Protomen
Years Active: 2003–present
Genre/s: Rock opera, hard rock, progressive rock, rock and roll, geek rock
Label/s: Sound Machine
Members: Commander B. Hawkins, Raul Panther III, Murphy Weller, Sir Dr. Robert Bakker, Shock Magnum, Gambler Kirkdouglas, Reanimator Lovejoy, Kilroy
The Protomen are an American rock band that composes and performs science fiction rock opera concept albums inspired by pop culture including films and video games. The band was formed in 2003 and is based out of Nashville, Tennessee. They first gained exposure with their 2005 self-titled debut rock opera album The Protomen. The act is one of the most renowned in the video game music and geek rock genres. They were one of Nashville's highest-paid stage acts.
In the Protomen's three-act rock opera, an Orwellian city is ruled by a fascist figure named Dr. Albert Wily, who builds and controls a robot army, with which he has taken over the city. Protagonists attempt to defeat Wily's forces and repeatedly fail. While two acts are tragedies, continuing rebellion against tyranny and remaining hopeful are core themes. Act II: The Father of Death is a prequel to The Protomen and was released in 2009. The third act, Act III: This City Made Us, was released on January 9, 2026 and reached number nine on the Billboard Top Album Sales chart for the end of January. The band tours performing the rock opera in character and only uses aliases while performing. Audience participation and strong audience responses are a significant part of their performances. Critical response to their music and performances is mostly positive. The Protomen tour extensively and are known for performing at festivals and headlining fan conventions, especially MAGFest.
Outside of the Protomen's rock opera, they have released two cover albums to positive responses, and have collaborated with other artists for albums, songs, and performances. They released the single "Built to Last" (2013) as part of Capcom's anniversary album for the Mega Man franchise, which their rock opera is inspired by.