
The Verve was an English rock band formed in 1990 in Wigan, Greater Manchester. Known for their powerful blend of psychedelic rock, Britpop, and shoegaze, the group was initially comprised of Richard Ashcroft (vocals), Nick McCabe (guitar), Simon Jones (bass), and Peter Salisbury (drums). The Verve quickly garnered attention for their expansive soundscapes and Ashcroft’s emotive lyrics, becoming one of the most influential British bands of the 1990s. The band released their debut album, *A Storm in Heaven*, in 1993, which showcased their atmospheric style and earned critical acclaim. However, it was their third album, *Urban Hymns*, released in 1997, that propelled them to international fame. Anchored by the anthemic hit single "Bitter Sweet Symphony," as well as other popular tracks like "The Drugs Don’t Work" and "Lucky Man," *Urban Hymns* became one of the best-selling albums in UK history, winning numerous awards and cementing The Verve’s place in music history. Despite their success, the band’s journey was marked by internal tensions, lineup changes, and legal battles, most famously over the sampling dispute in "Bitter Sweet Symphony." The band initially disbanded in 1995, reunited in 1997, broke up again in 1999, and reunited once more in 2007 for a brief period, during which they released the album *Forth*. The Verve’s music has left a lasting impact on the rock and Britpop scenes, with their emotionally charged performances and ambitious sound continuing to influence new generations of artists. Their legacy remains intertwined with the spirit of 1990s alternative rock.