Backstory:
Guilty Colleague was formed in the summer of 2009 in a small garage in the suburbs of Seattle. The band consists of four childhood friends named Jake Hardy (lead vocalist/guitarist), Mark Stevens (lead guitarist/backing vocals), Bryan Walker (bassist) and Sammy Reed (drummer). They all worked in the same office and shared a mutual discontentment with their 9-5 grind, which eventually led to jamming sessions after work. One day, after a particularly grueling day at work, they collectively realized that their music was their true calling. They quit their jobs, coined their band name from an office incident involving stolen lunch, and Guilty Colleague was born.
The band played several local gigs and quickly gained a reputation for their energetic performances and unique sound. Their big break came when they were spotted by a talent scout at a music festival and signed to a record label. Since then, Guilty Colleague has toured nationally and internationally, and their music has resonated with fans around the globe.
Genre:
Alternative Rock/Indie
Title:
“Paperclip Chains”
Full song lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Em
Staring out the window, a world of gray and green
Am
Dreaming of a time, when life was more serene
C
Paperclip chains on my desk, a symbol of my plight
D
In this corporate maze, I’m losing the fight
(Chorus)
G D
Paperclip chains, bind me tight
Am C
In this office cage, day and night
G D
Dreaming of a stage, under the light
Am C
Playing my guitar, with all my might
(Verse 2)
Em
Cubicle walls closing in, a prisoner of time
Am
In the corporate grind, there’s no reason or rhyme
C
Paperclip chains, a symbol of my despair
D
In this concrete jungle, gasping for air
(Chorus)
G D
Paperclip chains, heavy and cold
Am C
In this office cage, I’m growing old
G D
Dreaming of a stage, breaking the mold
Am C
Playing my music, fearless and bold
The band’s favorite fan:
Name: Emily Rose
Emily Rose first saw Guilty Colleague at a club in Portland when she was a college freshman. She was instantly captivated by their music and their story. She felt a deep connection with their songs, which she says gave her the strength to pursue her own dreams and shake off societal expectations.
Testimonial:
“Guilty Colleague is more than just a band to me. Their music, their journey, their rebellion against the norm, it all resonates with me. It’s like they’ve put my thoughts and feelings into words and melodies. They remind me that it’s okay to chase your dreams, even if they don’t fit into a conventional box. Their song ‘Paperclip Chains’ is my daily anthem, and it gives me the courage to keep pushing forward. Guilty Colleague is my favorite band, not just for their music, but for their spirit and their message.”