When the Sub Became the Star
Rock’s Ultimate Switcheroo: When the Sub Became the Star
You think you’re just filling in. A couple of gigs, a few rehearsals or maybe a photo in Rolling Stone magazine. Next thing you know, you’re headlining Monsters of Rock and have someone else’s groupies. That’s right, we’re talking about the unsung heroes (until they weren’t) who started off as the backup plan and ended up stealing the whole spotlight.
Here are the legendary musicians who were supposed to be temps, but ended up lifers.
1. Phil Collins (Genesis)
Originally just the drummer. Then Peter Gabriel decided to trade prog-rock for face paint and experimental art-pop. With no real Plan B, the band turned to Phil to just sing on a few demos. Oops. Turns out, he could sing and sell records. Millions of them.
Result: Drummer turned frontman turned solo megastar. Gabriel who?
2. Brian Johnson (AC/DC)
Bon Scott had one of the most iconic voices in rock and when he passed in 1980, the band could’ve folded. Instead, they found this Geordie with a cap and a screech that could melt chrome. Back in Black wasn’t just a comeback, it was a rock resurrection.
Result: Brian was “temporary” for about 10 seconds. He’s still screaming.
3. Ronnie Wood (The Rolling Stones)
After Mick Taylor bailed, Ronnie joined as a touring guitarist. The fit was so perfect it was like he’d been genetically engineered by Keith Richards himself. A few shows turned into a few decades.
Result: He’s now been a Stone for nearly 50 years. Mick Taylor who?
4. Neil Peart (Rush)
Peart replaced original drummer John Rutsey right before Rush’s first major tour. He was just the “new guy” until he started writing lyrics and playing like a drum god from another planet.
Result: Became the brain, brawn and soul of Rush.
5. Joe Walsh (Eagles)
Originally brought in to replace Bernie Leadon, Joe was supposed to bring a little rock grit. He ended up reinventing the Eagles’ sound.
Result: Life in the Fast Lane. Enough said.
6. Sammy Hagar (Van Halen)
After David Lee Roth karate-kicked himself out of the band, Sammy was the last-minute call. Red Rocker? More like Red Savior.
Result: Four #1 albums and a fan base that still fights over which era rocked harder.
Bottom Line?
Sometimes the understudy becomes the star. In the high-stakes world of rock ‘n’ roll, it’s not about who started the band, but about who finished the set.
