Most Iconic Band Frontmen In Music History
If there is one question music lovers get asked frequently it’s the name of your favourite band. No matter what your answer, it’s likely that you love the band at least in part for the charisma, talent and energy of its frontman or woman. Here in this article, take a look at some top famous bands throughout music history and explore the iconic band frontmen that made them so beloved!
Kurt Cobain – Nirvana
Perhaps one of the most famous frontmen of all time, Kurt Cobain founded the grunge band Nirvana in 1987, at just 20 years old. With his long hair and loose clothes, Cobain personified the anti-establishment mood of the Seattle music scene of the late 80s and early 90s. As the lead singer, guitarist and songwriter of Nirvana, Cobain soon gained critical and commercial success with Nevermind in 1991. However, part of Cobain’s icon status was sadly cemented by his early death in 1994 – leaving behind a lasting legacy as the voice of Generation X.
Axl Rose – Guns N’ Roses
Often lauded as one of the greatest singers in history, Axl Rose tried his luck with a few bands before striking gold with the co-founding of Guns N’ Roses in 1985. With the band’s first album selling over thirty million copies since its 1987 release, no one has been immune to the allure of hits like ‘Sweet Child o’ Mine’. While a somewhat controversial figure, Rose is known as an alluring frontman who became known for his zero-tolerance policy for disruptions at shows as he aimed to keep everyone safe during his shows. Guns N’ Roses has ultimately become one of the most famous bands across the world, with not only songs providing their increased popularity, but games too. From their own inspired game on Pink Casino slots and more, the band have certainly reached a high level of fame over the years which continues to this day!
Stevie Nicks – Fleetwood Mac
Combining American folk with British blues, Fleetwood Mac was formed in 1967 – and has gone on to be known as much for its frontwoman Stevie Nicks as its music. Nicks began her music career with her boyfriend Lindsey Buckingham before joining the band in 1975. Her bohemian look – long skirts, shawls, and platform boots, often combined with a top hat – continues to inspire today. Though Nicks’ original stint as Fleetwood Mac’s frontwoman only lasted until 1981, during that period she drove them to prominence with Rumours, one of the best-selling albums of all time. Still performing both solo and with Fleetwood Mac, Nicks continues to be an icon to longtime fans and new devotees alike- she has even played herself on the hit TV show, American Horror Story!
Freddie Mercury – Queen
‘I Want to Break Free’ might be one of rock band Queen’s biggest hits, and it was surely epitomised by unconventional frontman Freddie Mercury. Bursting onto the music scene with Queen in 1970, Mercury eschewed bad boy aesthetics for theatrical stylings and joyous performances. Known for encouraging crowds to participate in shows, this energy lives on today whenever ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ plays. Sadly, Mercury passed away in 1991, but his legacy continues and he was inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and The Songwriters Hall of Fame in the early 2000s.
Mick Jagger- The Rolling Stones
Known for his high-energy performances and flamboyant presence, Mick Jagger is one of the most known frontmen in the world. As the lead singer of the Rolling Stones, Jagger has been performing since 1962 – and continues to this day, at nearly eighty years old. As a songwriter, Jagger co-wrote many of the Rolling Stones’ biggest successes, such as ‘It’s Only Rock ’n Roll (But I Like It)’ and ‘Paint It Black’. He was knighted for his musical contributions in 2003.