Jimmy Eat World’s 2001 album Bleed American turns 25 this week. The record pushed the Arizona band from underground emo favorites to mainstream stars. Its breakout single, “The Middle,” helped make that jump.
“The Middle” reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and brought the band a much larger audience. Jim Adkins says hearing the song everywhere — in rental car lobbies and gyms — made him realize how big it had become. He remembers being surprised and grateful.
Despite its pop success, Adkins doesn’t think “The Middle” split the fanbase. He says a small group wanted to keep the band to themselves, but most fans were happy for them. Bleed American also gave the band other staples like “Sweetness,” “A Praise Chorus,” and the title track.
Adkins still finds it hard to fully believe he’s lived this life. He says he’s always been amazed and never taken it for granted, even if he hasn’t always stopped to celebrate. The band is currently on tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of Bleed American.
