8 Bands That Rose to Fame After Losing Original Members

Bands losing original members often face uncertainty, but some manage to find even greater success afterward. Changes in lineup can reshape their sound and public appeal. Here are eight bands that achieved new heights despite losing key founding members.

1. The Beatles

Before achieving global fame, The Beatles underwent lineup changes. Original bassist Stuart Sutcliffe left the band in 1961 to pursue art, and drummer Pete Best was replaced by Ringo Starr in 1962. These shifts allowed the band to refine their dynamic and sound, leading to their unprecedented worldwide success.

Ringo’s drumming style complemented the group’s evolving music, while the core songwriting duo of Lennon and McCartney flourished. The lineup solidified the band’s chemistry, helping them dominate charts and revolutionize popular music forever.

2. AC/DC

AC/DC faced a major setback when original vocalist Bon Scott passed away in 1980. The band considered disbanding but ultimately brought in Brian Johnson as his replacement. Their first album with Johnson, Back in Black, became one of the best-selling albums in history.

The transition revitalized the band, and Johnson’s powerful voice helped them maintain their hard rock legacy. AC/DC proved that they could overcome tragedy and continue to create music that resonated with fans worldwide.

3. Fleetwood Mac

Fleetwood Mac’s early years were rooted in blues, but founding member Peter Green left in 1970 due to personal struggles. The band’s sound shifted after Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks joined in 1975, transforming them into a pop-rock powerhouse.

The new lineup produced the album Rumours, a commercial and critical success that redefined their career. The change allowed Fleetwood Mac to explore different musical directions and reach an entirely new audience.

4. Genesis

Genesis began as a progressive rock band led by Peter Gabriel, who left in 1975 to pursue a solo career. Phil Collins, the band’s drummer, stepped up as lead vocalist, marking a significant shift in their style.

With Collins at the helm, Genesis embraced a more pop-oriented sound, achieving massive commercial success with albums like Invisible Touch. The lineup change broadened their appeal and brought the band widespread recognition.

5. Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd’s early leader, Syd Barrett, departed in 1968 due to mental health issues. Guitarist David Gilmour joined shortly before Barrett’s exit, and Roger Waters assumed creative control of the band.

This new dynamic led to iconic albums like The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall. The lineup change allowed Pink Floyd to evolve into one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

6. The Eagles

The Eagles lost founding member Bernie Leadon in 1975 when he left to explore other musical interests. Joe Walsh stepped in, bringing a harder rock edge to the band’s sound.

With Walsh’s influence, the band created Hotel California, one of their most celebrated albums. The shift in personnel helped them achieve even greater commercial and critical acclaim during the late 1970s.

7. Deep Purple

Deep Purple saw several lineup changes, but one of the most notable was the departure of original vocalist Rod Evans and bassist Nick Simper in 1969. They were replaced by Ian Gillan and Roger Glover, forming the “Mark II” lineup.

This version of the band produced landmark albums like Machine Head, featuring hits such as “Smoke on the Water.” The changes cemented Deep Purple’s reputation as pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal.

8. Jefferson Airplane

Jefferson Airplane underwent a significant change when original vocalist Signe Toly Anderson left the band in 1966. Grace Slick joined shortly afterward, bringing a distinctive voice and stage presence that reshaped the group’s identity.

With Slick, Jefferson Airplane released iconic tracks like “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit.” The new lineup helped the band become a defining force in the psychedelic rock movement of the late 1960s.