Alice Cooper

First of all it needs to be made clear that recordings made from 1969 through 1974 under the name Alice Cooper refer to the Alice Cooper Group, Vincent Furnier a.k.a. Alice Cooper – vocals, harmonica, Glen Buxton – lead guitar, Michael Bruce – rhythm guitar, keyboards and backing vocals, Dennis Dunaway – bass and backing vocals

and Neal Smith – drums and backing vocals.

From 1975 onwads recordings are from Alice Cooper, refer to the solo artist born Vincent Damon Furnier on February 4, 1948, songwriter, and actor whose career has significantly impacted rock music, particularly through his contributions to shock rock and glam rock. Here's an overview of Alice Cooper's influence and career highlights:

- **Early Career**:

- Alice Cooper was originally the name of the band formed by Furnier in high school. The band gained notoriety for their theatrical performances, which included horror-themed props and vaudeville-style antics.

- Their breakthrough came with the album "Love It to Death" (1971), featuring the hit single "I'm Eighteen."

- **Shock Rock**:

- Cooper is often credited with pioneering "shock rock," a genre characterized by elaborate live performances that included guillotines, electric chairs, fake blood, and snakes. His stage presence was both macabre and theatrical, making him one of the most controversial yet intriguing figures in rock.

- **Glam Rock Influence**:

- While primarily known for shock rock, Alice Cooper adopted elements of glam rock in his music and style. His use of makeup, flamboyant costumes, and the androgynous look during performances in the '70s aligned him with the glam movement, although he always maintained his unique identity.

- **Key Albums and Songs**:

- **"School's Out"** (1972) - This album included the anthem "School's Out," which became one of Cooper's signature songs, epitomizing teenage rebellion.

- **"Billion Dollar Babies"** (1973) - His most commercially successful album, it included hits like "No More Mr. Nice Guy" and "Elected."

- **"Welcome to My Nightmare"** (1975) - Marked his first solo album after the band Alice Cooper disbanded. It was also the soundtrack to his television special, further blending music with performance art.

- **Personal Struggles and Comeback**:

- Cooper battled alcoholism in the late '70s and early '80s, which affected his career and personal life. His recovery in the mid-1980s led to a resurgence with albums like "Constrictor" (1986) and "Trash" (1989), the latter featuring the hit "Poison."

- **Later Career**:

- Alice Cooper has continued to release music, tour, and engage in various projects, maintaining his iconic status. Albums like "Hey Stoopid" (1991) and "Brutal Planet" (2000) showed his continued relevance and innovation.

- He's also known for his annual Christmas Pudding shows, which benefit his Solid Rock Teen Centers.

- **Acting and Other Ventures**:

- Cooper has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, often playing villainous or eccentric characters, capitalizing on his public persona.

- He's written books, including an autobiography, and has been involved in various commercial ventures like his own line of branded merchandise.

- **Influence and Recognition**:

- Alice Cooper's influence is seen in numerous bands and artists who cite his shock tactics, performance style, and theatricality as inspirations.

- He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

- **Philosophy and Public Persona**:

- Cooper has always maintained a distinction between his stage persona and his off-stage life, often discussing how "Alice" is a character he plays. He's also known for his wit, humor, and interest in golf, which contrasts with his onstage image.

Alice Cooper's blend of music, theater, and shock value has made him a unique and enduring figure in rock music, continuing to perform and influence new generations of musicians and fans.