Lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Cheap Trick, known for his powerful voice and iconic hits like "Surrender" and "I Want You to Want Me".
As the lead singer and rhythm guitarist for the legendary rock band Cheap Trick, Robin Zander has been making waves in the music industry for over four decades. With his powerful, versatile voice and captivating stage presence, Zander has become an iconic figure in rock music, known for hits like "I Want You to Want Me" and "The Flame."
Born on January 23, 1953, in Beloit, Wisconsin, Zander grew up in nearby Loves Park, Illinois, where he developed a passion for music at a young age. He learned to play the guitar by 12 and formed his first high school band in the 1960s. After graduating from Harlem High School, Zander teamed up with Brian Beebe to form the folk duo Zander & Kent in the early 1970s.
In 1974, Zander accepted an invitation to join Cheap Trick, a band that would become synonymous with his name. Alongside guitarist Rick Nielsen, bassist Tom Petersson, and drummer Bun E. Carlos, Zander formed the core of the band that would catapult them to stardom. The band's 1979 album, Cheap Trick at Budokan, remains a landmark moment in their career, cementing their status as rock legends.
With over 40 years of performances under their belt, Cheap Trick has achieved unparalleled success, selling over 20 million albums worldwide and performing over 5,000 shows. The band's hits, including "Surrender," "Dream Police," and "The Flame," have become staples of classic rock radio. Zander's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016 solidified Cheap Trick's place in music history.
In addition to his work with Cheap Trick, Zander has explored solo projects, releasing his debut album, Robin Zander, in 1993. A second solo effort, Countryside Blvd, was released online in 2011, although it was later withdrawn from online music outlets. Zander has also collaborated with other artists, including a memorable appearance in Steel Panther's 2016 music video for their cover of Cheap Trick's "She's Tight."
Zander's vocal prowess has been praised by critics and fans alike, with VH1.com describing his singing as "jaw-dropping" and "supremely virtuosic." His influence can be seen in numerous rock bands that have followed in Cheap Trick's footsteps, and his contributions to the world of rock music remain unparalleled.
"When we started, we were just a bunch of kids playing music. We never thought we'd make it this far."
— Robin Zander
As Cheap Trick continues to tour and create new music, Robin Zander's legacy as a rock icon remains cemented. With a career spanning over four decades, Zander has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music, inspiring generations of musicians and fans alike.
Robin Zander's impact on rock music is undeniable, and his contributions will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
77 Years Old
Lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Cheap Trick, known for his iconic guitar collection and energetic live performances.
99 Years Old
Noted for being a pioneering African American football player who broke racial barriers in the sport, earning induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.
78 Years Old
Lead singer of Aerosmith, known for his powerful voice, energetic stage presence, and hit songs like "Dream On" and "Walk This Way".
74 Years Old
Legendary guitarist and songwriter behind iconic rock bands Aerosmith and Whitford/St. Holmes, crafting unforgettable riffs and hits like "Walk This Way" and "Last Child".
