Number 21

The number 21 slot on “The 100 Most Beautiful Rock Stars on the Planet” belongs to Kip Winger. Naturally, most people will automatically guess he’s a founding member of the band Winger. While that holds true, there is so much more to Kip Winger than being part of the band. Before forming Winger, Kip played bass for Alice Cooper as well as helped with some songwriting, vocals and session work for other bands and artists. In addition to Winger, he was also part of The Alan Parsons Live Project. What some of you may not know is that Kip was actually classically trained.

As a teenager, Kip studied classical music. However, his contribution to the rock world in his early twenties is where Kip got his musical break. Alice Cooper and Winger proved very successful. Don’t think for a minute he threw his classical training out the window. On the contrary, sometime in the mid-1990’s, Kip decided to return to studying classical music and composition. His years of studying are reflected in his solo albums. I strongly suggest everyone listen to at least one of Kip’s solo albums. Normally I would offer a personal favorite, but this time I don’t have a favorite – I like them all.  

So what do I think is Kip Winger’s most beautiful quality? In my opinion, it’s his soul. It would have been easy for Kip to be derailed from doing the music he loves, but he never let that happen. Yes, he loves to rock and we all love him for it. On the other hand, the quality of his solo work stands out to me, because it is a reflection of a more disciplined side of his music.

 Kip is currently on tour, playing some solo dates while simultaneously touring with the band Winger, promoting their new album Better Days Comin'. Go to http://www.kipwinger.com/ to find a show in your area and purchase VIP tickets. Also, be sure to sample Kip’s solo work while you’re there. Thank you Kip Winger for being such a beautiful soul.