Straight No Chaser, an acapella group, went from typical college students in a music group to worldwide sensations, performing just about everywhere and sharing their talents with the rest of the world. Straight No Chaser originally formed in 1996 at Indiana University where the members were all a part of the show choir, Singing Hoosiers. While this choir brought them together, they spontaneously formed Straight No Chaser and began performing together as an acapella group.

Throughout college they continued to perform together, creating comical performances that tied in their musical talents. However, after college the group dissolved and each member went their separate ways. In 2006, original member Randy Stine uploaded a video of their rendition of “The 12 Days of Christmas” to YouTube as a remembrance of the good times. The video went viral and soon after the group signed with Atlantic Records. With this publicity, they did receive some initial backlash in regards to their name.

“Initially, our name wasn’t universally liked or accepted, as some people (including our alma mater) assumed our name came from an alcohol reference, when it actually was sourced from a Theolonous Monk jazz album and song. Eventually, it became a non-issue and the name has worked for us now, for 25 years,” Stine said.

The group continued its rise to stardom, getting to experience many opportunities throughout the years.

“Some of my favorite experiences have been getting to work with some of our favorite artists, like Sara Bareilles, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Phil Collins, among others. Also, playing in some legendary venues, like Red Rocks in Colorado, the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, and both Royal Albert Hall and the O2 Arena in London,” Stine said.

Being a part of this group has not only allowed Stine to have these amazing opportunities, but it also greatly shaped his college experience and directed his life into the music industry. Stine feels that the best part about being in Straight No Chaser is “the opportunity to perform for audiences all over the world.” After so many years in the music business and being a performer, Stine learned countless lessons that he looks back on and would share with aspiring artists.

“One, even if you have a particular goal or career in mind, make sure you have diverse skills and interests. Keep your mind, and your options open. Second, don’t burn bridges with anyone. The boss you despise in one job may end up being the person you need to impress a few years later, to get the job you really want. If you anger or disappoint them in that first job, they are not likely to recommend you for that next job,” Stine said.

With these lessons in mind, he and the group are continuing to perform during their tour from November to June. They are coming to the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh on December 14 to give their fans a live performance that they have not been able to see for a few years due to COVID. Stine is excited to see what the tour brings and for their future after the tour is done.