Big Star was an American rock band formed in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1971. The group was led by Alex Chilton, Chris Bell, Jody Stephens, and Andy Hummel. They are considered one of the quintessential power pop bands of the 1970s, though they were not broadly recognized in their time. Their sound was marked by melodious harmonies and jangling guitars, combining pop with the spirit of Memphis rock and roll. Big Star's first studio efforts, "#1 Record" and "Radio City," received critical acclaim but suffered from poor distribution and did not achieve significant commercial success. Consequently, internal tensions and frustrations led to Chris Bell's departure after their debut album.

Despite their early lack of commercial success, Big Star's reputation has grown over the years, and they are now highly regarded for their influence on the alternative and indie rock movements. The band released "Third" (also known as "Sister Lovers"), an album that showcased a more somber and chaotic sound, but Big Star disbanded shortly thereafter in 1974. Various members pursued solo careers with Alex Chilton becoming an enigmatic figure in the rock music scene. In 1993, the band reformed with Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow of The Posies joining Chilton and Stephens. Their legacy has steadily expanded through reissues, live albums like "Live In Memphis," and retrospective releases such as "Nothing Can Hurt Me" and "Complete Third." Big Star's track "September Gurls" remains one of their most enduring songs, continuing to attract new listeners and influence musicians even decades after its initial release.

Genres

Alternative Rock

Baroque Pop

Beatlesque

Jangle Pop

Melancholia

Power Pop

Related Artists

R.E.M.

The Replacements

Cheap Trick

The Velvet Underground

Teenage Fanclub

Guided By Voices

The Beatles

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

The Kinks

Wilco

Alex Chilton

Neutral Milk Hotel

Latest Release

Colos

Big Star

Single - Released August 14, 2024