Michael Anthony made Spike.com‘s list of “The Top 10 Most Overlooked Band Members”
We all know that being in a band is a team effort. It’s never a one-man show. So it’s unfortunate sometimes when fans just assume the lead singer writes all the lyrics and the guitarist is the only one composing the music. This is why we need to give a few shout-outs to some of the most talented musicians in the industry who rarely get the respect they deserve.We all know that being in a band is a team effort. It’s never a one-man show. So it’s unfortunate sometimes when fans just assume the lead singer writes all the lyrics and the guitarist is the only one composing the music. This is why we need to give a few shout-outs to some of the most talented musicians in the industry who rarely get the respect they deserve.
#7 – Michael Anthony from Van Halen
I’ve always felt that, without Michael Anthony, Van Halen wouldn’t have been the same band. I’m not knocking Eddie and “Diamond” Dave, but this man was literally the backbone of the group. When Michael put his ripping bass and unbelievable backing harmonies together with Alex’s (who is also very underrated) hyper drumming, each song seemed to blast right into the cosmos. It’s also no easy task to keep up with Eddie lick for lick.
People don’t realize how much his backing vocals affected the band’s live shows as well. His energy alone is what rock ‘n roll is all about. Go back and watch any gig form the ‘80s and you’ll see what I mean. Anthony is always holdin’ down the chorus front while Dave is screaming like a wild man and flirting with groupies in the front row. Love this f***ing guy.
Their full list:
10. Jason Newsted – Metallica
9. Vinnie Paul – Pantera
8. Tina Weymouth – Talking Heads
7. Michael Anthony – Van Halen
6. Ray Manzarek – The Doors
5. George Harrison – The Beatles
4. John Entwistle – The Who
3. Garth Hudson and Richard Manuel – The Band
2. Geezer Butler – Black Sabbath
1. John Paul Jones – Led Zeppelin