311 has been one of my favorite bands for a very long time. In fact, I remember blasting their self-titled item in my mom’s car when I was about 14 as we pulled into a McDonald’s drive thru and the cashier complimenting me on my amazing taste in music (naturally). Ever since, they remind me of sunny days, the ocean and my youth. I especially love listening to them on gorgeous summer days with the windows down – it gives me this wonderful feeling of utter happiness and like anything is possible. I secretly desire to go on their cruise (it leaves out of Miami), but I just haven’t been able to justify the cost (yet). With that said, I’ve always had quite the thing for lead singer/guitarist, Nick Hexum. Blame it on the shimmy, the crusty 90’s bleached hair (so bad) or just his rugged good looks, either way, I was hooked.

I remember being so excited to finally see them live at Warped Tour 2001. Unfortunately, I had one of those terrible concert moments where I collapsed due to heat/claustrophobia within the first song and had to be carried out of the crowd. Thankfully, I was able to wake up and watch from afar, but I won’t lie: it’s made me want to see them the right way ever since. One day, one day. Until then, check out these lovely pictures of Mr. Hexum.