Ernest Greene, better known by his stage name "Washed Out," was born on March 10, 1982, in Perry, Georgia. Growing up in a musical household, Greene developed a passion for music at a young age. He honed his skills playing various instruments and experimenting with different sounds.
After graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in journalism, Greene pursued further education and obtained a master's degree in library science. Despite his academic achievements, he ultimately decided to forgo a career as a librarian and instead followed his true passion for music.
Greene began producing music from his home studio, blending elements of pop and electronica to create his unique sound. His early recordings garnered attention on MySpace, where he gained a following for his dreamy, atmospheric tracks.
Throughout his career, Greene cited a diverse range of musical influences, including shoegaze, ambient, and electronic music. He drew inspiration from artists such as Brian Eno, Cocteau Twins, and The Beach Boys, shaping his distinctive style and sound.
In 2011, Greene signed with the renowned Seattle-based record label Sub Pop, a significant milestone in his career. He released his debut album, "Within and Without," to critical acclaim, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the emerging chillwave genre.
Greene's sophomore album, "Paracosm," further solidified his reputation as a talented vocalist and songwriter. Tracks like "Eyes Be Closed" and "Feel It All Around" became signature songs for Washed Out, resonating with fans around the world.
Despite his success, Greene remained grounded and true to his roots, never forgetting his upbringing in Perry, Georgia. He maintained a strong connection to his family and community, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring musicians.
Washed Out's music continued to make an impact beyond the realm of pop and electronica, transcending genres and appealing to a diverse audience. His song "Feel It All Around" even found a new audience as the opening theme for the popular sketch comedy series Portlandia, further cementing his place in music history.
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