While many music enthusiasts associate solo artists primarily with pop, country, and R&B genres, the rock scene also boasts a rich history of successful solo careers. Unlike the most recognized bands like Green Day or the Rolling Stones, many rock musicians have successfully launched independent careers alongside or after their time in bands. For example, Corey Taylor is known for balancing his solo endeavors with his role in Slipknot. In some cases, artists carve out their own paths, leaving their bands to find success solo.
The journey into solo artistry can often stem from a variety of circumstances. Some musicians may feel compelled to pursue solo careers out of necessity, while others may seek creative freedom as a band begins to disband. Regardless of the reasons, the solo careers within the rock genre have resulted in some of the most memorable songs and albums, allowing fans to find solace in their favorite artists’ ongoing success after their original bands have parted ways.
10 Jack White
Formerly Of The White Stripes
Jack White’s impact on music is undeniable, especially with the unforgettable riff of “Seven Nation Army,”a song that transcends genres and is frequently heard in various settings including sports arenas. White, along with Meg White, formed the White Stripes, a duo that thrived from 1997 to 2011. After the band’s dissolution, fans eagerly anticipated White’s next moves.
In his solo journey, Jack White has released six studio albums—outpacing his work with the White Stripes. He’s made strides beyond music as well, serving on the board of the Library of Congress National Recording Preservation Foundation and setting records in vinyl sales with his 2014 album. The artist’s impressive accolades include 12 Grammy Awards, showcasing his knack for both individual success and collaboration.
9 John Fogerty
Formerly Of Creedence Clearwater Revival
Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) secured their legacy with seven studio albums released between 1968 and 1972, achieving a remarkable fourteen consecutive Top 10 singles. However, internal conflicts ultimately led to the band’s split. John Fogerty emerged from this turmoil with a robust solo career, producing hits like “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?”and “Bad Moon Rising,”solidifying his status as a prolific songwriter.
Fogerty’s solo efforts have earned him a place as one of the most celebrated songwriters in history, recognized by Rolling Stone as the 40th greatest songwriter of all time. His extensive catalog demonstrates that while he shares a rich history with CCR, his solo legacy is equally remarkable.
8 Joan Jett
Formerly Of The Runaways
Joan Jett is often hailed as one of rock’s greatest icons. Initially, she made her mark with the Runaways, producing four albums in under five years, but the band’s split in 1979 paved the way for Jett’s stellar solo career. Unburdened by competition within the group, she created legendary tracks like “I Love Rock N’ Roll,”earning her true acclaim as a solo artist.
Jett’s influence remains profound, especially with songs like “Bad Reputation,”famously adopted by UFC Hall of Famer Ronda Rousey. Her achievement was solidified in 2015, when she and her band, the Blackhearts, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career.
7 Sting
Formerly Of The Police
The Police dominated the rock scene throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, culminating in five platinum albums before the band disbanded in 1984. This provided Sting with a launchpad for a diverse solo career that spanned multiple genres, including jazz and reggae. Not only did he continue to release music, but Sting also pursued acting and Broadway roles, carving a unique niche for himself outside the band’s legacy.
Sting has received numerous accolades, including Brit Awards and Grammy Awards, and has even garnered nominations for an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and four Academy Awards, demonstrating that his artistic pursuits extend well beyond music.
6 Gwen Stefani
Formerly Of No Doubt
No Doubt emerged during the late 1980s, achieving fame with their distinctive ska sound, particularly with hits like “Don’t Speak”and “Just a Girl.”Although their success was significant, Gwen Stefani’s solo career has proven equally impactful. Stefani has continuously evolved, making contributions not only to pop music but also dabbling in country, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
Even though No Doubt has reunited sporadically, Stefani’s solo endeavors consistently maintain the iconic standard established during the band’s peak, ensuring her place in music history.
5 Robert Plant
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin remains a powerhouse in music history, with their brief yet explosive career contributing to their lasting fame. Robert Plant, as the band’s frontman, has remained a highly sought-after live performer since their disbandment. His solo career includes eleven studio albums and numerous collaborative projects, notably with former bandmate Jimmy Page.
Plant’s concerts may not often feature Led Zeppelin’s classics, but audiences treasure his presence. His contributions to music have solidified his status as a legend, influencing countless artists and shaping the rock genre.
4 Paul Simon
Simon & Garfunkel
Long before his recent collaborations, Paul Simon gained fame alongside Art Garfunkel, creating timeless pieces that resonated with audiences worldwide. Together, they produced five studio albums, obtaining three No. 1 hits from 1963 to 1970 before parting ways. Though their paths diverged, Simon’s solo career has flourished, with fifteen studio albums to date, including his latest release, *Seven Psalms* in 2023.
Beyond music, Simon’s commitment to philanthropy and his appearances in television solidify his place in entertainment history, complemented by two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
3 Eric Clapton
Formerly Of The Yardbirds, Cream, Blind Faith, & Derek and the Dominos
Eric Clapton’s evolution as an artist saw him traverse several iconic bands, including The Yardbirds and Cream. His stint with Derek and the Dominos resulted in the legendary track “Layla,”contributing to his stature as one of music’s greatest guitarists. Clapton’s solo career skyrocketed, leading to over 280 million records sold worldwide.
Crowned by Billboard as one of the most successful artists of all time, Clapton still captivates audiences, particularly with his acclaimed 1992 *Unplugged* album. Notably, he’s the only artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times.
2 Paul McCartney
Formerly Of The Beatles
The legacy of the Beatles is unparalleled in both music and cultural history, selling over 600 million records worldwide. After a decade of phenomenal success, the band disbanded, yet each member carved out an impressive solo career. Paul McCartney stands out in this journey, amassing over 100 million records in his post-Beatles career and collaborating with icons like Michael Jackson and Rihanna.
His recognition includes two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, earning him a place among musical titans like Michael Jackson and Ozzy Osbourne.
1 Ozzy Osbourne
Formerly Of Black Sabbath
Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath fundamentally transformed heavy metal with their groundbreaking music debut in 1970. Classics like “Iron Man”and “Paranoid”set the standard for the genre. After leaving the band following eight successful albums, Ozzy embarked on a solo career that has sold over 50 million albums across 13 releases.
His collaborations with notable guitarists like Randy Rhoads and Zakk Wylde have solidified his place in rock history. As a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Ozzy continues to enchant fans and inspire new generations of artists, proving that his creativity is boundless.