From Ziggy to Camille: 15 of the wildest rock alter egos

Sometimes musicians need an escape from the constraints of their own public persona, which is where the concept of alter egos comes into play. Whether it’s a complete character with a backstory or just a different name on the credits, alter egos provide a space for artists to experiment, push boundaries, and reinvent themselves. It allows them to explore new genres, themes, and identities without being tied down by their existing image.

There are various reasons why artists embrace alter egos. For some, it’s a way to break free from audience expectations and start fresh. Others use it as a tool to pay homage to genres they love or as a shield from the intrusive spotlight of fame. In rare cases, the alter ego becomes so iconic that it overtakes the artist’s real identity, becoming a symbol of creative freedom and experimentation.

These transformations can be playful, cathartic, or even crucial for survival in the music industry. They show us that music is not just about sound; it’s also about character, mythology, and the narratives we create about ourselves. Here, we delve into 15 of the most daring, peculiar, and successful musical alter egos in history, where identity meets inspiration.

XTC’s transformation into The Dukes of Stratosphear in 1985 allowed the Swindon art rockers to escape the pressures of being a serious pop band and indulge in their love for 1960s psychedelia. The Dukes’ albums outsold XTC’s own, proving that the alter ego struck a deeper chord with listeners.

David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust, unveiled in 1972, transformed him into a flamboyant, androgynous alien rock star, blurring the lines between performance and reality. Ziggy became a global icon and the definitive figurehead of glam rock, showcasing Bowie’s ability to reinvent himself and push creative boundaries.

Neil Young’s alter ego Bernard Shakey emerged in the late 1960s as a pseudonym for his film projects. It allowed him to experiment without the weight of the Neil Young persona and embrace his DIY, outsider instincts in cinema.

Paul McCartney’s alter ego The Fireman provided him with an opportunity to explore electronic and ambient music away from Beatle expectations. Collaborating with producer Youth, McCartney released albums that showcased his curiosity and willingness to reinvent himself.

Prince used pseudonyms like Jamie Starr and Camille to shape his sound and explore different aspects of his artistry. Camille, in particular, challenged traditional notions of gender in pop music, blending seamlessly with Prince’s kaleidoscopic vision.

Nicki Minaj’s alter ego Roman Zolanski embodies chaos, rebellion, and dark humor, allowing her to explore edgier, more aggressive lyrical territory. Roman brings a fearless, unpredictable dimension to Minaj’s artistry, thrilling fans with his volatile charisma.

The Residents are a rare case where the band itself is the alter ego. Their radical anonymity allowed them to experiment fearlessly and create surreal, avant-garde music without the constraints of celebrity or public expectation.

Paul Westerberg’s Grandpaboy persona in the 1990s allowed him to explore a different side of his artistry outside of The Replacements. Alter egos provide artists with a space to push boundaries, experiment, and express themselves in ways that may not be possible under their own identity.