Complete List Of Humble Pie Band Members

Over the years, Humble Pie underwent several lineup changes, but they consistently produced high-energy rock infused with blues and soul influences. Between 1969 and 2002, the band released thirteen studio albums, earning a reputation as one of the hardest-working and most dynamic live bands of their time. Despite periods of disbandment and reunion, the band maintained a loyal fan base, and their contributions to rock have influenced numerous artists.

While Humble Pie officially ended in 2002 following the deaths of key members Steve Marriott and Greg Ridley, their legacy endures. With classic tracks like “Natural Born Bugie” and “I Don’t Need No Doctor,” they remain a significant force in the evolution of blues-based rock.

Steve Marriott

Steve Marriott was the heart and soul of Humble Pie, co-founding the band in 1969 after leaving the Small Faces. As the band’s primary vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter, Marriott’s powerful voice and charismatic stage presence defined their sound. He contributed to all of the band’s albums except Live at the Cleveland Agora Theatre (1990) and Back on Track (2002). Notable contributions include writing and performing on tracks like “30 Days in the Hole” and “Shine On.”

Marriott’s ability to seamlessly blend rock, blues, and soul was evident throughout the band’s career, particularly on albums like Performance: Rockin’ the Fillmore (1971) and Smokin’ (1972). His leadership guided the band through its most successful years. Outside of Humble Pie, Marriott had a solo career and briefly re-formed the Small Faces in the late 1970s. Tragically, he passed away in 1991, but his legacy as one of rock’s most dynamic frontmen remains.

Jerry Shirley

Jerry Shirley was a founding member of Humble Pie, serving as the band’s drummer and percussionist. Joining the group in 1969, Shirley’s dynamic drumming provided the backbone for the band’s powerful sound, helping to shape their fusion of blues, rock, and soul. His contributions extended beyond drumming, as he occasionally played keyboards, piano, guitar, and provided backing vocals. Shirley appeared on every Humble Pie release, from their debut album As Safe as Yesterday Is (1969) to Back on Track (2002), solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the band.

Shirley’s rhythmic versatility is particularly evident on tracks like “I Don’t Need No Doctor” and “30 Days in the Hole,” where his ability to adapt to different tempos and styles added depth to the band’s arrangements. His drumming on the live album Performance: Rockin’ the Fillmore (1971) is often cited as one of the highlights of the record, showcasing his energy and technical precision during live performances.

Beyond Humble Pie, Shirley pursued various musical endeavors. He played with Fastway in the 1980s and collaborated with other artists as a session musician. Shirley also took on the role of bandleader during Humble Pie’s later iterations, ensuring the group’s legacy continued after the deaths of key members Steve Marriott and Greg Ridley. Although no longer touring, Shirley remains active in overseeing the band’s affairs, preserving their history and influence in rock music.

Greg Ridley

Greg Ridley was Humble Pie’s bassist and a founding member, joining the group after his tenure with Spooky Tooth. His deep, groove-heavy basslines became a cornerstone of the band’s sound. Ridley contributed to all the band’s albums from As Safe as Yesterday Is (1969) to Street Rats (1975) and later returned for reunion recordings like Natural Born Bugie (1995). His work on tracks like “Black Coffee” and “Stone Cold Fever” highlighted his ability to create complex yet soulful rhythms.

Ridley’s rich backing vocals and occasional guitar and percussion performances added depth to the band’s arrangements. After the band’s initial breakup, he pursued other musical projects before rejoining for a brief reunion in 2001. He passed away in 2003, leaving behind a legacy as a vital force in Humble Pie’s history.

Peter Frampton

Peter Frampton co-founded Humble Pie in 1969 as their lead guitarist and one of the primary vocalists. His melodic and technically skilled guitar playing was integral to the band’s early sound. Frampton appeared on seminal albums like As Safe as Yesterday Is (1969), Town and Country (1969), and the live masterpiece Performance: Rockin’ the Fillmore (1971). Songs like “Four Day Creep” showcased his ability to combine intricate solos with a soulful edge.

Frampton left Humble Pie in 1971 to pursue a highly successful solo career, achieving global fame with his live album Frampton Comes Alive! (1976). Despite his departure, his contributions to Humble Pie’s formative years remain a defining element of their legacy. His collaborations with the band during this period helped solidify their reputation as a pioneering force in rock.

David “Clem” Clempson

David “Clem” Clempson joined Humble Pie in 1971, replacing Peter Frampton as lead guitarist. Clempson’s more aggressive, blues-driven style brought a new dimension to the band’s music, evident on albums like Smokin’ (1972) and Street Rats (1975). Tracks such as “Hot ’n’ Nasty” and “30 Days in the Hole” feature Clempson’s fiery solos and distinctive tone.

Before joining Humble Pie, Clempson was a member of Colosseum, and his experience with jazz-rock fusion added depth to his playing. After leaving the band in 1975, Clempson continued a prolific career as a session guitarist, collaborating with artists such as Roger Waters and Jack Bruce. His contributions to Humble Pie during their peak years remain an essential part of their legacy.

Anthony “Sooty” Jones

Anthony “Sooty” Jones joined Humble Pie as their bassist in 1980, during the band’s reformation after a five-year hiatus. His solid basslines and vocals were crucial to the albums On to Victory (1980) and Go for the Throat (1981), both of which marked the band’s effort to return to prominence in the hard rock scene. Jones’ playing style added a fresh groove to tracks like “Fool for a Pretty Face,” which became a moderate hit.

Following his time with Humble Pie, Jones occasionally collaborated with other musicians but primarily remained connected to the band’s resurgence in the 1980s. He briefly rejoined the group during their 1989 activities before his untimely death in 1999. His contributions are remembered as a vital part of Humble Pie’s second chapter.

Bobby Tench

Bobby Tench joined Humble Pie in 1980 as a guitarist, vocalist, and keyboardist during their comeback era. Tench, previously known for his work with Jeff Beck and the Streetwalkers, brought his versatile musicianship and soulful voice to the group. He contributed significantly to On to Victory (1980) and Go for the Throat (1981), where his guitar work and vocal harmonies complemented Steve Marriott’s dynamic presence. His contributions to tracks like “Teenage Anxiety” demonstrated his ability to blend rock and blues seamlessly.

Tench returned for the band’s 2001 reunion, contributing to the album Back on Track (2002). Beyond Humble Pie, Tench enjoyed a prolific career as a session musician and band member, collaborating with artists such as Van Morrison and Eric Burdon. Tench’s death in 2024 marked the loss of a versatile and celebrated figure in rock music.

Fallon Williams III

Fallon Williams III briefly joined Humble Pie as a drummer between 1982 and 1983. Though he did not contribute to any studio albums, his live performances helped sustain the band’s momentum during a period of lineup transitions. His energetic drumming style supported the group’s dynamic stage shows, maintaining the high-energy performances fans had come to expect.

Details about Williams’ career outside of Humble Pie are sparse, but his role during this transitional phase underscores his importance in the band’s continued existence during the early 1980s.

Jim Leverton

Jim Leverton, a talented bassist and vocalist, contributed to Humble Pie during one of their later iterations. While his tenure with the band was relatively short, Leverton’s skillful bass playing and harmony vocals added depth to their sound, particularly in live performances. Leverton’s involvement came during a time when the band was experimenting with new lineups and evolving their style.

Outside of Humble Pie, Leverton built a notable career as a session musician and collaborator, working with bands such as Caravan and Steve Marriott’s solo projects. His versatility and professionalism made him a valuable asset to the band during his time with them.

Goldy McJohn

Goldy McJohn, best known as the keyboardist for Steppenwolf, briefly joined Humble Pie in 1982. His signature organ style added a distinctive flair to the band’s sound during live performances, though he did not contribute to any studio recordings. McJohn’s time with Humble Pie showcased his adaptability as a musician, blending his blues-influenced keyboard work with the band’s hard rock style.

McJohn passed away in 2017, but his brief stint with Humble Pie remains a testament to his enduring impact on rock music and his ability to seamlessly integrate into different musical settings.

Keith Christopher

Keith Christopher played bass for Humble Pie during a brief stint in 1983. Although his time with the band was short and did not include contributions to studio recordings, his live performances helped maintain the group’s momentum during this transitional phase. Christopher’s solid basslines and stage presence provided continuity for fans during a period of flux.

Christopher has enjoyed a lengthy career as a session musician and performer, contributing to projects across various genres. His brief involvement with Humble Pie is a reflection of his ability to adapt to the demands of a legendary band.

Tommy Johnson

Tommy Johnson joined Humble Pie as a guitarist during one of their later lineups. While his contributions were primarily in live performances, his role helped maintain the band’s reputation for delivering high-energy shows. Johnson’s time with Humble Pie came during a period of experimentation and lineup changes, showcasing his ability to step into a storied legacy.

Details of Johnson’s career outside of Humble Pie are limited, but his time with the band highlights his role in sustaining their musical legacy.

Rick Richards

Rick Richards, known for his work with bands like Georgia Satellites and Izzy Stradlin & The Ju Ju Hounds, contributed to Humble Pie during one of their later lineups. His guitar work added a raw and gritty edge to the band’s sound, enhancing their live performances. Richards’ ability to deliver powerful riffs and solos ensured that Humble Pie’s classic rock essence remained intact.

Outside of Humble Pie, Richards has been a respected figure in the Southern rock and hard rock scenes, known for his dynamic playing and distinctive style.

Dave Hewitt

Dave Hewitt, another bassist to join Humble Pie during their later years, brought his skills to the group during a transitional period. While his contributions were not captured in studio recordings, his live performances helped sustain the band’s rhythm section and maintain their powerful sound.

Hewitt’s work outside of Humble Pie includes collaborations with other artists and projects, further demonstrating his versatility as a bassist. His role in the band, though brief, reflects his ability to adapt to the demands of a legendary rock act.