Rock Bands That Still Exists Without Any Original Members Left

Many bands have experienced numerous lineup changes throughout their careers, often resulting in new members who never had the chance to meet the founding members. The reasons for these changes vary, ranging from members pursuing different directions to the unfortunate passing of original members. Here, we highlight 10 bands that no longer have any original members. Let’s take a closer look at them.

 

Quiet Riot

Quiet Riot’s history dates back to 1973 when guitarist Randy Rhoads and bassist Kelly Garni founded the band. After several lineup changes, lead singer Kevin DuBrow was the last original member of the band. Following DuBrow’s passing in 2007, the band working under the name Quiet Riot only had a tenuous connection to its original form.

Yes

Formed in 1968, Yes has seen nearly 20 musicians pass through its ranks. Since the death of co-founder Chris Squire in 2015, there are no longer any original members of the band. However, current members like Steve Howe and Alan White have been with the band since the early 1970s, ensuring a connection to its rich history.

Heart

Although the Wilson sisters, Ann and Nancy, are synonymous with Heart, they are not original members. The band’s history dates back to 1967, with guitarist Roger Fisher and bassist Steve Fossen forming the initial lineup. After several lineup changes, the Wilson sisters took over and transformed Heart into a successful 1980s hard rock outfit.

Blood, Sweat, and Tears

Blood, Sweat, and Tears, known for their unique fusion of rock and horns, formed in 1967 with a large group of founding members. However, tensions led to the departure of all original members, leaving Bobby Colomby as the sole connection. While Colomby is no longer part of the band, he manages and produces, hiring musicians as needed.

Humble Pie

Considered one of the first supergroups, Humble Pie was formed in the 1960s by guitarist Steve Marriott, bassist Greg Ridley, guitarist Peter Frampton, and drummer Jerry Shirley. The band went through several lineup changes before disbanding in the early ’80s. Drummer Jerry Shirley secured the rights to the name and reformed the band in 2012, essentially creating a new lineup.

Judas Priest

Judas Priest, renowned for their heavy metal anthems, formed in 1969 with lead vocalist Al Atkins and bassist Brian Stapenhill among the founding members. Over time, the lineup changed, and by 1973, no original members remained. The band’s sound evolved under the leadership of guitarist K.K. Downing and lead singer Rob Halford, defining their success in the years to come.

Blackfoot

Blackfoot’s history is marked by multiple changes and interruptions. Founded in 1969, the band saw the departure of original member Rickey Medlocke, who joined Lynyrd Skynyrd. Reformed in 1974, the band achieved success before disbanding in the ‘80s. Medlocke later rebooted Blackfoot in 2012 with a different lineup, essentially creating a new band.

Thin Lizzy

Thin Lizzy, formed by Brian Downey and Phil Lynott in 1969, reached the height of their success in the late 1970s. With their twin-guitar sound and hits like “The Boys are Back in Town,” they solidified their reputation as a powerful rock band. However, the changing music landscape and Lynott’s heroin addiction led to the band’s breakup in 1983. Despite attempts to continue with new members, Thin Lizzy no longer had any original members by 2013 when Downey departed. Guitarist Scott Gorham, who joined in 1974, remains a notable presence in the band.

Molly Hatchet

Molly Hatchet, influential in Southern rock, achieved moderate success with million-selling albums like “Flirtin’ With Disaster.” However, the band has undergone significant changes, with the last living original member, Steve Holland, passing away in 2020. Since founding member Dave Hlubek died in 2017, Molly Hatchet has operated without any original members. The current lineup, led by guitarist Bobby Ingram since 1987, continues to tour.

The Kingston Trio

The Kingston Trio played a vital role in the folk music revival of the 1960s, releasing hit songs like “Tom Dooley.” However, the group no longer has any original members since the passing of Bob Shane, Dave Guard, and Nick Reynolds. Various configurations and name changes have occurred over the years, with Bob Shane launching The New Kingston Trio in 1969. The band has continued with new members and singers, and the current lineup consists of Mike Marvin, Tim Gorelangton, and Buddy Woodward.