The Epic Falls of Rock Icons

Rock n roll has always been known for its high flights of emotion, rebellious spirits, and cultural impact. But sometimes, the genre’s leading lights have also faced dramatic and often public falls from grace. Here are some of the most significant stories of rock icons hitting rock bottom.

The Greatest Falls from Grace in Rock N' Roll History

From personal controversies to public scandals, here are some of the biggest figures in rock and roll who faced setbacks and disgrace:

Jerry Lee Lewis - his relentless pursuit of youth led him to a disastrous marriage to a 13-year-old cousin, Myra Jane Brown, in 1958. This decision not only tarnished his image but also damaged his career and public reputation for decades to come.

Notable Paparazzi-Sized Falls

Billy Squier - the British rock musician had a string of hit songs and was on a steady upward trajectory. However, a video featuring him dancing in a way deemed too flamboyant for his time led to a sudden and severe decline in popularity. This incident serves as a cautionary tale of how public perception can turn against even the most talented musicians.

Gary Glitter - one of the biggest pop stars of the 1970s, Glitter’s downfall came in 2015 when he was jailed for multiple counts of child abuse, rape, and indecent assault. His career was completely erased as he became a pariah in the music industry.

Rock Bands and Public Scrutiny

Winger - the band was riding high with a successful album and hit singles, including "Easy Come Easy Go" and "Headed for a Heartbreak". However, a television show, 'Beavis and Butt-Head', singled them out by using one of their members as a character in a negative light. This resulted in a rapid decline in popularity and public support, leading to their final album being virtually ignored.

Notable Pop Music Scandals

Milli Vanilli - for a short time, Milli Vanilli appeared to be the icon of the 1980s. However, the truth came out when it was revealed that neither of the band members actually sang any of the songs. The revelation led to their complete disgrace, with the band facing legal and financial consequences. One member passed away a few years later, and the other is now in obscurity.

These examples highlight the fragility of rock and roll careers and the consequences of public and legal missteps. They serve as important reminders for artists about the lasting impact of their actions and the power of public opinion.