhelming to go out to a crown of that many people and try to talk and meet people so you charge even extra for tickets so they can come back stage, and to me that sucks, music is my life and it sucks seeing a band that got so big and everything got so overwhelming to them that they lost that connection with alot of thier fans, i have been listing to you guys sence anatomy and i would hate for the day to come when the only way i have a chance with talking to you is writting a really well thought out e-mail that might catch your eye and give me back a couple of sentances, i love the fact when i saw you live, we talked not just for a min or two but for 10 mins or so just about music, life. i don’t want to loose that with you guys, your truly a one of a kind band i hope it stays like that. but as far as everyhting else its such exiting news and i can’t wait to see you gus again
zach//04.02.2010
Best news to wake up to. I’m so proud of you guys. I can’t even type the words I want to say, but just know that I thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything- for the fantastic memories I have surrounding this band. The friends I have made.. and just the incredible music that comes from you year after year. You are a huge part of my life, and I am just so, so proud. Thank you, and we will always love you. We will always be holding your hands every step of the way.
Tara Alesia//04.02.2010
So very pleased with this news gentlemen. I don’t worry one bit, you have a sensible approach. Keep paving the way.
Tree//04.02.2010
This is so cool! Congrats guys, you’ve made it so far and will get even further. Soon, you will catch the ears of an even greater fan base(one that maybe you thought woudnt ever listen). I work downtown San Antonio @ the courthouse, theres an old man who played music in the 60’s-and still loves music till this day-…I was playing ICBAW at my desk one day and he approached me asked me to make him a copy…next thing I new…he was listening to it all day long…everyday! It made me think, wow, a band from my ‘time’…a man from ‘his’ time. It made me happy.
Daniel Zamarripa//04.02.2010
dude. that was beautiful and amazing.
ive been a fan since Anatomy and your music has shaped my whole life. seriously, that shit came out when i was 16 and ive been a fan of all of your works since then. been at every so. cal show i could attend. you guys have a knack for music that is un matched. Its gotten me through so many hard times that only music could pull a person through
Altho i have a hate for major labels, i %100 trust that you are doing what is best for you as aetists, not rockstars. and i can’t wait for the next release where you prove my thoughts right.
im too happy for you and wish you all the success that is possible.
what you do is amazing. and i cant fuckin wait to see whats next.
-Jumpship!!
Jumpship!!//04.02.2010
Congrats guys.
I instantly became a fan after seeing a show at the Glasshouse in Pomona, CA… please keep up the good stuff and never change.
Michael//04.02.2010
You guys truly deserve every bit of the success you are seeing. I mean, most bands can’t put out 5 good albums in 10 years, nevertheless 5 AMAZING albums in, what, 4 or 5? The energy and enthusiasm you guys exude when you take the stage is amazing, and has left me dying to see you live again. I don’t care if next time you play in Dallas it’s in the House of Blues upstairs room or if it’s at the American Airlines Center and I’m stuck in the nosebleeds, it’ll still be amazing. What you do is real and sincere, and I love you for it. I remember a few days after American Ghetto came out, I was reading your Twitter and you said you were already working on new material, and I was in awe. Never have I seen a band that was as made for music as you were. Not just any music, but music that really connects. I’ve been spreading you guys to all my friends like the plague, and I have yet to find someone that didn’t either ask me to burn them a CD or go home and download/buy your albums for themselves. I’m sure that your integrity and your soul will hold fast, and that is what makes you the band that you are.
Thanks for all the wonderful music, and thanks for the promise of more to come,
Evan
Evan//04.02.2010
Thank you so much for being the incredible, inspirational people that you are. I feel so proud of you guys after reading this post. I often forget how your careers have played out and how you chose to go about it all. It really is so good to see you take this step for all the right reasons. Congratulations!
Tyler Hauser//04.02.2010
I am so excited for you and the band John. This is wonderful, amazing news. I whole heartedly believe..I KNOW this signing will not change the band’s passion and forward thinking with music. I have no qualms about this decision only excitement and love for the band. I have followed you since Waiter and it has been mind blowing to see the musical progression along with the ever growing fan base.
I will describe this one moment that I know your music was universal. It was a regular Friday night. Present were some family and friends. I popped in your Satanic Satanist, music no one in the room had ever heard. My 50 year old mom who’s favorite artist range from the Bee Gees to James Brown to Ray Charles loved your music. The Frat Bro who only listens to Jack Johnson, John Mayer, and Dave Matthews now owns your whole discography. The Hip hop kid who still listens to quest, de la soul, and wutang went to his first rock which was PTM. The punk rock kid who is still obsessed with bad brains, fugazi, and minor threat now has learned all your songs.
What i’m saying is your music is universal. This will only allow your sweet music to reach greater audience. Thank you with all my love.
PS. please check out my website. New Orleans wants you for Voodoo Music Experience.
Jeff Martinez//04.02.2010
How about a live in Lawrence album to celebrate! Congrats guys. You guys are an inspiration to a lot of people. Not because of the major label offers, but because you guys are dedicated to what you love. Thanks for the great music we listen to everyday. As always, can’t wait for the album…..or show.
Fans from Kansas City and Springfield, Missouri
Brandon//04.02.2010
Congratulations bros!
Nate//04.02.2010
Congrats, guys. I’ve seen you guys grow so much over the past few years and this is totally awesome. I can’t wait to see what you all come up with next.
Love,
Mollie
Mollie Mattsen//04.02.2010
Congratulations and good luck with this new venture! I’ve been a huge fan of you guys since my friend introduced me to Wizard a few years ago. I’m happy to see that you are getting the attention you deserve, and I know for a fact that in the next couple years you guys are going to explode in popularity now that you are signing with a major label. I’ve been saying for a while now that you guys are going to be the next Zeppelin or Radiohead, and it looks like that prediction is coming true
I think it’s very appropriate that you released American Ghetto right before all this happened… it will always be there as a reminder of where you came from. That’s all I have to say. Stay awesome, PTM, and congratulations!
JoelMcGill//04.02.2010
Congratulations.
I wrote a lot, but it wouldn’t let me post it.
so i emailed instead.
we love you guys.
i’m very happy.
(Brandon, fix the comment thing!)
Kristofer//04.02.2010
Congratulations! This news is very exciting. I grew up listening to the bands on Atlantic records. A great label with a great history. All of us in the Portland Carothers clan are very supportive and happy for you all.
Gar Carothers
Zach’s Uncle
Gar//04.02.2010
I am so excited for you guys! You are an amazing band and other bands need to follow suit, you guys are amazingly good at what you do! I am so excited to go through this new chapter with you guys! See you at Coachella!
Jessica//04.02.2010
Wow. Congratulations guys, you deserve this so much!
Thanks for taking the time to explain all this, your music means a lot to so many people and it’s great to see that you know this. I’m sure you are aware of most of the concerns this decisions might raise, and I trust you too much to be worried about it. And even if I know you’re not in it for the money, I hope they give you a shitload of it cause you are well worth it.
And in case Atlantic fucks up, well, we’ll still be there to kick their ass and make the next release happen without them
Very excited to see you in Europe this summer!
Take care guys,
Alex
alex//04.02.2010
Congrats! You guys are the greatest- change music, but please always remain easy to talk to! Zach always responds to every email, you guy answer the phones and tweet back all the time- it’s great. I hope you guys are going to lolla this summer again- congrats and thank you for being the best
Trevor//04.02.2010
Circa & Portugal both on Atlantic Records!? Sick.
elry//04.02.2010
We could not be more thrilled for you young men–you SO deserve. Love from Gramma and Grampa Carothers (Zach’s grandparents)
Russ and Marge Carothers//04.02.2010
I hope this wont change the one record a year tradition.
HS//04.02.2010
WOW, so excited for you guys! It’s great to know that major labels still have taste. It’s funny to see all the posts of fans hoping you’ll still do small shows, that was my first thought too. First saw you at Mad Hatter in Covington, KY, and I’m so glad I saw you in Cincy this March. I can’t even dream up whats to come from you next. Can’t wait! BTW, my friend and I found you through Autumblaze’s fav bands list, haha. Wonder if you like that band??
Love,
Mandy
Mandy//04.02.2010
Congrats boys! That is very exciting!
No fans will ever leave you, and now we’re just adding more into the family. I also hope you guys will still be doing small shows. Two nights in one town in a smaller venue is WAY better than one night in a huge venue.
Take The Parish in Austin for example. There’s a reason you guys sold out both nights – we love you.
-Brittany Bartos.
Brittany//04.02.2010
Excellent.
Does this mean Zoe can join your band for good? Please.
Brian//04.02.2010
This is good news guys. I’ve only been able to see you once live since I live in the hills of KY. I love your music and John is a huge inspiration to me and well all of you as a song writer. Don’t turn into Kesha. I don’t think you would let a label ever push you around.
adoring fan//04.02.2010
It’s so obvious how much you love what you do, and never for a second would I doubt you were in it for anything else. Congrats! Love you guys. You deserve nothing but the best.
Kara//04.02.2010
First off, this is not the first time I’ve cried after reading one of your long, heartfelt posts. Second, CONGRATS! You deserve this, guys. You work your asses off like no other band. It’s really impressive and I’m so proud to call you my favorite band (of all time). I’ve been a fan since your first full length album, Waiters. Since then I’ve followed you guys very closely in any way that I could. I’ve kept up with your tours, line up changes if any, and just random stuff. You guys are really genuine people and I think that’s part of the appeal of your band. I’ve always wondered when you guys would sign to a major label, despite everyone’s fear of the major labels. I know you guys have been approached by them before and I’ve always been relieved that you did not sign. Why? Because it’s cool having you guys as that little gem, that little treasure. It is a bit selfish, but it’s fun. And I did realize that eventually you guys would sign. There would be a time when it just made the most sense to sign. And that time is now, apparently. So congrats.
Your passion/love for music is something that fans can relate to. This makes you guys a lot more ‘real’. Ya know? And I write this long comment to you guys because I know you will read it!
And it won’t be discarded or disregarded, because you appreciate all your fans. Just as much as we appreciate you guys.
Now that you guys are signed to Atlantic, will this change your current work ethic, “an album a year”? Or will you guys still be able to put music out as consistently? That’s one of the reasons I love you guys. You guys continue to make music and churn out good stuff!
From the bottom of my heart, I love you guys. You have brought so many good times and memories into my life through your music.
You should check out this book called “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”, by Dr. Suess.
With undying love,
Philip
Philip H Bennett//04.02.2010
I really hope you guys become the next big thing. The mainstream music world needs something as fresh as you right now, just hope you remember the little guys.
Luke//04.02.2010
[...] a lot of people might be skeptical of something like this (myself included), just reading over this message that singer John Gourley posted on the band’s website just reassures all of my confidence in [...]
Portugal The Man signs to Atlantic Records | audiocandy+radio//04.02.2010
Im happy for you guys. this is a large and dangerous step for a band. but you all have had yours heads in check from the beginning. i was a fan way back in the beginning and been going to NY,NJ, and PA shows since you started shows here. you definitely have all your hearts in the music which is the most important thing when making decisions like this. You need to keep the small shows though. that was what i found incredible the atmosphere of your shows. Even until today or more recently the show at Highline ballroom, you have always kept that atmosphere alive. The album a year thing is incredible, and there is always such anticipation for the album as i have seen one numerous music and album leak blogs. i have always bought the albums though. besides The Pines, The Devil EP. thats just hard to find :p but you have all kept your music alive. the variety of tones you play and styles. as a musician myself i have the utmost respect for you. what you have musicially, friendship wise, and mindset wise is incredible. and i will always end up at any show nearby for you guys.
best of luck on this incredible journey,
Dylan
Dylan D//04.02.2010
Congrats guys. You are the most honest, down to earth, loving, passionate, talented, amazing band ever. I love you guys more then I can express. Your music makes me feel great, and these posts are so inspiring. Please come to Indy… Please.
PS… I know I’m not the only one who loves you guys
With Love, Trust, Faith, and Hope
Steven
Steven//04.02.2010
We are so very proud of all of you. We LOVE you and are behind you all the way. Just look at all the lives that you’re touching with your gifts! Take it all in and enjoy the results of your efforts. You will continue to do great things. Can’t wait to see what’s around the next turn for you!
Jason, you are one incredible son, brother, musician, and friend! You’re in perfect company. Keep lifting each other up boys! C’est magnifique!
Jason's Oregon Family//04.02.2010
I found you guys by chance looking for new music back in 2006, and fell in love IMMEDIATELY! Every album you guys put out is like an adventure because it’s different each time. You’re all amazing musicians and your love of music shows in your live performances. As a fan I’m extremely proud of you all, I know it sounds corny, but its true. I’ve pushed your music to anyone who would listen to me, and everyone comes back to me with the same reaction… “how is this band not more popular?” I stand behind this band and your music 100%. Even though I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting you guys formally, you all seem so incredible, and so in love with what you all do. I’m uncontrollably excited for what the future holds with this band. I hope to meet with you guys soon, and I can’t stress enough how proud I am of this band! CONGRATULATIONS YOU DESERVE THIS!!!
Vince//04.02.2010
im happy for your success in all aspects …you work hard, you play hard, and you keep yourself as modest as possible…i could tell that when you were sitting ten feet behind me hanging out at the bar in chicago this tour…i was almost flustered by the thought of the biggest influence a bands made on me just chatting up the bar and hanging out…thats awesome and alot of bands are not that kind…they sit in the back, play, and you never get to let them know, face to face, how much they mean to you…so im just trying to say the small, intimate shows are a breathe of fresh air as a fan…no huge arena settings…talked with zach today and he is just a kind hearted, cool guy…keep it up guys…your albums are enjoyable the whole way through…you are the best band in the music world today!
fyll//04.02.2010
congratulations guys! that is awesome news. the music that you produce and your love for it amazes me. you’ve been my favorite band ever since Waiter hit my ears and no band’s music has come close to touching you guys. every album you release is a new journey. every time I see you guys live, you blow my mind (I’ve seen you guys 7 times and counting, and you get better every time which I didn’t think was possible). you are the best band out there today. this is a great move for the band because you deserve to be heard by EVERYONE. playing those festivals was great for you as well. I was at outside lands and saw the group of about 150-200 people at first turn into a crowd of well over 1,000 with the blink of an eye. your music just does something to us, you have that touch. I wish you guys the best of luck with your new adventure and can’t wait to see where this takes you.
anyways, I can write about this all night. you guys say that you appreciate us, well it’s a mutual feeling. the music you make and the attitudes you have towards what you do is just simply incredible. keep on keepin’ on fellas.
-Shawn
Shawn//04.02.2010
This is amazing news….true music is a blessing these days and for years now I have felt that you guys as a band represent the truest form of that….your music speaks to the heart and the soul…and god willing you guys are able to this for years to come….I can’t wait to hear what comes next …I’m sure it will be great….keep doing exactly what you guys have been doing …evolving and growing ….till next time I will be waiting for the band to come
Matt guilliams//04.02.2010
sweet, now that you are on the same label as Circa Survive, maybe a future tour is in the works? haha.
Donny//04.02.2010
Thank you for this letter.
I could be the most excited person about this news. i mean, except for those who are more excited than me…lol
Because, this means that we might see you soon in Japan.
Love
nao_ko_//04.02.2010
[...] The Man has signed to Atlantic Records. A note from the band about the news can be read here. Share and [...]
Portual. Signed By The Man | So, Bring On Mixed Reviews//04.02.2010
That is what makes music work. Feelings and music have a relationship that goes deeper than just existing. If a band is able to transport this relationship they are truly the ones who understand music in its transcendental meaning. And so it is with labels, if they really understand what the band wants to tell and how the band works and are really into it, you should sign.
Music is about mind and heart, not about money. Thats why I love you guys!
Felix//04.03.2010
I hope this results in millions more listening to your music. Seems a shame for so few to hear it.
Joe Lynch//04.03.2010
Dear John, Zach, Jason, and Ryan,
I’m so thrilled to hear about your record label change to Atlantic Records! All the great bands, like Led Zeppelin, Oasis, Porcupine Tree, Circa Survive, and even Phil Collins, man. I can feel it coming in the air tonight! I can’t wait to hear and see what great things will come of this, more money to spend on production, more instruments, and more people to utilize for making an even better and innovative albums than before! I trust you guys in any decision you make, don’t let the haters get you down!
I’m an up and coming filmmaker, and guys like you, who work hard, and constantly create amazing, and innovative art, inspire guys like me to go for there dreams. You prove anything is possible, as long as you work hard and are nice to the people around you. I think Conan O’ Brien said it best during his farwell speech from NBC’s Tonight Show, “I hate cynicism, as long as you work hard, and are nice, amazing things will happen.” Keep it up guys, you are the inspiration for the next generation of creative and innovative artists. Keep it groovy guys, love and peace. Namaste
P.S. It was great talking to you the other day John, I hope all goes well in El Paso, say hi to The Mars Volta for me! WeenFans Unite!
Joseph Giannone (From Florida)
Joseph G//04.03.2010
i dont know why, but i was scared this was going to say you guys are breaking up. but now that i read it to the end im really happy for you. Best of luck to you
Nathan//04.03.2010
I was so nervous when my friend told me about you guys signing with them, but this post has left me with confidence that you guys will do what you do, and no label could ever change that.
My biggest hope is that you guys still return to our big bright sky often, and if you don’t my heart will be shattered into a million tiny pieces.
Alex//04.03.2010
“I always believed in the music we did and that’s why it was uncompromising.”
Jimmy Page.
congratulations lads give them hell-
woodstove//04.03.2010
Ahhhh you guys are so mind-blowingly inspirational.
Lots of love from philly.
Natasia//04.03.2010
fucking rock stars…
haha!
Phil from Austin//04.04.2010
From the first time I heard you guys I knew you would be big and look you guys are exploding! Congratulations and yes like someone else said I hope theres still a few smaller intimate shows to catch. Thank YOU for everything!
KC Smith//04.04.2010
Yaaay!! I couldn’t be happier for you guys. It’s absolutely inspiring to think that a band that dedicates themselves to what they love to do can accomplish so much. I’ve been following you since my first burned copy of Under Waves, gone to all those empty shows at The Sanctuary in San Antonio so long ago, and have watched you guys grow musically and as people. Your work has definatley paid off, your friends down south are very proud of you. But seriously, come back to San Antonio. Austin was killer, but we miss The Man!!!
David//04.04.2010
Congratulations guys. It’s really something to have seen you guys go from anatomy of a ghost to portugal the man and share shows in bremerton and sushi in austin with you along the way. Keep it up.
chris//04.04.2010
On a major, on a minor, or on your own we’ll love you guys.
Congratulations, you all deserve every little drop of good that comes out of this venture.
Wil//04.04.2010
CONGRATS! I am so happy for you all. My fiance first saw you at Sammy Sortino’s pizza in Omaha and he loved you guys…he and I met shortly after and he got me into AOAG and P.TM…we began our relationship listening to your music so it brings back memories listening to the early stuff. I have been able to see you around 6 or 7 times since ‘06 and I am so grateful for that. I am amazed at how much you have grown as a band…your albums are so different from eachother yet still SO good. You are such talented, creative, and inspiring people. I dont know how you guys do it, but please, don’t stop.
Laura//04.05.2010
Dear PTM,
We love you too!!!!!!! Congrats!
You’re great, sweet and inspiring.
I wish you all the best
Mina (from France)
PS: and pleaaaaaase come to France
MINA//04.05.2010
dont the big label affect your music. stick to your roots!
koolaid//04.05.2010
let*
koolaid//04.05.2010
[...] Portugal The Man has signed to Atlantic Records. Read the band’s statement here. [...]
Portugal The Atlantic « Yangz NewAge Music//04.06.2010
This is awesome to hear and I am sure you guys will stick to what you do best…make inspiring, awesome music. Congrats Guys!! Now so many more will hear such awesome music.
Mike//04.06.2010
When I stumbled upon you guys about a year ago I was literally blown away. One underling question always lingered in the back of my mind though, “Why is this band not more popular”. It really had me scratching my head. I think while your sound differs from album to album, your music is very accessible. I started to think that your lack of main stream exposure was more of a choice than anything else. I am glad to hear that you will finally get the backing that is so long over do.
Congrats, and continue to make inspired music!!!
Eric//04.06.2010
don’t change.
andy huynh//04.06.2010
don’t change!
Felix//04.06.2010
A massive congrats to you guys.
I’ve loved your music from day one and have been thoroughly amazed with your dedication to your craft, and your connection with your fans.
Needless to say, you all deserve this.
See you at your AK show later this month! My now-wife and I will be there, and we are psyched. We played your last album at our wedding!
Dave//04.06.2010
Whens the art show?
Philip H Bennett//04.08.2010
That’s amazing news!!!
You guys obviously deserve more credit than you already get and seeing you guys play twice is not enough.
Please come back to dc/virginia soon!
Looking forward what’s next to come.
<3
ernestine//04.09.2010
LUCKY guys! It really is amazing to read this and how much people share your joy!
hope you stay the same wonderful persons and please go on changing!
plese come to germany again!!
Fabian//04.11.2010
I really hope you guys kept ownership of your vision and music. A record label does not deserver to own your intellectual property.
Joseph//04.12.2010
Great job guys! Waiting anxiously for you to visit us in Nebraska again!
Joshua//04.13.2010
You don’t have to explain/justify anything to us – We love you!
Paul//04.13.2010
Please tell me this means that your old albums will be re-released? I would love to buy every single one all over again.
Danny//04.13.2010
great work on the new album! i can’t believe how good ya’ll are. i hope i can work with PTM one day:o)
is R.L. Burnside an influence for the new album?
Ekim//04.13.2010
santa cruz!!!!!!
Donny//04.13.2010
so inspiring!
congrats & wishing you the best of luck,
can’t wait to see you guys at coachella!
xx
bree//04.13.2010
If it’s been awhile since you’ve listed to KOOL 97.3, I feel I should warn you they’ve added 80’s music to their playlist. Not that I mind, but it did throw me for a loop when I first heard it.
Anyways, enjoy Coachella. Can’t wait to see you all play at Bear Tooth next week (and possibly at UAA, or so my music appreciation instructor tells me).
Paul//04.13.2010
I’m seriously considering hitching a ride to Coachella and scalping a ticket and finding random people to camp with… Maybe not my best idea
but totally worth it.
Have fun without me!
Nicole//04.14.2010
Congrats, don’t get swallowed up and please please don’t forget about iowa
coco//05.01.2010
Nice to meet you,
How are you and how is your work hope all is moving fine.i seek for honest partner and i meet you on this web site and was interesting and attractive then i drop by to know who this was, i will like to know more about you if you don’t mind. if you wouldn’t mind you can e-mail me at (vivian_demian@hotmail.com) for more introduction and photos
i will be very glad to read your e-mail massage with all pleasure. it will be also very nice to meet you and read from your reply.
Meanwhile do honor my invitation so that we can exchange our pictures and maybe become partner God’s willing.
Remember the distance does not matter what matters is the love we share with each other.
i wait to hear from you soon.
kiss regards
Vivian
Vivian//05.31.2010
I talked to this person for a long time a while back, But they couldnt reveal who they were… I only knew them by their email address which brought me to this post, how ominous!
Bobby Berez//06.25.2010
hey guys, congrats…i was just introduced to your band yesterday. Where the hell have you been all my life? I am blown away and when my friend told me to listen to you guys, he said,”welcome to your newest addiction”, he was absolutely right. I haven’t been able to get your songs out of my brain since, and i never want to. i am so stoked that i have a rad band like yours to keep tabs on and to have my ears filled with the most glorious voices i’ve heard up to this point in my life. LOVE your music and your passion, and you guys have fantastic fashion sense. Can’t wait to learn more and started making plans today to see you guys in Chicago. Hopefully, if all goes well, I’ll b there. Thanks dudes and keep bein real people.. PEACE!!!
erica//07.07.2010
Paul is absolutely the neatest prophet
Abercio//07.08.2010
paul is definitely the most genuine psychic
Aiken//07.09.2010
John…who would have thought all those years back that this is where you would be? We did – our family did. So, from our family to yours (who is pretty darn wonderful) We love your music – as it has grown and deepened! We wish you the very best!
Mike & Marlene//07.29.2010