Punky Meadows, American rock guitarist and songwriter

Punky Meadows, born Edwin Lionel Meadows, Jr. on February 6, 1950, is a distinguished American guitarist renowned for his captivating stage presence and distinctive glam image, most notably as a prominent member of the iconic 1970s rock band, Angel. While his birth name is Edwin, "Punky" became his widely recognized moniker, perfectly encapsulating the flamboyant and energetic persona he brought to the rock and roll stage.

Meadows' indelible mark on music history is inextricably linked to Angel, a band that emerged from Washington D.C. and quickly signed with Neil Bogart's legendary Casablanca Records, home to other theatrical acts like KISS. Angel carved out a unique niche in the mid-to-late 1970s, blending hard rock riffs with progressive rock sensibilities and a strong dose of glam rock theatricality. The band was celebrated for its enigmatic, all-white stage costumes (later shifting to all-black) and complex, often symphonic arrangements.

As Angel's lead guitarist, Punky Meadows was more than just a musician; he was a central visual element. His "glam image" was characterized by his voluminous, meticulously styled hair, a penchant for dramatic makeup, and a wardrobe that exuded rockstar extravagance. On stage, Meadows was known for his energetic movements, signature guitar poses, and the way he seamlessly merged his virtuosic playing with pure showmanship. His guitar style combined melodic fluidity with powerful, hard-hitting riffs, contributing significantly to Angel's unique sound and helping define the era's guitar heroes.

Following Angel's dissolution in the early 1980s, Meadows largely stepped away from the music industry, maintaining a low profile for several decades. However, in a highly anticipated return, he re-emerged in 2017 with his debut solo album, "Fallen Angel," which was met with enthusiasm by long-time fans and critics alike. This album showcased his enduring talent and the signature guitar work that made him a memorable figure in rock history, proving that his distinctive style and musical passion remained vibrant.

Frequently Asked Questions About Punky Meadows

When was Punky Meadows born?
Punky Meadows was born Edwin Lionel Meadows, Jr. on February 6, 1950.
Which famous band was Punky Meadows a member of?
He was a prominent member and lead guitarist of the influential 1970s hard rock/glam band, Angel.
What was Punky Meadows known for in Angel?
Punky Meadows was primarily known for his distinctive glam image, flamboyant stage presence, and his unique blend of melodic and hard-rocking guitar playing that defined Angel's sound.
Did Punky Meadows release any solo material?
Yes, after a long hiatus from the music industry, he released his debut solo album, "Fallen Angel," in 2017.
What record label was Angel signed to?
Angel was famously signed to Casablanca Records, a label known for its theatrical rock acts like KISS.