10 Classic Rock Singers Who Lost Their Voice During Solo Years
via Italian Americans / YouTube
Many classic rock singers faced vocal challenges during their solo careers. Whether due to health issues, aging, or other factors, these artists experienced significant changes in their singing abilities. Here are ten notable examples.
1. Jon Bon Jovi
View this post on Instagram
Jon Bon Jovi, the frontman of Bon Jovi, encountered vocal difficulties during his solo endeavors. In 2022, he underwent vocal fold medialization surgery to address loose vocal folds that had affected his singing for years. Despite ongoing vocal therapy, he acknowledged limitations in his performance capacity, stating, “I’m capable of singing. What I’m not necessarily capable of is two and a half hours a night, four nights a week.”
2. Art Garfunkel
View this post on Instagram
Art Garfunkel, known for his work with Simon & Garfunkel, faced vocal issues during his solo career. In 2010, he suffered vocal cord damage after choking on a piece of lobster, leading to vocal cord paresis. This condition forced the cancellation of a planned tour with Paul Simon and required a period of recovery.
3. Levon Helm
View this post on Instagram
Levon Helm, drummer and vocalist for The Band, was diagnosed with throat cancer in the late 1990s. Radiation treatments damaged his vocal cords, resulting in a raspy voice. Initially unable to sing, he focused on drumming during performances. Over time, his voice improved, and by 2004, he resumed singing at his “Midnight Ramble” sessions.
4. Shirley Manson
View this post on Instagram
Shirley Manson, lead singer of Garbage, experienced vocal problems during the band’s “Beautiful Garbage” tour. In 2002, she lost her voice completely during a performance. A specialist diagnosed a large cyst on her vocal cord, requiring surgery. After a period of silence and rehabilitation, she regained her singing ability.
5. Peter Cetera
View this post on Instagram
Peter Cetera, former lead singer of Chicago, retired from performing in 2019. He cited the desire to stop before losing his voice and the demands of touring as reasons for his retirement. His last live performance was in November 2018.
6. Elton John
View this post on Instagram
Elton John underwent throat surgery in the mid-1980s, which permanently lowered his voice. The surgery affected his falsetto, a signature aspect of his earlier performances. Despite these changes, he continued to perform, adapting his singing style to accommodate his altered vocal range.
7. Meat Loaf
View this post on Instagram
Meat Loaf, known for his powerful vocals, faced vocal challenges later in his career. In a 2001 performance, he struggled with vocal stamina, relying on audience participation to complete songs. These issues highlighted the impact of aging and health on his singing abilities.
8. Lindsey Buckingham
View this post on Instagram
Lindsey Buckingham, former guitarist and singer for Fleetwood Mac, suffered vocal cord damage following heart surgery. The procedure affected his ability to sing, posing challenges for his solo performances. His experience underscores the risks associated with medical procedures on vocal health.
9. John Mayer
View this post on Instagram
John Mayer developed a vocal granuloma in 2011, leading to surgery and a hiatus from performing. The condition required him to rest his voice and undergo treatment, impacting his solo career during that period. He later returned to performing with adjustments to his singing technique.
10. Steven Tyler
View this post on Instagram
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith experienced a burst blood vessel in his vocal cords, necessitating surgery. The injury affected his vocal performance and required a period of recovery. Such incidents highlight the physical demands placed on rock vocalists over time.
