10 Greatest Hits From 10 Supergroups Of Rock N’ Roll

When rock legends join forces, the result is nothing short of electrifying. Supergroups bring together musicians at the peak of their careers, creating something fresh, unpredictable, and often unforgettable. While many of these collaborations are short-lived, their impact lasts for decades.

Some supergroups stick close to their signature sounds, while others take the opportunity to push boundaries. Whether it’s a side project or a full-fledged band, these musical powerhouses leave behind hits that stand the test of time. Fans get to witness their favorite artists in a new light, blending styles in ways they never expected.

From explosive debuts to chart-topping anthems, these songs define the legacy of rock’s greatest collaborations. Here are 10 essential tracks from 10 supergroups that made their mark on music history.

1. “New Fang” – Them Crooked Vultures

Them Crooked Vultures emerged in 2009, a powerhouse trio featuring Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana), Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), and John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin). Their sound was a unique blend of hard rock, blues, and experimental elements, showcasing the distinct talents of each member. Though expectations were sky-high, the band only released one studio album.

“New Fang,” from their self-titled debut, became a standout track. It’s characterized by its heavy riffs, complex rhythms, and Homme’s distinctive vocals. The song earned critical acclaim and solidified the band’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

Despite the success of their debut and the excitement surrounding the project, Them Crooked Vultures went on indefinite hiatus. This occurred as its members returned to their primary bands. While fans still hope for a reunion, “New Fang” remains a testament to the supergroup’s potential.

2. “Like a Stone” – Audioslave

Audioslave united the instrumental prowess of Rage Against the Machine (Tom Morello, Tim Commerford, Brad Wilk) with the vocal talents of Chris Cornell (Soundgarden). Formed in 2001, the band created a sound that merged hard rock with alternative sensibilities. Cornell’s lyrics often explored themes of spirituality and introspection.

“Like a Stone,” from their self-titled debut album in 2002, became one of Audioslave’s signature songs. The song is characterized by its memorable guitar riff, Cornell’s soaring vocals, and its melancholic atmosphere. It topped the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.

The band released three studio albums before disbanding in 2007. Cornell tragically passed away in 2017, ending any possibility of a reunion. “Like a Stone” remains a powerful reminder of Audioslave’s unique sound and Cornell’s vocal talent.

3. “Fall to Pieces” – Velvet Revolver

Velvet Revolver was formed in the early 2000s, bringing together former Guns N’ Roses members Slash, Duff McKagan, and Matt Sorum with Stone Temple Pilots vocalist Scott Weiland. The band aimed to recapture the raw energy and rebellious spirit of classic hard rock. Their sound was a blend of Guns N’ Roses’ hard-edged rock and Stone Temple Pilots’ alternative influences.

“Fall to Pieces,” from their debut album Contraband (2004), is a powerful and emotional song that showcases the band’s versatility. It highlights Weiland’s introspective lyrics and Slash’s melodic guitar work. The song resonated with audiences, becoming a major hit for the band.

Despite their initial success, Velvet Revolver was plagued by internal conflicts and Weiland’s struggles with substance abuse. The band ultimately dissolved, and Weiland passed away in 2015. “Fall to Pieces” is a testament to the band’s potential and the challenges they faced.

4. “End of the Line” – Traveling Wilburys

In 1988, George Harrison revealed plans to form a new project with some of his closest friends. After wrapping up work on Cloud Nine, Harrison began collaborating with Jeff Lynne of Electric Light Orchestra on a B-side for his latest album, specifically the track “This Is Love.” During this time, they reached out to Tom Petty and Roy Orbison, and eventually, Bob Dylan was brought into the fold.

With no studio of their own, the group recorded at Dylan’s studio. In just five hours, they wrote and recorded the track “Handle with Care.” The instant chemistry between these rock legends was undeniable, prompting them to turn their jam session into a full album. This spontaneous creation became Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1.

The album’s success was monumental. It sold over two million copies in the first six months and achieved triple platinum status. Critically acclaimed, particularly the song “End of the Line,” the record marked a major comeback for Orbison, Lynne, and Dylan, while Harrison and Petty were already enjoying solo success.

5. “Heat of the Moment” – Asia

Asia was formed in 1981 by John Wetton (King Crimson, UK), Steve Howe (Yes), Geoff Downes (Yes, The Buggles), and Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake & Palmer). The band sought to create a commercially accessible sound that blended progressive rock elements with pop sensibilities. Their self-titled debut album was a massive success.

“Heat of the Moment” became Asia’s signature song, a driving rock anthem with catchy melodies and soaring vocals. The song’s memorable chorus and instrumental hooks made it a radio staple. It propelled the album to the top of the charts.

While Asia continued to release albums, they never quite replicated the success of their debut. Lineup changes and shifts in musical direction contributed to their decline. “Heat of the Moment” remains a defining song of the early 1980s and a testament to Asia’s initial impact.

6. “Shooting Star” – Bad Company

Bad Company was formed in 1973, uniting Paul Rodgers (Free), Mick Ralphs (Mott the Hoople), Simon Kirke (Free), and Boz Burrell (King Crimson). The band aimed for a straightforward, blues-infused rock sound, devoid of excessive frills. Their self-titled debut album was a major success.

“Shooting Star,” from their second album Straight Shooter (1975), is a poignant ballad that tells the cautionary tale of a young rock star who burns out too soon. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and Rodgers’ soulful vocals resonated with audiences. It became one of Bad Company’s most beloved songs.

Bad Company continued to release successful albums throughout the 1970s. Lineup changes and periods of inactivity marked their later years. “Shooting Star” remains a classic rock staple and a reminder of Bad Company’s enduring appeal.

7. “Lucky Man” – Emerson, Lake & Palmer

In the late sixties, progressive rock was on the rise, and Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, and Carl Palmer seized the moment. Coming from bands like The Nice, King Crimson, and Atomic Rooster, they blended jazz, rock, and classical music into a unique fusion. Their electrifying performances and bold sound quickly made them a force to be reckoned with.

Their self-titled debut in 1970 didn’t achieve commercial success, but it brought them closer to their audience. It was Tarkus in 1971 that began to solidify their reputation, with Trilogy in 1972 marking their true breakthrough. By 1973, Brain Salad Surgery received critical acclaim and built their dedicated following.

Despite their success, internal tensions started to take a toll. In the late seventies, their music began to show signs of strain, and the band eventually split. Attempts to regroup in the eighties and nineties met with mixed success, as they released new material but never fully recaptured their former glory.

8. “Can’t Find My Way Home” – Blind Faith

Blind Faith was a short-lived but highly influential supergroup formed in 1969. It featured Eric Clapton (Cream), Steve Winwood (Traffic), Ginger Baker (Cream), and Rick Grech (Family). The band’s music blended blues, rock, and psychedelic elements, showcasing the individual talents of its members.

“Can’t Find My Way Home,” from their only album Blind Faith, is a hauntingly beautiful song that features Winwood’s soulful vocals and Clapton’s understated guitar work. Its introspective lyrics and melancholic melody created a lasting impact. The song remains a classic.

Despite the immense talent within the band, Blind Faith dissolved after only one album and a brief tour. Creative differences and the pressures of fame contributed to their demise. “Can’t Find My Way Home” remains a testament to the band’s potential and the fleeting nature of supergroups.

9. “Teach Your Children” – Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young brought together the talents of David Crosby (The Byrds), Stephen Stills (Buffalo Springfield), Graham Nash (The Hollies), and Neil Young (Buffalo Springfield). Their vocal harmonies, songwriting skills, and individual musical contributions created a unique and influential sound. They are often considered one of the first and most successful supergroups.

“Teach Your Children,” from their album Déjà Vu (1970), is a gentle and optimistic song that promotes peace, understanding, and intergenerational connection. Nash wrote the song, and it features pedal steel guitar by Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead. It became an anthem for the counterculture movement.

Despite their musical success, CSNY were known for their internal conflicts and volatile relationships. The band broke up and reunited several times over the years. “Teach Your Children” remains a timeless message of hope and a testament to the power of their combined talents.

10. “Sunshine Of Your Love” – Cream

Cream formed in 1966, bringing together Eric Clapton (The Yardbirds), Jack Bruce (Manfred Mann), and Ginger Baker (Graham Bond Organisation). The band pioneered a powerful and improvisational style of blues rock. They showcased each member’s individual virtuosity.

“Sunshine of Your Love,” from their album Disraeli Gears (1967), is one of Cream’s most iconic songs. It features a distinctive, psychedelic riff, powerful vocals, and a driving rhythm. The song became a major hit, establishing Cream as a leading force in rock music.

Cream’s intense touring schedule and internal conflicts led to their breakup in 1968. The band’s brief but impactful career left a lasting legacy on rock music. “Sunshine of Your Love” remains a testament to their innovative sound and the power of their collaboration.