The 1970s were a golden age for classic rock, with various subgenres gaining popularity. But what happened to some of the biggest bands from that era? Let's explore the stories of three iconic groups that dominated the 70s and then seemingly vanished into thin air.
Bachman-Turner Overdrive: The Hard Rock Veterans
Bachman-Turner Overdrive, or BTO, burst onto the scene in 1973 with their hard-hitting sound. Their catchy tunes like 'You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet' and 'Let It Ride' became instant classics. BTO's early albums, including their self-titled debut and 'BTO,' were massive hits, landing in the Top 10. However, their success began to wane by the late 70s, and they faded from the Top 40. Despite a brief reunion in the 80s, their comeback album 'BTO' barely made a splash. The band's members have come and gone, but they recently reunited in 2023, proving that some classic rock legends never truly disappear.
T. Rex: Glam Rock Legends with a Short-Lived Reign
Even if you weren't born in the 70s, you've likely heard 'Get It On (Bang A Gong)' on classic rock radio. This iconic glam rock song defined T. Rex, who dominated the charts in the early 70s. Their album 'The Slider' reached No. 17 in the US in 1972, but their success was short-lived. By the end of the decade, T. Rex's star had faded, and their final album, 'Dandy In The Underworld,' failed to chart. The tragic death of frontman Marc Bolan in 1977 marked the end of an era for T. Rex.
Humble Pie: The Underrated Supergroup
Humble Pie, a supergroup featuring legendary musicians like Peter Frampton and Steve Marriott, was a force to be reckoned with in the 70s. They released several high-charting albums, with 'Smokin'' from 1972 becoming a Certified Gold hit. However, their success began to decline in the early 80s, and they've had a tumultuous history of breakups and reunions. Despite their enduring legacy, Humble Pie's classic lineup is the one that truly defined their sound and impact on rock music.
