Lead vocalist of bands like Toto and Angel, known for powerful, soaring vocals and hit songs like "Hold the Line" and "Don't Take Hold of Me"
Dennis Frederiksen, an American rock singer, is best known for his powerful vocals as the former lead singer of renowned bands Trillion, Angel, LeRoux, and Toto, as well as providing backing vocals for Survivor. With his distinctive voice, he contributed to hit singles in three consecutive years, all with different bands, including "American Heartbeat" (Survivor, 1982), "Carries Gone" (LeRoux, 1983), and "Stranger in Town" (Toto, 1984).
Frederiksen's musical journey began at the age of 13, playing clubs and pubs with a group called the Common People in Grand Rapids, MI. By 15, he was already performing with a local band. In 1975, while attending college at Central Michigan, Frederiksen was asked by his friend Tommy Shaw to replace him as the lead vocalist for the band MSFunk, as Shaw was leaving to join Styx. Frederiksen spent a year with MSFunk before the band disbanded in 1976.
After MSFunk, Frederiksen helped form the progressive rock band Trillion with keyboardist Patrick Leonard in Chicago. Trillion's debut album, released in 1978, was produced by Gary Lyons, and featured nine tracks co-written by Frederiksen. The band toured with Styx, Heart, and Aerosmith, where Frederiksen developed his signature backflips during live performances to energize the crowds. He left Trillion after one album and was replaced by Thom Griffin.
Frederiksen then shifted his focus to session work, primarily contributing to movie soundtracks. In 1979, he signed with Casablanca Records, where he performed under the alias David London to distinguish his rock image from the label's disco reputation. During this period, he sang two tracks, "Samantha" and "Sound Of The City," on the soundtrack to Cant Stop The Music, which reached number 47 on the Billboard 200. He also released a solo album in 1981 with his friend Mark Christian as the lead guitarist.
Frederiksen's collaborations with these iconic bands cemented his reputation as a versatile and talented rock vocalist. His distinctive voice and energetic live performances left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Dennis Frederiksen's contributions to rock music are undeniable. His powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence have inspired generations of rock enthusiasts. Although he may not be a household name, his work with Trillion, Angel, LeRoux, Toto, and Survivor has left an enduring legacy in the world of rock music.
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