Strength in numbers is an idea that’s worked well in music over the years, from the basic idea of the rock band, to girl groups and boy bands, the group dynamic is a tried and trusted one.
But sometimes an artiste goes solo and their career really takes off, proving that at times you are just better off alone.
Today, let’s talk about some famous artistes who made a smart move when they decided to ditch their old groups or bandmates.
- JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE
Justin Timberlake had huge success with his wildly popular boy band NSYNC, but his transition to greater stardom as a solo act was a result of his partnership with producers The Neptunes and Timbaland.
JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE
He released his debut solo album ‘Justified’ in 2002, while his first single, ‘Like I Love You,’ debuted at number two on the Billboard 100 chart.
Rather than distance himself from the pop sound that made him famous with NSYNC, Timberlake embraced it and gave it a more sophisticated edge, and the rest is history.
- DR. DRE
A former member of the rap group N.W.A. famous for songs like ‘Straight Outta Compton’, Dr. Dre came into his own in 1992 with the release of his first solo album, ‘The Chronic.’
Top 5 Famous Solo Artistes Who Ditched Their Old Bands
Over the years he has carved out a chunk of the rap industry for himself as co-owner of Death Row Records and CEO of the Aftermath label.
His work with Eminem and 50 Cent made them household names and further cemented his legacy. As of 2011, Dr. Dre was the third richest person in hip-hop, with Forbes citing his net worth at two hundred and fifty million dollars.
- PHARRELL
Pharrell has had his paws all over the music scene for years. As one half of the production outfit The Neptunes and one-third of N.E.R.D., Pharrell has been bringing his particular flavor to the scene for two decades.
Top 5 Famous Solo Artistes Who Ditched Their Old Bands
As a solo act he’s really excelled, with his multi talent by producing, and singing.
He has collaborating with other big names like Shakira, Madonna, Jay-Z, and, most notably, Justin Timberlake.
- BEYONCE
Destiny’s Child went through a couple of line-up changes, but one thing stayed the same, Beyonce Knowles, as the R&B singer remained front and center in the group.
Top 5 Famous Solo Artistes Who Ditched Their Old Bands
As a solo performer, Beyonce has released six studio albums, five live albums, three compilation albums, five EPs, one soundtrack album, two karaoke albums, and several chart topping singles.
She’s also crossed over into acting, bringing her beautiful voice to the big screen in ‘Dreamgirls,’ as well as other blockbuster movies.
- MICHAEL JACKSON
As a member of the Jackson 5, Michael Jackson performed poppy, catchy tunes alongside his brothers.
When he emerged from adolescence, he hit the solo path hard and heavy, releasing three albums before his 1979 classic, ‘Off the Wall.’
Top 5 Famous Solo Artistes Who Ditched Their Old Bands
Arguably the best proof of a more successful solo career, he followed it up in 1982 with ‘Thriller,’ one of the greatest albums ever made.
All in all, Michael Jackson released ten solo albums over the course of his decades-spanning career, rightfully earning him the title ‘King of Pop.’
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