The Voice Behind Iconic Rock Anthems
When you hear the name Paul McCoy, chances are the first thing that comes to mind is that unforgettable male voice on Evanescence’s “Bring Me to Life.” But there’s so much more to this Mississippi-born star than just one Grammy-winning collaboration. Born Anthony Paul McCoy on September 7, 1981, this multi-talented performer has built an impressive career spanning both music and film.
What sets McCoy apart isn’t just his distinctive vocal range – it’s his ability to seamlessly transition between being a rock star and a Hollywood actor. While many musicians struggle to make it in one field, McCoy has managed to establish himself as both the frontman of Christian rock band 12 Stones and a credible actor in major motion pictures.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Growing up wasn’t always easy for McCoy. His family packed up and moved from Mississippi to Louisiana when he was just a kid, eventually settling in the small town of Mandeville. Like many teenagers, McCoy found his escape through music during his high school years at Fontainebleau High School.
Louisiana’s rich musical heritage played a huge role in shaping McCoy’s sound. The state that gave us jazz, blues, and countless rock legends provided the perfect backdrop for a young musician to find his voice. It was during these formative years in Mandeville that McCoy would cross paths with the future members of 12 Stones.
Rise to Fame with 12 Stones
The year 2000 marked a turning point for McCoy when he helped form 12 Stones with his Louisiana buddies. What started as a group of friends jamming together quickly evolved into something special. Their sound – a powerful mix of Christian rock, post-grunge, and alternative metal – struck a chord with listeners who were hungry for music with both edge and meaning.
Here’s where things get impressive: most bands spend years trying to get noticed by record labels. 12 Stones managed to land a deal with Wind-up Records in just over a year. That’s practically unheard of in the music industry, but it speaks volumes about the raw talent and chemistry this group possessed from day one.
The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 2002, established McCoy as a formidable vocalist in the rock scene. Songs like “Broken” and “The Way I Feel” showcased his ability to convey both raw emotion and spiritual depth. The album’s success laid the foundation for what would become a lasting career in music.
The Evanescence Collaboration That Changed Everything
Sometimes lightning strikes when you least expect it. In 2003, McCoy got the call that would change his life forever – Evanescence needed a male vocalist for their upcoming single “Bring Me to Life.” The pairing of McCoy’s powerful, gritty vocals with Amy Lee’s ethereal voice created pure magic. It wasn’t just a duet; it was a conversation between two distinct musical souls.
The song didn’t just climb the charts – it dominated them. Radio stations couldn’t stop playing it, and MTV had the music video on heavy rotation. But the real validation came in 2004 when “Bring Me to Life” took home the Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance. For a guy from small-town Louisiana, sharing a Grammy with one of rock’s biggest acts was nothing short of surreal.
Acting Career and Hollywood Ventures
McCoy didn’t stop at music – he had his sights set on Hollywood too. Breaking into acting isn’t easy for anyone, let alone a rock musician, but McCoy proved he had the chops for it. He landed roles in some pretty big films, including “Never Back Down” in 2008, and earlier appearances in superhero flicks like “Daredevil” and “Elektra.”
What’s interesting about McCoy’s acting career is how he’s managed to balance it with his music commitments. Many artists struggle to juggle multiple creative pursuits, but McCoy seems to thrive on the variety. Whether he’s belting out rock anthems on stage or delivering lines on a movie set, he brings the same intensity and authenticity to both crafts.
12 Stones’ Continued Success
Throughout his acting pursuits, McCoy has remained committed to 12 Stones. The band has released multiple albums, including “Potter’s Field” (2004), “Anthem for the Underdog” (2007), and “Picture Perfect” (2017). Their music has been featured in numerous films and television shows, with songs appearing in major productions like “The Scorpion King” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.”
The band’s relationship with WWE has been particularly notable. Several 12 Stones songs have served as theme music for WWE events and wrestlers, including “We Are One,” which became the theme song for The Nexus faction. This connection to sports entertainment has helped maintain the band’s relevance in popular culture.
Personal Life and Interests
McCoy married Kerry Redrup in March 2014, following a previous marriage to Jennifer Nolen that ended in divorce. He has one child from his first marriage and has been open about how his Christian faith influences both his personal life and musical career. Interestingly, McCoy once worked as a tattoo artist before his music career took off, showcasing yet another creative skill.
Despite his tough rock star image, McCoy has a surprising fear of frogs, a quirky personal detail that humanizes the accomplished performer. His down-to-earth personality and genuine connection with fans have contributed to his lasting appeal in the entertainment industry.
Legacy and Current Projects
Today, Paul McCoy continues to tour and record with 12 Stones while maintaining his presence in the entertainment world. His influence on Christian rock and alternative metal genres remains significant, inspiring countless musicians who followed in his footsteps. The Grammy Award win for “Bring Me to Life” stands as a testament to his vocal abilities and his contribution to one of the most memorable rock songs of the 2000s.
McCoy’s journey from a small-town Louisiana musician to a Grammy-winning artist and actor serves as an inspiration to aspiring entertainers. His ability to successfully navigate multiple creative fields while staying true to his artistic vision demonstrates the power of versatility and dedication in the entertainment industry.
