7 Classic Rock Legends Who Will Never Work Together Again

The world of classic rock is filled with legendary collaborations that have left an indelible mark on music history. However, personal differences, creative disputes, and unforeseen circumstances have led to rifts between some iconic musicians, making reunions unlikely. Here are seven classic rock legends who, due to various reasons, are unlikely to work together again:

1. Roger Waters and David Gilmour

Roger Waters and David Gilmour were pivotal members of Pink Floyd, contributing to the band’s distinctive sound and monumental success. However, creative differences and personal tensions escalated during the late 1970s, leading to Waters’ departure in 1985. The ensuing years were marked by legal battles over the use of the band’s name and repertoire. Despite brief reunions, such as the Live 8 concert in 2005, lingering animosities have persisted. Both artists have since focused on their solo careers, and a full-scale reunion remains improbable.

2. Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham

Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham’s tumultuous personal relationship has been well-documented, influencing much of Fleetwood Mac’s music. Their romantic involvement ended in the late 1970s, but professional collaborations continued amidst ongoing tensions. In 2018, Buckingham was dismissed from the band, reportedly due to conflicts with Nicks. While both have expressed varying sentiments about working together again, the deep-seated issues suggest that a reunion is unlikely.

3. Ray and Dave Davies

Brothers Ray and Dave Davies co-founded The Kinks, delivering hits that defined the British Invasion era. Their relationship, however, was fraught with sibling rivalry and frequent disputes. The band dissolved in 1996, and despite occasional talks of reuniting, personal differences have prevented a comeback. In a March 2023 interview, drummer Mick Avory dismissed reunion rumors, citing ongoing disagreements between the Davies brothers. He noted that health concerns and differing visions for the band make a reunion unlikely.

4. John Fogerty and Doug Clifford/Stu Cook

Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) achieved significant success in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with John Fogerty as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter, and Doug Clifford and Stu Cook as the rhythm section. Internal conflicts led to the band’s breakup in 1972. Since then, relationships have been strained, with Fogerty refusing to perform with Clifford and Cook during CCR’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 1993. Despite occasional hints at reconciliation, Clifford stated in 2017 that a reunion was “way too late now,” indicating that the classic lineup will not perform together again.

5. King Crimson

King Crimson, known for their progressive rock innovations, experienced numerous lineup changes since their 1968 inception. A notable split occurred in 1972 when creative differences led to the departure of members Boz Burrell, Mel Collins, and Ian Wallace. Guitarist Robert Fripp continued with new musicians, but the original lineup never reunited. Given the band’s history of evolving lineups and Fripp’s distinct vision, a reunion of past members remains unlikely.

6. Johnny Rotten and Glen Matlock

The Sex Pistols, fronted by Johnny Rotten (John Lydon) with Glen Matlock on bass, were pioneers of the punk movement in the late 1970s. Matlock’s departure in 1977, reportedly due to creative clashes and personality conflicts, led to Sid Vicious joining the band. The group’s volatile nature and internal strife culminated in their breakup in 1978. Despite brief reunions in the 1990s and 2000s, the relationships remained strained, and a lasting reunion is unlikely.

7. Dave Finnegan and Robert Arkins

Dave Finnegan and Robert Arkins gained fame through their roles in the 1991 film “The Commitments,” which led to the formation of a real-life touring band. Despite the film’s success, internal conflicts arose during the band’s 20th-anniversary tour, resulting in its premature end. In a recent BBC Radio 4 special, Finnegan expressed regret over missed opportunities and financial losses due to these disputes. Arkins declined to participate in the reunion, indicating lingering tensions and making future collaborations improbable.