Alice Cooper
Early Life and Education
Alice Cooper, born Vincent Damon Furnier on February 4, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, is an American rock singer whose career spans over five decades. He is known for his distinctive voice and theatrical stage performances. Cooper's family moved to Phoenix, Arizona, when he was a teenager. He attended Cortez High School and later Glendale Community College, where he formed his first band, The Earwigs, which eventually evolved into Alice Cooper.
Formation of the Band
The original Alice Cooper band was formed in 1964 with members Glen Buxton, Michael Bruce, Dennis Dunaway, and Neal Smith. Initially, the band was called The Spiders, and later, The Nazz. They changed their name to Alice Cooper in 1968 to avoid confusion with Todd Rundgren's band, also named The Nazz. The name "Alice Cooper" was chosen for its wholesome, all-American sound, which contrasted sharply with the band's shocking stage antics.
Breakthrough and Early Success
The band's breakthrough came with the release of their third album, "Love It to Death" (1971), which included the hit single "I'm Eighteen." The album was produced by Bob Ezrin, who played a significant role in shaping the band's sound. This success was followed by the album "Killer" (1971), which solidified their reputation as a leading act in the burgeoning hard rock scene.
Theatrical Stage Shows
Alice Cooper is renowned for his theatrical stage shows, which incorporate elements of horror and shock rock. These performances often feature guillotines, electric chairs, fake blood, and boa constrictors. The band's 1972 album "School's Out" and its title track became anthems of teenage rebellion, further cementing their status in rock history. The stage shows were heavily influenced by vaudeville and horror films, creating a unique and immersive experience for audiences.
Solo Career and Continued Success
In 1975, Vincent Furnier legally changed his name to Alice Cooper and launched a solo career with the album "Welcome to My Nightmare." This album marked a departure from the band's earlier sound, incorporating more elaborate production and a broader range of musical styles. The accompanying tour was a major success, featuring elaborate stage sets and special effects.
Musical Style and Influence
Alice Cooper's music is characterized by its blend of hard rock, glam rock, and shock rock. His vocal style, stage presence, and theatricality have influenced numerous artists across various genres. Cooper's work is often cited as a precursor to the glam metal movement of the 1980s and has had a lasting impact on the development of heavy metal and punk rock.
Personal Life and Legacy
Alice Cooper has been married to Sheryl Goddard since 1976, and they have three children. Despite his on-stage persona, Cooper is known for his philanthropy and involvement in various charitable causes. He is also an avid golfer and has participated in numerous celebrity golf tournaments.
Discography
Alice Cooper's extensive discography includes both his work with the original band and his solo career. Notable albums include:
- "Pretties for You" (1969)
- "Love It to Death" (1971)
- "School's Out" (1972)
- "Billion Dollar Babies" (1973)
- "Welcome to My Nightmare" (1975)
- "Trash" (1989)
- "The Last Temptation" (1994)
- "Paranormal" (2017)
Awards and Recognition
Alice Cooper has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011, recognizing his contributions to the music industry. Cooper has also been honored with various lifetime achievement awards and continues to be celebrated for his influence on rock music.