Queens of the Stone Age

Queens of the Stone Age (commonly abbreviated as QOTSA) is an American rock band formed in 1996 in Seattle, Washington. The band was founded by vocalist and guitarist Josh Homme, who has been the only constant member throughout multiple lineup changes. Since 2013, the lineup has consisted of Homme alongside Troy Van Leeuwen (guitar, lap steel, keyboard, percussion, backing vocals), Michael Shuman (bass guitar, keyboard, backing vocals), Dean Fertita (keyboards, guitar, percussion, backing vocals), and Jon Theodore (drums, percussion). The band also has a large pool of contributors and collaborators.

Queens of the Stone Age emerged from the stoner rock underground of the 1990s to become one of the leading heavy rock bands of the 21st century. Their self-titled debut album was released in 1998, followed by Rated R in 2000. The latter album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish the band as a major force in the rock world. Their third album, Songs for the Deaf, brought QotSA further into the mainstream, bolstered by the success of hit single "No One Knows."

They continued with 2005's Lullabies to Paralyze and 2007's Era Vulgaris before resurfacing in 2013 for ...Like Clockwork. Their most recent albums, Villains and In Times New Roman… were released in 2017 and 2023, respectively.

Queens of the Stone Age are known for their blues, Krautrock and electronica-influenced style of riff-oriented and rhythmic hard rock music, coupled with Homme's distinct falsetto vocals and unorthodox guitar scales. The band have also toured extensively and have become known for their energetic live performances. They have been cited as an influence by a number of other bands, including Arctic Monkeys, Muse, and Them Crooked Vultures.

The band has been nominated for 9 Grammy Awards: four for Best Hard Rock Performance, three for Best Rock Album, and one each for Best Rock Performance and Best Rock Song.

Queens of the Stone Age are one of the most successful and influential rock bands of the 21st century. Their music has been praised for its originality, energy, and diversity. They continue to be one of the most popular live bands in the world, and their influence can be heard in the music of many other bands.