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Airbourne: The Wild Ones of Australian Rock 'n' Roll

In the realm of high-octane rock, few bands ignite the stage like Airbourne. Hailing from the rugged shores of Warrnambool, Australia, the quartet has carved an indelible mark on the music world with their relentless energy and infectious tunes.

Formation and Early Challenges

Airbourne's genesis can be traced back to 2003, when brothers Joel and Ryan O'Keeffe joined forces with David Roads and Justin Street. The band's early years were marked by relentless gigging and a DIY ethos. Their raw, unfiltered sound caught the attention of local fans and industry insiders alike.

However, tragedy struck in 2006 when Street passed away in a car accident. The band was devastated, but they vowed to honor his memory by continuing their musical journey. They recruited Chris Ross to replace Street on bass, and Airbourne was reborn.

Rise to Prominence

Airbourne's debut album, "Runnin' Wild," was released in 2007 and became an instant classic. The title track became a global anthem for rock fans, propelling the band to international stardom. Their subsequent albums, including "No Guts. No Glory." (2010), "Black Dog Barking" (2013), and "Breakin' Outta Hell" (2016), solidified their reputation as one of the most formidable hard rock bands of the modern era.

Controversies and Tributes

Airbourne's career has not been without its share of controversy. In 2010, they were accused of plagiarism by the band The Angels, who claimed that the song "Runnin' Wild" bore striking similarities to their track "Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again." The matter was ultimately settled out of court.

Despite these challenges, Airbourne has remained true to their roots. They have paid tribute to their fallen comrade, Justin Street, with the song "Justin's Song" and established the Justin Street Memorial Fund to support aspiring musicians.

Members and Discography

Airbourne consists of:

* Joel O'Keeffe (lead vocals, rhythm guitar)
* Ryan O'Keeffe (lead guitar, backing vocals)
* David Roads (drums, percussion)
* Chris Ross (bass guitar, backing vocals)

Discography:

* Runnin' Wild (2007)
* No Guts. No Glory. (2010)
* Black Dog Barking (2013)
* Breakin' Outta Hell (2016)
* Boneshaker (2019)
* Diamond Cuts (2023)

Legacy and Impact

Airbourne has become a global phenomenon, headlining major festivals and touring to sold-out crowds worldwide. Their music has inspired countless rockers and cemented their place as one of the most beloved hard rock bands of the 21st century. With their relentless spirit and infectious tunes, Airbourne continues to ignite the rock 'n' roll flame, leaving an unforgettable mark on the music landscape.