Legendary emo band American Football has made headlines after joining forces with key players from their history to purchase the iconic house featured on the cover of their self-titled debut album. The house, located at 704 W. High Street in Urbana, Illinois, has been a landmark in the emo community for over two decades and was at risk of being demolished.
The History of the American Football House
The house at 704 W. High Street was first immortalized on American Football’s 1999 self-titled debut album, which featured a photograph of the house’s exterior. The house became an iconic symbol of the emo genre, with fans traveling from all over the world to take pictures in front of it. Over the years, the house has been occupied by various tenants and has fallen into disrepair.
The Campaign to Save the House
Last fall, American Football, along with Polyvinyl Records, photographer Chris Strong, skateboarder Atiba Jefferson, and Open House Contemporary, learned that the house was at risk of being sold and demolished. In a joint effort, the group made a pact to purchase the house before developers could get their hands on it.
The Preservation of a Landmark
The group’s efforts were successful, and the American Football House has been saved from demolition. In a statement, American Football said, “we are excited to share that we have collectively purchased The American Football House in an effort to preserve its place and legacy within the community that built it.” Polyvinyl Records added, “We could not let that dream go.” The house will now be restored and preserved as a symbol of the emo genre and a landmark in the Urbana community.
The Significance of the American Football House
The American Football House has been an important symbol in the emo community for over two decades. Its preservation ensures that future generations of emo fans will be able to visit and pay homage to the genre’s roots. Additionally, the preservation of the house demonstrates the power of collective action and the importance of preserving cultural landmarks.
The purchase of the American Football House represents a victory for the emo community and for music fans everywhere who value the preservation of cultural landmarks. American Football and their partners have ensured that the house will continue to be a symbol of the emo genre and a part of the Urbana community for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is American Football?
American Football is an American rock band formed in 1997 in Urbana, Illinois. The band consists of Mike Kinsella (vocals, guitar), Steve Holmes (guitar), Nate Kinsella (bass), and Steve Lamos (drums, trumpet).What is the significance of the 704 W. High Street house in Urbana, Illinois?
The 704 W. High Street house is significant because it was used as the cover photo for American Football’s debut self-titled album in 1999. The album has become a cult classic and the house has become a landmark for fans of the band and the emo/indie rock genre.Who purchased the 704 W. High Street house and why?
American Football, Polyvinyl (record label), Chris Strong (photographer), Atiba Jefferson (skateboarder/photographer), and Open House Contemporary (art gallery) collectively purchased the 704 W. High Street house to preserve its place and legacy within the community. The house was at risk of being sold to developers and demolished to build a condominium.