Cheap Trick

Formed in Rockford, Illinois, in 1973, Cheap Trick became one of the most influential bands in rock history by blending power-pop melodies with heavy metal grit and a quirky, visually distinct stage persona. The classic lineup, vocalist Robin Zander, guitarist Rick Nielsen, bassist Tom Petersson, and drummer Bun E. Carlos—reached international superstardom with the 1978 live album At Budokan, which featured the definitive version of their hit "I Want You to Want Me." Throughout the late 1970s and 80s, the band produced a string of timeless anthems like "Surrender" and the power ballad "The Flame," the latter reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, Cheap Trick remains a prolific touring act, cited as a foundational influence by bands ranging from Nirvana to Green Day for their mastery of the "power pop" genre.