Signals From Mars – Episode 384 – Hour One

Def Leppard

Def Leppard is an English rock band formed in 1977 in Sheffield. The band’s classic lineup consists of Joe Elliott (lead vocals), Rick Savage (bass), Rick Allen (drums), Phil Collen (guitar), and Vivian Campbell (guitar). They are one of the best-selling music artists worldwide, having sold more than 100 million records.

Their early music was influenced by the new wave of British heavy metal movement, but they later adopted a more mainstream, glam rock style. Their breakthrough came with the album Pyromania in 1983, featuring hits like “Photograph” and “Rock of Ages.” Their follow-up album, Hysteria (1987), solidified their fame with singles such as “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” “Love Bites,” and “Hysteria.”

Def Leppard has received numerous awards, including an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. They are known for their melodic rock anthems, elaborate production, and resilience, especially after drummer Rick Allen lost an arm in an accident and continued to perform with the band.

Tony Iommi

Tony Iommi (born February 19, 1948) is an English guitarist, songwriter, and producer, best known as the lead guitarist and co-founder of the pioneering heavy metal band Black Sabbath. Born in Birmingham, England, Iommi is a key figure in the creation and evolution of heavy metal music. His distinctive guitar style and dark, heavy riffs are foundational to the genre.

Despite losing the tips of two fingers on his right hand in an industrial accident at age 17, Iommi adapted by creating custom prosthetic fingertips and downtuning his guitar, which contributed to Black Sabbath’s unique sound.

Black Sabbath’s self-titled debut album, released in 1970, is often cited as the first heavy metal album. The band’s influential works include albums like Paranoid (1970), Master of Reality (1971), and Vol. 4 (1972). Iommi remained the only constant member throughout various line-up changes in the band’s history.

Tony Iommi’s influence extends beyond Black Sabbath, contributing to solo projects and collaborations with other artists. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Black Sabbath in 2006.

Phil Mogg

Phil Mogg (born April 15, 1948) is an English singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist for the rock band UFO. Mogg was born in Wood Green, North London, and co-founded UFO in 1969 with bassist Pete Way and guitarist Mick Bolton.

UFO gained prominence in the early 1970s with their space rock and hard rock style, achieving commercial success and critical acclaim with albums like Phenomenon (1974), which introduced their classic sound and featured guitarist Michael Schenker. Other notable albums include Force It (1975), Lights Out (1977), and Obsession (1978).

Mogg’s distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence have been central to UFO’s enduring appeal. The band’s hits, such as “Doctor Doctor,” “Rock Bottom,” and “Lights Out,” remain staples in the rock genre. Despite numerous lineup changes, Mogg has been a constant member and driving force of the band.

Phil Mogg is known for his poetic lyrics and emotive singing style. Under his leadership, UFO has influenced many subsequent rock and metal bands, securing their legacy in the annals of rock music history.