Roxy Music emerged as a glam rock trailblazer from the fertile UK music scene of the early 1970s. Formed by art school graduates Bryan Ferry, who became the band's vocalist and main songwriter, and Graham Simpson, the bassist, Roxy Music soon rounded out its line-up with Andy Mackay on saxophone and oboe, Phil Manzanera on guitar, Paul Thompson on drums, and Brian Eno on synthesizer and treatments. Eno left after the second album for a distinguished solo career, but the band continued to evolve, combining glam rock, art rock, and elements of avant-garde into a sophisticated and stylish sound that was both accessible and artistically influential. They were acclaimed for their visual and musical experimentation, which was complemented by Ferry's suave sartorial sense and distinctive crooning.
Over their initial run from the early '70s to the early '80s, Roxy Music released a series of albums that charted an audacious and eclectic path through the music scene. Pioneering in blending electronics with traditional rock instruments, they enjoyed both critical acclaim and commercial success, especially with singles like "Love Is The Drug" and "Virginia Plain." Their final studio album, "Avalon" (1982), reached a zenith in polished production and romantic sophistication, leaving a lasting legacy in the pantheon of pop music. After the band dissolved, Ferry maintained a successful solo career, while other members pursued various projects, though they would eventually reunite for tours, playing live shows as captured on recordings such as "Live 2001" and "Heart Still Beating." Their later releases, including the "Remixes" series, featured contemporary reinterpretations of their classic tracks, emphasizing the enduring influence of Roxy Music's rich sonic palette on modern music.
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