When A Singer Is Replaced

Many bands have changed lineups for many reasons - too many to list in a posting. But what happens when one of the members replaced is actually a singer?
Image result for lead singer

Is that good or bad?

 There are many things to think about when/if replacing your lead vocalist. The thing to remember is that most singers (usually) leave due to personal reasons. For instance Journey's Steve Perry left due to a knee injury while Peter Gabriel of Genesis fame and even Roger Hodgson of Supertramp fame left in order to launch a solo career. On the other hand some are simply fired as was the case with Ozzy in Black Sabbath.

The new singer may (or may not) be able to sing the songs the same

 This is perhaps the biggest heartbreak when it comes to replacing a singer. Many have said that Steve Augeri and Amel Pineda sound a lot like Steve Perry, but other singers are not quite that capable. Try to imagine Axl Rose singing Thunderstruck. It also should be noted that in bands with two or more lead singers, each one has unique vocal abilities that make the songs themselves unique. Anyone ever imagine Tommy Shaw singing Come Sail Away, or maybe even Dennis DeYoung taking a hand on Too Much Time on my Hands?

Most times, the singer is the most known icon of the band

 Another big reason folks. Singers are generally the trademark of the band and are the only member(s) really known to most (if not all) fans. As an example, Brian May and Roger Taylor have always stated that if Queen gets back up on their feet, they would never permanently replace Mercury. As such, they have gone with names such as Queen + Paul Rodgers, and most recently, Queen + Adam Lambert.

Stage persona is all the rage

 Some singers are known for certain tactics that make them stand out from the rest of the band, or its competitors for that matter. For example, Peter Gabriel, of Genesis fame, became known for his costume changes in the early 70s. His departure completely shattered the band and its expectations due to the fact that he left in 1975.

So as we can see folks, once you form a band and have a good vocalist, or vocalists, you should consider keeping them as long as possible. After all, there is nothing like the original.

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