Blackjack

"Blackjack" was an American rock band formed in 1979 by Michael Bolton (lead vocals, guitar), Bruce Kulick (guitar), Sandy Gennaro (drums), and Jimmy Haslip (bass). Here are some key facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Years: Blackjack was formed in 1979 when Michael Bolton, then known as Michael Bolotin, teamed up with guitarist Bruce Kulick, drummer Sandy Gennaro, and bassist Jimmy Haslip. The band was signed to Polydor Records and released their self-titled debut album in 1979. While the album received critical acclaim for its melodic hard rock sound and Bolton's powerful vocals, it failed to achieve significant commercial success.

2. Michael Bolton's Transition: After the release of Blackjack's debut album, Michael Bolton embarked on a solo career, eventually achieving massive success as a pop and adult contemporary artist in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He scored numerous hit singles and earned multiple Grammy Awards for his soulful ballads. Bolton's departure from Blackjack marked a significant turning point for the band, leading to its eventual disbandment.

3. Legacy and Influence: Despite their relatively short-lived tenure as a band, Blackjack's music left a lasting impact on fans of melodic rock and hard rock. The band's self-titled debut album, in particular, is highly regarded among aficionados of the genre for its catchy hooks, infectious melodies, and Bolton's powerhouse vocals. Songs like "Love Me Tonight" and "Without Your Love" remain fan favorites and are often included in compilations of classic rock hits.

4. Members' Post-Blackjack Careers: Following the disbandment of Blackjack, the former members went on to pursue successful careers in the music industry. Michael Bolton, in particular, achieved international fame as a solo artist, selling millions of albums worldwide and becoming a household name in the pop and adult contemporary genres. Bruce Kulick went on to join the iconic rock band Kiss, serving as their lead guitarist from 1984 to 1996, while Sandy Gennaro and Jimmy Haslip continued to work as session musicians and collaborators with various artists.

5. Cult Status and Revival: In recent years, Blackjack's music has experienced a resurgence in popularity among fans of classic rock and melodic hard rock. The band's recordings are celebrated for their nostalgic charm and timeless appeal, earning them a dedicated following among both longtime fans and new listeners discovering their music for the first time. Blackjack's legacy as a talented and underrated rock band continues to be appreciated