Classic rock bands through the years have often been the effort of family members. The following three classic rock bands feature the talents of a pair of siblings, specifically. For the most part, that kind of familial partnership worked out, resulting in some of the most legendary rock songs of a generation. Though, at least one of these sibling pairs ended up falling out. Let’s take a look!
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Mark and David Knopfler (Dire Straits)
These two famous brothers formed Dire Straits way back in the 1970s, and they were consistent members of the roots rock band for quite some time. Mark Knopfler was the lead vocalist of the band until its disbandment in 1995. David Knopfler served as the rhythm guitarist for Dire Straits until 1980.
Few brothers are as closely associated with the pub rock genre as these two, though they were known for having a bit of a rivalry through the years. Their partnership wasn’t really explosive, but their relationship had fractured enough for David to call it quits.
Angus and Malcolm Young (AC/DC)
Angus and Malcolm Young were barely adults when they formed AC/DC back in 1973. Angus played lead guitar while Malcolm took on the rhythm guitar for the band. It was a match made in rock and roll heaven.
Despite AC/DC changing members often through the years, Angus and Malcolm were still a constant in the band until Malcolm’s retirement in 2014 and subsequent passing in 2017. Sometimes, siblings just work really well together when it comes to music. Chalk it up to genes, I guess.
Alex and Eddie Van Halen (Van Halen)
Alex Van Halen and Eddie Van Halen might be one of the most famous pairs of classic rock siblings ever. The two brothers made their namesake hard rock band Van Halen the legendary outfit it is known as today.
With the talents of Michael Anthony and David Lee Roth, the Van Halen brothers created quite a force of nature with their band. Eddie, quite famously, was one of the most acclaimed rock guitarists of all time. Alex, similarly, is a legendary drummer. Few bros made it big in the 1980s rock world quite like they did.
Photo by SGranitz/WireImage
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