Complete List Of Alice Cooper Band Members

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Alice Cooper, originally known as Vincent Furnier before legally adopting the band’s name as his own, spearheaded one of the most iconic acts in rock history. The band Alice Cooper was formed in Phoenix, Arizona in 1964 and initially played under the name The Spiders, changing to Alice Cooper in 1968. The band’s style was a pioneering mix of shock rock and heavy metal that brought theatricality to rock music, with Cooper’s on-stage antics featuring guillotines, electric chairs, and fake blood. They first found commercial success with the hit single “I’m Eighteen” from the album Love It to Death, which was released in 1971. Following albums like School’s Out and Billion Dollar Babies catapulted them to stardom. The original Alice Cooper band released a total of seven albums before disbanding in 1974, after which Vincent Furnier adopted Alice Cooper as his stage name and continued his career as a solo artist with a different backing band.

Vincent Furnier (Alice Cooper)

Vincent Furnier, better known as Alice Cooper, was the lead vocalist and harmonica player for the original Alice Cooper band from its inception in 1964 until its dissolution in 1974. He was pivotal in developing the band’s theatrical brand of rock, which would become a significant influence on the genre of shock rock. Furnier contributed to all of the band’s early albums from Pretties for You (1969) to Muscle of Love (1973). Post the original band’s breakup, he embarked on a solo career, continuing to release albums under the Alice Cooper name such as Welcome to My Nightmare (1975) and maintaining a successful career with notable tracks like “Poison” from the album Trash (1989).

Glen Buxton

Glen Buxton was the lead guitarist for the Alice Cooper band and played a critical role in the band from its formation until 1974. Known for his distinctive guitar riffs, Buxton was a key contributor to the band’s most successful albums, including the hit Billion Dollar Babies. His guitar work was central to the Alice Cooper sound, combining elements of hard rock and early heavy metal. Buxton’s health issues and substance abuse problems led to his departure from active touring and recording by the mid-1970s, and he passed away in 1997.

Michael Bruce

Michael Bruce was the rhythm guitarist and keyboardist for the Alice Cooper band, also providing backing vocals and occasional lead vocals. He was with the band from the beginning until its breakup in 1974. Bruce was a significant songwriter within the group, contributing to many of the band’s hits, including co-writing songs on School’s Out and Billion Dollar Babies. After the band disbanded, Bruce attempted a solo career and also participated in various reunions with other original members.

Dennis Dunaway

Dennis Dunaway was the bassist for the Alice Cooper band from its formation until 1974. Dunaway’s complex bass lines were a foundational part of the band’s sound, contributing significantly across all their major albums. He was known for his theatrical stage presence, which complemented the band’s performances. Post-Alice Cooper, Dunaway continued to be involved in music, collaborating with various artists and participating in Alice Cooper reunions, including the recording of new music.

Neal Smith

Neal Smith was the drummer for the Alice Cooper band throughout its initial run until 1974. Smith’s powerful drumming style was crucial to the band’s energetic sound. He played on all of their early albums and was known for his flamboyant performance style that matched the band’s theatrical music. After the band’s breakup, Smith pursued various musical projects and briefly reunited with other members for collaborative efforts.

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