7 Classic Rock Bands That Still Playing Music with One or No Original Members

Over the decades, many classic rock bands have undergone numerous lineup changes. Some continue to perform with only one or none of their original members. Here are seven such bands:

1. Lynyrd Skynyrd

Formed in 1964, Lynyrd Skynyrd became famous for hits like “Sweet Home Alabama.” Tragically, a 1977 plane crash claimed the lives of several members, including lead singer Ronnie Van Zant. The band reformed in 1987 with surviving members and new additions. Over time, lineup changes continued, and as of 2023, guitarist Gary Rossington was the last original member. After his passing in March 2023, the band decided to continue touring, honoring their legacy without any original members.

2. Foreigner

Foreigner, known for songs like “I Want to Know What Love Is,” was formed in 1976 by Mick Jones and Ian McDonald. Over the years, the band experienced numerous lineup changes. Mick Jones remained the sole original member for a long period. However, due to health issues, his appearances became sporadic, leading to performances without any founding members. Despite this, Foreigner continues to tour successfully, delivering their classic hits to fans worldwide.

3. Blood, Sweat & Tears

Blood, Sweat & Tears blended rock, blues, and jazz, achieving success in the late 1960s with songs like “Spinning Wheel.” The band underwent frequent lineup changes, with more than 140 musicians passing through its ranks over the decades. As a result, the current lineup features no original members. Despite this, they continue to perform, bringing their unique sound to audiences worldwide.

4. Iron Butterfly

Iron Butterfly gained fame in the late 1960s with their hit “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida.” Over the years, the band experienced numerous lineup changes. Drummer Ron Bushy, while not an original member, became a central figure in the band’s history. With none of its founding members, the band’s legacy in the world of psychedelic rock is firmly cemented.

5. Molly Hatchet

Molly Hatchet, known for their Southern rock sound, achieved fame in the late 1970s with hits like “Flirtin’ with Disaster.” The band has had numerous lineup changes over the years. As of now, none of the original members are part of the group. Despite this, Molly Hatchet continues to tour and perform, keeping their Southern rock legacy alive.

6. The Grass Roots

The Grass Roots achieved success in the late 1960s and early 1970s with hits like “Midnight Confessions.” The band has gone through many lineup changes over the years. The current iteration has no original members. Despite this, The Grass Roots continue to perform, bringing their classic hits to fans old and new.

7. Yes

Yes, with its rich history in progressive rock and iconic albums like “Fragile,” faced a significant shift when Chris Squire passed away in 2015, leaving the band without any original members. Despite this, vocalist and original member Jon Anderson continued with his own version of the band until 2018. Yes’s perseverance without original members emphasizes their commitment to the enduring spirit of their music.