THROWBACK THURSDAY: WHEN LEAD SINGERS GO SOLO, 80s EDITION

There were so many successful bands in the 80s that hinged on that one, charismatic person standing behind the microphone, the lead singer. While not every lead singer was able to spin off into a super solo career (sorry, Susanna Hoffs) some of the biggest hitmakers of the 80s started off fronting a band. There were the SUPER successful, like George Michael, Gloria Estefan, Phil Collins, Lionel Richie and Sting, the successful, like Belinda Carlisle and Bobby Brown, and the one hit solo wonders, like Boy George and Steve Perry. Some went back to their bands, some did not. Some are still kicking today. Here are just a few blasts from the past (and present) who started off as a face in the crowd behind the mic. Enjoy!!