America, the iconic folk-rock band, emerged from the unlikely convergence of Dewey Bunnell, Dan Peek, and Gerry Beckley, all of them sons of United States Air Force member5s who were stationed in the U.K.. The trio formed a band after graduating high school and secured a record deal in 1970.

America's music became the soundtrack to a generation's nostalgia, characterized by their close vocal harmonies and light acoustic folk rock sound. Their debut, released in 1971, introduced the world to the wistful "A Horse with No Name." The song immediately charted in the UK, then soared to the top spot in the United States. The group quickly gained recognition for its mellow, yet catchy sound. The band followed up its hit single with the hit songs "I Need You" and "Ventura Highway." Their success continued with chart-topping hits like "Sister Golden Hair" and "Lonely People," solidifying their place in classic rock history. Their first Greatest Hits album was a multi-platinum success.

The band's career, however, had its ups and downs, though they did return to the top 10 in 1982 with "You Can Do Magic", and released the final Top 40 hit "The Border" the following year. It appeared as if the band was starting to fade from relevancy, until the 2000's. A chance collaboration with Adam Schlesinger of Fountains of Wayne reignited their spark. This collaboration, along with James Iha from the Smashing Pumpkins, led to the album Here & Now (2007). The album blended new material with collaborations from bands who had been inspired by America's sound. Here & Now also featured new material from the band, and gained the attention of both older and younger audiences.

Throughout their career, America has earned a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1972, and were nominated for Best Pop Vocal Group the following year. In 2006 they were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. In 2012, they received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing their legacy. The band, a fixture on the nostalgia circuit, continues to tour and record, with Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell as the core members. The band has recently released albums such as Lost & Found (2015) and compilation albums like Archives, Vol. 1 (2015). and An Introduction To: America (2017).

In early 2024, America announced that Gerry Beckley would be retiring from touring. Andy Barr, who had been with the group in the past, was being brought back to replace him on the road. Their sound is instantly recognizable, a blend of catchy melodies and comforting harmonies.