Using special effects and lighting to enhance an artists’ performance is a well-known staple of the music industry, but which are the most theatrical bands of all time? From insane costumes, to blown-up hair and on-stage theatrics, these bands carry the drama badge fearlessly on their chest and managed to gain a cult-like following throughout their careers. Like the 10 most influential songs of all time, which we covered in a previous article, these musicians stand out for their musical talent but also for their creativity.
Now, we all know a live show is more entertaining when acrobats are flying through the air and the stage is on fire, but some artists have made theatricality their trademark. In fact, the musical sub-genre art rock focuses on uniting rock and roll music with an artistic approach, emphasizing motion, rhythmic color and visual effects. So, let’s take a look at most theatrical bands of all time and see what makes them so unique.
7. Van Halen
David Lee Roth and company may not have been keen on wearing much in the way of clothing on stage, however their drama is fueled by acrobatic kicks, hair-flinging and a die-hard rock and roll attitude. During their success peak in the 70’s and 80’s, Van Halen was known for putting on impressive shows that always left people wondering if David Lee was a trained dancer (due to his perfected ballet splits and kicks) or just highly strung. Either way, this band knew how to entertain.
The six most theatrical bands of all time are ready to show their stuff; read on to find out who they are.
6. Marilyn Manson
One of the most frightening performers in the music business, Marilyn Manson can’t fail to be on this list. The Ft. Lauderdale native takes theatricality to the limit, engaging his audience in a visual and psychological over-stimulation. From his costumes (which include color contact lenses, layers of make-up and questionable accessories) to his pornographic scenes on stage, Manson could probably rock out in a horror musical and still be successful.
5. Iron Maiden
How many bands can say they have a mutating mascot? Well, Iron Maiden for one. Leaving aside Bruce Dickinson’s vitality and energy, the mere fact that the band created and incorporated Eddie the Head on all their album covers is enough to put them on the list of most theatrical bands. The terrifying Eddie also appears on stage in every Iron Maiden show, and can take on the form of a cyborg, Egyptian mummy, or zombie according to the album theme.
4. Queen
At the hand of Freddie Mercury, this band managed to incorporate opera dramatics like no other. The lead singer’s wide vocal range and his use of harmonies gave Queen their signature style: an explosive sound that left audiences around the globe in awe. Mercury was also a master of conveying emotion on stage through his expressions and theatrical interpretations.
3. Kiss
We mentioned Kiss co-leader Gene Simmons in a different article for his infamous groupie love, but the bassist gained his fame in a demon costume that drove the masses wild. For over two decades, this band has mastered the art of on-stage theatrics, with fake blood and tongue-slashing just one aspect of their performances. Then there’s the smoke, leather, spikes, and other visual elements that added more fuel to Kiss’ dramatic performances.
2. Ozzy Osbourne
While Black Sabbath brings its fair share of drama to the table, I think front-man Ozzy Osbourne takes the cake as one of the craziest performers in rock-and-roll history. Why? Well, he bit off a dove’s head during a live solo concert in 1981, causing a mass controversy, and then repeated the biting act a year later, but this time with a bat. If belting out a heavy metal tune with real animal blood dripping down your throat doesn’t classify as theatrical, I don’t know what does.
1. Genesis
Before Genesis welcomed Phil Collins into their circle, the band was known for their experimental sound and on-stage psychedelics. Peter Gabriel, who fronted the band in the early 70’s, was an art-rock pioneer and took that sub-genre by storm, incorporating some truly unique costume and make-up designs to his performances. From flowers to aliens, there was no limit to Genesis’ creativity.
