Donnie Iris, American rock singer-songwriter and guitarist

A true titan of American rock, Donnie Iris, born Dominic Ierace on February 28, 1943, has carved out a remarkable career spanning decades. From his foundational work with prominent bands of the 1970s to a celebrated solo journey that kicked off in the early 1980s, Iris has left an indelible mark on the music landscape, particularly resonating with fans in the Midwest.

The 1970s: Band Beginnings and Chart Success

Iris first made waves as a key member of The Jaggerz, a Pittsburgh-based rock and soul band. It was with The Jaggerz that he co-wrote and performed on their monumental 1970 single, "The Rapper." This catchy track soared up the Billboard charts, peaking at an impressive #2, showcasing Iris's early talent for crafting memorable rock anthems. The song became a cultural touchstone of the era, solidifying The Jaggerz's place in music history and introducing Donnie Iris's distinctive vocal and musical style to a national audience. His contributions were vital to the band's first three studio albums.

Later in the decade, Iris joined another significant act, Wild Cherry. This move came after the band had already achieved massive success with their iconic #1 hit, "Play That Funky Music." While his tenure with Wild Cherry was brief, it saw him contribute to the group's fourth and final album, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and in-demand rock musician capable of adapting to different band dynamics.

The 1980s: Solo Stardom with The Cruisers

The dawn of the 1980s heralded a new, hugely successful chapter for Donnie Iris as he launched his solo career with his backing band, The Cruisers. This period saw him achieve his most widespread fame as a frontman, delivering a string of hits that became staples on rock radio. His unique voice and energetic performances propelled singles like "Ah! Leah!" to #29 on the Billboard charts. Not long after, he struck gold again with "Love Is Like a Rock," which climbed to #37, further establishing his solo prowess. These tracks perfectly captured the vibrant, accessible rock sound that defined much of the early 80s, showcasing Iris's songwriting and vocal strengths.

A Prolific Recording Artist and Enduring Performer

Donnie Iris's dedication to his craft is evident in his extensive discography. Beyond his contributions to The Jaggerz and Wild Cherry, his solo career with The Cruisers has been remarkably prolific, boasting eleven studio albums, an EP, two live albums, and two compilation albums. This vast body of work speaks to his consistent creativity and unwavering commitment to releasing new music for his loyal fanbase. Even today, Iris remains an active presence in the music scene, continuing to intermittently release new material and embark on tours, particularly captivating audiences in his long-established strongholds around the greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Youngstown and Cleveland, Ohio areas. His enduring popularity in these regions underscores his status as a beloved local legend and a testament to his timeless rock appeal.

FAQs About Donnie Iris

Who is Donnie Iris?
Donnie Iris, born Dominic Ierace, is an American rock musician renowned for his work with the bands The Jaggerz and Wild Cherry, and for his successful solo career alongside his band, The Cruisers.
When was Donnie Iris born?
Donnie Iris was born on February 28, 1943.
What famous songs is Donnie Iris known for?
He is famous for co-writing and performing "The Rapper" with The Jaggerz (a #2 Billboard hit). As a solo artist, he achieved fame with hits like "Ah! Leah!" (#29) and "Love Is Like a Rock" (#37).
Which bands was Donnie Iris a part of?
Donnie Iris was a key member of The Jaggerz in the 1970s and later joined Wild Cherry. From the 1980s onwards, he has primarily performed with his solo band, The Cruisers.
Does Donnie Iris still perform?
Yes, Donnie Iris continues to intermittently release new music and tour, especially in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Youngstown and Cleveland, Ohio regions.