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Tesla is an American rock band formed in Sacramento, California, in 1985. Known for their energetic and bluesy sound, the group was originally named City Kidd before adopting the name Tesla during the recording of their first album. They are often associated with the hair metal scene despite their more classic rock and blues influences. Over the years, Tesla has released numerous albums and experienced various lineup changes while maintaining a consistent presence in the rock music scene. They’ve significantly impacted the genre, with a career that includes charting singles, platinum albums, and extensive touring. The band has gone through a hiatus and several reunions, continuing to perform and release new music into the 21st century.
Jeff Keith
Jeff Keith is the lead vocalist and a founding member of Tesla, forming the band in 1984. Since its inception, he has been a constant member, contributing to all of Tesla’s studio albums. His raspy, soulful voice is a defining characteristic of the band’s sound. Before Tesla, Jeff was a part of the band City Kidd, which was the precursor to Tesla. Over the years, aside from his work with Tesla, Jeff has also participated in various charity works and occasionally collaborated with other artists, but his primary focus has been his work with Tesla.
Frank Hannon
Guitarist Frank Hannon, another founding member of Tesla, has been with the band since the beginning. He is known for his versatile guitar playing and has contributed significantly to each of Tesla’s albums. Before Tesla, Hannon was a member of the band Earthshaker, which was relatively short-lived. Outside of Tesla, he has a solo career with several albums to his name, showcasing his skills not just as a guitarist but also as a songwriter. His solo work often explores different genres and sounds, demonstrating his wide range of musical abilities.
Brian Wheat
Brian Wheat is the bassist for Tesla and one of its original members. His solid bass lines and backing vocals have been a staple in the band’s sound from the start. Along with his contributions to Tesla, Wheat has also worked in studio production and management roles. He’s known for his commitment to maintaining high audio quality in Tesla’s recordings and live performances. Brian has been with the band continuously since its formation and is involved in all of Tesla’s studio albums.
Troy Luccketta
Drummer Troy Luccketta joined Tesla in 1985 and has been a consistent presence ever since. His drumming style has been key to the band’s rhythm section, contributing to all of Tesla’s major releases. Before joining Tesla, Luccketta played with several other bands, honing his skills and style that he would later bring to Tesla. Apart from Tesla, he has occasionally worked with other artists and been involved in various music projects, but his primary focus remains with Tesla.
Dave Rude
Dave Rude joined Tesla in 2006 as a guitarist, replacing original member Tommy Skeoch. He brought a new energy to the band and has been involved in the albums released since his joining. Before Tesla, Rude had his own band, the Dave Rude Band, where he showcased his skills as a guitarist and songwriter. Even after joining Tesla, he continues to work on his personal projects, bringing a blend of classic and modern rock influences to the table.
Tommy Skeoch
Tommy Skeoch was one of the original guitarists for Tesla, known for his hard-hitting riffs and solos. He was with the band from its formation until 1994, then again from 1995 until his final departure in 2006. Skeoch’s time with Tesla saw him contributing to several of the band’s most successful albums and hits. After leaving Tesla, he has been involved in various musical projects and bands, continuing his career as a guitarist and songwriter.
Terry Thomas
Terry Thomas briefly joined Tesla as a keyboardist during the recording of the band’s 1994 album, “Bust a Nut.” Although not a long-term member, his contribution during this period helped shape the sound of the album with his keyboard work. Outside of Tesla, Thomas is better known for his work as a producer and songwriter, working with a variety of other artists and bands in the music industry.
Steve Brown
Steve Brown joined Tesla as the drummer and backing vocalist in 2021, becoming a part of the band’s latest lineup. He had previously served as a touring substitute in 2008 and 2009, demonstrating his proficiency and compatibility with the band’s music.
Steve Clausman
Steve Clausman was one of the initial members when the band was formed in 1981, marking the early days of what would later become Tesla. His time with the band was brief.
Robert “Bobby” Contreras
Robert “Bobby” Contreras was the drummer for Tesla (then known as City Kidd) from 1981 until 1984. His tenure covered the band’s formative years, contributing to the early sound and style before the band evolved into what would be recognized as Tesla.
Colleen Lloy
Colleen Lloy was a member of the band in its earliest incarnation, contributing guitar and lead vocals from 1981 to 1983 when the band was known as City Kidd.
Brook Bright
Brook Bright, along with Colleen Lloy, was part of the original lineup for City Kidd, the band that would eventually become Tesla. His contribution as a guitarist and vocalist from 1981 to 1983 helped shape the band’s early sound and direction.
Jeff Harper
Jeff Harper served as the lead vocalist for Earthshaker and City Kidd until April 1983. His tenure with the band was during its earliest phase.
Joey Murrieta
Joey Murrieta was a guitarist for the band in 1983, before Tesla’s breakout. His time with the band was during a period of transition and growth as they moved away from the City Kidd identity and towards becoming Tesla.
Curtis Chapman
Curtis Chapman played guitar for the band from 1983 to 1984, during the period when they were still known as City Kidd.
Complete List Of Telsa Band Members article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
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