SuperGroup

A supergroup is a musical group formed by artists who are already famous for their work in other bands or as solo performers. The idea behind a supergroup is to fuse established talents to pursue new sounds, often with high public expectations and media attention. Supergroups frequently focus on a single project, such as an album or a tour, rather than building a long-running band.

The concept emerged in the 1960s, with Cream (Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce) cited as one of the first widely recognized examples. Crosby, Stills & Nash, formed in 1968, and later Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, formed in 1969, are also classic instances of the model. The term has since been applied to many later collaborations across rock, pop, blues and metal.

Characteristics include members’ existing fame, cross-fan bases, and a potential blend of distinctive styles. Projects can be studio albums, live performances, or both. Internal tensions, conflicting schedules, and divergent artistic visions are common challenges, and many supergroups are short-lived, though some reunite periodically.

Notable examples span several decades: Cream (1966–1969), Blind Faith (1969), Crosby, Stills & Nash and Nash & Young, the Traveling Wilburys (late 1980s), Asia (early 1980s with later reunions), Audioslave (2001–2007), and Them Crooked Vultures (formed 2009). Recent and ongoing collaborations continue to appear, sometimes under new names rather than a traditional lineup.

In mathematics and theoretical physics, the term supergroup denotes a different concept—Lie supergroups used in supersymmetry—distinct from the musical sense. See related articles for details.