Glen Buxton

Glen Buxton

Glen Buxton was born on November 10th, 1947

Full Name: Glen Edward Buxton
Place of Birth: Akron, Ohio
Profession: Guitarist, Songwriter
Band: Alice Cooper
Notable Songs: Schools Out, Im Eighteen
Awards: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Occupations: Guitarist, Songwriter
Death: 1997, pneumonia

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.

Written by: Penelope Wildwood Penelope Wildwood

Glen Buxton: The Ace of Alice Cooper's Guitar

In the realm of rock music, few guitarists have left an indelible mark like Glen Buxton, the lead axeman of the iconic band Alice Cooper. Ranked number 90 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, Buxton's fretwork is synonymous with the Cooper band's early success and enduring influence.

Early Life and Influences

Born on November 10, 1947, in Akron, Ohio, Buxton relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, where he attended Cortez High School. It was during these formative years that he met future bandmates Dennis Dunaway and Vince Furnier, with whom he contributed to the school's paper, "The Tip Sheet." Buxton's photographic skills and Furnier's witty editorials set the stage for their future creative partnership.

The Birth of Alice Cooper

In 1964, Buxton co-founded The Earwigs with Dunaway, Furnier, John Tatum, and John Speer. As the only member who could play an instrument, Buxton taught his fellow bandmates to play, and the group eventually changed its name to The Spiders in 1965 and then to The Nazz in 1967. Following the departure of Tatum and Speer, Michael Bruce and Neal Smith joined the band, which eventually became Alice Cooper in 1968.

Rise to Fame

Buxton's guitar work was instrumental in shaping Alice Cooper's distinctive sound. As a co-writer of hits like "School's Out," "I'm Eighteen," "Elected," and "10 Minutes Before the Worm," he played a crucial role in the band's chart-topping success. His lead guitar riffs can be heard on seven Alice Cooper albums, including the platinum-selling Billion Dollar Babies.

Legacy and Accolades

In 2011, Buxton was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the original Alice Cooper band. His contributions to rock music have inspired countless guitarists, solidifying his place among the pantheon of guitar legends.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Buxton's legacy extends beyond his impressive guitar work and songwriting credits. He was an integral part of the Alice Cooper band's creative nucleus, influencing a generation of rock musicians and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

Trivia and Fun Facts

In conclusion, Glen Buxton's remarkable talent and innovative spirit continue to inspire and influence rock music today. His contributions to Alice Cooper's sound and style have cemented his place among the greatest guitarists of all time, ensuring his legacy will endure for generations to come.

Timeline
1947
Birth in Arizona
Glen Buxton was born in Akron, Ohio, USA.
1965
Co-founds Alice Cooper Band
Buxton co-founded the Alice Cooper Band with Alice Cooper and others.
1969
Releases Debut Album
The Alice Cooper Band released their debut album Pretties for You.
1971
Releases Love It to Death
The Alice Cooper Band released their breakthrough album Love It to Death, featuring the hit single Im Eighteen.
1997
Dies at Age 49
Buxton died of complications from pneumonia at the age of 49.
Glen Buxton

Glen Buxton Quiz

What genre of music did Glen Buxton contribute to the development of?

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FAQ
What band was Glen Buxton a part of?
Glen Buxton was a founding member and lead guitarist of the rock band Alice Cooper.
What was Glen Buxtons role in shaping Alice Coopers sound?
Glen Buxton was instrumental in developing Alice Coopers hard rock sound, known for his innovative guitar playing and songwriting contributions.
How did Glen Buxtons work with Alice Cooper influence rock music?
Glen Buxtons work with Alice Cooper helped pave the way for later glam metal and hard rock bands, influencing artists like KISS and Mötley Crüe.
What was Glen Buxtons personal life like?
Glen Buxton struggled with drug addiction and personal demons, which affected his music career and eventually led to his departure from Alice Cooper.
What is Glen Buxtons legacy in rock music?
Glen Buxton is remembered as a talented guitarist and songwriter, whose work with Alice Cooper helped shape the sound of hard rock and heavy metal.

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