About Survivor
Survivor is an iconic American rock band that emerged from Chicago in the late 1970s, achieving widespread fame throughout the 1980s. Known for their powerful vocals, driving rhythms, and memorable guitar riffs, the band specialized in a blend of arena rock, hard rock, and album-oriented rock (AOR). Their anthemic sound and inspirational lyrics left an indelible mark on music history, particularly through their contributions to major film soundtracks, solidifying their status as classic rock staples.
- Survivor's breakthrough hit, "Eye of the Tiger," was specifically commissioned by Sylvester Stallone for his film Rocky III, after he heard their song "Poor Man's Son" and wanted something similar.
- The band is notable for having achieved success with two different lead vocalists; Dave Bickler sang on early hits like "Eye of the Tiger," while Jimi Jamison fronted the band for later chart-toppers such as "Burning Heart" and "The Search Is Over."
- The name "Survivor" was inspired by a reference to founding member Jim Peterik as a "survivor" in the liner notes of his prior solo album, Don't Fight the Feeling.
- In the early 2000s, Survivor even threatened to sue CBS for using the name "Survivor" for their popular reality television show.
Performing Survivor's music offers a rewarding experience for musicians across various skill levels. Their sheet music, available for instruments like piano, guitar, and vocals, ranges from beginner-friendly arrangements to more advanced interpretations, allowing aspiring and seasoned players alike to engage with their iconic sound. The band's compositions feature strong melodies and powerful chord progressions that are both challenging and satisfying to master, making their anthemic songs a joy to play and share.