Did Aaron Lewis Serve in the Military? A Look into the Life of the Lead Vocalist of Staind
Introduction
Aaron Lewis, the lead vocalist and founder of the rock band Staind, has made a significant impact on the music industry with his distinctive voice and songwriting skills. Born on April 13, 1972, in Rutland, Vermont, Lewis has built a successful career spanning over two decades. But aside from his music, a question has been lingering in the minds of his fans: did Aaron Lewis serve in the military?
Early Life and Career
Before delving into Aaron Lewis’s military service, it’s essential to know his early life and career. Lewis grew up in a musical family and was exposed to music from an early age. He formed Staind in the mid-1990s with his friends Mike Muir, Jon Wysocki, and Johnny April. The band gained fame with their debut album "Tormented" in 1996. Lewis’s powerful vocals and poignant lyrics resonated with fans, and Staind went on to release several successful albums, including "Break the Cycle" and "Chapter V".
Military Service
Now, let’s address the main question: did Aaron Lewis serve in the military?
According to Aaron Lewis himself, he did serve in the military. In an interview with Boston Magazine in 2009, Lewis revealed:
"I was in the [US] Army for five years. I was an infantryman, and I did a tour in Eastern Europe."
Sources verify Lewis’s military service. According to his bio on the official Staind website, he spent five years in the United States Army, where he served as an infantryman.
Table: Aaron Lewis’s Military Service
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Military Branch | United States Army |
| Rank | Infantryman |
| Length of Service | 5 years |
| Tour of Duty | Eastern Europe |
Impact on Music
Aaron Lewis’s military service undoubtedly had an impact on his music. His experiences influenced his songwriting, leading to the creation of "It’s Been Awhile", a popular single from Staind’s album "Break the Cycle". Lewis has spoken about how his military service shaped his worldview and inspired his music. In an interview with Rolling Stone, he said:
"I think my experience in the military has affected my music in a very profound way. It’s given me a perspective, a sense of purpose that I wouldn’t have otherwise."
Conclusion
To answer the question, yes, Aaron Lewis did serve in the military. He spent five years in the United States Army as an infantryman, serving in Eastern Europe. His experiences have had a significant impact on his music, with many of his songs reflecting his military service and perspectives. As a result, Aaron Lewis has become more than just a talented musician but also a respected artist and a symbol of patriotism.
