Queensrÿche

Queensryche is a band cursed with "one-hit wonder" status by people who don't know any better. While "Silent Lucidity" was a major hit for them at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1991 and they have never charted there otherwise, they have charted much more consistently in the UK Top 100 and have sold over 20 million albums worldwide, with plenty of radio airplay for their various singles. Like with Iron Maiden, charts mean nothing to Queensryche.

In the early 1980s, Queensryche was originally named "The Mob." They put together a demo tape, the first song of which was titled "Queen of the Reich." When they landed a contract, their new manager suggested the name change based on that song. In fact, adding the stereotypical "heavy metal umlaut" over the 'y' was also the manager's idea.

Quite rare for a heavy metal band, Queensryche has maintained a solid core of four members throughout their career. In addition to Geoff Tate, Michael Wilton, Eddie Jackson and Scott Rockenfield, other various members have also joined on guitar parts from time to time.