Lead vocalist and bassist of Night Ranger, known for hits like "Sister Christian" and "Don't Tell Me You Love Me".
As the iconic bassist and lead vocalist of Night Ranger, Damn Yankees, and Revolution Saints, Jack Blades has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. With a career spanning over four decades, Blades has written or co-written songs for some of the biggest names in rock, including Aerosmith, Cher, and Ozzy Osbourne.
Born on April 24, 1954, in Palm Desert, California, Blades' love affair with music began at the tender age of eight, when his parents gifted him a plastic ukulele. This early introduction sparked a passion that would propel him to attend Arcadia High School in Scottsdale, Arizona, and later graduate from Indio High School in 1972, where he served as senior class president.
While attending College of the Desert, Blades had the opportunity to jam with Pat Rizzo, saxophonist for Sly and the Family Stone, which led to an introduction to Jerry Martini, the original sax player for Sly. This chance encounter would eventually culminate in the formation of the band Rubicon.
The late 1970s saw Blades drop out of San Diego State University, where he was studying premed, to pursue his musical dreams in San Francisco. It was during this period that he formed Rubicon with Martini and Brad Gillis, laying the groundwork for his future success.
The 1980s saw Blades join Night Ranger, where he would become an integral part of the band's sound and identity. As bassist and lead vocalist, he co-wrote many of the band's hits, including "Don't Tell Me You Love Me" and "Sentimental Street."
In the late 1980s, Blades co-founded Damn Yankees with Ted Nugent, Tommy Shaw, and Michael Cartellone. The supergroup's self-titled debut album spawned the hit single "High Enough," which reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The 1990s saw Blades collaborate with Aerosmith, co-writing four songs with Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Tommy Shaw, including "Shut Up and Dance" and "Walk on Water." He also appeared on Mötley Crüe's Dr. Feelgood album in 1989.
Throughout his career, Blades has emphasized the importance of creative freedom and collaboration. In interviews, he has stressed the need for artists to stay true to themselves and their art, while also being open to new ideas and influences.
Blades has two sons, Colin and James. Colin has co-written and performed songs with his father and has also released his own solo material. This family connection has been a source of inspiration and pride for Blades throughout his career.
Blades' contributions to rock music have had a lasting impact on modern society. His songs have become anthems for generations of music lovers, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless rock bands that have followed in his footsteps.
Blades has been recognized for his contributions to rock music, including being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Damn Yankees.
Jack Blades' legacy extends beyond his own music to the countless artists he has inspired and collaborated with. His influence can be heard in the work of rock bands across multiple generations, cementing his place as one of the most important figures in rock music history.
72 Years Old
Lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Styx, known for hits like "Come Sail Away" and "Renegade".
78 Years Old
A legendary musician, singer, and songwriter behind iconic hits like "Come Sail Away" and "Mr. Roboto" with the rock band Styx, known for his powerful vocals and theatrical style.
