Now based in the USA, The Awakening was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1995 as the creative expression of vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter Ashton Nyte. Unless otherwise noted, all songs are composed and performed by Ashton Nyte. The live band has morphed and mutated over the years but is always focused on a powerful, theatrical concert experience.

 The Awakening is best described as a hybrid of gothic rock, dark-wave, industrial and new wave - a combination that was aptly described as "dark future rock" some years ago. With nine studio albums, several singles, EPs, and a greatest hits compilation, The Awakening's sound has evolved from album to album but remains rooted in its dark origins.

Ashton Nyte has released seven solo albums and contributed vocals and lyrics to a number of other projects, including MGT (Peter Murphy, The Mission) and Beauty In Chaos, which features members of The Cure, Ministry, The Mission, and others. Nyte released his first book of poetry and short stories, along with his seventh solo album, Waiting For A Voice in 2020.