The Rise and Fall of Solo Careers: 24 Artists from Popular Bands

Some of the most iconic musicians in history began their careers as part of a band. The decision to embark on a solo career often stems from various motivations, such as the desire for greater creative control, individual recognition, or differences within the group. However, not every artist succeeds in navigating the solo landscape. In this exploration, we delve into the intriguing realm of solo projects that failed to gain traction, examining the journeys of 24 artists who, despite their success in bands, encountered challenges in their solo endeavors.

Steven Page: “The Vanity Project” (2005)

Canada’s Barenaked Ladies enjoyed international success with hits like “One Week” and “Pinch Me,” largely represented by vocalists Ed Robertson and Steven Page. However, Page’s solo career, marked by albums like “The Vanity Project,” failed to make significant chart impact. Despite this, Page found solace in theatrical and soundtrack work, even rejoining Barenaked Ladies for a special performance at the 2018 Juno Awards.

J.C. Chasez: “Schizophrenic” (2004)

Following *NSYNC’s breakup, Justin Timberlake swiftly transitioned to solo success, while J.C. Chasez faced challenges with his album “Schizophrenic.” Despite strong tracks like the ’80s synthpop-inspired “Shake It,” the album failed to resonate, with critics dismissing it as boorish and creepy. Chasez later shifted to television, judging on “America’s Best Dance Crew.”

Natalie Maines: “Mother” (2013)

As part of The Chicks, Natalie Maines faced controversy for her comments on President George W. Bush. Her solo effort, “Mother,” featuring covers and originals, had limited appeal within her country-loving fanbase. Despite debuting at #17 on the U.S. charts, the album couldn’t sustain commercial success. Maines later rejoined The Chicks for the acclaimed 2020 album “Gaslighter.”

Scott Stapp: “The Great Divide” (2005)

Post-Creed, Scott Stapp’s solo album “The Great Divide” adhered closely to his established style but failed to make a lasting impact on the evolving rock scene. While Creed briefly reunited, Stapp’s solo ventures, including a 2019 release, struggled to match earlier successes, debuting at #137 on the charts.

Dan Wilson: “Free Life” (2007)

Semisonic’s Dan Wilson, known for hits like “Closing Time,” ventured into solo territory with “Free Life.” Despite his talent for melody, the album, characterized by midtempo compositions, failed to find a substantial audience. However, Wilson’s subsequent success as a producer and co-writer, contributing to hits like Adele’s “Someone Like You,” showcased his enduring influence in the music industry.

André Cymone: “AC” (1985)

André Cymone, Prince’s childhood friend and former bassist, embarked on a solo career with “AC.” While the album featured a hit in “The Dance Electric,” reaching #10 on the R&B charts, Cymone’s solo fame remained limited. He later found success as a songwriter and producer for artists like Jody Watley.

AJ McLean: “Have It All” (2010)

Backstreet Boys member AJ McLean’s solo debut, “Have It All,” failed to gain widespread attention, despite collaborations with *NSYNC’s J.C. Chasez. McLean’s solo efforts found chart success in Japan but struggled to make a mark elsewhere. Ultimately, McLean continued his musical journey with the Backstreet Boys.

Debbie Harry: “KooKoo” (1981)

Blondie’s Debbie Harry, known for iconic hits like “Heart of Glass,” released the solo album “KooKoo” in 1981. The album, marked by its hard-edged sound and collaboration with Nile Rodgers, received a Gold certification but fell short of replicating Blondie’s chart-topping success.

Joe Perry: “Joe Perry” (2005)

Aerosmith’s guitarist Joe Perry released his first solo album in 2005, sticking closely to the established rock sound. Despite moving a million units, “Joe Perry” failed to leave a lasting impression on the rock landscape. Perry continued his musical journey with Aerosmith and Hollywood Vampires.

Michelle Williams: “Heart to Yours” (2002)

Destiny’s Child member Michelle Williams ventured into gospel-pop with “Heart to Yours.” While the album became the best-selling gospel album of the year, subsequent releases did not generate the same level of buzz. Williams’ unique contribution to Beyoncé’s Coachella performance and appearances on “The Masked Singer” showcased her versatility beyond music.

Davy Jones: “Davy Jones” (1971)

Before joining The Monkees, Davy Jones released a solo album in 1965, followed by another in 1971 after the band’s dissolution. Hindered by contractual constraints and a shifting public image, Jones’s solo efforts failed to make a significant impact, and subsequent albums were niche recordings for dedicated fans.

Nicole Scherzinger: “Killer Love” (2011)

Nicole Scherzinger, known for her role in The Pussycat Dolls, faced challenges with her solo debut, “Killer Love.” Despite moderate success in the U.K., the album struggled to gain widespread recognition. Internal conflicts within The Pussycat Dolls contributed to the dissolution of the group.

Marcus Mumford: “Self-Titled” (2023)

Mumford & Sons frontman Marcus Mumford’s solo project, the self-titled “Marcus Mumford,” arrived amid challenges for the band. Featuring sparse instrumentation and a melancholic tone, the album reached its intended audience but fell short of achieving crossover success, debuting at #53 on the U.S. charts.

Walter Becker: “11 Tracks of Whack” (1994)

Following the disbandment of Steely Dan, Walter Becker released “11 Tracks of Whack,” featuring jazz-pop compositions. Despite Becker’s contribution to the horn arrangements and his history with Steely Dan, the solo effort did not achieve the same acclaim and Grammy nominations as his former bandmate Donald Fagen’s solo projects.

Tom Morello: “One Man Revolution” (2007)

Renowned for his role in Rage Against the Machine, Tom Morello ventured into folk music with “One Man Revolution.” The album, released under the moniker The Nightwatchman, faced challenges as fans familiar with Morello’s biting rock style were surprised by the acoustic folk tunes. Despite a dedicated fanbase, the album debuted at #119, with subsequent releases facing diminishing chart positions.

Tommy Lee: “Never a Dull Moment” (2002)

Mötley Crüe’s drummer Tommy Lee, known for his rap-metal project Methods of Mayhem, embarked on a solo career with “Never a Dull Moment.” The album, characterized by lackluster club bangers, failed to replicate the success of Lee’s previous endeavors. Despite ongoing solo efforts, Lee’s enduring connection remains with Mötley Crüe.

Proof: “Searching for Jerry Garcia” (2005)

D12’s DeShaun “Proof” Holton, considered the group’s best MC, faced challenges with his solo album “Searching for Jerry Garcia.” Despite featuring collaborations with prominent artists, the album struggled commercially. Proof’s tragic death in 2006 further overshadowed his solo efforts.

Belinda Carlisle: “Voila” (2007)

The Go-Go’s lead vocalist Belinda Carlisle explored French chanson with “Voila.” Despite showcasing her vocal versatility, the album faced challenges due to its departure from Carlisle’s pop-rock roots. “Voila” failed to make a lasting impact, with Carlisle returning to her pop roots in subsequent endeavors.

Bun E. Carlos: “Greetings from Bunezuela!” (2016)

Cheap Trick’s drummer Bun E. Carlos released “Greetings from Bunezuela!” featuring a collection of covers and collaborations. Despite his contributions to Cheap Trick’s success, the solo album did not capture widespread attention, and Carlos continues to contribute to the band’s ongoing legacy.

John Oates: “Phunk Shui” (2002)

While Hall & Oates achieved immense success, John Oates’ solo effort “Phunk Shui” failed to replicate that triumph. The album, blending pop and soul influences, did not gain significant traction despite Oates’ songwriting prowess. Oates later returned to collaborations with Daryl Hall and continues to perform as part of Hall & Oates.

Tracy Chapman: “Our Bright Future” (2008)

Renowned for her impactful debut album, Tracy Chapman’s later solo efforts, including “Our Bright Future,” struggled to match the success of her early career. Despite positive critical reviews, the album failed to make a significant commercial impact, and Chapman’s subsequent releases maintained a lower profile.

Damon Albarn: “Everyday Robots” (2014)

As the frontman for Blur and Gorillaz, Damon Albarn embarked on a solo career with “Everyday Robots.” While critically acclaimed for its introspective nature, the album did not capture the same level of commercial success as Albarn’s collaborative projects. Albarn remains a prolific figure, focusing on various musical endeavors beyond his solo work.

Conclusion

The journey from band success to solo stardom is fraught with challenges, and not every artist manages to navigate this transition successfully. While some find new avenues of creativity and recognition, others struggle to capture the magic that made their band endeavors legendary. These 24 artists showcase the diverse paths and outcomes that accompany the decision to go solo, illustrating that the road to individual success can be as unpredictable as it is rewarding.