Citizen King: The strange history of the band behind 'Better Days'

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The late 90s saw the rise of Citizen King, known for their hit song "Better Days (And the Bottom Drops Out)" which gained popularity through radio airplay and inclusion in shows like Malcolm in the Middle. Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the band evolved from a previous group called Wild Kingdom, blending funk, punk, and ska influences. Formed in the early 90s, Citizen King comprised Malcolm Michaels (turntablist), Dave Cooley (keyboardist), DJ Brooks (drummer), Sage Shwarm (bassist), along with guitarist Kristian Riley and vocalist Matt Sims.

Their eclectic musical influences and energetic live performances earned them a local following. They transitioned from Wild Kingdom to Citizen King to explore a broader musical spectrum. Sims, inspired by various music genres and familial influences, coined the band's name from historical and political references.

The band's journey continued with basement shows and regional performances, solidifying their sound as a fusion of jazz, funk, and hip-hop. They caught the attention of Speech from Arrested Development, leading to their debut album "Brown Bag LP" in 1995 and subsequent EP "Count the Days."

Signing with 510/MCA Records and later Warner Brothers, they released their major label debut "Mobile Estates" in 1999. Their breakout hit "Better Days" propelled them to mainstream success, though the band emphasized their diverse musical range beyond the single. However, subsequent singles didn't achieve the same level of success.

Internal conflicts and canceled gigs marked a tumultuous period for the band, eventually leading to their disbandment in 2002. The reasons behind the split remain largely undisclosed, with speculation suggesting personal issues, substance abuse, or creative differences.

Since then, band members pursued various endeavors. Malcolm Michaels ventured into solo projects and production, while Dave Cooley found success as a producer. DJ Brooks established his own DJ company, and Kristian Riley ventured into music production. Matt Sims, after a stint in Los Angeles as a model, relocated to Germany, pursuing a solo music career under the name CEI.

Despite their brief time in the spotlight, Citizen King left a lasting impact on the music scene, blending genres and showcasing the vibrant Milwaukee music scene of the late 90s.