Collective Soul is an American rock band from Stockbridge, Georgia. They have been enjoying popularity on alternative rock and mainstream rock radio since 1994. Seven of their singles reached the #1 position on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Trackschart.[LINK: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_artists_who_reached_number_one_on_the_U.S._Mainstream_Rock_chart] [1]. Their music is characterized by heavy guitar riffs and catchy melodies. Their lyrics are generally spiritual and thought provoking in nature. History Early Years Prior to forming Collective Soul, Ed Roland studied songwriting/composing and guitar at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Ed began working at "Real 2 Reel Studios" in Atlanta during the 1980s and early 1990s. The studio is owned by Will Turpin's father. Ed did production and engineering work for local Atlanta artists. He also recorded his own demos and his independent solo album