Complete List Of Bad English Band Members

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I love supergroups, and this one was one of my favorites. I only wish they had released more than two albums, but that is the usual story with supergroups. You never usually get more than one or two. Bad English was formed in 1987, combining talents from notable bands including Journey and The Babys. The band’s lineup featured John Waite as lead vocalist, Neal Schon on guitar, Jonathan Cain on keyboards, Ricky Phillips on bass, and Deen Castronovo on drums. Bad English was known for their hit ballad “When I See You Smile,” which became a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The band released two albums, Bad English (1989) and Backlash (1991), before disbanding in 1992. Despite their brief time together, they left a lasting impact on the rock scene with their blend of hard rock and arena rock.

John Waite

John Waite was the lead vocalist of Bad English, having previously gained fame as the lead singer of The Babys and as a solo artist. Waite’s powerful vocals were a defining feature of Bad English’s sound. He played a crucial role on both of the band’s albums, contributing not only as a singer but also as a lyricist. His earlier hits include “Missing You,” a solo career highlight that mirrored the success he would later achieve with Bad English. After the band dissolved, Waite resumed his solo career and continues to record and perform.

Read More: Top 10 John Waite Songs

Neal Schon

Neal Schon, the guitarist for Bad English, brought with him a wealth of experience from his time with Journey, one of the most successful rock bands of the late 1970s and 1980s. Schon’s guitar work was central to Bad English’s rock sound, and his solos on tracks like “When I See You Smile” and “Price of Love” are particularly notable. Beyond Bad English, Schon continued his career with Journey and participated in various other musical projects, maintaining his reputation as a leading figure in rock guitar.

Read More: Top 10 Journey Songs

Jonathan Cain

Keyboardist Jonathan Cain was another member who came from Journey, where he was renowned for his songwriting and keyboard playing. In Bad English, Cain contributed significantly to the songwriting process, co-writing many of the band’s hits, including “When I See You Smile.” His expertise in crafting ballads and rock anthems was instrumental in shaping the band’s successful sound. Cain returned to Journey after Bad English disbanded and has remained an integral part of that band ever since.

Read More: Top 10 Babys Songs

Ricky Phillips

Bassist Ricky Phillips had been a member of The Babys alongside John Waite before joining Bad English. His bass playing provided the rhythmic foundation for the band’s music. After Bad English, Phillips joined Styx in 2003 and has been performing with them as their bass guitarist, bringing the same level of energy and professionalism that he contributed to Bad English.

Read More: Top 10 Bad English Songs

Deen Castronovo

Drummer Deen Castronovo joined Bad English after a stint with the band Journey, where he had initially played alongside Schon and Cain. His drumming added a dynamic element to Bad English’s sound, capable of both power and subtlety, which suited the band’s range from hard rockers to tender ballads. Post-Bad English, Castronovo rejoined Journey and later became a member of other projects, including Revolution Saints, which also showcases his vocal talents.

Read More: Top 10 Revolution Saints Songs