Ufo

UFO cemented their status as a pivotal force between early hard rock and heavy metal, gaining international recognition after Michael Schenker joined in 1973. Formed in London in 1968 with an original lineup of Phil Mogg (lead singer), Mick Bolton (guitarist), Pete Way (bassist), and Andy Parker (drummer), the band released their debut UFO 1 in 1970 and UFO 2: Flying in 1971, featuring early hard rock and space rock compositions. A live album recorded in Tokyo followed in 1971. Following Bolton’s departure in 1972, Schenker’s arrival led to a deal with Chrysalis Records.

Following Michael Schenker’s late 1978 departure and Paul Chapman rejoining, No Place to Run (1980) was produced by George Martin. The band sustained their UK chart presence with Mechanix (1982), which peaked at No. 8. UFO initially disbanded in 1983 after releasing Making Contact.

In 2018, lead vocalist Phil Mogg announced his retirement from UFO, with a final farewell tour initially planned for 2019 and later rescheduled to 2022. However, due to Mogg’s health issues, the tour was ultimately canceled. UFO officially disbanded in April 2024, concluding a career spanning five decades and achieving over 20 million records sold worldwide.