Supergroups in the 20th century were about a dime a dozen. There were a ton of them, and many of them became quite infamous. However, few of those groups are considered “reverse” supergroups, or bands composed of legendary musicians before they became famous. But one band stands out with that definition, and it’s the underrated British blues-rock outfit Steampacket.
Videos by American Songwriter
If that name doesn’t sound familiar, there’s a reason for that. Steampacket was only together for about a year, between 1965 and 1966. And when they were together, they didn’t gain much in the way of fame. However, many of the band’s members would go on to launch enormously successful careers.
Steampacket Was the Precursor to a Few Legendary Classic Rock Careers
The most recognizable member of the band was Rod Stewart of Faces and solo fame. He became part of Steampacket through association with the band’s founder, Long John Baldry, with whom he was in the band The Hoochie Coochie Men. Baldry himself is a legendary musician, as he is considered one of the first British singers to bring the blues to clubs in his native country.
The band also included the likes of Julie Driscoll (known for her work with Brian Auger and Keith Tippett), Brian Auger (Hammond organ legend), Vic Briggs (The Animals), Ricky Fenson (briefly of The Rolling Stones), and Micky Waller (legendary session drummer).
This example of reverse supergroups was more of a “musical revue” than a solid, single group. Still, they were quite good. Giorgio Gonelsky, known for working with The Yardbirds and The Rolling Stones, managed them.
Steampacket performed at clubs and theaters around England and even supported The Rolling Stones on their 1965 tour. However, contractual issues burdened the band, and they never released an actual album while they were together. You’ll be able to find their demos floating around the internet, but evidence of their music isn’t easy to come by.
Some of that material has since been re-released in album form, namely to cash in on the supergroup craze and Rod Stewart’s fame. Those two albums are First Of The Supergroups: Early Days and The First Supergroup: Steampacket Featuring Rod Stewart.
Stewart, sadly, was the first to leave the band, followed by founder Baldry just a few months later. The band would dissolve shortly after. Fun fact: After Baldry left, he would join the group Bluesology with Elton John before the latter became famous. It seems reverse supergroups often link back to Baldry in some fashion!
Photo by National Jazz Archive/Heritage Images/Getty Images
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.