The Best Solo Artists Who Used to Front a Band
Music groups, no matter how successful they may become, tend to have an expiration date. When a rock band or rap group eventually breaks up, not too many of its members go on to have solo success. This list, however, celebrates that small group of musicians who have managed to break out as a solo artist and reach the top on their own. From Sting to Stevie Nicks, every musician on this list are solo artists who used to front a band.
Icons like Neil Young, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Joan Jett and Ozzy Osbourne are great examples of musicians who had success with an earlier outfit but continued on to achieve success on their own as well. All of these artists have been critically and commercially lauded for their solo work and sometimes, their solo material is greater and more popular than the output they had with their original band. The aforementioned artists are great examples of this.
There are plenty of great solo singers on this list who had varying degrees of success with their first band or group or collective. But, we're trying to measure who had the best solo career, not overall career. That's why the frontmen or frontwomen on this list should be judged primarily on their solo careers.
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Once the youngest member of the Jackson 5, this King of Pop emerged as a solo artist with an unrivaled ability to entertain and innovate. His groundbreaking choreography, infectious melodies, and transformative music videos changed the face of popular music forever. With record-breaking album sales and numerous awards, his enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of fans and musicians.
Initially known as the drummer for progressive rock band Genesis, he took over lead vocals after Peter Gabriel's departure and propelled the group to pop-rock stardom. As a solo artist, he combined his technical prowess behind the kit with emotive songwriting and a soulful voice that resonated with millions. His ubiquitous presence on '80s radio waves solidified him as a pop culture icon who could effortlessly blend heartfelt ballads with infectious dance tunes.
A multi-instrumentalist prodigy hailing from Minneapolis, he first gained fame as the leader of The Revolution before launching a successful solo career. Known for pushing boundaries in both music and fashion, his eclectic style fused funk, rock, R&B, and pop into an unmistakable sound that captivated audiences worldwide. Despite his untimely passing in 2016, his prolific output and unmatched stage presence continue to influence artists across genres.
Following the breakup of The Beatles, he formed Wings before embarking on a solo career that further cemented his status as one of history's greatest songwriters. With a seemingly endless well of catchy melodies and an uncanny ability to craft timeless tunes, he remains a vital force in popular music. His commitment to animal rights and environmental causes adds another layer to his enduring appeal.
After surviving an abusive relationship with Ike Turner during their time together in the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, she triumphantly re-emerged as a solo artist in the early '80s. With her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence, she became synonymous with high-energy performances that showcased her unparalleled talent as a singer and dancer. Her resilience and determination transformed her into an international superstar whose influence can still be felt today.
After joining Fleetwood Mac and contributing to their most successful albums, this bewitching singer-songwriter launched a solo career that showcased her distinctive voice and poetic lyrics. Her mystical persona, unique fashion sense, and penchant for spinning tales of love and heartache have made her an enduring icon in the world of rock. With numerous awards under her belt, she remains a trailblazer for female musicians everywhere.
