The Philosopher Kings, a Canadian band formed in 1993, derived their name from Plato's Republic. The group released their self-titled debut album in Canada in 1994, which was later distributed in the United States by Columbia Records. Their breakthrough came with the single "Charms", peaking at number 36 on the Billboard Top 40 chart in 1996. That same year, they won the Juno Award for "Best New Group." In 1997, their second album, Famous, Rich and Beautiful, was released, featuring hits like "I Am the Man", "Hurts to Love You", and "Cry". The album was certified Platinum in Canada in 1998. After a hiatus from 2000 to 2003, all of the members except Jason Levine reunited in 2004 and released Castles in 2006. Following another hiatus in the 2010s, The Philosopher Kings returned with the album Return of the Kings in 2018.
