The Real Face of Rock & Roll

They’ve packed arenas, racked up platinum albums, and unleashed anthems that still rule classic rock radio. But unless you’re a hardcore fan, you probably wouldn’t recognize them if they were standing behind you in line at H-E-B.

Take Supertramp. Their 1979 smash Breakfast in America sold over 20 million copies, and “The Logical Song” still bangs like it’s blaring from my ‘76 Nova. But could you spot Roger Hodgson or Rick Davies in a crowd? Most folks wouldn’t know if they were handing them concert tickets or delivering a pizza.

Then there’s April Wine, Canada’s unsung heroes of faceless rock. “Just Between You and Me” made them international stars, but frontman Myles Goodwyn could probably stroll through The Galleria without turning a single head.

The same goes for Bachman-Turner Overdrive. You’ve blasted “Takin’ Care of Business” more times than you’ve done your taxes. You may even know the name Randy Bachman, but would you recognize him in real life? Probably not.

Chicago has been charting hits for decades and has sold over 100 million albums. But if one of their members knocked on your door, would you have any clue who they were?

Even bands like REO Speedwagon, Bad Company, ELO, and Toto, you might recognize a face if you’re a true fan. But could you pick them out of the crowd instead of on the stage?

These bands never chased fame—they let their music speak for itself.

And that music? That’s the real face of rock and roll.

Doug O’Brien