Complete List Of Survivor Band Members

Survivor is an American rock band formed in Chicago in 1978. With a career spanning several decades, the band has undergone various lineup changes while maintaining its signature sound. Their most well-known songs, such as “Eye of the Tiger,” became anthems of the 1980s, cementing their place in rock history. Over the years, Survivor has released multiple albums, with Eye of the Tiger (1982) being their most commercially successful release, thanks to its title track which gained worldwide recognition, especially after being featured in Rocky III. The band’s musical contributions go beyond their chart successes, influencing rock’s landscape in the ’80s. Survivor has seen both breakups and reunions, but despite these changes, they have continued to release music and perform for fans.

The members of Survivor have each contributed to the band’s evolution, with key individuals playing essential roles in the shaping of their sound and success. These musicians have diverse experiences, both within and outside of Survivor, and their work has helped define the band’s identity in rock music.

Frankie Sullivan

Frankie Sullivan is the founding member of Survivor, having joined the band in 1978 as the lead guitarist and backing vocalist. He was instrumental in the creation of the band’s sound, particularly through his songwriting, and his contributions are heavily featured in their biggest hits, such as “Eye of the Tiger.” Sullivan’s long tenure with the band spans from its inception until his departure in 1988, and his return in 1993 marked his continued involvement in Survivor’s musical direction until 2019. He played on every Survivor album, contributing to their signature hard rock sound, and his work on Eye of the Tiger was pivotal in defining the band’s success during the 1980s. Beyond Survivor, Sullivan has worked with various artists in the rock and pop scenes, producing and songwriting for several projects, but his most notable contribution remains his work with Survivor, which remains a lasting legacy.

Jim Peterik

Jim Peterik co-founded Survivor in 1978, contributing to the band’s distinctive sound with his roles as a keyboardist, rhythm guitarist, and backing vocalist. His collaboration with Frankie Sullivan in songwriting was a key factor in the band’s success, particularly with the iconic “Eye of the Tiger,” which he co-wrote. Peterik was a member of Survivor from its inception until 1988, and he briefly returned to the band in 1993, staying until 1996. He played a key role in the band’s albums Survivor (1980), Premonition (1981), and Eye of the Tiger (1982), bringing a mix of pop and rock sensibilities to their sound. After leaving Survivor, Peterik went on to achieve success with other projects, most notably the Ides of March and writing for bands like .38 Special, as well as a solo career that expanded his influence in the music industry.

Dave Bickler

Dave Bickler joined Survivor in 1978 as the lead vocalist and was a key part of the band’s early sound. His distinctive voice helped shape the band’s rock anthems, and his most memorable contribution was on the Eye of the Tiger album, where he provided the powerful lead vocals for the iconic title track. Bickler remained with the band until 1983, before leaving to pursue other musical endeavors. He returned to Survivor in 1993, where he remained a member until 2000, and later made a brief appearance in 2014 and 2015-2016, where he again provided co-lead vocals on select tracks. Bickler also enjoyed a successful solo career and worked with various artists, though his legacy remains most strongly tied to his work with Survivor, particularly his contribution to their defining hits.

Dennis Keith Johnson

Dennis Keith Johnson was the original bassist for Survivor, joining the band in 1978. He played a significant role in the band’s early years, contributing to their debut album Survivor (1980) and their follow-up Premonition (1981). Johnson’s bass playing helped to anchor the band’s rhythm section, providing the foundation for their hard rock sound. He was part of the lineup during the band’s rise to prominence with Eye of the Tiger, but left the band in 1981. After his time with Survivor, Johnson continued to work in various musical capacities but did not find the same level of commercial success that he enjoyed with Survivor. His early contributions remain an integral part of the band’s legacy.

Gary Smith

Gary Smith was the original drummer for Survivor, playing with the band from 1978 to 1981. He was part of the band during their formative years, contributing to the rhythm section of their debut album Survivor (1980) and Premonition (1981). Smith’s drumming helped define the band’s early sound, laying the groundwork for their later success with albums like Eye of the Tiger. After leaving Survivor in 1981, Smith’s drumming career continued, though he did not achieve the same level of fame that he did during his time with the band. His contributions during the band’s early years remain a significant part of Survivor’s development, and his time with the group helped shape their early musical identity.

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Brian Kachejian

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Brian Kachejian was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx. He is the founder and Editor in Chief of ClassicRockHistory.com. He has spent thirty years in the music business often working with many of the people who have appeared on this site. Brian Kachejian also holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stony Brook University along with New York State Public School Education Certifications in Music and Social Studies. Brian Kachejian is also an active member of the New York Press.