Editing Three Dog Night (section)

== History ==

=== Formation and early years (1967–1968) ===
Three Dog Night was founded by vocalists Danny Hutton, Cory Wells, and Chuck Negron. Initially known as '''Redwood''', the group expanded to include keyboardist Jimmy Greenspoon, bassist Joe Schermie, guitarist Michael Allsup, and drummer Floyd Sneed. They signed with Dunhill Records and released their self-titled debut album in 1968.

The band's name originates from an Australian Aboriginal custom described in a magazine article. On cold nights, hunters would sleep with dingoes for warmth; a particularly freezing night requiring three dogs was called a "three dog night." The name also symbolically referenced the three lead vocalists.<ref name="bio">{{cite web |url=https://www.threedognight.com/bio |title=Bio |website=Three Dog Night official site}}</ref>

=== Peak success (1969–1975) ===
The band quickly rose to fame with a string of hits that showcased their powerful vocal harmonies and energetic performances. They specialized in interpreting songs by emerging or established songwriters rather than writing their own material. Key early successes included:

* "One" (written by Harry Nilsson)
* "Easy to Be Hard" (from the musical ''Hair'')
* "Eli's Coming" (written by Laura Nyro)
* "Celebrate"
* "Mama Told Me (Not to Come)" (Randy Newman) – their first No. 1

In 1970–1971, they scored massive hits with "Joy to the World" (Hoyt Axton) and "An Old Fashioned Love Song." The band released multiple gold and platinum albums during this period and became one of the top-selling and top-touring acts of the early 1970s.

=== Hiatus and reformation (1976–present) ===
Internal tensions and changing musical trends led to a breakup in 1976. The band reformed in 1981 with several original members. Over the decades, the lineup has seen numerous changes, but Danny Hutton and Michael Allsup have remained core figures for much of the band's later history. Cory Wells passed away in 2015, and Chuck Negron has pursued a solo career.

As of 2026, Three Dog Night continues an active touring schedule, often performing over 90 dates per year.