Band-members, Musicians and Performers
- Gary Barden - lead vocals
- Michael Schenker - lead guitar
Michael Schenker, a renowned guitarist from Germany, is widely recognized for his exceptional skills and contributions to the world of rock and metal music. Born on January 10, 1955, in Sarstedt, Germany, Michael grew up in a family of musicians, with his father playing the violin and his mother singing opera. This musical environment had a profound influence on Michael's development as a musician.
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At the age of 15, Michael Schenker gained prominence when he joined the Scorpions, a popular German rock band, in 1970. His exceptional guitar skills and unique style quickly made him stand out. Michael's time with the Scorpions led to the release of their debut album, "Lonesome Crow", in 1972, showcasing his incredible talent at a young age.
However, it was with the British rock band UFO that Michael Schenker truly made his mark on the international music scene.
He joined UFO
in 1973 and became a key member of the band. His guitar work on albums like "Phenomenon" (1974), "Force It" (1975), and "No Heavy Petting" (1976) showcased his versatility and melodic sensibilities, earning him recognition as one of the most influential guitarists of the era.
In 1978, Michael Schenker left UFO to form his own band,
the Michael Schenker Group (MSG)
. The band's self-titled debut album, released in 1980, received critical acclaim and further established Michael as a virtuoso guitarist. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, MSG released a series of successful albums, including "Assault Attack" (1982) and "Perfect Timing" (1987), solidifying Michael's reputation as a leading figure in the world of rock and metal.
While pursuing his solo career with MSG, Michael Schenker maintained a connection with his former bands. He rejoined the Scorpions briefly in the early 1990s, contributing to their albums "Crazy World" (1990) and "Face the Heat" (1993). However, due to creative differences and personal reasons, he departed from the Scorpions once again.
Michael's guitar playing style is characterized by his impressive technical ability and his incorporation of neoclassical elements, blending melodic hooks with intricate solos. He has been a significant influence on subsequent generations of guitarists and played a pivotal role in the development of the neoclassical metal genre.
Over the years, Michael Schenker has continued to release albums and tour extensively, captivating audiences worldwide with his electrifying performances. His discography includes notable releases such as "Bridge the Gap" (2013) and "Resurrection" (2018), featuring collaborations with prominent musicians and showcasing his evolution as an artist.
- Derek St. Holmes - rhythm guitar, backing vocals, co-lead vocals on "I'm Gonna Make You Mine"
- Andy Nye - keyboards, backing vocals
- Chris Glen - bass
- Ted McKenna - drums, percussion
Edward McKenna Edward McKenna was a Scottish drummer who played with The Sensational Alex Harvey Band,
Rory Gallagher
,The Greg Lake Band, and
The Michael Schenker Group.
He also toured with Ian Gillan for a short period of time in 1990, alongside fellow former SAHB member, bassist Chris Glen. He lectured in Applied Arts at North Glasgow College from 1996–2011. (Source; wikipedia)
- Klaus Meine - co-lead vocals on "Doctor Doctor"
Klaus Meine is a renowned German vocalist and songwriter, best known as the lead singer of the legendary rock band, Scorpions. Born on 25 May 1948, in Hannover, Germany, Meine's powerful and distinctive voice has become synonymous with the band's iconic sound.
Meine's love for music blossomed at a young age. Inspired by his father's love for jazz and swing, he started singing and playing the guitar during his teenage years. His early influences included vocalists like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, who played a significant role in shaping his vocal style.
In 1965, Klaus Meine joined a local band called Copernicus, where he honed his singing skills and gained valuable experience as a performer. However, his breakthrough came in 1969 when he received an invitation to audition for a band called Scorpions. At that time, Scorpions were a relatively unknown band, but Meine's remarkable vocal range and stage presence impressed the other members, and he became the lead vocalist of the band.
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Under Meine's leadership, Scorpions went on to achieve international success. Their hard rock sound, infused with melodic ballads and powerful anthems, captivated audiences worldwide. Meine's dynamic voice, with its soaring highs and emotional depth, became a trademark of the band's music.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Scorpions released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including "Lovedrive" (1979), "Blackout" (1982), and "Love at First Sting" (1984). These albums featured hit songs such as "Rock You Like a Hurricane", "No One Like You", and "Still Loving You", which solidified the band's reputation as one of the most influential rock acts of the era.
Meine's songwriting contributions played a significant role in Scorpions' success. He penned lyrics that resonated with listeners, tackling themes of love, relationships, and societal issues. His heartfelt ballads, such as "Wind of Change" and "Send Me an Angel", became anthems of hope and unity, reaching the top of charts worldwide.
Despite numerous lineup changes and shifts in the music industry, Meine remained the driving force behind Scorpions. The band continued to release albums and tour extensively, showcasing Meine's remarkable vocal prowess and enduring passion for music.
In addition to his work with Scorpions, Klaus Meine has also collaborated with other artists. He provided guest vocals for various songs and appeared on projects such as the Michael Schenker Group's album "Written in the Sand" (1996) and the Avantasia rock opera albums.
Klaus Meine's contributions to music have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the World Music Award for "Legend of Live Music" in 2010. His influence as a vocalist and songwriter extends far beyond Scorpions' dedicated fanbase, and his voice continues to resonate with rock enthusiasts around the world.
Today, Klaus Meine remains an iconic figure in the rock music scene. His distinctive voice, charismatic stage presence, and enduring talent have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time. As Scorpions continue to captivate audiences and perform live, Meine's contributions to the band and the world of music will always be cherished and remembered.
- Rudolf Schenker - guitar on "Doctor Doctor"
Rudolf Schenker is a legendary figure in the world of hard rock and heavy metal. Born on 31 August 1948, in Hildesheim, Germany, he would go on to become the founder, guitarist, and driving force behind the internationally acclaimed band Scorpions. With his distinctive guitar style, songwriting prowess, and occasional vocal contributions, Schenker has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Rudolf Schenker's musical journey began in the mid-1960s when he formed Scorpions. As the band's founder, he assembled a group of talented musicians who shared his vision for creating powerful and memorable rock music. Initially drawing influences from bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, Schenker and his bandmates embarked on a journey to carve out their unique sound.
Schenker's guitar playing became the centerpiece of Scorpions' music. His style blended elements of hard rock, heavy metal, and classical music, resulting in a distinct and captivating sound. His powerful riffs, melodic solos, and energetic stage presence helped define the band's identity and captivate audiences around the world.
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As a songwriter, Rudolf Schenker played a crucial role in shaping Scorpions' sound. His contributions to the band's catalog include some of their most iconic hits, such as "Rock You Like a Hurricane," "Wind of Change," and "Still Loving You." These songs, among many others, have become timeless classics and continue to resonate with fans across generations.
While primarily known as a guitarist, Schenker also showcased his vocal abilities on various occasions. His raw and passionate voice added an extra layer of intensity to the band's performances. His vocals can be heard on songs like "Catch Your Train" and "As Soon as the Good Times Roll," where he delivered memorable performances.
Throughout his career, Rudolf Schenker has been an influential figure in the German hard rock and heavy metal scene. His contributions to the genre have helped shape its evolution and inspired countless musicians. In recognition of his exceptional talent and influence, Schenker was inducted into the Guitar World Hall of Fame in 2014, a testament to his enduring legacy.
Beyond his musical endeavors, Schenker shares a familial bond with his brother, Michael Schenker, who is also a renowned guitarist, and his sister, Barbara Schenker. The Schenker siblings have all made significant contributions to the world of rock music, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Notably, Rudolf Schenker has developed a close association with the German guitar maker Dommenget. He uses guitars crafted by the renowned manufacturer, which have become synonymous with his distinctive sound and playing style.
With a career spanning several decades, Rudolf Schenker's impact on rock music cannot be overstated. As a founding member of Scorpions, he has played an instrumental role in the band's success and enduring popularity. His virtuosic guitar playing, songwriting abilities, and charismatic stage presence have cemented his status as one of the most important figures in the history of German hard rock and heavy metal.
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