Big Star

Cult Classic American Power Pop Band

Big Star was an American rock band formed in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1971 by Alex Chilton, Chris Bell, Jody Stephens, and Andy Hummel. Despite achieving limited commercial success during their initial run, Big Star has since been critically acclaimed for their work and is considered a significant influence on the power pop genre. Their debut album, "#1 Record," released in 1972, was met with critical acclaim but suffered from poor distribution and lack of promotional support, leading to disappointing sales. The band's follow-up efforts, "Radio City" (1974) and the posthumously released "Third/Sister Lovers" (recorded in 1974 but released in 1978), further cemented their reputation among critics and fellow musicians. Tragically, co-founder Chris Bell died in a car accident in 1978, which added a layer of poignancy to the band's legacy. Although Big Star disbanded in the late 1970s, they experienced a resurgence of interest in the 1980s and 1990s as new generations of artists cited them as an influence. The band briefly reunited in the 1990s with Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow of The Posies joining Chilton and Stephens for live performances and new recordings. Big Star's music continues to be celebrated for its melodic inventiveness and emotional depth.