The group originated “#Selfie” due to trying to capitalize off the pop culture trend that was becoming increasingly prevalent. Weeks after the group released “#Selfie” they were asked to sign on to the major record label Republic Records. Dim Mak Records was founded by DJ Steve Aoki and has been known for breaking several groups into the mainstream. In 2014 Dim Mak Records released The Chainsmokers’ breakthrough song “#Selfie”.
The single contained gritty synthesizer leads, pumping bass lines, and a strong rhythmic drum beat. In 2013 they released the single “The Rookie”, which followed in a similar fashion to “Erase”. The single consists of highly produced synthesizers, strong build-ups, and a poppy, in your face chorus. In 2012 the group collaborated with one of Bollywood’s most famous actresses Priyanka Chopra and released the single “Erase”. Some of the artists that the band has remixed include Jonsi, Two Door Cinema Club, Phoenix, Icona Pop, and Neon Trees. The Chainsmokers began garnering a following for their interesting remixes of indie bands. The duo started out under the management of Adam Alpert, who is known for being the CEO of Disruptor Management, Disruptor Records, and Selector Songs. After Taggart had finished school at Syracuse University and Pall had finished his studies at New York University the two started to make music in the year 2012.
