The Band Feuds That Got Infamy In The 1960s and 1970s

Feuds between band members are as classic as the music they created. The ’60s and ’70s was an era of great music but it’s also filled with legendary disputes. Rock n’ roll was redefining itself and bands with larger-than-life personalities clashed behind the scenes more often than on stage. Stroll down memory lane and revisit some of the most notorious band feuds from this wild era in music history.

The Beatles: John Lennon vs. Paul McCartney
John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s partnership crafted some of the greatest songs ever. But behind the magic, their different personalities led to real tension. By 1970, The Beatles had split, and a legal battle followed, though they reconciled a bit before Lennon’s untimely death in 1980.

Simon & Garfunkel: Paul Simon vs. Art Garfunkel
Before hitting the big time, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel had their share of issues. Simon’s solo deal sparked jealousy, and when their final album didn’t go as planned, it drove a wedge between them. Despite occasional reunions, the unresolved resentments still lingered.

The Who: Pete Townshend vs. Roger Daltrey
The Who’s guitarist Pete Townshend and frontman Roger Daltrey had a notable clash in 1973, even coming to blows during a photo shoot! Thankfully, their spat was short-lived, and they got back to collaborating which proved their bond was stronger than any drama.

The Rolling Stones: Mick Jagger vs. Keith Richards
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards have also had their fair share of disagreements. One particular issue was over creative control which started in 1978. Richards’ biting lyrics in “All About You” only added fuel to the fire, leading Jagger to briefly step away. Eventually, they patched things up and continued to make music.

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Neil Young and Stephen Stills had a rocky relationship that spanned across different groups. Their disagreements, personal issues, and struggles with substance use clouded their partnership. Though they’ve reunited, tensions between the two remain palpable.

The Kinks: Ray Davies vs. Dave Davies
The sibling rivalry of Ray and Dave Davies fueled much of The Kinks’ inner turmoil. Their constant bickering peaked during the band’s heyday in the ’60s. Despite their differences, they managed to stick together until 1996, holding on to hopes of a reunion.

Jeff Beck vs. The Yardbirds
Jeff Beck’s stint with The Yardbirds ended abruptly due to disagreements over musical direction. His exit paved the way for Jimmy Page, leading to the birth of Led Zeppelin. Beck’s resentment lasted for years, even surfacing during his Rock Hall induction.

The Everly Brothers: Don Everly vs. Phil Everly
The Everly Brothers are another example of family feuds in rock. Their infamous onstage fight in 1973 led to a split that lasted a decade. They reconciled in 1983, but the duo’s rocky relationship had left its mark.

Pink Floyd: David Gilmour vs. Roger Waters
Creative tensions between David Gilmour and Roger Waters overshadowed Pink Floyd’s legacy. Waters’ dominance in songwriting culminated in his exit from the band in 1985 and even sparked legal battles. Years later in 2005, they reunited for a performance and showed fans they still had a powerful connection.

The Beach Boys: Mike Love vs. Brian Wilson
Mike Love often clashed with Brian Wilson over the direction of The Beach Boys, especially during the creation of “Pet Sounds.” Disputes over songwriting credits eventually led to legal issues. Despite their ups and downs, the Beach Boys remain one of the most beloved bands in music history.

Eagles: Don Felder vs. Don Henley
Tensions within the Eagles peaked during the recording of “Hotel California.” Disagreements between Don Felder and Don Henley ultimately led to Felder’s dismissal in 2001. Their fallout sparked a long-standing animosity that continues to this day.

Fleetwood Mac: Stevie Nicks vs. Lindsey Buckingham
Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham’s tumultuous relationship reached a breaking point during the Rumours album era. Their romantic struggles and musical collaboration created a perfect storm, resulting in Buckingham’s firing in 2018. This split marked a significant turning point for the band.

Fleetwood Mac: John McVie vs. Christine McVie
The marriage of John and Christine McVie crumbled while Fleetwood Mac was at their peak. John’s drinking and Christine’s affair strained their relationship, but their music endured, showcasing their professionalism despite personal turmoil.

The Allman Brothers Band: Gregg Allman vs. Dickey Betts
Gregg Allman and Dickey Betts had significant clashes over lifestyle choices. Betts’ heavy drinking eventually led to his ousting in 2000. Despite their challenges, the Allman Brothers Band became legendary rock icons in music history.

Creedence Clearwater Revival: John Fogerty vs. Tom Fogerty
In Creedence Clearwater Revival, John Fogerty’s strong personality overshadowed his brother Tom, causing rifts that led to the band’s split. Tom’s departure intensified tensions, further complicating the situation and leading to the band’s dissolution.

The Band: Levon Helm vs. Robbie Robertson
The Band was known for its unique sound, but Levon Helm and Robbie Robertson often clashed over creative control. Disputes about songwriting credits added to their strife, though their music remains timeless.

The Beatles: George Harrison vs. Paul McCartney
George Harrison’s frustrations with Paul McCartney’s dominance within The Beatles grew while recording their albums. After the breakup, Harrison found his voice in a solo career, proving his immense talent outside McCartney’s shadow.

Kiss: Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley vs. Ace Frehley and Peter Criss
Kiss struggled with internal conflicts due to differing commitments and lifestyles. Ace Frehley and Peter Criss’s exit from the band was largely due to their lack of dedication. However, Simmons and Stanley’s commitment kept the band moving forward.

Deep Purple: Ian Gillan vs. Ritchie Blackmore
Ian Gillan and Ritchie Blackmore often clashed over Deep Purple’s commercial direction. Gillan’s eventual departure highlighted the band’s struggles, leading to a temporary breakup due to creative differences.

The Ramones: Johnny Ramone vs. Joey Ramone
Johnny Ramone’s strict leadership clashed with Joey Ramone’s rebellious spirit. Their rocky relationship was marked by rumors of affairs and even fights. Despite their disputes, The Ramones made an unforgettable impact on punk rock.