In the annals of the music industry, some artists have experienced notable comebacks that have left an indelible mark on their careers and on the music landscape as a whole. This phenomenon, which could be considered a kind of artistic rebirth, has led to the revitalization of the trajectories of some iconic musicians.
The return of these stars often translates into a significant impact both in terms of sales and recognition. The audience, eager to revive the magic of their golden eras, has responded enthusiastically to these comebacks. Albums that capture the distinctive essence of each artist at their peak often find a receptive audience, generating robust sales and reaffirming the musician’s position in the musical pantheon.
The impact on the industry goes beyond sales figures. The resurrection of these figures or bands has also influenced the artistic direction of contemporary music. Their influences, styles, and unique sounds often seep into the fabric of the current music scene, demonstrating that the timelessness of their art transcends generational boundaries.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
The Red Hot Chili Peppers are not only one of the most iconic rock bands in the industry but have also undergone some changes over the years, yet they have never ceased to be incredible. In 2022, it was announced that John Frusciante would be making a comeback to the group after a 14-year absence. However, this led to Josh Klinghoffer departing from the ensemble.
Red Hot Chilli Peppers poses for a MTV portrait shoot. (Source: MTV/Getty Images)
The last time Frusciante had worked with the band was on the “Stadium Arcadium” album, which was released in 2006. Two years after the release, the guitarist stepped away, and the Red Hot went on a hiatus with no clear return date. According to the musician in an interview, his departure was due to “differing musical tastes”, and when he returned, he wasn’t sure if he was equipped to rejoin one of the most iconic bands.
Cher
Cher has had several notable comebacks throughout her extensive career, and one of the most prominent was with the album “Believe”, released in 1998. This marked a significant shift in her musical style, incorporating elements of dance and contemporary pop music. The title track, which shares its name with the album, became a massive hit and is known for its use of Auto-Tune.
Cher attends The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Opening Gala at The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on September 25, 2021. (Source: Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
Her resurgence in the industry revitalized her career and solidified her as an influential figure in pop music. Following the release, she continued to release albums and embark on tours, maintaining her status as a living legend in the music world. Currently, she has taken a break from melodies, but as of now, she has not officially announced her retirement.
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley experienced various moments in his career that could be considered “comebacks” to music, but there is one particularly significant after a period of military service. He was drafted in 1958 and served in the United States Army until 1960. His return to the world of entertainment and music was marked by a television special called “Elvis’ Comeback Special”.
Elvis Presley in December 21, 1970 at the White House. (Source: National Archives)
This one was aired on December 3, 1968, and was designed to revitalize his music career and demonstrate that he was still a powerful force in the entertainment industry. The “Comeback Special” featured the singer in an intimate format, performing his previous hits and some new songs. The performance, especially the section where Elvis sings in a smaller and more casual setting, was well-received and contributed significantly to his comeback in popular music.
This television special marked the beginning of a new stage in his career, and in the following years, he released successful albums and went on tours. Although he experienced ups and downs, his comeback in 1968 is remembered as a key moment in the history of the King of Rock and Roll.
Aerosmith
Aerosmith has had several ups and downs, especially in the ’80s. One of their comebacks occurred in that decade after a period in which the band faced challenges related to substance abuse and internal tensions. In 1984, they released the album “Done with Mirrors”, marking their return to music after overcoming these issues.
Brad Whitford, Joe Perry, Joey Kramer, Tom Hamilton and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith attend Steven Tyler’s Second Annual GRAMMY Awards Viewing Party. (Source: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Janie’s Fund)
The record was intended to be their first LP since “Rock in a Hard Place” in 1982, but many do not consider it a masterpiece. Nevertheless, over time, they have released new successful titles, achieving significant commercial success with them. Some of these include the reworking of “Walk This Way” and “Raising Hell”.
Taylor Swift
After the tour for her album 1989, Taylor Swift stayed out of the public eye for a long time. There was a year where no one saw her physically, and she had disconnected all her social media to rest, recover, and step away from the media spotlight for a while. After some time on the sidelines, the iconic singer decided to make a comeback and released “Reputation” in 2017.
Taylor Swift attends the “All Too Well” New York Premiere on November 12, 2021. (Source: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)
Not only did she return with a change in style and impact, but she was also ready to respond to all those who had spoken about her in the past. The strategy of her comeback was marked by a change in her public image and a greater focus on privacy, as reflected in the content of the album. This album marked a new musical and thematic direction, with a focus on public perception and personal relationships.
ABBA
ABBA announced their return to music after more than four decades of inactivity. The official announcement was made in 2021, and the band revealed that they would release a new album titled “Voyage”. This would be their first album with original material since “The Visitors” in 1981. It was, of course, one of the most anticipated comebacks, causing a global sensation.
Benny Andersson, Agnetha Fältskog, Anni-Frid Lyngstad and Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA. (Source: IMDb)
In November 2021, the album was released, marking an exciting return to music for one of the most iconic groups in the history of pop. Additionally, the band also announced that they would present digital avatars of themselves in a series of live concerts using cutting-edge technology. This innovative live performance would allow fans to enjoy the experience of seeing them on stage in a unique way.
Fleetwood Mac
One of Fleetwood Mac’s most notable comebacks occurred in the 1990s when the band reunited in its classic lineup for the album “The Dance” in 1997. This live album and its corresponding tour marked the reconciliation of the band’s core lineup, including Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, Mick Fleetwood, John McVie and Christine McVie.
Lindsey Buckingham, Mick Fleetwood, Christine McVie, John McVie and Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac. (Source: IMDb)
Before this comeback in the ’90s, the group had already undergone lineup changes and achieved significant success throughout the 1970s and 1980s. However, this album was particularly significant because it marked the return of Buckingham, who had separated from the band in the 1980s. In recent years, the band’s lineup has undergone some modifications, but they have maintained their impact and presence in the music scene.
Spice Girls
The most notable comeback of the Spice Girls to music occurred in 2007-2008 with the worldwide tour “The Return of the Spice Girls”. After a period of separation during which the members pursued individual projects, Melanie Brown, Melanie Chisholm, Emma Bunton, Geri Halliwell and Victoria Beckham announced their reunion for a series of concerts.
Victoria Beckham, Melanie Chisholm, Geri Halliwell, Emma Bunton and Melanie Brown pose for a photocall at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich. (Source: Getty Images)
Although they did not release new material during this comeback, the tour was a significant success and generated great excitement among fans eagerly anticipating seeing the band together again. In 2023, Brown announced that they still have things to announce and do, indicating that a reunion is on the horizon. “We are going to be doing some stuff, all five of us, pretty soon”, she announced on Sky News.
Jay-Z
Jay-Z is not only one of the most successful rappers in the music industry but also a great talent scout with a special eye as a producer. He has always worked in various sectors of the scene, perhaps even setting aside some of his personal projects. That’s why his return to music was one of the most notable moments of his career.
Jay-Z performs onstage at SOMETHING IN THE WATER – Day 2 on April 27, 2019. (Source: Brian Ach/Getty Images for Something in the Water)
This took place in 2017 with the release of his album “4:44”, which marked his comeback to the stage after a brief musical hiatus and became a significant project both artistically and personally. The album addressed personal and reflective themes, including public apologies to his wife Beyoncé for private matters, as well as social and racial issues.
Deep Purple
Deep Purple was another of the many iconic bands that had incredible comebacks. In the 1980s, a reunion of the classic lineup known as “Mark II” took place, including Ian Gillan (vocals), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Roger Glover (bass), Jon Lord (keyboards) and Ian Paice (drums). The album “Perfect Strangers” was released in 1984, marking the return of the classic lineup after several years of separation.
Ritchie Blackmore, David Coverdale, Glenn V. Hughes III, Jon Lord and Ian Paice of Deep Purple. (Source: IMDb)
After this comeback in the ’80s, the band has continued to release albums and tour throughout the subsequent decades. The composition of the British hard rock ensemble has undergone some changes over time, but Deep Purple has maintained its presence in the rock scene for decades. They are currently still active within the music industry.
Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath, one of the pioneering bands of heavy metal, has experienced several comeback moments throughout their career. One of the most notable comebacks occurred in 2011 with the release of their album “13”. This album marked the reunion of three original band members: Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler.
Bill Ward, Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler and Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath appear at a press conference to announce their first new album in 33 years and a world tour in 2012. (Source: Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
It was the first studio album with Osbourne on vocals since “Never Say Die!” released in 1978. Anticipation was high, and the album was well-received by both fans and critics. It was a commercial success, reaching number 1 on various charts worldwide and the global tour that followed the release was also a significant event, as it marked the band’s farewell to touring, announcing that it would be their final tour.
