Remembering Glenn Buxton the original Alice Cooper band guitarist
As the original lead guitarist for Alice Cooper, Buxton played a crucial role in crafting the band’s distinctive sound, showcased in hits such as “I’m Eighteen” and “School’s Out” which combined hard rock with theatrical
Remembering Glenn Buxton the original Alice Cooper band guitarist
The influential guitarist Glenn Buxton, best known for his work with the band Alice Cooper, was born on November 10, 1947, in Akron, Ohio. Raised in a musical family, Buxton developed an early interest in rock and roll, a genre that was gaining immense popularity during his formative years.
Buxton’s musical career began in earnest when he moved to Phoenix, Arizona, in his teens. He attended Cortez High School, where he formed his first band, The Earwigs, with classmates Dennis Dunaway and Vince Furnier (later known as Alice Cooper). The Earwigs eventually transformed into The Spiders, and later The Nazz, before settling on the name Alice Cooper.
As the lead guitarist for Alice Cooper, Buxton played a crucial role in crafting the band’s distinctive sound, which combined hard rock with theatrical, often shocking stage performances. The band’s breakthrough came in the early 1970s with the release of their third album, “Love It to Death” (1971). The album featured the hit single “I’m Eighteen,” which showcased Buxton’s raw and powerful guitar work.
Alice Cooper’s next album, “Killer” (1971), further solidified their place in rock history, but it was “School’s Out” (1972) that brought them international fame. The title track, with its rebellious anthem and iconic guitar riff, became a massive hit and remains a staple of classic rock radio. Buxton’s guitar playing was a defining element of these records, contributing to the band’s unique and enduring sound.
After the success of the album “Billion Dollar Babies” (1973), internal tensions and Buxton’s struggles with alcoholism led to his departure from the band in 1974. He continued to play music, collaborating with various artists and performing in different bands, though he never regained the same level of commercial success he had enjoyed with Alice Cooper.
Buxton’s personal life was marked by his battle with addiction, which took a toll on his health and career. Despite these challenges, he remained a beloved figure among fans and fellow musicians, known for his innovative guitar work and influence on the rock genre.
In the years following his departure from Alice Cooper, Buxton kept a lower profile, though he occasionally rejoined his former bandmates for special performances. He settled in Clarion, Iowa, where he continued to play music locally and mentor aspiring musicians.
Glenn Buxton passed away on October 19, 1997, in Mason City, Iowa, at the age of 49, due to complications from pneumonia. His legacy lives on through his contributions to the music world, particularly his role in shaping the sound and style of Alice Cooper, a band that remains a cornerstone of rock history.
Look back at Alice Cooper performing “School’s Out” at Top of the Pops in 1972
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