Icon Icon

Icon: The Band Hungry for Success and Controversy

In the annals of rock music, the band Icon has left an indelible mark with their anthemic song "Hungry for Love." Emerging from the vibrant Los Angeles music scene in the late 1980s, Icon embarked on a tumultuous journey that was marked by both triumph and adversity.

Early Days and Breakthrough

The band's origins can be traced back to the meeting of vocalist Dan Wexler and guitarist John Shanks. Inspired by the likes of Bon Jovi and Poison, they formed Icon in 1989. The addition of bassist Stephen Dees and drummer Pat Torpey completed the lineup. With their energetic live performances and catchy hooks, Icon quickly garnered a loyal following.

Their debut album, "Icon," released in 1989, was a commercial success, peaking at number 27 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album's lead single, "Hungry for Love," became the band's signature song, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite their early success, Icon faced numerous challenges. Drummer Pat Torpey was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, forcing him to leave the band in 1993. The band also struggled with substance abuse and internal conflict.

In 1994, Icon released their sophomore album, "Night of the Crime," which failed to live up to the commercial expectations of their debut. The album was plagued by production issues and legal disputes, further exacerbating the band's internal strife.

Later Years and Legacy

After a brief hiatus, Icon reunited in 2007. They released two more albums, "Unleashed" (2008) and "Icon II" (2017), which received critical acclaim but failed to achieve mainstream success.

Despite their ups and downs, Icon remains a respected force in the rock music scene. Their music continues to resonate with fans around the world, and their enduring legacy is a testament to their talent and tenacity.

Discography

* Icon (1989)
* Night of the Crime (1994)
* Unleashed (2008)
* Icon II (2017)

Members

* Dan Wexler - vocals
* John Shanks - guitar
* Stephen Dees - bass
* Pat Torpey - drums (1989-1993)