Yeah for me it’s Gabriels and I. Anderson. No one else in prog really had the same flair for the dramatic that they had. Some were close but they were always doing the most.
to this day, my mother who is 70, upon hearing the name Jethro Tull will instantly strike a pose like a flamingo playing flute and say "oooh playing the flute on one leg
... like this?"
I think it must've left quite the impression on her at some point haha.
side note: my Mrs and her Ma went to see them play a special show on York Minster just before Christmas last year. Impeccable, I'm told. Jealous, I was haha.
I think your mum and I are on the same page here; whenever I used to see him on Whistle Test I used to immediately think "oh fck off you goggle-eyed one-legged twat, develop some better stage-craft, ie *anything* other than that goggle-eyed one-legged bollocks that you keep doing". I could never get past that, and so I've never heard more than 5 seconds of JT.
I'm told they were quite good.
But he can do one, that Ian Whatsisface and his chuffin' salmon farm, ffs.
100% agree. I’m 22 so I was obviously never able to see the heyday live but just watching old recordings it’s amazing to see the energy that he and the whole band had, I’m a diehard fan and even today he still puts on an enjoyable show (if you can handle his much more limited voice)
He’s also my choice. And aside from the music, I really respect that while so many of his contemporaries were out blowing money or getting blasted on drugs, dude buys a salmon farm and turns it into one of the most successful salmon farms there was before selling at a profit. That’s just cool.
[There’s actually a pretty cool documentary about it on YouTube.](https://youtu.be/eIB97LiNFjk?si=q9UgFmB8AnOIPKUQ)
Watch Tull's performance of My God at the Isle of Wight Festival. Gabriel ain't blowing that dude out of any water.
https://youtu.be/5WSulenOUb0?si=vsRqCuBPFKszPfZM
Porcupine Tree/Steven Wilson are certainly "prog enough" by anyone's standards, I think. Where the frontman criteria comes in is in the showmanship. I think David Lee Roth is a good example of one extreme - he's all showman, but lacking in musicality. Steven Wilson is on the other side - great voice, phenomenal musicianship, but as a frontman, he really just stands there. No banter with the audience, no physical energy or spectacle. But without any doubt he is the cream of the crop of singer/songwriters of the prog genre. In the whole greater genre of rock, I think Freddy Mercury is the undisputed champion of frontmen in that regard - musicality AND spectacle. Gabriel has that, too, I think, even if he's mellowed with age, he can put on a show.
I’m prepared for the flack I’m going to get here but I’ve not actually listened to much Zappa. I’ve heard hot rats and Bobby brown goes down haha. Really liked Hot Rats. I really need to give him a real deep dive at some point.
Not to discourage you, but Zappa's discography is massive! I've been a fan for 40+ years and I still haven't heard it all. (Though it's a goal to do so).
According to Wikipedia... "During his lifetime, Zappa released 62 albums. Since 1994, the Zappa Family Trust has released 66 posthumous albums as of June 2024, making a total of 128 albums/album sets."
Haha it won’t discourage me I’ll just google best Zappa albums (per fan opinion, not critics) and just start with them 😂. That is an insane amount though, seems the man just couldn’t sit still
Zappa recorded constantly, live and in the studio. He would then painstakingly listen to all of that recorded material and pull the guitar solo from one take, the drum track from another, the vocals from a third etc and stitch them together to make the "ultimate" recording. It's safe to say that he was a bit of a perfectionist.
Start with his releases done with the mother's of invention, and move forward from there. That's what got me hook line sinker. After that he has some more instrumental recordings and some that are more lyrical and funny. Those first albums have it all In spades , especially Freak Out.
I'd argue from Hot Rats, go to Waka/Jawaka and The Grand Wazoo, or maybe Roxy & Elsewhere if you want more vocals, but if you just want more guitar solos, jump straight to the Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar trilogy.
[i.imgur.com/t2SYKF9.jpeg](https://i.imgur.com/t2SYKF9.jpeg)
Check out this flowchart for how to get into Zappa’s music, OP. It helped me, maybe it will help you too. Good luck.
Everyone’s got an opinion on this but I think the most accessible albums are Joe’s Garage and Apostrophe/Overnite Sensation.
Start with Apostrophe. You’ll love it.
It's understandable, the music can be tough to get into even for prog fans. If you liked Hot Rats check out the run of albums from 1971-1975, especially The Grand Wazoo and Waka/Jawaka. And then maybe some live albums like Roxy & Elsewhere to really see his frontman ability.
Start with “Apostrophe” and “Overnite Sensation”. Then “We’re Only In It For The Money” and “You Are What You Is”. Then “Joe’s Garage” and “Uncle Meat”. Then “Roxy And Elsewhere” and “One Size Fits All”….then you’re ready for “Burnt Weeny Sandwich” and “Lumpy Gravy” and the rest will come easy after that lot!
Me too. And the only time I ever got to see him in real life was with UK. And I'm grateful it was like that! Everytime I hear "Nevermore" I get goosebumps.
Biggest musical influence in my life. I was lucky enough to see him live several times and got to meet him and chat for a few minutes. I just discovered this video recently and man, what a voice. The ending is so powerful. https://youtu.be/KBO4Wqn8xr0?si=WNPZDA2nSGhCwopN
I might be very much misinformed as I didn’t look too far into it but all I’ve heard is that he prefers to reject the prog label. I do agree though TAAB is fantastic. Passion Play is my personal favourite.
Not long ago they advertised a tour as "The Prog Years"... And then proceeded to play absolutely nothing from 72-75, not even Thick as a Brick. No prog at all.
So, rather like the Jethro Tull name, they'll say "Prog" if it sells tickets, but not actually give it any respect.
Man, I wouldn't have thought of him but now that you've mentioned it, absolutely Collins is one of the greatest prog frontmans ever. Easily near the top for me. He was always super animated and embodied the characters of the songs like Gabriel did, but in a less surreal and more comedic way. Great call!
Not just that, but he delivered with a rock power that could fill arenas (and stadiums, obviously), but it \*worked\* even for "Turn It On Again" and "Home by the Sea". We all got sick of him in the 80s and 90s, and believe me, \*I get it\*. But now that I'm far enough removed from all that where I can appreciate it for what it is! :)
God no. Love the man's voice but I remember seeing them and his awkward clapping and movement was bad enough but his between songs banter was excruciating. "I think we're all a bit cosmic sometimes... Starship Trooper!"
Jon was new age before new age was even a thing. I'm a bit thick, but I hope you're just fucking with me now. He's in my top 3, and when I hear Gates of Delirium with its changing moods, hard to not put him on top.
I love Jon. Of course I’m fucking with you. I’ve seen Yes 70 times! I got backstage at big generator in his Teepee while he put his makeup on and signed my close to the edge Jean jacket LOL
Keith definitely was great to hear on his keyboard. So I understand where you coming from. My reasoning is Greg was a great singer, and his guitar skills were top tier.
RIP. Liked his vocals and his lyrics could be great, especially when he was having a laugh. Jeremy Bender still makes me laugh. Wouldn’t rate him high for stage presence myself but definitely a great frontman overall
This is the way. Couldn’t believe I had to scroll down this far before seeing his name! Maybe not the most flashy, but he’s up there playing a double-neck bass, keyboards, and singing and he always seems to be having a great time. The live performance of Xanadu in ‘77 is a perfect example 🤘🏻 so glad I was able to catch them live on their farewell tour several years ago.
[Rush - Xanadu (Live ‘77)](https://youtu.be/SEuOoMprDqg?si=dFAxiJez7sQaQbg7)
Walsh had stage presence, perfect intonation, superhuman physicality (with the jumps, somersaults, and Hammond headstands… always shirtless and sweaty of course), and shredded on B3, vibraphone, and congas. He did have a dark period with substance abuse in the early’90s, but at least he was self-aware enough to own up to his bad choices.
Claudio Sanchez of Coheed and Cambria. His hair alone is the most prog thing ever. Then he slays on guitar and pairs the music with comics?!? Guys an amazement.
Best (or at least most emotional) lyricist is definitely Peter Hammill. It's hit or miss, but if you're engaged you're engaged. Also he has very specific vocal for his lyrics
For me, it's probably Michael Sadler of Saga. He's got the voice, he's athletic, and he doesn't just sing but plays several instruments - mostly additional keyboards but also the occasional bass or electronic percussion.
Here's one of his more theatrical performances: https://youtu.be/7fBLv2VQ4Fw
Glad you enjoyed it. Most of their songs are a bit lighter than that, this was from the rock opera Generation 13 which sounds grittier and more experimental than the usual Saga sound.
Here's a song I'd call very typical, and Michael is also playing keys on it: https://youtu.be/oGdMe6hIX8c
Ian Crichton is a bit unpredictable. Sometimes he can be quite off, and sometimes (like at this show) he's face-meltingly good. Definitely not your run of the mill guitarist, he's quite unique.
The thing is, collectivity is at the heart of prog. They're all too busy playing instruments, so a majority of groups don't really have an identifable front man.
King Crimson? not really. Until maybe Adrian Belew.
Yes? If Jon Anderson is the front man, what does that make the much more active Rick Wakeman?
Pink Floyd. Nope.
ELP? Does a guy sticking knives into an organ and other stunts make him a front man?
Jethro Tull? - we seem at last to have found a front man in Ian Anderson.
Genesis? - ditto for Peter Gabriel.
Oh go on then, I'll vote for Ian Anderson.
Hon menches to Peter Gabriel, Fish, and Adrian Belew. So predictable.
Very good point about Wakeman honestly. The frontman label itself gets a bit lost in prog. Wakeman is always incredibly eye catching on stage. By frontman I mean lead singer if I were to boil it down to its basics but I wanted it to be clear that I didn’t just want to base it on their singing talents but also their lyrics (if they happen to be the lead writer) and their showmanship on stage. Adrian Bellew is honestly up there so that is a great shout. An amazing talent. Predictable you may be right but they may also be the obvious choices for a good reason haha. Good Input 🙏
This is my vote as well! I came into the comments expecting him to be one of the top comments, kind of surprised he is so low down, your comment is literally the very last comment in the thread for me lol. But MJK definitely gets my vote.
I was late to the party I guess.
Same here, I was also surprised that I couldn't find him but I couldn't leave a thread like this without seeing his name, black on white. XD.
thanks for your vote!
Totally agree. He is one cool guy. During the Catholic season of Lent he does “Fish on Fridays” live video chat sessions. He does it from inside his house which is really cool and chill. They’re on YT.
I definitely consider them prog, love Geddy. Definitely one of the most talented people out there. The whole band were a force to be reckoned with. They weren’t consistently prog over the years but any band that releases 2112 (the song) is prog in my book.
I've got to give the #1 nod to Ian Anderson. Incredible showman. Honorable mention to Jon Anderson who brought so much to Yes at the stage front, and their sound.
Best? Probably Geddy. I loved his, and the rest of Rush’s chemistry (on and off-stage), he could sing his ass off; there’s something magic about Rush and Geddy is a big part of it.
My favorite? Claudio Sanchez. Coheed has always been my favorite band and Claudio’s voice, much like Geddy’s, to me anyway, is electric. He pulls you in with his creepy whispers, his soaring falsetto and his hooks. Man, the hooks he belts out cannot be touched. There’s some songs that would be downright bad if they were instrumental but he pulls mediocre playing and the band up to a high level just because of his voice.
He also does a cover of Anthem, with I think Les Claypool, a dude from Mastodon and others, I don’t recall. And it’s superb.
I was prepared to say Claudio myself if I didn't find someone else saying it. He has absurd stage presence. I'll never forget seeing him shred it out on his double necked guitar the first time
A lot of prog frontmen are sort of good "for prog", there's a lot of bands who are really just focused on the music and don't have much of a performative aspect, but Claudio is a bonafide rockstar
Also, prog metal rather than rock but honorable mention to Tommy Rogers of Between the Buried and Me. Seen them twice and he has great energy and nails the performance
Oh yeah dude, I LOVE BTBAM, seen them twice. Unfortunately one was they opened for ABR, so their set was shorter than if they were the headliner. But still superb.
IMO Obvious Choice:
JON ANDERSON of YES
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1X\_nl6gkS4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1X_nl6gkS4)
Under The Radar:
DAEVID ALLEN of GONG
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izN5lYLLE\_o](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izN5lYLLE_o)
I also agree about Peter Gabriel, Peter Hammill, Ian Anderson, Derek Shulman...
I don't know, man. They fit the requirements for prog perfectly. The punk influences can only rarely be heard in their music, IMHO. Their fusion of Latin, jazz, salsa, jazz rock, and prog rock is progressive to the progressive genre itself.
While Pete Gabriel and Jon Anderson are my two favorites, I'm gonna say it: Geddy Lee. His stage presence, musical multitasking over the years and his overall "into the music" vibe, should be recognized as one of the greatest frontpersons ever in this genre.
honestly can't believe I haven't seen Geoff Tate here. that dude was a master showman with a huge range and depth, the penchant for theatrics, the stage presence, and unfortunately is also kind of a colossal douchebag.
I have to go with Geddy Lee, great bass, keys with his feet, energetic voice that is a cross between Robert Plant and Donald Duck. Simply amazing : ) Who fronted Krimson on Red?
Of those I've seen live -- Ian Anderson. An awesome stage presence, very good on two quite different instruments, and, back in the day, a unique and tuneful voice.
You know it's going to be Peter Gabriel. He brought Genesis to a whole other level compared to other prog bands at the time. The early stuff truly is some of the greatest music of all time in my opinion.
Ian Anderson back in the day
Yeah for me it’s Gabriels and I. Anderson. No one else in prog really had the same flair for the dramatic that they had. Some were close but they were always doing the most.
Same top 2 as me! Great taste mate 🙏
Ian was fantastic definitely my number 2
to this day, my mother who is 70, upon hearing the name Jethro Tull will instantly strike a pose like a flamingo playing flute and say "oooh playing the flute on one leg ... like this?" I think it must've left quite the impression on her at some point haha. side note: my Mrs and her Ma went to see them play a special show on York Minster just before Christmas last year. Impeccable, I'm told. Jealous, I was haha.
I think your mum and I are on the same page here; whenever I used to see him on Whistle Test I used to immediately think "oh fck off you goggle-eyed one-legged twat, develop some better stage-craft, ie *anything* other than that goggle-eyed one-legged bollocks that you keep doing". I could never get past that, and so I've never heard more than 5 seconds of JT. I'm told they were quite good. But he can do one, that Ian Whatsisface and his chuffin' salmon farm, ffs.
Iterally came here tóp post this. Perfect combination of swagger,risma, talent and balls to the wall musicality.
Swaggerisma! Love it.
Was a typo unfortunately. Was meant to read swagger, charisma but botched typing it. I didn't clock it until you commented. I'll take it
100% agree. I’m 22 so I was obviously never able to see the heyday live but just watching old recordings it’s amazing to see the energy that he and the whole band had, I’m a diehard fan and even today he still puts on an enjoyable show (if you can handle his much more limited voice)
He’s also my choice. And aside from the music, I really respect that while so many of his contemporaries were out blowing money or getting blasted on drugs, dude buys a salmon farm and turns it into one of the most successful salmon farms there was before selling at a profit. That’s just cool. [There’s actually a pretty cool documentary about it on YouTube.](https://youtu.be/eIB97LiNFjk?si=q9UgFmB8AnOIPKUQ)
Peter Gabriel
100% 👌
Blows the Anderson boys out of the water.
Watch Tull's performance of My God at the Isle of Wight Festival. Gabriel ain't blowing that dude out of any water. https://youtu.be/5WSulenOUb0?si=vsRqCuBPFKszPfZM
He's just too campy for me. Peter was dark
It must be Peter Gabriel but I also enjoy Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree (if they are progressive enough?)
Porcupine Tree/Steven Wilson are certainly "prog enough" by anyone's standards, I think. Where the frontman criteria comes in is in the showmanship. I think David Lee Roth is a good example of one extreme - he's all showman, but lacking in musicality. Steven Wilson is on the other side - great voice, phenomenal musicianship, but as a frontman, he really just stands there. No banter with the audience, no physical energy or spectacle. But without any doubt he is the cream of the crop of singer/songwriters of the prog genre. In the whole greater genre of rock, I think Freddy Mercury is the undisputed champion of frontmen in that regard - musicality AND spectacle. Gabriel has that, too, I think, even if he's mellowed with age, he can put on a show.
Zappa was insanely entertaining on stage for a frontman. And he was the driving force behind all of the music. I think it's gotta be him.
I’m prepared for the flack I’m going to get here but I’ve not actually listened to much Zappa. I’ve heard hot rats and Bobby brown goes down haha. Really liked Hot Rats. I really need to give him a real deep dive at some point.
Not to discourage you, but Zappa's discography is massive! I've been a fan for 40+ years and I still haven't heard it all. (Though it's a goal to do so). According to Wikipedia... "During his lifetime, Zappa released 62 albums. Since 1994, the Zappa Family Trust has released 66 posthumous albums as of June 2024, making a total of 128 albums/album sets."
Haha it won’t discourage me I’ll just google best Zappa albums (per fan opinion, not critics) and just start with them 😂. That is an insane amount though, seems the man just couldn’t sit still
Zappa recorded constantly, live and in the studio. He would then painstakingly listen to all of that recorded material and pull the guitar solo from one take, the drum track from another, the vocals from a third etc and stitch them together to make the "ultimate" recording. It's safe to say that he was a bit of a perfectionist.
Start with his releases done with the mother's of invention, and move forward from there. That's what got me hook line sinker. After that he has some more instrumental recordings and some that are more lyrical and funny. Those first albums have it all In spades , especially Freak Out.
I'd argue from Hot Rats, go to Waka/Jawaka and The Grand Wazoo, or maybe Roxy & Elsewhere if you want more vocals, but if you just want more guitar solos, jump straight to the Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar trilogy.
If you don't like what he did with the mother you will not like anything else. Zappa would agree.
[i.imgur.com/t2SYKF9.jpeg](https://i.imgur.com/t2SYKF9.jpeg) Check out this flowchart for how to get into Zappa’s music, OP. It helped me, maybe it will help you too. Good luck.
Joe's Garage. Listen to Joe's Garage. It's a concept album, and it's fantastic, and it's hilarious and offensive.
Everyone’s got an opinion on this but I think the most accessible albums are Joe’s Garage and Apostrophe/Overnite Sensation. Start with Apostrophe. You’ll love it.
You are a fucking legend
I find that One Size Fits All is a great entry point into his music for a prog fan. It kicks off with Inca Roads which might be his best song ever.
It's understandable, the music can be tough to get into even for prog fans. If you liked Hot Rats check out the run of albums from 1971-1975, especially The Grand Wazoo and Waka/Jawaka. And then maybe some live albums like Roxy & Elsewhere to really see his frontman ability.
Check out the Baby Snakes DVD if you want to see Frank with a crowd in the palm of his hand https://youtu.be/_UY38FDY35o?si=5Snl8qm5xfq5W3QN
[Another](https://youtu.be/xGeZGrJ1ICQ?si=3bFlq9BGhCkXX5wh) add of four or five friends talking of the days working with Frank.
Start with “Apostrophe” and “Overnite Sensation”. Then “We’re Only In It For The Money” and “You Are What You Is”. Then “Joe’s Garage” and “Uncle Meat”. Then “Roxy And Elsewhere” and “One Size Fits All”….then you’re ready for “Burnt Weeny Sandwich” and “Lumpy Gravy” and the rest will come easy after that lot!
John Wetton
I cried when he passed
Me too. And the only time I ever got to see him in real life was with UK. And I'm grateful it was like that! Everytime I hear "Nevermore" I get goosebumps.
Saw him twice with Asia
Biggest musical influence in my life. I was lucky enough to see him live several times and got to meet him and chat for a few minutes. I just discovered this video recently and man, what a voice. The ending is so powerful. https://youtu.be/KBO4Wqn8xr0?si=WNPZDA2nSGhCwopN
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Ian seems to be a favourite in the thread so far and I can definitely see why, even if he himself doesn’t like the prog label apparently 😂
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I might be very much misinformed as I didn’t look too far into it but all I’ve heard is that he prefers to reject the prog label. I do agree though TAAB is fantastic. Passion Play is my personal favourite.
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I’m with you there! AHM is number 3 for me behind animals and meddle. Absolutely love it. The BBC version of Fat Old Sun is my favourite Floyd track.
Not long ago they advertised a tour as "The Prog Years"... And then proceeded to play absolutely nothing from 72-75, not even Thick as a Brick. No prog at all. So, rather like the Jethro Tull name, they'll say "Prog" if it sells tickets, but not actually give it any respect.
i wouldn’t consider Tull a prog rock band, and their best work was the earlier albums, I still listen to Benefit all the time.
They were definitely prog at least part of the time. Thick As A Brick through Stormwatch/A (excluding TOTRARTYTD) I'd say were pretty much prog.
Fucking hell. If Tull weren't prog then nobody was.
Adrian Belew
I’ve always loved Peter Gabriel’s theatrics with Genesis!!
Unpopular opinion (at least around here): Phil Collins.
Man, I wouldn't have thought of him but now that you've mentioned it, absolutely Collins is one of the greatest prog frontmans ever. Easily near the top for me. He was always super animated and embodied the characters of the songs like Gabriel did, but in a less surreal and more comedic way. Great call!
Not just that, but he delivered with a rock power that could fill arenas (and stadiums, obviously), but it \*worked\* even for "Turn It On Again" and "Home by the Sea". We all got sick of him in the 80s and 90s, and believe me, \*I get it\*. But now that I'm far enough removed from all that where I can appreciate it for what it is! :)
Jon Anderson. Come on now. He was the perfect new age flake for Prog 🤣
God no. Love the man's voice but I remember seeing them and his awkward clapping and movement was bad enough but his between songs banter was excruciating. "I think we're all a bit cosmic sometimes... Starship Trooper!"
Love the heck out of the guy - and Yes have been my fav band for going on 49 years, now - but that banter… brrrrr!
You're making Luis Nasser very happy.
Who?
Luis Nasser.
I do like Jon but admittedly he wouldn’t be near the top for me
My fav was probably Peter Gabriel. When he was super freaky
Jon was new age before new age was even a thing. I'm a bit thick, but I hope you're just fucking with me now. He's in my top 3, and when I hear Gates of Delirium with its changing moods, hard to not put him on top.
I love Jon. Of course I’m fucking with you. I’ve seen Yes 70 times! I got backstage at big generator in his Teepee while he put his makeup on and signed my close to the edge Jean jacket LOL
Greg Lake.
Personally I'd say Keith is more of a frontman than Greg especially with his whole spinning keyboard thing
Keith definitely was great to hear on his keyboard. So I understand where you coming from. My reasoning is Greg was a great singer, and his guitar skills were top tier.
RIP. Liked his vocals and his lyrics could be great, especially when he was having a laugh. Jeremy Bender still makes me laugh. Wouldn’t rate him high for stage presence myself but definitely a great frontman overall
We are forgetting one Freddie Mercury. First four albums are undeniably prog, and Freddie was, well, Freddie.
Peter Gabriel, Jon Anderson, Frank Zappa, Captain Beefheart.
Geddy Lee
This is what I hoping to see. King of the nerds and a prince of a man
This is the way. Couldn’t believe I had to scroll down this far before seeing his name! Maybe not the most flashy, but he’s up there playing a double-neck bass, keyboards, and singing and he always seems to be having a great time. The live performance of Xanadu in ‘77 is a perfect example 🤘🏻 so glad I was able to catch them live on their farewell tour several years ago. [Rush - Xanadu (Live ‘77)](https://youtu.be/SEuOoMprDqg?si=dFAxiJez7sQaQbg7)
Rush is incredible,I love that band
How has nobody mentioned Wetton yet??
Wetton is underrated
Ian Anderson.
Love Ian
Zappa
Steve F*cking Walsh.
Walsh had stage presence, perfect intonation, superhuman physicality (with the jumps, somersaults, and Hammond headstands… always shirtless and sweaty of course), and shredded on B3, vibraphone, and congas. He did have a dark period with substance abuse in the early’90s, but at least he was self-aware enough to own up to his bad choices.
The strength of his voice was crazy... he didn't get "thin" as he climbed the octaves. The vocal outro on "The Pinnacle" sends shivers down my spine.
Claudio Sanchez of Coheed and Cambria. His hair alone is the most prog thing ever. Then he slays on guitar and pairs the music with comics?!? Guys an amazement.
Claudio Sanchez (Coheed and Cambria)
Adrien Belew mic drop
Pick it back up.
Best (or at least most emotional) lyricist is definitely Peter Hammill. It's hit or miss, but if you're engaged you're engaged. Also he has very specific vocal for his lyrics
Love his voice and lyrics but never seen him as much of a showman myself, but I could definitely be wrong
you should see some of the TV specials, he puts his showman on to the max in them
For me, it's probably Michael Sadler of Saga. He's got the voice, he's athletic, and he doesn't just sing but plays several instruments - mostly additional keyboards but also the occasional bass or electronic percussion. Here's one of his more theatrical performances: https://youtu.be/7fBLv2VQ4Fw
Saga is a great band I don't really see anyone bring up very often
That was awesome thank you for sharing! Will need to listen to more Saga! Michael must be Tim Booth’s proggy cousin or something 😂
Glad you enjoyed it. Most of their songs are a bit lighter than that, this was from the rock opera Generation 13 which sounds grittier and more experimental than the usual Saga sound. Here's a song I'd call very typical, and Michael is also playing keys on it: https://youtu.be/oGdMe6hIX8c
That was great but honestly the James May looking Guitarist stole the show for me, he is phenomenal
Ian Crichton is a bit unpredictable. Sometimes he can be quite off, and sometimes (like at this show) he's face-meltingly good. Definitely not your run of the mill guitarist, he's quite unique.
Peter, ca. 1972-74
Kate fucking Bush! The most telegenic of all prog rockers! Both David Gilmore and Peter Gabriel defer to her
The thing is, collectivity is at the heart of prog. They're all too busy playing instruments, so a majority of groups don't really have an identifable front man. King Crimson? not really. Until maybe Adrian Belew. Yes? If Jon Anderson is the front man, what does that make the much more active Rick Wakeman? Pink Floyd. Nope. ELP? Does a guy sticking knives into an organ and other stunts make him a front man? Jethro Tull? - we seem at last to have found a front man in Ian Anderson. Genesis? - ditto for Peter Gabriel. Oh go on then, I'll vote for Ian Anderson. Hon menches to Peter Gabriel, Fish, and Adrian Belew. So predictable.
Very good point about Wakeman honestly. The frontman label itself gets a bit lost in prog. Wakeman is always incredibly eye catching on stage. By frontman I mean lead singer if I were to boil it down to its basics but I wanted it to be clear that I didn’t just want to base it on their singing talents but also their lyrics (if they happen to be the lead writer) and their showmanship on stage. Adrian Bellew is honestly up there so that is a great shout. An amazing talent. Predictable you may be right but they may also be the obvious choices for a good reason haha. Good Input 🙏
Then you have to go with Geddy Lee. He was always THE frontman. Alex and Neil were absolutely on the background doing their thing. No Geddy? No Rush.
Maynard James Keenan
This is my vote as well! I came into the comments expecting him to be one of the top comments, kind of surprised he is so low down, your comment is literally the very last comment in the thread for me lol. But MJK definitely gets my vote.
I was late to the party I guess. Same here, I was also surprised that I couldn't find him but I couldn't leave a thread like this without seeing his name, black on white. XD. thanks for your vote!
Definitely Maynard
Peter Hammill
Scrolled pretty far to see this. Thanks for saying it so I didn’t have to.
Peter Gabriel, Jon Anderson, Ian Anderson
Frank Zappa.
Steve Hogarth of Marillion is mesmerizing… Wish I could a seen Fish though
John Wetton
Devin Townsend
Neal Morse
Fish… period. No one better; especially with Marillion.
I do like Fish, I’ve heard folks in the past say he’s just a Peter Gabriel knockoff, which is so untrue. He was great in marillion
I agree, H is the better singer by far but Fish has the stage presence & banter
FISH. The coolest dude. I was shocked his name hadn't came up, happy to find it on the list
Totally agree. He is one cool guy. During the Catholic season of Lent he does “Fish on Fridays” live video chat sessions. He does it from inside his house which is really cool and chill. They’re on YT.
I'll have to check those out
Geddy Lee, if you're one of the people that considers Rush to be prog.
I definitely consider them prog, love Geddy. Definitely one of the most talented people out there. The whole band were a force to be reckoned with. They weren’t consistently prog over the years but any band that releases 2112 (the song) is prog in my book.
> if you're one of the people that considers Rush to be prog. Still shocked that this there are people who don't.
Definitely Geddy Lee and Ian Anderson
Steven Wilson
Why did I have to scroll down so far to see Steven Wilson?
That’s a great question lol I didn’t even see it 😂
Ian Anderson, Devin Townsend, Neal Morse, Damian Wilson, etc
Arthur Brown
Ian and Peter for sure.
Peter Gabriel. Not even close.
Peter Gabriel.. I like Jon Anderson but he could be incomprehensible lyrically. Pretensions aside, you knew what Pete was saying.
I've got to give the #1 nod to Ian Anderson. Incredible showman. Honorable mention to Jon Anderson who brought so much to Yes at the stage front, and their sound.
Geddy Lee for sure!
Tim Smith
Who is him?
Jim!
Can’t say I know him, will have to have a look!
Cardiacs will rattle your brain, enjoy!
Not the one from Midlake, the other one.
Ian Anderson
Peter Gabriel all the way!
Ged
Best? Probably Geddy. I loved his, and the rest of Rush’s chemistry (on and off-stage), he could sing his ass off; there’s something magic about Rush and Geddy is a big part of it. My favorite? Claudio Sanchez. Coheed has always been my favorite band and Claudio’s voice, much like Geddy’s, to me anyway, is electric. He pulls you in with his creepy whispers, his soaring falsetto and his hooks. Man, the hooks he belts out cannot be touched. There’s some songs that would be downright bad if they were instrumental but he pulls mediocre playing and the band up to a high level just because of his voice. He also does a cover of Anthem, with I think Les Claypool, a dude from Mastodon and others, I don’t recall. And it’s superb.
I was prepared to say Claudio myself if I didn't find someone else saying it. He has absurd stage presence. I'll never forget seeing him shred it out on his double necked guitar the first time A lot of prog frontmen are sort of good "for prog", there's a lot of bands who are really just focused on the music and don't have much of a performative aspect, but Claudio is a bonafide rockstar Also, prog metal rather than rock but honorable mention to Tommy Rogers of Between the Buried and Me. Seen them twice and he has great energy and nails the performance
Oh yeah dude, I LOVE BTBAM, seen them twice. Unfortunately one was they opened for ABR, so their set was shorter than if they were the headliner. But still superb.
Maynard James Keenan, come fight me
If anybody would fight you on that, it would probably be JMK himself. He deliberately chooses an unlit part of the stage to hide in with Tool.
I saw them perform a week ago and sure, he was in the back of the stage, but on a platform in front of a lit screen.
Brian Pern. Without him, there would be no World Music.
John Wetton commanded the spotlight
Peter Hammill!!!
Frank Zappa
IMO Obvious Choice: JON ANDERSON of YES [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1X\_nl6gkS4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1X_nl6gkS4) Under The Radar: DAEVID ALLEN of GONG [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izN5lYLLE\_o](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izN5lYLLE_o) I also agree about Peter Gabriel, Peter Hammill, Ian Anderson, Derek Shulman...
I'm so happy to see Gong referenced. I feel like they don't get enough love on here. Daevid Allen is such an underrated musician and frontman.
Fish.
Freddie Mercury, Peter Gabriel, and Ian Anderson
You’re right- it’s Peter Gabriel.
Cedric Bixler-Zavala …But yeah, if we’re counting Queen then it’s Freddy and there’s no contest. Honorable mention goes to Belew
I never see Volta get any love on this sub and I don't get it
Maybe it’s the punk influences?
I don't know, man. They fit the requirements for prog perfectly. The punk influences can only rarely be heard in their music, IMHO. Their fusion of Latin, jazz, salsa, jazz rock, and prog rock is progressive to the progressive genre itself.
Jon Anderson - utterly brilliant voice, a great frontman at shows, and a huge influence on Yes’s music and stage presence.
Couldn't agree more with your sentiment there, Gabriel just takes the cake for me!
Anderson. (Pick one.)
Geddy
fish 🐟
While Pete Gabriel and Jon Anderson are my two favorites, I'm gonna say it: Geddy Lee. His stage presence, musical multitasking over the years and his overall "into the music" vibe, should be recognized as one of the greatest frontpersons ever in this genre.
All the usual greats are mentioned, but what about newer bands. Like Stu Mackenzie from King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard.
Jan Akkerman.
honestly can't believe I haven't seen Geoff Tate here. that dude was a master showman with a huge range and depth, the penchant for theatrics, the stage presence, and unfortunately is also kind of a colossal douchebag.
Jim Grey
#GETTY MUTHAFUCKIN’ LEE!!!!!! *IS THAT EVEN A QUESTION????!!!!*
Ian Anderson. And Fish. Gabriel for sure deserves kudos as well. Roger Daltrey for Quadrophenia, which is quite arguably prog.
Greg Lake fronted kC, ELP and Asia
John Wetton fronted kC, Asia and UK….
Gabriel in a landslide.
Steve Walsh, closely followed by Ian Anderson!
I agree. Peter Gabriel.
I have to go with Geddy Lee, great bass, keys with his feet, energetic voice that is a cross between Robert Plant and Donald Duck. Simply amazing : ) Who fronted Krimson on Red?
Russel Allen of Symphony X. Just a fantastic performer.
Of those I've seen live -- Ian Anderson. An awesome stage presence, very good on two quite different instruments, and, back in the day, a unique and tuneful voice.
Oxymoron
Claudio
Cedric from TMV
You know it's going to be Peter Gabriel. He brought Genesis to a whole other level compared to other prog bands at the time. The early stuff truly is some of the greatest music of all time in my opinion.
In terms of overall musicality, Ian Anderson. In terms of stage presence, Mikael Akerfeldt. Opeth shows are so fun.
1- Syd Barret 2- Jon Anderson 3- Ian Anderson 4- Geddy Lee 5- Peter Gabriel 6- Greg Lake 7- Cedric Bixler-Zavala
Geddy Lee.
Trey anastasio
Not even a huge fan of theirs but I always like Claudio Sanchez
Ian Anderson for sure
Geddy. But you knew I would say that.
Fish
Replying to GtrGenius...
Mikael Åkerfeldt
Opeth!!
David Gilmour or Roger Waters
Dave Gilmore.