Remarkable Comebacks: Bands Who Reunited Against All Odds

By Evan Sawdey

CHICAGO, IL — In the world of music, many bands have come and gone, often breaking up after achieving success, but occasionally, they find a way to reunite. This article explores the enduring stories of notable bands who made remarkable comebacks after initial separations.

K-pop superstars BIG BANG are a prime example. This influential group opted for simultaneous military service, releasing a goodbye single in 2018. After a tumultuous period, during which member Seungri retired amidst scandal, the surviving members released their highly anticipated single, “Still Life,” in April 2022, marking a triumphant return to form.

Another surprising reunion was that of Frog Eyes, a Canadian indie rock band. After announcing their split in 2018, the band shocked fans by reuniting in 2022 to release their album, “The Bees.” Frontman Carey Mercer indicated that the loyalty of their fans played a crucial role in bringing the group together.

Emo rock legends My Chemical Romance also made headlines when they announced their reunion in 2019, after disbanding in 2013 due to internal disagreements. Fans eagerly await their delayed North American tour, originally set for 2020.

A Tribe Called Quest returned as well, partly to honor the late member Phife Dawg, who passed in 2016. Their final album, “We Got It from Here… Thank You 4 Your Service,” received acclaim following its release shortly after the 2016 elections, blending nostalgia with contemporary relevance.

Speaking of influential bands, The Go-Go's have also navigated multiple breakups and reunions. Their journey includes a new single released in 2020, as they continue to celebrate their legacy while embracing modern music.

The Pixies, known for their contribution to alternative rock, reformed in 2003, capitalizing on the nostalgia of their early fans. They have since released new music and continued to perform in festivals, showcasing their lasting impact on music.

Even iconic groups like The Smashing Pumpkins faced struggles. Despite numerous lineup changes, they continue to release new material, illustrating the band’s evolution over the years.

Fans of The Who can also rejoice as the band continues to tour and create music decades after initial splits and member losses, showcasing the enduring power of rock music.

In pop music, the Jonas Brothers exemplify resilience, with their comeback album “Happiness Begins” catapulting them back into the limelight after years apart.

These stories represent just a fraction of the many bands navigating the complex landscape of the music industry, continuously defined by talent, loyalty, and, most importantly, the ability to reunite after seemingly insurmountable challenges.