In the realm of music, the phenomenon of supergroups often captivates fans, merging iconic talents into a single project. This trend, which began in the 1960s, continues to thrive today. While some well-known bands, such as Green Day and AC/DC, have maintained a stable lineup without members straying, others have witnessed their renowned artists venture out for unique collaborations. Guns N’ Roses, for instance, is notable for its guitarist Slash, who has made appearances in several side projects.
Typically, these supergroups do not signify the dissolution of their founding bands. Instead, they often represent short-term projects, usually yielding an album or two. The legacies of these collaborations are defined not by their longevity but by the incredible moments they create. In some instances, these collaborations blossom into full-fledged bands, providing musicians with a fresh avenue to continue their careers when they might otherwise be waning. Regardless of their motive for joining forces, what matters most is the magic produced when these remarkable talents collaborate.
10
Them Crooked Vultures
Active: 2009-2010
Despite releasing just one album, the collaboration of Them Crooked Vultures astonished fans. This supergroup brought together Josh Homme from Queens of the Stone Age, Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters fame, and John Paul Jones, the legendary bassist from Led Zeppelin. Each member had previously explored side projects, with Grohl also familiarizing himself with the supergroup concept through his work with the Foo Fighters and Nirvana.
In a touching reunion in September 2022 at Wembley Stadium and the Kia Forum, they performed to honor drummer Taylor Hawkins of the Foo Fighters, who had tragically passed away in March of that year. This project, although brief, included a Grammy-winning song, “New Fang.”Their 2009 debut album encountered commercial success, reaching number 12 on the Billboard 200. Despite expressing interest in future recordings, all that remains for now is the memory of their remarkable performances.
9
Chickenfoot
Active: 2008-2012
The band’s unconventional name, Chickenfoot, initially sparked curiosity. But fans knew they were in for a treat with the lineup, including Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony of Van Halen, Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and guitarist Joe Satriani. Over four years, Chickenfoot released two albums, showcasing their commitment to the project.
Although Chad Smith had to occasionally prioritize his primary band, the group produced impressive work. Unfortunately, their initial albums did not achieve the commercial performance necessary to support a third album, leading to their eventual stagnation. They managed a reunion for a show in 2016, but a return to the studio never materialized, illustrating the typical rhythm of supergroups—great potential interrupted by the demands of their primary commitments.
8
Angels & Airwaves
Active: 2005-Present
In the late ’90s and early 2000s, Blink-182 was a dominant force in rock music. However, as pressures mounted, band members Tom DeLonge, Mark Hoppus, and Travis Barker sought creative relief. DeLonge had previously engaged in side projects like Box Car Racer, but this time, he aimed to nurture something more enduring—a vision that materialized through Angels & Airwaves.
Over the years, DeLonge has enlisted members from bands like The Offspring and Nine Inch Nails, enabling Angels & Airwaves to release six studio albums, even after undergoing band member changes. DeLonge has kept this project alive, even during his time back with Blink-182 in 2023. Although fresh material has stalled, he insists that Angels & Airwaves is not finished yet.
7
Velvet Revolver
Active: 2002-2008
Fans of Guns N’ Roses rejoiced when Slash, Duff McKagan, and Matt Sorum formed Velvet Revolver, ultimately recruiting Scott Weiland from Stone Temple Pilots as their frontman. Their debut album, “Contraband,”released in 2004, magnified their star power by topping the Billboard 200 and receiving a Grammy Award. Alongside this, it achieved 2x Platinum status in the US.
Many anticipated that Velvet Revolver would replicate the monumental success of its predecessor bands, but the tide turned after the release of their 2007 sophomore album. Weiland’s departure marked the end of the group’s journey, compounded by his passing in 2015. While the revival seems unlikely, their remarkable debut continues to resonate with fans.
6
A Perfect Circle
Active: 1999-2004, 2010-Present
Maynard James Keenan, a towering figure in the music industry, leads the acclaimed band Tool and has ventured into various projects, one of which is the supergroup A Perfect Circle. This collaboration includes talents from Primus, Queens of the Stone Age, and Nine Inch Nails. A Perfect Circle made waves by releasing three successful albums during its initial run.
With Gold and Platinum certifications to their name, A Perfect Circle reunited in 2010 and later returned in 2018 with their fourth album, which, while not certified yet, made it onto multiple Billboard charts. As they continue to navigate individual projects, A Perfect Circle remains together, although recent developments may have delayed any new releases.
5
Audioslave
Active: 2001-2007
Following the dissolution of Rage Against the Machine, guitarists Tom Morello, Brad Wilk, and Tim Commerford sought a new vocalist and found Chris Cornell from Soundgarden. Their eponymous debut album dropped in 2002, cementing their place in rock history with hits like “Like a Stone”and “Show Me How to Live.”
The band enjoyed a successful run, achieving 3x Platinum for their debut and securing a Grammy nomination. However, the tragic passing of lead vocalist Chris Cornell in May 2017 brought their story to a somber halt. Their captivating sound may have faltered due to internal tensions, but Audioslave left an undeniable mark as a powerhouse collaboration.
4
HELLYEAH
Active: 2006-2021
After Pantera’s disbandment, drummer Vinnie Paul sought new beginnings following the tragic loss of his brother Dimebag Darrell in 2004. Thus, HELLYEAH was born, incorporating Mudvayne’s Chad Gray as the frontman. For 12 years, Vinnie Paul helmed the band, guiding them through the release of five studio albums until his passing in 2018.
Since then, HELLYEAH has gone on an indefinite hiatus, grappling with the challenge of moving forward without Vinnie. Their journey, although fraught with trials, showcased the drummer’s enduring talent and contributions to rock music. In a way, Vinnie ensured that his legacy lived on through this supergroup, engraving his name into the hearts of fans.
3
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Active: 1968-1970, 1973-1974, 1976-2015
Uniting the incredible talents of David Crosby (The Byrds), Graham Nash (The Hollies), and Stephen Stills (Buffalo Springfield), the legendary band Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN) took shape. They were later joined by Neil Young, expanding their influence as Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (CSNY). Together, they delivered five albums as a trio and three more as a quartet from 1969 through 1999.
The group’s journey was not without its issues, stemming from personal conflicts among the members. While they concluded on amicable terms, any chance of a future reunion vanished with David Crosby’s passing in 2023. Their illustrious history leaves behind a remarkable legacy, with a significant number of albums achieving Gold or Platinum status and illustrating the resilience typically absent in supergroup endeavors.
2
Traveling Wilburys
Active: 1988-1991
The Traveling Wilburys may have had a brief existence, yet their collective impact cannot be denied. Featuring legendary artists Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynne, and George Harrison, their works are among the best in music history. Their debut album achieved triple Platinum status shortly before the untimely passing of Roy Orbison in late 1988, which dramatically shifted the trajectory of the band.
Even after his death, they continued as a quartet, producing another Platinum album. Planned projects were hindered when George Harrison expressed reluctance towards future works, ultimately stifling the group’s momentum. Despite their brief run, the music world is eternally grateful for the legacy left by this extraordinary ensemble.
1
Cream
Active: 1966-1968
Cream is often heralded as the original supergroup, composed of the unrivaled talents of Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker, and Jack Bruce. Over their short-lived career, they produced four studio albums, with notable achievements including two Gold-certified and one Platinum-certified album. Their undeniable influence earned them an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.
Fans once speculated a potential reunion following their induction, but personal projects ultimately derailed those hopes. However, they briefly came together in 2005 for a series of concerts at the Royal Albert Hall and secured a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006. Their storied history from the ’60s is a testament to their lasting legacy, celebrated through numerous accolades over the years.