Mark Kendall, American guitarist and songwriter

Great White, an enduring American rock band, emerged from the vibrant Los Angeles music scene in 1977. Known for their blend of hard rock and blues-infused glam metal, the band quickly carved out a niche for themselves, becoming synonymous with the sound that defined the mid-to-late 1980s rock landscape.

The Ascent to Stardom: Platinum Albums and MTV Airplay

The band truly hit their stride during the latter half of the 1980s, a period marked by considerable commercial success and widespread recognition. Their albums, including the critically acclaimed and platinum-selling Once Bitten (released in 1987) and its equally successful follow-up, ...Twice Shy (1989), propelled Great White into the mainstream spotlight. These records were not merely chart successes; they became cultural touchstones for rock fans of the era. Singles such as the energetic "Rock Me" and the iconic power ballad "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" received incessant airplay across both traditional radio waves and the burgeoning music video platform, MTV, which was a powerful tastemaker at the time. This era saw Great White achieve two Top 40 hit singles on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart: "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" and "The Angel Song," solidifying their status as major players in the rock genre. The band continued to deliver new material and tour extensively well into the 1990s, maintaining a dedicated fanbase despite shifting musical trends.

A Crossroads and Unthinkable Tragedy

After decades of touring and recording, Great White officially disbanded in 2001, marking a temporary end to their prolific career. However, the band's story took a complex turn shortly thereafter. Within a few years, vocalist Jack Russell began performing with a new lineup, initially under the name "Jack Russell's Great White." This iteration of the band became tragically etched into history when, on February 20, 2003, they were performing at The Station nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island. During their set, pyrotechnics used by the band ignited highly flammable soundproofing foam, leading to a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 100 people and injured hundreds more. Among the victims was Great White's touring guitarist, Ty Longley, a deeply somber moment for the band and the music community.

The Resurgence and Dual Legacies

In the aftermath of the tragic fire, the band navigated a period of immense grief and public scrutiny. By 2006, the "Jack Russell's Great White" moniker reverted to the original "Great White" name, signaling a return to the band's established identity. However, the journey of Great White's leadership and lineup continued to evolve. After more than three decades as the unmistakable voice of the band, Jack Russell departed from Great White in 2011. Following his departure, Russell once again formed his own iteration, performing under the name "Jack Russell's Great White," pursuing his own musical path. Meanwhile, the original Great White continued forward without its founding vocalist. The band initially brought in XYZ frontman Terry Ilous to fill the demanding role of lead singer. In 2018, Mitch Malloy, a seasoned vocalist known for his melodic rock style, stepped in as the band's current lead singer, maintaining Great White's legacy on stages worldwide.

Enduring Impact and Record Sales

Great White's enduring appeal is reflected not only in their continued touring but also in their significant commercial achievements. As of an August 2008 estimate, the band had sold approximately eight million records worldwide, a testament to their widespread popularity and the lasting power of their music across multiple generations of rock fans.

Frequently Asked Questions About Great White

When and where was Great White formed?
Great White was formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1977.
What are Great White's most famous albums?
Their most commercially successful and well-known albums include Once Bitten (1987) and ...Twice Shy (1989), both of which achieved platinum status.
Which singles were major hits for Great White?
Key singles that received significant airplay and charted well include "Rock Me," "Once Bitten, Twice Shy," and "The Angel Song."
What happened during The Station nightclub fire?
On February 20, 2003, during a performance by "Jack Russell's Great White" at The Station nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island, pyrotechnics ignited soundproofing material, causing a fire that killed 100 people, including the band's touring guitarist, Ty Longley.
Is Jack Russell still the lead singer of Great White?
No, Jack Russell left Great White in 2011. He now fronts his own band, "Jack Russell's Great White." The original Great White continues with Mitch Malloy as their current lead vocalist since 2018.
Who is the current lead singer of Great White?
As of 2018, Mitch Malloy is the current lead singer for Great White.
How many records has Great White sold?
As of August 2008, Great White estimated they had sold around eight million records worldwide.