Fall Out Boy formed out of boredom in a suburban Chicago basement in 2001. It was hardcore kids vacationing from mosh riffs, looking to emulate the honesty and independence of bands like Lifetime and The Descendents. Never intending to be serious, the band was founded by charismatic Arma Angelus frontman Pete Wentz and friend Joe Trohman. The band finally took shape when they met guitarist/vocalist Patrick Stump, with Andy Hurley being the final piece to the puzzle after various line—up changes.

The band includes members of local Chicago hardcore bands including Arma Angelus, Extinction, Yellow Road Priest. Racetraitor, Kill the Slave Master and Vegan Reich