7 Classic Rock Legends Who Got Kicked Out Of Their Bands
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 07: 2017 Inductee Neal Schon of Journey attends the Press Room of the 32nd Annual Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony at Barclays Center on April 7, 2017 in New York City. The event will broadcast on HBO Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 8:00 pm ET/PT (Photo by Jim Spellman/WireImage for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)
The world of rock and roll can be a revolving door. Here are 7 stories of famous classic rock musicians who found themselves leaving, or being asked to leave their bands:
1. Jimi Hendrix
A young guitarist named Jimi Hendrix joined a band led by Little Richard. However, Richard wasn’t a fan of Hendrix’s tardiness, eccentric behavior, and unique wardrobe. Hendrix wouldn’t last long, but his innovative playing style would soon ignite the rock world.
2. Roy Orbison
Before his solo stardom, a singer joined a group called The Teen Kings in the 50s. Rumors swirled that he was kicked out after a brief stint, leading to the band’s break up and his first solo single, “Uptown.” This singer turned out to be Roy Orbison, whose powerful voice would become legendary.
3. Ozzy Osbourne
The “Prince of Darkness” wasn’t just known for his music, but also for his hard partying. His heavy drinking and drug use led to his dismissal from Black Sabbath in 1979. Luckily, his solo career soared after that, solidifying his status as a rock icon.
4. Neal Schon
A guitarist and a singer were part of a band with Carlos Santana. The guitarist, craving more creative freedom, decided they wanted to form their group. Santana disagreed, and they were out. This led to the birth of Journey, whose radio-friendly rock would dominate the charts for decades.
5. Lemmy Kilmister
In the 70s, a bassist and singer found himself in a band called Hawkwind. He got arrested for drugs, but the charges were dropped. However, his bandmates weren’t happy and decided to part ways. This musician was Lemmy Kilmister, who would later find fame with Motörhead, known for their loud and fast brand of rock.
6. Dave Mustaine
Another guitarist found himself fired from Metallica in 1983. His struggles with alcohol, drugs, and clashes with other members led to his dismissal. Though some Metallica fans were glad to see him go, he went on to form another successful band, Megadeth, becoming one of the “Big Four” of thrash metal.
7. Phil Lynott
The founding singer of a band called Skid Row (different from the 80s hair metal group) found himself at odds with the bassist. The bassist wanted to take over singing duties and eventually kicked the singer out, making the band a power trio.
