Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
2. The Primitives – Chrissie Hynde
Before fronting the Pretenders, Chrissie Hynde was part of the punk rock band The Primitives. Formed in the mid-1970s during the burgeoning punk scene, The Primitives allowed Hynde to experiment with her sound and performance style.
Musical Journey
Chrissie Hynde moved to London in 1973, where she immersed herself in the city’s vibrant music scene. The Primitives provided her with an opportunity to explore her punk rock sensibilities. Although the band had limited commercial success, Hynde’s time with The Primitives was crucial in developing her distinct voice and musical vision.
Transition to The Pretenders
After The Primitives disbanded, Hynde’s experiences and connections in the London music scene enabled her to form The Pretenders. The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1980, was a critical and commercial success, establishing Hynde as a formidable force in rock music.
3. Smile – Freddie Mercury
Before Freddie Mercury became the iconic frontman of Queen, he was a member of the band Smile. Formed in 1968, Smile featured guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor, who would later join Mercury to form Queen.
Evolution of Smile
Smile was a product of the late 60s rock scene, blending elements of hard rock and progressive rock. The band released a few singles but failed to achieve significant traction. However, the musical chemistry between May, Taylor, and Mercury was undeniable, paving the way for the formation of Queen in 1970.
Impact on Queen
The experiences and musical experimentation of Smile directly influenced the early sound of Queen. Mercury’s unique vocal capabilities and theatrical flair found a perfect home in the new band, allowing him to fully express his artistic vision.
4. The Jackson 5 – Michael Jackson
While The Jackson 5 is not exactly obscure, it is important to highlight Michael Jackson’s role within the group before his rise as the “King of Pop.” The Jackson 5 was crucial in developing Jackson’s performance skills and establishing his career.
Early Success
Formed in 1965, The Jackson 5 quickly gained popularity with their infectious energy and catchy tunes. Michael, as the lead vocalist, captured audiences with his charismatic stage presence and soulful voice. Hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC” catapulted the group to fame.
Michael’s Transition to Solo Stardom
Michael Jackson’s solo career began in earnest with the release of “Off the Wall” in 1979. His time with The Jackson 5 provided him with invaluable experience, setting the stage for his unprecedented success in the 1980s and beyond.
5. The Mynah Birds – Neil Young
Before establishing himself as a folk-rock icon, Neil Young was a member of The Mynah Birds, a Canadian band that also featured future funk legend Rick James. Although the band was short-lived, it played a significant role in Young’s early career.
Formation and Challenges
Formed in the mid-1960s, The Mynah Birds combined rock and R&B influences. Despite recording an album for Motown, internal conflicts and legal issues led to the band’s dissolution before any material could be released. However, the experience provided Young with valuable industry insights.
Neil Young’s Path Forward
After The Mynah Birds, Young moved to Los Angeles, where he co-founded Buffalo Springfield. His time with The Mynah Birds had a lasting impact, as he continued to explore diverse musical styles throughout his career.
6. The Stooges – Iggy Pop
While The Stooges are now recognized as pioneers of punk rock, they were initially a cult favorite. Iggy Pop, known for his wild stage antics and distinctive voice, started his musical journey with this influential band.
Formation and Influence
The Stooges were formed in 1967, with Iggy Pop as the charismatic frontman. Their raw energy and rebellious sound laid the groundwork for the punk movement. Despite limited commercial success at the time, The Stooges’ influence on rock music is undeniable.
Iggy Pop’s Legacy
After The Stooges disbanded, Iggy Pop embarked on a successful solo career, working with artists like David Bowie. His time with The Stooges established him as a countercultural icon and one of rock’s most enduring figures.
7. The Golliwogs – John Fogerty
Before Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) became synonymous with the Southern rock sound, John Fogerty was part of The Golliwogs. This band was crucial in developing the sound that would later define CCR.
Early Days
The Golliwogs were formed in the early 1960s, featuring John and his brother Tom Fogerty. The band released several singles but struggled to achieve mainstream success. However, their music laid the foundation for the swamp rock style that CCR would popularize.
Transformation into CCR
In 1967, The Golliwogs changed their name to Creedence Clearwater Revival, marking the beginning of their rise to fame. John Fogerty’s distinctive voice and songwriting became the driving force behind hits like “Bad Moon Rising” and “Fortunate Son.”
8. The Yardbirds – Jimmy Page
Before founding Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Page was a member of The Yardbirds, a band known for its innovative approach to blues and rock music. While The Yardbirds were relatively successful, Page’s subsequent work with Led Zeppelin overshadowed his earlier endeavors.
The Yardbirds’ Contribution
The Yardbirds were instrumental in the development of rock music, experimenting with feedback and distortion to create a new sound. Page joined the band in 1966, contributing to their final album, “Little Games.”
Led Zeppelin’s Formation
After The Yardbirds disbanded, Page formed Led Zeppelin, which quickly became one of the most influential rock bands of all time. The innovative techniques he explored with The Yardbirds laid the groundwork for Led Zeppelin’s groundbreaking sound.
9. The Jeff Beck Group – Rod Stewart
Before achieving solo fame, Rod Stewart was the lead vocalist for The Jeff Beck Group. This band was pivotal in Stewart’s career, helping him develop his unique vocal style.
Musical Exploration
The Jeff Beck Group was formed in the late 1960s, blending blues and rock influences. Stewart’s powerful voice complemented Jeff Beck’s virtuosic guitar playing, resulting in a dynamic sound that resonated with audiences.
Impact on Stewart’s Solo Career
After leaving The Jeff Beck Group, Stewart embarked on a solo career, achieving significant success with hits like “Maggie May” and “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” His time with the band was instrumental in shaping his musical identity.
10. The Tourists – Annie Lennox
Before she became known for her work with Eurythmics, Annie Lennox was a member of The Tourists. This band, while not hugely successful, laid the foundation for Lennox’s later achievements.
The Tourists’ Journey
The Tourists were formed in the late 1970s, featuring Lennox as the lead vocalist. The band had some minor hits in the UK, but internal tensions led to their breakup in 1980. Despite their limited success, The Tourists provided Lennox with valuable experience.
Transition to Eurythmics
After The Tourists disbanded, Lennox and bandmate Dave Stewart formed Eurythmics. The duo achieved global fame with hits like “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” and “Here Comes the Rain Again.” Lennox’s powerful voice and striking visual style became iconic.
Conclusion
These ten obscure bands played crucial roles in the development of some of the most famous vocalists in music history. While the bands themselves may not have achieved widespread acclaim, they provided essential experiences and opportunities for their members. Through these early endeavors, these vocalists honed their talents, explored their musical identities, and ultimately found their paths to stardom.