
Feature Photo: David Plastik, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Paul Kantner
Paul Kantner was one of the founding members of Jefferson Starship, having transitioned directly from Jefferson Airplane, where he was a key songwriter and visionary force. With Jefferson Starship, Kantner continued his role as a guitarist and vocalist and was instrumental in shaping the band’s direction. He contributed significantly to each of the band’s albums up until his departure in 1984 following the release of Nuclear Furniture. Kantner was known for his politically charged lyrics and futuristic themes, many of which culminated in the 1970 concept album Blows Against the Empire, credited to Paul Kantner and Jefferson Starship. After leaving, he occasionally participated in reunions with Jefferson Airplane and later reformed Jefferson Starship in the 1990s, continuing to perform with them until his death in 2016.
Grace Slick
Grace Slick, another carryover from Jefferson Airplane, joined Jefferson Starship at its inception and became one of the band’s most recognizable faces and voices. Her powerful vocals and charismatic presence were central to the band’s identity, particularly on hits from Red Octopus (1975), which includes the timeless track “Miracles.” Slick contributed to the band’s albums and performances until her departure in 1978, after which she rejoined the band from 1981 until 1988. Outside of Jefferson Starship, Slick had a solo career and was known for her distinctive, forceful vocal style and commanding stage presence.
Craig Chaquico
Craig Chaquico joined Jefferson Starship as lead guitarist at the young age of 20 in 1974, just as the band was forming. His fresh, energetic guitar work defined much of the sound of Jefferson Starship through the 1970s and 1980s. Chaquico played on all major Jefferson Starship albums from Dragon Fly to Love Among the Cannibals (1989). After his time with the band, he embarked on a successful career as a smooth jazz artist, releasing numerous acclaimed albums and becoming a major figure in that genre.
John Barbata
John Barbata joined Jefferson Starship in 1974 after previously playing with Jefferson Airplane and other notable bands like The Turtles and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. His drumming was featured on early Jefferson Starship albums such as Dragon Fly and Red Octopus. Barbata’s versatile style, capable of both powerful rock rhythms and subtler, more intricate patterns, was a key element of the band’s sound during his tenure. He remained with the band until 1978 when a car accident ended his active music career.
Papa John Creach
Papa John Creach first joined Jefferson Starship in 1974, infusing the group with his vibrant violin playing that added a distinct texture to their sound. His jazz and blues influences brought a unique flair to the band’s rock foundation. Creach was featured on several Jefferson Starship albums including Dragon Fly and Red Octopus, contributing memorable solos and enhancing the group’s live performances. His tenure with Jefferson Starship continued intermittently into the 1980s. Creach also had a fruitful solo career and collaborated with various other musicians, bringing his dynamic violin skills to a wide audience until his passing in 1994.
Peter Kaukonen
Peter Kaukonen, brother of Jorma Kaukonen from Jefferson Airplane, was involved with Jefferson Starship during the early 1970s, contributing guitar and bass guitar to early recordings and projects that would evolve into Jefferson Starship. Though his time with the band was not as prominently documented as other members, Kaukonen’s musicianship was part of the foundational period that helped transition from Jefferson Airplane to Jefferson Starship. Outside of Jefferson Starship, Peter has had an extensive career as a musician and has released several solo albums, exploring a range of styles from rock to blues.
Pete Sears
Pete Sears brought his skills as a bassist and keyboardist to Jefferson Starship from 1974 to 1987, playing a crucial role in the band’s musical development during their peak years. Sears contributed to many of the band’s successful albums such as Red Octopus, Spitfire, and Earth, and his musical versatility allowed the band to explore various musical landscapes. After leaving Jefferson Starship, Sears continued to have a prolific career, working with a wide array of artists across different genres and participating in numerous musical projects, including playing with the David Nelson Band and Moonalice.
Marty Balin
Marty Balin, one of the founding members of Jefferson Airplane, was instrumental in the formation of Jefferson Starship, although he did not join immediately when the band was renamed in 1974. He rejoined the group in 1975 and was a key part of the band until his departure in 1978. Balin’s songwriting and distinctive vocals were crucial on albums like Red Octopus, which features the hit “Miracles,” a song he penned that became one of the band’s biggest hits. After his time with Jefferson Starship, Balin resumed his solo career and occasionally reunited with former band members for tours and albums. His impact on Jefferson Starship was significant, helping to define the softer, more melodic aspect of the band’s sound during his tenure.
David Freiberg
David Freiberg first joined Jefferson Starship in 1974, having previously been a co-founder of Quicksilver Messenger Service. His multifaceted musical skills as a vocalist, bassist, and keyboardist made him a versatile and valuable member of the band. Freiberg was integral in shaping the sound of Jefferson Starship during its early years, contributing to seminal albums such as Dragon Fly and Red Octopus. After leaving the band in the early 1980s, he returned in the 2000s and continues to be a key member, bringing stability and a deep historical connection to both the band’s legacy and its evolving musical journey. Freiberg’s long tenure with Jefferson Starship underscores his significant influence and commitment to the band’s ongoing success.
Donny Baldwin
Donny Baldwin became a member of Jefferson Starship in 1982, taking over the drumming duties during a pivotal time in the band’s history. His powerful drumming was featured on the albums Winds of Change and Nuclear Furniture, which showcased the band’s transition towards a more modern rock sound in the 1980s. Baldwin’s tenure with the band was marked by energetic live performances and solid contributions to their rhythmic and percussive framework. After a period away from the band following internal conflicts, Baldwin rejoined Jefferson Starship in the 2000s, continuing to provide the powerful drumming that the band’s music demands, and contributing to their live performances and recent recordings.
Darby Gould
Darby Gould joined Jefferson Starship as a vocalist in the late 1990s and early 2000s, bringing a strong and resonant voice that fit well with the band’s rock and roll style. Gould’s contributions during live performances and recordings helped maintain the dynamic and powerful vocal tradition of the band. She played an integral role in the band’s tours and was part of the lineup that helped revitalize Jefferson Starship’s presence in the rock music scene during her tenure.
Tim Gorman
Tim Gorman is a keyboardist who joined Jefferson Starship in the 1990s, bringing with him a rich background in rock music, having previously played with The Who and other notable groups. Gorman’s keyboard skills added a new layer of sonic texture to Jefferson Starship’s music, enhancing both their live performances and studio recordings. His ability to blend classic rock sounds with modern influences was a valuable addition to the band.
Diana Mangano
Diana Mangano was a vocalist for Jefferson Starship from the mid-1990s until 2008. Her voice had a clear, powerful presence that complemented the band’s rock-oriented tracks and helped continue the legacy of strong female vocals associated with Jefferson Starship’s earlier incarnations. Mangano’s performances contributed to the band’s ongoing appeal and she was a beloved member during her tenure, participating in numerous tours and album recordings.
Barry Flast
Barry Flast is a keyboardist and vocalist who was part of Jefferson Starship during the 1990s. He contributed to the band’s musical arrangements and provided backing vocals, adding depth to their sound. Flast’s experience as a musician in various genres allowed him to bring a unique perspective to the band’s performances, enhancing their overall musicality and stage presence during his time with them.
Gary Cambra
Gary Cambra played with Jefferson Starship in the late 1990s and early 2000s, contributing keyboards and guitar. His versatility was beneficial in live concerts and studio settings, helping to shape the band’s sound during a period of transition. Cambra’s multi-instrumental skills supported Jefferson Starship’s exploration of different musical styles and helped maintain the band’s reputation for musicianship.
Terry “T” Lavitz
Terry ‘T’ Lavitz was a distinguished keyboardist who briefly played with Jefferson Starship. Known primarily for his work with the jazz-rock band Dixie Dregs, Lavitz’s involvement with Jefferson Starship, though short-lived, brought a sophisticated, jazz-infused approach to their music. His expertise in keyboards enriched the band’s arrangements and provided a fresh take on their established sound.
Rachel Rose
Rachel Rose joined Jefferson Starship in a more recent lineup, contributing her vocals to the band’s legacy of powerful female singers. Rose’s involvement comes as part of the group’s continuous evolution and commitment to showcasing dynamic vocal talents. Her performances continue to resonate with both long-time fans and new audiences, ensuring the band remains relevant in the contemporary music scene.
Chris Smith
Chris Smith joined Jefferson Starship in 1998 as the keyboardist, bringing a fresh and energetic style to the band’s evolving sound. Smith’s expertise on the keyboards has been crucial in defining the modern soundscapes of Jefferson Starship’s music, especially during live performances. His ability to blend classic rock elements with new technological influences has helped the band remain relevant in the contemporary music scene. Over the years, Smith has become a staple within the group, contributing to their studio recordings and being a prominent presence on stage during tours.
Cathy Richardson
Cathy Richardson took on the role of lead vocalist for Jefferson Starship starting in 2008, stepping into some very big shoes previously filled by legends like Grace Slick. Richardson’s powerful and emotive vocal delivery has been a significant asset to the band, helping to maintain the high energy and intensity for which Jefferson Starship is known. Before joining Jefferson Starship, Richardson was celebrated for her portrayal of Janis Joplin in the off-Broadway musical “Love, Janis,” which showcased her strong vocal abilities and stage presence. Her contributions to Jefferson Starship have helped rejuvenate the band’s dynamic and appeal to a new generation of fans, while respecting the legacy of their classic hits.
Jude Gold
Jude Gold joined Jefferson Starship in 2012 as the lead guitarist, adding a new layer of musical prowess to the band. Gold’s background in guitar education—he is the Director of the Guitar Program at Musician’s Institute in Hollywood—and his work as a contributing editor for Guitar Player magazine, have equipped him with a deep understanding of music, which he brings to every performance with Jefferson Starship. His innovative guitar techniques and flair for dynamic live performances have helped to redefine the band’s sound and have been integral in crafting the sonic direction of their recent projects.