Original bassist and co-songwriter of the Alice Cooper Group, known for his dark, theatrical style and iconic songs like "I'm Eighteen" and "School's Out".
Dennis Dunaway, the iconic bassist and songwriter, is best known for his seminal work with the legendary rock band Alice Cooper. As the original bass guitarist, Dunaway's innovative playing style and songwriting prowess shaped the band's sound and helped craft some of their most iconic hits, including "I'm Eighteen" and "School's Out."
Dunaway's journey with Alice Cooper began in the late 1960s, when the band was still finding its feet. With his unique bass playing style, which blended elements of rock, blues, and jazz, Dunaway helped create a sonic landscape that was both edgy and catchy. This was evident in the band's early albums, such as Pretties for You (1969) and Easy Action (1970), which showcased Dunaway's Shortscale Airline and Shortscale Höfner basses.
However, it was with the release of Love It to Death (1971) that Dunaway's innovative bass playing truly came to the fore. His Gibson EB-0 short-scale bass, affectionately known as "The Frog," became an iconic symbol of the band's hard-rocking ethos. This bass, now on loan to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, was used extensively on the band's first three albums.
After leaving Alice Cooper in 1974, Dunaway went on to form the band Billion Dollar Babies with fellow Cooper alumni Michael Bruce, Bob Dolin, and Neal Smith. Although the band only released one album, Battle Axe (1977), it marked a significant creative departure for Dunaway, who experimented with new sounds and styles.
Dennis Dunaway is married to Cindy Smith Dunaway, Alice Cooper's original costume designer, who played a pivotal role in shaping the band's Shock Rock fashion style. Cindy is also the sister of original Alice Cooper drummer Neal Smith, making their union a true rock 'n' roll family affair.
Dunaway's contributions to rock music cannot be overstated. As a songwriter, bassist, and innovator, he helped shape the sound of Alice Cooper, influencing generations of rock musicians. His work on "I'm Eighteen" and "School's Out" has become synonymous with classic rock, and his innovative bass playing style continues to inspire artists to this day.
In recognition of his achievements, Dunaway has performed on various Alice Cooper projects, including the album Welcome 2 My Nightmare (2011). His legacy as a founding member of Alice Cooper continues to be celebrated, cementing his place in the pantheon of rock legends.
77 Years Old
The godfather of shock rock, known for his theatrical live performances and hits like "No More Mr. Nice Guy" and "School's Out".
77 Years Old
Drummer and songwriter for the rock band Alice Cooper, known for his flamboyant stage presence and hit songs like "I'm Eighteen" and "School's Out".
Born in 1746
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Original guitarist and songwriter for the Alice Cooper band, known for his unique sound and iconic riffs. Contributed to the development of shock rock and glam metal genres.
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