If we are being honest, these lists are exciting to debate and assemble. But there is not a way to definitively say that there is a top 50 of anything.
Artistic expression is subjective and therefore this list is what the team managed to produce after a long and intense debate
But we thought the shit through and hammered out a new take on the 50 Greatest Frontmen of Rock.
Right out of the gate it was obvious that certain names would not make the cut as they simply could stand next the true titans of the genre…at least not yet.
There are a lot of new faces that could likely replace several names on the list in 10 hell maybe even five years from now.
Historical context favored some and alluded others and like anything that evolves, that will change in time.
Our formula took into consideration strong vocal mannerisms (not to be confused with technical ability), longevity, stage presence, attitude, songwriting, technical ability and what the individual contributed to the rock’s various genres and subgenres.
There are those that set trends, those that kept up with trends and those that blatantly ripped off the first two. Lets take a look at the first five to make the cut.
#50 Lajon Witherspoon (Sevendust)
Weatherspoon is by far the most contested name to make it into the fray. However, its is not due to a lack of any of the traits that make up a superior frontman. In fact, the ONLY problem with his inclusion is that his band Sevendust are not the proverbial multi-platinum artists that dominate this list.
Popularity does not have anything to do with just due. For three decades Witherspoon has been the pinnacle of consistency, leading his unit through countless arena, festival, theater, and club shows.
His soulful vocal prowess shifts from aggressive growls to melodic soars at the drop of a dime.
Performance-wise Witherspoon simply throws down. Google Sevendust concert reviews and you will be incredibly hard pressed to find disappointed ticket buyers that walked away anything less than drained after their high-energy marathons.
In the studio, Witherspoon’s vocals played a large role in the creative success of their three classic LPS Sevendust, Home and Animosity in addition to the rest of their celebrated catalog.
As the Sevendust saga begins to wind down, do not be surprised to see a solo run that bears serious fruit.
#49 Hayley Williams
The multi-instrumentalist and driving force behind alt-rock gems Paramore has cemented her place in history.
Williams has silenced all the ‘yeah buts’ that have followed her throughout her career.
Initially pigeonholed as a southern emo girl, Williams grew up in front of the eyes of the world and flexed her four-octave vocal range both onstage and in the studio.
Her technical gifts, signature wails and songwriting chops provides Paramore and her solo work the opportunity to incorporate various influences into the fold that has eluded their peers.
Onstage, Williams is nothing short of manic ball of energy that can focus her internal chaos and create a unique experience.
The greatest imprint that Williams has left on the millions that are paying attention is her willingness to share her struggles, victories and desire to be nothing more than herself.
#48 Brian Johnson (AC/DC)
Brian Johnson has been without a doubt the most successful voice to lead the charge of Australia’s signature misfits AC/DC.
Johnson had the unenviable task of replacing the group’s first singer Bon Scott who died from hedonistic excess.
Stepping in to push them forward with the 1980’s Back In Black, Johnson’s barroom growl elevated hard rock classics such as “ Have A Drink On Me” and ‘ Giving The Dog A Bone.”
The anthems contained on his debut sold over 50 million records worldwide and cemented Johnson’s workmanlike approach in rock history.
Four decades later, Johnson and his boys continue to roll strong on the strength of other gems such as “Black Ice,” For Those About To Rock” and the sports staple “Thunderstruck.
#47 G.G. Allin
To exclude the anarchistic chaos that defined the life of GG Allin would be to ignore a vital part of the American punk movement.
Hated for his words, actions and disturbing gigs that often included the distribution of bodily fluids, feces and pure violence, GG Allin at the very least backed his crazy ass words up with crazier fucking actions.
Slammed by some for his controversial lyrics, it must be stated that GG Allin hated everyone and based on his consistent suicidal declarations this included himself. Allin was a pure tornado that reflected the ugly side of everything that society had to offer. Decades after his death by overdose, many still are trying to make sense of the recordings and live footage that were left behind.
While there may have been nothing musical about Allin, its impossible to forget that he was here and that his nihilistic intent will never be forgotten.
#46 Anthony Kiedis
With over 40 years in the game, Red Hot Chili Peppers front man Anthony Kiedis was an alternative icon before the term was fashionable.
A product of the early 80’s California music scene, Kiedis and his bandmates infuse funk, alternative rock, pop and a punk attitude into a sound that is flexible and endearing.
Live, Kiedis’ charisma has allowed to him to pull off various costumes and props. He has stormed the stage with as little as a sock on and as much as a full light bulb ensemble.
Technically a baritone, Kiedis has his own style that feels muscular yet fluid.
Able to channel aggression joy and melancholy, Anthony Kiedis is a large part of the reason why the Red Hot Chilli Peppers can rock the party or serve as the soundtrack to sadness.
