About Europe
Europe is a highly influential Swedish rock band that formed in Upplands Väsby in 1979. Recognized for their distinctive blend of hard rock, glam metal, and arena rock, they rose to international fame in the 1980s. The band's anthemic sound and powerful performances have solidified their place in music history, with global album sales exceeding 25 million records.
- Before settling on the name Europe, the band was originally known as "Force." They changed their name just before winning the televised Swedish rock talent contest, Rock-SM, in 1982, which ultimately led to their first recording contract.
- Their signature hit, "The Final Countdown," released in 1986, became a monumental worldwide success. The single reached number one in 25 countries and sold an estimated eight million copies globally, becoming one of CBS Records' biggest hits ever.
- The band took a hiatus in 1992 after years of relentless touring and recording. They officially reunited in 2003 and have since continued to release critically acclaimed albums and tour extensively, demonstrating their enduring appeal.
- Lead vocalist Joey Tempest chose the name "Europe" inspired by the title of Deep Purple's live album, "Made in Europe."
Playing Europe's music is a thrilling experience for musicians who appreciate energetic, melodic rock with iconic hooks. Their sheet music caters to a range of skill levels, from intermediate to advanced, and is particularly rewarding for guitarists and keyboardists looking to master their memorable riffs and prominent synthesizer lines. Vocalists will find powerful anthems, while bassists and drummers can dive into driving rhythms. With arrangements available for various instruments and ensembles, including concert band, performing Europe's compositions offers a chance to engage with timeless rock classics that are both challenging and immensely fun.