Solo Success: Artists Who Outshone Their Bands with Their Solo Careers
The transition from a successful band to a brilliant solo career is a celebrated and often-miraculous tale in the world of music. From legendary figures to modern hits, solo artists have consistently demonstrated that their best work can be even greater than what they produced during their time in bands. This article explores several musicians who managed to outshine their bands with their solo careers, highlighting their impact and achievements.
Paul McCartney: From Wings to Solo Stardom
Paul McCartney, the former Beatle, is a shining example of an artist who outshone his band. After the dissolution of The Beatles, McCartney formed the band Wings and went on to achieve remarkable success as a solo artist. His debut solo album, 'McCartney,' released in 1970, was a huge commercial success, featuring numerous hit singles. Notably, hits like 'My Love' and 'Wonderful' helped solidify his place as a solo icon beyond the shadow of his legendary band.
Phil Collins: From Genesis to Solo Success
Philip Michael Collins, the original drummer and later lead singer of Genesis, and a vocalist in Supertramp, is a prime case of an artist who outshone his band. After leaving Genesis in 1979, Collins embarked on a solo career that far surpassed the success of his band. His first solo album, 'Face Value,' was released in 1981 and became an instant hit. Featuring the massive single 'In the Air Tonight,' the album outsold every Genesis album before it, including their most successful ones. Collins continued to dominate the music charts with hits like 'Another Day in Paradise' and 'Sussudio,' earning him a diamond award for sales in the USA and massive success in Europe.
Sting: From The Police to Solo Genius
Sting, the bassist and lead singer of the band The Police, is another notable example of an artist who excelled in a solo career. After parting ways with The Police in 1984, Sting ventured into solo projects, releasing albums like 'The Dream of the Blue Turtles' and 'Ten Summoner’s Tales,' which both hit the top of the charts and earned him critical acclaim. His transition to solo music allowed him to explore a wider range of styles and collaboration, ultimately leading to a thriving and successful solo career.
Throughout his solo career, Sting has continued to innovate and push boundaries, collaborating with artists such as Herbie Hancock, and producing music that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners.
Eric Clapton: Transitioning from Band to Solo Hero
Eric Clapton, the legendary guitarist and founding member of Cream, is yet another artist who flourished in a solo career. After the breakup of Cream, Clapton formed the band Blind Faith and later embarked on a successful solo career with hit albums like 'Layla' and 'Unplugged.' Clapton’s solo work, particularly albums like 'Slowhand,' showcased his versatility and songwriting prowess, which garnered him multiple Grammy Awards and a place among the world’s greatest guitarists.
Conclusion
From Paul McCartney to Phil Collins, Eric Clapton, and Sting, these artists have demonstrated the potential for exceptional solo careers after leaving their bands. Their transitions from group success to solo stardom have left a significant impact on the music industry. These artists exemplify the transformative power of individual talent and the incredible success that can be achieved outside of a band setting.
Related Artists
Other notable artists who have made successful transitions from band to solo careers include:
Michael Jackson (The Jackson 5) Freddie Mercury (Queen) Pete Cetera (Chicago) Tina Turner Diana Ross Rod Stewart Frank Sinatra Bob Dylan Tom Petty