How did yellowcard get started?

Yellowcard formed in 1997 in Jacksonville, Florida, when violinist Sean Mackin and guitarist Ben Harper collaborated with a group of friends to create music that blended pop-punk and alternative rock. The band's lineup solidified with the addition of lead vocalist Ryan Key, bassist Peter Mosely, and drummer Longineu Parsons III. They gained initial recognition with their 2001 album "One for the Kids," but it was their 2003 breakthrough album "Ocean Avenue" that propelled them to mainstream success. The unique incorporation of violin into their sound helped distinguish them in the pop-punk scene.