(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The internationally recognized band OneRepublic, founded in Colorado Springs in 2002, performed on the opening night of the Ford Amphitheater on Friday, Aug. 10. During the event, Mayor Yemi Mobolade presented the “Spirit of Colorado Springs” award to two of the founding members.

During the presentation of the Mayor’s award to vocalist, Ryan Tedder, and guitarist, Zach Filkins, Mayor Mobolade was joined by the pair’s high school choir teacher, Dena Flanagan.

Courtesy: City of Colorado Springs

“Through their music, Ryan Tedder and Zach Filkins have taken the spirit of Colorado Springs and shown us the power of following your dreams and using your talents to make a difference in the world,” said Mayor Yemi. 

Tedder and Filkins met while attending Colorado Springs Christian School and bonded over their shared love of music. The two formed a band and played small shows at local coffee shops attended by friends and family. After high school, they parted ways and went to different colleges, but reunited in 2002 and formed One Republic.

The band signed with a label and released their debut album, “Dreaming Out Loud,” in 2007, which became a huge international success, reaching number one in sixteen different countries. Since then, One Republic has won several awards, including Radio Eska’s International Band of the Year in 2010 and iHeart Radio Music Award Best Duo/Group of the Year in 2024. Tedder has also won three Grammy Awards for his songwriting credits for Adele and Taylor Swift.

The “Spirit of Colorado Springs” award recognizes exceptional individuals within the City of Colorado Springs whose leadership inspires others. Past winners include 2024 Miss America winner, Madison Marsh, and two-time Paralympian, John Register.