What Became of the Influential Rock and Metal Bands from 1985?

The year 1985 was a pivotal moment in the landscape of heavier music. Within the metal genre, the emergence of thrash metal captivated audiences and redefined musical boundaries. Riding on the success of legendary bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax, four remarkable thrash bands made their mark this year, further cementing the rapid-fire playing style as a legitimate and respected metal subgenre that would influence generations to come.

Additionally, 1985 witnessed the transformation of music legends as David Lee Roth began his strategic departure from Van Halen, while iconic figures from the 1970s, such as Paul Rodgers and Jimmy Page, united to form the new supergroup The Firm, showcasing their enduring appeal and adaptability.

READ MORE: Discover What Happened to Rock + Metal’s Class of 1995!

The college rock scene was also evolving, giving rise to two bands that delved into darker musical themes, while in the pop rock realm, Duran Duran splintered into some of the most intriguing side projects of the 1980s, demonstrating the era’s creative diversity.

But what ultimately became of the numerous bands that burst onto the scene in 1985? While some enjoyed long and illustrious careers that continue to resonate today, others experienced fleeting moments of fame, vanishing from the spotlight. It’s fascinating to explore the varied trajectories of their careers and see how their stories unfolded over the decades.

Uncover the fates of rock and metal’s class of 1985 in the sections below.