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Joe Elliott, lead singer of Def Leppard, just celebrated another birthday (66) and it’s the perfect time to remember why he’s one of rock’s best frontmen. For over four decades, Elliot has been the voice behind some of the biggest anthems in rock history like Pour Some Sugar on Me, Photograph and Hysteria. His voice is powerful, gritty and unmistakable. Even as trends in music change, Elliott’s voice remains timeless.

Journey, Def Leppard & Steve Miller Band In Concert
Source: Paras Griffin / Getty

It’s not just his voice that makes him great; Elliott knows how to own a stage. Whether it’s a sold-out arena or a huge festival crowd, he brings the energy every single time. He connects with the audience, not just by singing, but by making the audience part of the show. His confidence and cool lets the crowd know.

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Elliott also helped lead Def Leppard through tough times, like the tragic death of guitarist Steve Clark and drummer Rick Allen’s car accident. Instead of folding, the band pushed through. Elliott kept it all together with heart and focus. That kind of leadership matters.

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For guys who grew up in the ’80s or ’90s, Elliott is the sound of youth, cars and cranking up the volume. Even now, he’s still out there touring, proving that rock and roll doesn’t have an expiration date.

He’s not just a rock singer: Joe Elliott is a legend who has earned every bit of that title.