The Notorious Musicians
1. Varg Vikernes
Perhaps one of the most infamous figures in the black metal scene, Varg Vikernes, born Kristian Vikernes, gained notoriety not only for his music but also for his criminal activities. As the mastermind behind Burzum, Vikernes contributed significantly to the Norwegian black metal scene. However, his legacy is tarnished by his conviction for the murder of fellow musician Øystein “Euronymous” Aarseth of the band Mayhem.
In 1993, Vikernes was sentenced to 21 years in prison, the maximum sentence in Norway, after being found guilty of stabbing Euronymous to death. The murder was reportedly the result of a personal dispute, and it sent shockwaves throughout the metal community. During his incarceration, Vikernes remained active, releasing music and writing extensively. He was released on parole in 2009 and continues to be a controversial figure in music and beyond.
2. Gary Glitter
Though primarily known for his glam rock hits in the 1970s, Gary Glitter, born Paul Francis Gadd, became infamous for his criminal behavior in later years. Glitter’s downfall began with numerous charges related to child sexual abuse, leading to multiple convictions and jail time. However, his darker chapter unfolded in Vietnam, where he was convicted of obscene acts with minors.
In 2006, Glitter was convicted in Vietnam for committing obscene acts with two underage girls and was sentenced to three years in prison. Although not a murder conviction, the severity of his crimes and his subsequent convictions for similar offenses paint a grim picture of a musician whose legacy is overshadowed by his reprehensible actions.
3. Phil Spector
Phil Spector, a legendary music producer known for creating the “Wall of Sound,” was responsible for numerous hit records. However, his career was marred by a conviction for murder. In 2003, actress Lana Clarkson was found dead in Spector’s home, leading to his arrest and subsequent trial.
In 2009, after a lengthy legal process, Spector was found guilty of second-degree murder and sentenced to 19 years to life in prison. His conviction shocked the music world, highlighting a darker side to a man who once revolutionized the industry. Spector died in prison in 2021, leaving behind a complicated legacy of musical genius and criminal infamy.
4. Ian Watkins
Ian Watkins, the former lead vocalist of the Welsh rock band Lostprophets, was another musician whose career was destroyed by his criminal actions. In 2013, Watkins was arrested and subsequently convicted on multiple charges of child sex offenses, including the attempted rape of a baby.
Watkins’ crimes were heinous, and his conviction led to a 29-year prison sentence, with an additional six years on extended license. The revelations about his actions caused the immediate disbandment of Lostprophets and left fans and fellow musicians in shock. Watkins’ case serves as a chilling reminder of how fame can mask the most depraved behavior.
5. Sid Vicious
Sid Vicious, the notorious bassist for the punk band Sex Pistols, became a symbol of the punk rock movement’s chaotic and rebellious spirit. However, his life was tragically cut short amid controversy and criminal charges. In 1978, Vicious was arrested for the murder of his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen, who was found dead in their hotel room.
Vicious claimed to have no memory of the incident, and his trial was still pending when he died of a heroin overdose in 1979. While he was never formally convicted of murder due to his untimely death, the charge remains a significant part of his story, reflecting the destructive lifestyle that overshadowed his musical contributions.
Conclusion
The stories of these musicians serve as reminders of the complex and often dark realities that can exist behind the public personas of rock and metal icons. While their music may have brought joy and inspiration to many, their criminal actions have left permanent stains on their legacies. Understanding these narratives provides a more nuanced view of the music industry and the individuals who shape it, highlighting the importance of separating the art from the artist.