10 Rock Bands Who Sold Out (But We Love Them Anyway)

4. Genesis

Another soldier on the frontline of the prog movement was Genesis, who were led by Peter Gabriel up until 1975.

In this era, the band were known for extravagant stage performances and songs about the loss of traditional English culture. If you're thinking "This can't be the same Genesis my Dad listens to on a Sunday afternoon," then we don't blame you, but you're wrong.

After Gabriel left, a new singer took over. He had previously been the band's drummer and decided to take the group in a brand new direction. His name was Phil Collins.

The gorillas' favourite's distinctive voice led the group into more conventional territory, landing them their first UK top ten single in 1978.

They had a fairly steady chart presence in the '80s, but exploded back into the limelight in the early '90s with their album We Can't Dance. Featuring silly songs about women on the beach and devious preachers, Genesis were a long way away from Selling England by the Pound.

But you know what? If you're going to do sellout pop rock, then you might as well do it right and Genesis absolutely nailed it.

Contributor
Contributor

Jacob Simmons has a great many passions, including rock music, giving acclaimed films three-and-a-half stars, watching random clips from The Simpsons on YouTube at 3am, and writing about himself in the third person.