There is a lot that goes into being a frontman/woman that isn’t solely focused on vocals. In fact, there is often a better (or at least equal) singer lying in wait. Check out three bands that arguably have a better singer in their ranks than their frontman below.
Videos by American Songwriter
Fleetwood Mac
Part of Fleetwood Mac’s magic is the fact that each of its members was stellar in their own right. They didn’t have a frontman per se, but there is one vocalist that we deem criminally underrated: Christine McVie. Though she had her starring moments at the microphone, much of her duties kept her behind the keys and out of sight. However, there was no mistaking how powerful her vocals were when she did get a moment at the front of the stage. Look no further than “Songbird,” below.
For you, there’ll be no more crying
For you, the sun will be shining
Because I feel that when I’m with you
It’s alright, I know it’s right
To you, I’ll give the world
To you, I’ll never be cold
Because I feel that when I’m with you
It’s alright, I know it’s right
Genesis
Next up on our list of bands that have a better singer than their frontman, we’re looking at Genesis. Though Peter Gabriel isn’t too shabby in the vocal department by any means, we’re partial to Phil Collins’ comforting timbre. There is something singular about Collins’ voice that makes it timeless. After Gabriel decided to leave the group, Collins stepped up and took his place. Though that move isn’t popular with every Genesis fan, we fall into a supportive camp. Moreover, Collins’ solo career proves he likely should’ve been a frontman the entire time.
Need I say I love you?
Need I say I care?
Need I say that emotions
Are something we don’t share?
I don’t want to be sitting here
Trying to deceive you
Cause you know I know baby
That I don’t wanna go
The Beach Boys
Though Mike Love is often considered the frontman of The Beach Boys, there is another singer who might be better. Brian Wilson’s tenure with the group has stood the test of time. Yes, Wilson-penned songs and tracks where he featured on lead vocals have remained the group’s biggest hits. Though not always given the spotlight, Wilson’s efforts with the West Coast rockers prove he should’ve never been resigned to singing harmonies.
Wouldn’t it be nice if we were older?
Then we wouldn’t have to wait so long
And wouldn’t it be nice to live together
In the kind of world where we belong?
You know it’s gonna make it that much better
When we can say goodnight and stay together
Photo by Stevens/ANL/Shutterstock)










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