In 2026, Sean Foreman is 41 years old, and Nathaniel Motte is 42 years old. As founding members of the American electronic rock and alternative pop duo 3OH!3, both artists have spent nearly two decades in the music industry, evolving from underground MySpace-era sensations into enduring figures of late-2000s and 2010s pop culture.
The Origins and Formation of 3OH!3
The story of 3OH!3 begins in Boulder, Colorado, where Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte first crossed paths during their teenage years. Both musicians grew up attending local shows and playing in various garage bands before officially uniting to form 3OH!3 in 2004. The name of the group is a direct reference to their shared geographic roots, specifically 303, which is the primary telephone area code for the state of Colorado, including Boulder and Denver.
Initially operating as an independent project, the duo blended elements of hip-hop beats, electronic synthesizers, punk rock energy, and humorous, irreverent lyrics. This genre-bending approach placed them at the forefront of the crunkcore and electro-pop movements that gained massive traction on the internet in the mid-2000s. Their DIY ethos and energetic live performances quickly built a loyal regional following, setting the stage for national recognition.
Biographical Breakdown of Sean Foreman
- Full Name: Sean Patrick Foreman
- Date of Birth: August 27, 1985
- Age in 2026: 41 years old
- Place of Origin: Boulder, Colorado
- Primary Roles: Lead vocalist, lyricist, songwriter, and occasional rhythm guitarist
Biographical Breakdown of Nathaniel Motte
- Full Name: Nathaniel Patrick Motte
- Date of Birth: January 13, 1984
- Age in 2026: 42 years old
- Place of Origin: Boulder, Colorado
- Primary Roles: Vocalist, keyboardist, programmer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist
Breakthrough Success and Chart Dominance
The defining moment of the duo's career arrived with the release of their second studio album, Want, in 2008. Released via Photo Finish Records and Atlantic Records, the album served as a commercial breakthrough, driven by the massive crossover success of its lead single, "Don't Trust Me." The track became a ubiquitous cultural touchstone of 2009, climbing to the upper reaches of the Billboard Hot 100 and ultimately achieving multi-platinum certification.
Following the triumph of "Don't Trust Me," 3OH!3 expanded their commercial footprint through high-profile collaborations. Their 2009 joint single with pop star Kesha, titled "Starstrukk," became an international hit, charting strongly across Europe, Australia, and North America. This was followed by their 2010 studio album Streets of Gold, which debuted in the top ten of the Billboard 200 and featured the hit single "My First Kiss," a collaboration with pop singer Katy Perry.
| Album Title | Release Year | Peak Billboard 200 Position | RIAA Certification | Notable Singles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3OH!3 | 2007 | Did Not Chart | Independent | "Holler Till You Drop" |
| Want | 2008 | #44 | 2x Platinum | "Don't Trust Me", "Starstrukk" |
| Streets of Gold | 2010 | #7 | Platinum | "My First Kiss", "Touchin' On My" |
| Omens | 2013 | #81 | Independent | "You're Gonna Love This" |
| NITE Swim | 2016 | Did Not Chart | Independent | "Mad At You", "Hear Me Now" |
Musical Evolution, Independent Releases, and Hiatus
As the electronic pop landscape shifted through the mid-2010s, Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte adapted by exploring new creative directions. After fulfilling their major-label obligations, the duo embraced complete artistic independence. They released Omens in 2013 and NITE Swim in 2016, albums that showcased a more mature, synth-driven sound while retaining their signature high-energy hooks.
In addition to performing and recording as 3OH!3, both members have maintained active behind-the-scenes careers in the music industry. Nathaniel Motte has established himself as a prominent songwriter and record producer, contributing to tracks for various mainstream pop and alternative artists. Sean Foreman has likewise engaged in collaborative songwriting projects and independent creative endeavors, channeling his experience into modern production formats.
After taking a brief touring hiatus in the late 2010s, the duo officially reconvened to celebrate their catalog, releasing new standalone singles and returning to the live circuit for nostalgia-driven alternative festivals and anniversary tours.
Cultural Legacy and Ongoing Impact
Entering 2026, the cultural footprint of 3OH!3 extends far beyond their initial chart-topping era. Their early records are frequently cited by younger alternative and hyperpop artists as foundational influences that helped dissolve strict genre boundaries between hip-hop, electronic dance music, and punk rock.
The enduring popularity of tracks like "Don't Trust Me" and "Starstrukk" on streaming platforms and short-form video apps demonstrates that the duo's music continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. By maintaining ownership of their artistic identity and continuing to perform live, Foreman and Motte have transitioned from mid-2000s pop-rap novelties to respected veterans of the alternative electronic scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old are Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte in 2026?
Sean Foreman is 41 years old (born August 27, 1985), and Nathaniel Motte is 42 years old (born January 13, 1984). Both musicians have been making music together as 3OH!3 for over two decades.
Where did 3OH!3 get their name?
The name 3OH!3 is derived from 303, which is the telephone area code for the state of Colorado, encompassing both Boulder and Denver, where Foreman and Motte were born and raised.
What was 3OH!3's biggest hit song?
Their most commercially successful song is "Don't Trust Me," released in 2008. The track peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieved multi-platinum sales status in the United States.
Are Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte still making music?
Yes, the duo continues to write, record, and tour. While they achieved their mainstream commercial peak in the late 2000s and early 2010s, they regularly release independent music and perform at live events and nostalgic festival tours.
Did 3OH!3 collaborate with other famous artists?
Yes, the duo is well-known for major collaborations during their peak era, including working with Kesha on "Starstrukk" and Katy Perry on the hit single "My First Kiss."
Next Actions for Fans
If you want to explore the history of 3OH!3 or catch them on tour, start by streaming their breakout album Want to experience the foundational sound of their 2008 breakthrough. Check official ticketing platforms and their verified social media channels for current tour dates, live performance schedules, and announcements regarding new independent releases.
