A case for why classic bands who no longer exist should come back together occassionally

For rock bands that reach seminal status, but no longer exist, tributes often consist of numerous versions of their songs as well as numerous cover bands. While both song covers and tribute bands are a good way of respecting the artist, no one can outdo the original band.

Throughout musical history, popular rock acts have lost members to a myriad of causes. Often, A member’s death can cement the band’s status, but lead to an uncertain future for the band that depends on the people in it. Led Zeppelin and Nirvana called it quits after John Bohnam’s and Kurt Cobain’s deaths (drummer of Led Zeppelin and frontman of Nirvana, respectively). However, the Red Hot Chili Peppers (RHCP) continued under the same name after guitarist Hillel Slovak’s death, and the surviving members of Joy Division continued as New Order after frontman Ian Curtis’ death. Still others split and members established distinguished solo careers for themselves.

The bands that continued on honored the influence of the deceased, but did not let it overshadow their own new work. In a twist of fate, RHCP and New Order arguably entered one of the most critically and artistically successful periods of their career. RHCP's second album not to feature Slovak reached 15 million in sales and was called by Steve Huey of Allmusic, “…probably the best album the Chili Peppers would ever make.” New Order expanded from Joy Division’s depressing post-punk into the electronic and dance genres in the 1980s.

For the bands like Led Zeppelin and Nirvana, however, there was no group evolution or future albums. While getting back together may not be feasible, occasional reunion concerts are – and something I very much support. The two surviving members of Nirvana, after their band’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, joined the stage on their original instruments. Several artists across decades, some influences on Nirvana, others influenced by them, handled vocal and other duties. Led Zeppelin has played with John Bonham’s son on drums, and lead singer Robert Plant has said he is open to a possible Led Zeppelin reunion.

With these two bands as an example, this approach is excellent. It honors their legacy – when the band was at their creative prime – in a responsible way. Whether the results of all occasional reunion shows may not turn out so well, I believe it is always worth a try for the fans, for the music they created and for any band members are with them. I genuinely hope and urge more bands to have reunion concerts.