Sublime Celebrates 25th Anniversary Of Iconic Self-Titled Album

Southern California’s reggae-punk pioneers Sublime are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their iconic self-titled album that spawned timeless hits like “What I Got,” “Santeria,” and “Wrong Way.” Fans can expect numerous special releases, events and new merch to celebrate the 25th anniversary, including a virtual plaque ceremony to commemorate over 18 million in album consumption in the U.S. according to MRC, limited-edition AleSmith Sublime Mexican Lager cans, a graphic novel by Z2 Comics called SUBLIME: $5 At the Door, new music videos for “Garden Grove” and “Pawn Shop” and much more.

“I can’t believe it’s been 25 years since self-titled album has come out,” drummer Bud Gaugh reflected. “It’s really cool, there’s not a day that goes by that I do not hear one of our songs on the radio, in a bar, store, or in a car driving by. I constantly meet people who tell me that Sublime has helped them through a hard time or has helped them change their lives because of our stories, our music and the messages within our music. It’s such a great feeling to have a connection with our fans this deep. And to think – the record label was actually considering canning this thing 25 years ago?! Man, I bet they’re glad they didn’t. I know we sure are and I know the fans are too! That is a testament to the fans and their love for the band. The reason why we are still here all over the place every day and in your face is because of you, the fans, and we thank you and love you for this. Just look at all the love we’ve found!!!”

“Looking back at the music that was created; I didn’t realize it then, but I feel very fortunate and blessed to inspire and help people through hard times—through music,” bassist Eric Wilson said. “Thank you Brad, Bud, mom, dad, brother & sister.”

“A special thanks to all the music fans who have helped to keep my son’s musical legacy alive,” said Bradley Nowell’s father Jim Nowell.

“We’re not trying to write punk rock. We’re not trying to write reggae. We’re not trying to write ska,” Sublime’s Bradley Nowell told KROQ in 1995. “We’re just trying to write a good song.” They did exactly that—time and time again. “What I Got,” “Santeria,” “Wrong Way,” and “Doin’ Time” remain innovative staples from the ’90s alternative boom. But they accomplished even more: In less than a decade within the national limelight, the laid-back Long Beach trio spawned an entire genre—fusing reggae grooves, punk grittiness, ska energy, back porch folk introspection, and hip-hop swagger. Decades after the tragic death of singer-songwriter Bradley Nowell, Sublime remain an institution: They’ve sold over 18 million albums to date; and their merchandise, emblazoned with the iconic sun logo, dominates sales at retailers including Target, Urban Outfitters and Spencer Gifts. Most importantly, the music remains timeless—a rite of passage for misfit listeners who refuse to color within the lines of conventional genre.

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