9 Rock Legends That Made A Remarkable Comeback

Success in the music industry isn’t always a given, and these nine iconic rock legends prove that a comeback is always possible, no matter the odds.

1. America (1982)
America wasn’t quite a one-hit wonder, but their popularity dipped after a string of early 70s successes. In 1982, they released Alibi, a return to their signature folk-rock sound. A year later, View From The Ground followed, featuring the hit single “You Can Do Magic,” proving they still had the magic touch.

2. Mitch Ryder (1983)
After a quiet period, Mitch Ryder got a helping hand from rocker John Mellencamp in 1983. Their collaboration on the album Never Kick a Sleeping Dog proved fruitful. The album’s cover of Prince’s When You Were Mine became a hit, showcasing Ryder’s powerful vocals to a new generation.

3. Dusty Springfield (1987)
Dusty Springfield’s career cooled down in the early 80s. In 1987, she teamed up with the popular synth-pop group Pet Shop Boys for the song “What Have I Done To Deserve This.” The unexpected collaboration became a smash hit, topping charts worldwide and reintroducing Springfield’s soulful voice to a whole new audience.

4. The Animals (1983)
The Animals tried to reunite in the late 70s but weren’t able to recapture their past success. However, 1983 proved to be a different story. Their live album Ark became a surprise hit, featuring their classic bluesy rock sound. Despite a follow-up live record, the band ultimately disbanded, leaving behind a legacy as one of the leading acts of the British Invasion.

5. Peter Frampton (1976)
Peter Frampton had a solid career as a guitarist for other artists, but his solo work wasn’t setting the world on fire. That all changed in 1976 with the release of the double live album Frampton Comes Alive. The extended jams and energetic performances turned previously unnoticed album tracks into radio staples, launching Frampton into superstardom.

6. Dion (1989)
Dion’s career spanned decades, but by the late 80s, he wasn’t a household name anymore. In 1989, things turned around when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The same year, he released the critically acclaimed album, Yo Frankie, proving his songwriting and performing chops were still sharp. He continued to tour and record with his band The Little Kings, solidifying his place as a rock and roll legend.

7. James Brown (1985)
The Godfather of Soul wasn’t ready to slow down in the 80s. He rebranded his band as JB’s and Soul Generals, keeping his sound fresh and energetic. Film appearances in “Blues Brothers” and “Rocky IV” further boosted his popularity. In 1986, he released the album Gravity, featuring the iconic anthem “Living in America,” proving the Godfather could still get people moving.

8. The Everly Brothers (1983)
The Everly Brothers’ sibling rivalry became legendary, leading to their break up in the early 70s. After a decade apart, they decided to bury the hatchet and reunite in 1983. The reunion wasn’t just for nostalgia’s sake. They collaborated on both live shows and studio recordings, with their cover of Paul McCartney’s “On The Wings Of a Nightingale” becoming a hit in 1984, proving their harmonies were still as powerful as ever.

9. Ronnie Spector (1986)
After years of legal battles with her ex-husband Phil Spector, Ronnie Spector finally regained control of her career in the mid-80s. Signing a new deal with Columbia Records, she released Unfinished Business in 1986. She continued her artistic journey with the critically acclaimed album She Speaks to Rainbows in 1999. Teaming up with punk icon Joey Ramone, she toured extensively until the late 90s, introducing her electrifying stage presence and powerful vocals to a whole new generation of fans.