Do Popular Rock Singers Really Need to Play Instruments?

It's often said that when it comes to rock music, singing skills take the spotlight, yet many of the most recognizable faces in the genre are actually quite adept at playing instruments, too. This stand apart from the traditional image, which leads us to question: do popular rock singers really need to play instruments at all?

The Aesthetic of Backing Musicians

Take the iconic example of Elvis Presley and Gene Vincent. Both had significant backing musicians who played a crucial part in their sound. For instance, Scotty Moore, who played guitar for Elvis, or Cliff Gallup, who played with Gene Vincent, often overshadow the lead vocalists. This is evident in the case of these legendary figures, such as Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, and Eddie Cochran, whose guitar playing skills are equally celebrated alongside their vocal talents and songwriting skills. They often become as renowned for their instrument skills as they are for their singing.

Classical Rock Singers and Instrumentalists

Veering slightly off topic but staying true to the rock genre, many classic rockers strike a balance between vocal prowess and instrumental skills. For instance, Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin and Roger Daltry of The Who primary focus still lies in their singing talents but occasionally play the guitar. Meanwhile, Brian Johnson and Bon Scott of AC/DC provided the rhythm section during Purple’s extended instrumentals, albeit no longer performing these solos. Similarly, Mick Jagger, while known for his remarkable vocals with The Rolling Stones, is often seen playing the guitar, even if not as frequently.

Contemporary Examples and Death Row

Looking into modern rock acts, we have examples like David Lee Roth, the frontman of Van Halen, who has a skill set that extends beyond his singing voice. Even Mitch Ryder, a rock icon with memorably gritty vocals, and pop sensations like Madonna and Michael Jackson, who contributed with their remarkable vocal talents, were not necessarily backing musicians.

On the rock side, singers with complex vocal abilities but minimal instrumental skills stand out. Freddie Mercury of Queen, Bono of U2, and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith become well-known for their stunning vocal performances and energy on stage, rather than being recognized for their instrumental talents.

Unique Voices and Exceptional Cases

Let's delve into unique cases where rock singers do not possess strong instrumental skills at all. While the majority of popular rock singers do engage with instruments at least occasionally, a few stand out as notable outliers. For instance, Billy Idol, although not as recognized for his singing due to his erratic lifestyle, has a vocal talent that sets him apart, and Jim Morrison, the late frontman of The Doors, was not well-known for his instrumental abilities.

Conclusion

While many rock singers excel in both singing and playing instruments, a few remain purely vocal. However, it's crucial to recognize that the majority of successful rock musicians place singing at the forefront of their talents. Whether through their vocal range, pop appeal, or energetic stage performances, these singers have carved their niche in the music industry without needing to be virtuosos on an instrument. Nonetheless, for those who do excel in both areas, it often enhances their overall appeal, linking the unique rhythm of their words with the soulful strums of their guitars.