Founded by drummer Kent Klein and lead vocalist Steve Lawrence, Hostage navigated an ever-evolving lineup over the years, including five drummers, two lead singers, six bassists, and nine guitarists. The band occasionally performed under alternate names, such as Harbor, Gangbuster, Spinnin’ Jenny, The Steel Band, Three, and Mumble, but always returned to its core identity as Hostage.

Beginning in the early 1980s, Hostage toured extensively across the Midwest, steadily cultivating a devoted fanbase. In 1991 and 1992, the group was voted the favorite rock band by readers of the Cedar Rapids Gazette. They released the Face The World EP in 1992, followed by their full-length album Black Sky Calling in 1994. With relentless determination, boundless energy, and a powerful sound, Hostage has left an enduring mark on a generation of Eastern Iowa rock bands and musicians.