The band’s upbeat approach, solid songwriting, and unique sound allowed them to quickly develop a dedicated following on the touring circuit. Bringing together rock, jazz, folk, celtic and jam-band influences under one umbrella, rooted in Todd Sheaffer’s inspired songwriting, From Good Homes forged their own, instantly lovable music Their feel-good vibe prompted one critic to affectionately label the band’s blend of influences as “Hick-Pop”. They made fans want to kick on the dancin’ shoes from day one. As the band members themselves have stated: “We wanted first and foremost to make a real and honest form of music that moved people (both their brains and their butts) and left them, over all, feeling good.”
The early 90s saw the band touring regularly up and down the East Coast, soon expanding their circuit to Colorado and other regions. The fan base grew, and the gigs got bigger and bigger. During this period, FGH would frequently perform with other up-and-coming acts, including Hootie & The Blowfish, Dave Matthews Band, and Blues Traveler (all of whom opened shows for them at one point or another). 1994 was a breakthrough year for From Good Homes. In the summer, they released their indie debut – the appropriately titled “Hick-Pop Comin’ At Ya” – on their own GRRRrrrr Records label. They also signed a major label deal with RCA Records, and began an annual tradition – a summer concert before thousands of eager hometown fans at Stanhope, NJ’s Waterloo Village. With an enthusiastic and ever-growing fan base, and a record deal in place, the future looked bright for the group.“Open Up The Sky”, From Good Homes’ major label debut on RCA Records, was released in April, 1995 and the band embarked on a year-long national tour, opening arena dates for Dave Matthews Band, Ratdog, and others, while also headlining many club dates. Two of the band’s songs were included in the 1997 Twentieth Century Fox release “Picture Perfect”, (featuring Jennifer Aniston & Kevin Bacon). “Open Up The Sky” was followed up with the release of a live EP (“Live At Waterloo”) in 1997, and the self-titled “From Good Homes” (1998). In 1998, From Good Homes received an achievement award from Billboard and Irving Plaza for the most consecutive sold-out performances ever (12) at this respected NYC venue.