As the founding member of Genesis in the early ’70s, Peter Gabriel played a pivotal role in elevating progressive rock to new heights of theatricality. Transitioning to a solo career, Gabriel showcased his profound artistry through subtle yet innovative approaches. His eponymous debut album in 1977 delved into dark and cerebral themes, blending avant-garde, electronic, and worldbeat influences. This marked the beginning of a critically acclaimed journey, with successive albums cementing Gabriel’s status as a revered cult figure. The breakthrough came with 1982’s ‘Security,’ featuring the chart-topping hit ‘Shock the Monkey,’ paving the way for the iconic album ‘So’ in 1986. The accompanying groundbreaking videos and the smash single ‘Sledgehammer’ propelled Gabriel to international stardom.
After parting ways with Genesis in 1976, Gabriel embarked on a solo venture, releasing three self-titled albums consecutively. Each album, labeled ‘Peter Gabriel,’ symbolized different chapters of his artistic evolution. Notably, the third eponymous album, produced by Steve Lillywhite and released in 1980, established Gabriel as a trailblazing musician known for his political activism. Hits like ‘Biko’ and ‘Games Without Frontiers’ resonated as powerful protest anthems. As his solo career flourished, Gabriel’s dedication to social causes shone through his involvement in projects like WOMAD and founding Real World label in 1985.
The pinnacle of Gabriel’s commercial success arrived with ‘So’ in 1986, featuring the iconic track ‘Sledgehammer’ and the mesmerizing ‘In Your Eyes.’ Alongside musical triumphs, Gabriel’s contributions to humanitarian efforts, including Amnesty International tours, showcased his noble character. His foray into worldbeat culminated in the Grammy-winning ‘Passion: Music for The Last Temptation of Christ.’ Subsequent releases like ‘Us’ in 1992 and ‘Up’ in 2002 demonstrated Gabriel’s continuous evolution and enduring impact on the music industry. Gabriel’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 celebrated his legacy as both a solo artist and a key figure in the legendary Genesis.