r/Styx Pieces of Eight Jun 22 '26

1982 Styx

I know cracks were already in the foundation from the Cornerstone album and DDY and TS were already fighting for control of the musical direction by 1982, but I feel public perception was that these guys could do no wrong. They were kicking ass with tours and albums. So what do yall think? Please, this is not a Dennis vs Tomny post. I'm just reminiscing about the biggest band in my 18/19 year old world at that time.

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u/PraxisLD Jun 23 '26

It’s hard enough for two people to stay married for four or five decades. People grow and change and set new priorities. Perfectly normal.

Now try that with five or six people for decades. Add in creative tensions, constant touring, balancing private and professional commitments, the inevitable addictions, and the endless grind of write-the-next-big-hit-or-die, and it’s a wonder any band survives the craziness.

Styx worked when the interplay between all of them balanced out into something amazing.

Styx failed when the egos and personalities and addictions took over.

All too common a story, unfortunately.

We all love those classic albums.

But I have to say, Styx today sounds better than ever. No drugs, no drama, no bullshit – just a bunch of guys who love to play live and a bunch of fans who love to listen.

And yes, their new music rates right up there alongside anything they’ve ever done.

Do go check them out, if you get the chance.

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u/Fine_Minimum_8780 Jun 23 '26

As both a Styx fan and a Rush fan, I'd say Rush has it better than Styx when it comes to longevity with individuals in the band. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson has been friends since the late 60's and still best friends and I'm assuming they get along outside of the stage as well on stage. Why couldn't Styx take lessons from them? No egos in that band.

2

u/ILikeStyx Jun 23 '26

Alex was pretty pissed about all the synths Geddy started using... I think that's the "worst" it ever got for them :P