Skid Row without Sebastian Bach?!? Say it ain’t so! Though actually, despite the many cautionary tales about replacing a beloved frontman (Van Halen, The Velvet Underground, Journey), there are a few success stories, namely:
1
AC/DC, “Let’s Get It Up” (For Those About to Rock, 1981) We’re not saying Brian Johnson holds a candle to Bon Scott, but his 28 years in the band can’t be dismissed completely.
2
Buzzcocks, “Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t Have)” (Love Bites, 1978) Okay, okay, so Howard Devoto only sang on the first EP, but technically speaking Pete Shelley isn’t the original lead vocalist.
3
Iron Maiden, “The Clairvoyant” (Seventh Son of a Seventh Son, 1988) Did ya know there were not one, not two, but three singers before Bruce Dickinson took the helm? Of course you did.
4
Black Flag, “Rise Above” (Damaged, 1981) Keith Morris may have gotten ’em started, but Henry Rollins made ’em famous.
5
Genesis, “Home By the Sea” (Genesis, 1983) Don’t laugh. The post-Gabriel era wasn’t devoid of substance, “I Can’t Dance” to the contrary.
6
Can, “Halleluhwah” (Tago Mago, 1971) Malcolm Mooney came first, but it’s Damo Suzuki’s three early-’70s albums that most fans revere as the peak era for these kraut-rockers.
7
Faith No More, “Falling to Pieces” (The Real Thing, 1989) We cared a lot about Chuck Mosley, until Mike Patton hopped onboard.
8
Deep Purple, “Highway Star” (Machine Head, 1972) In their hearts, even Rod Evans and David Coverdale know the Purple was at its best when Ian Gillan held the reigns.
9
Mercury Rev, “Goddess on a Hiway” (Deserter’s Songs, 1998) The Rev was more unpredictable with David Baker involved, but Jonathan Donahue has had his share of memorable moments as well.
10
Pink Floyd, “Shine on You Crazy Diamond” (Wish You Were Here, 1975) Syd Barrett’s early years will always occupy a special place in our hearts, but it’s tough to imagine the Floyd without David Gilmour at the mic.
Skid Row. January 11, 8 p.m., $10. Sunset Station’s Club Madrid, 547-4300.