Album: Classics, Volume 15 by Styx (1987)
Genre: Rock | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Compilation

Description: Styx's entry into A&M's 1987 Classics series is one of the best, since it doesn't have too many questionable album track selections, instead preferring to pile on hits from "Babe," "Grand Illusion," and "Come Sail Away" to "Too Much Time on My Hands," "Mr. Roboto," and "Don't Let it End." Yes, there are a couple cuts missing here and there, but for the most part, this has nearly everything a casual fan needs. 

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Rock, Rock/Pop, Gritty, 1980s, Compilation, Universal Records


Styx's entry into A&M's 1987 Classics series is one of the best, since it doesn't have too many questionable album track selections, instead preferring to pile on hits from "Babe," "Grand Illusion," and "Come Sail Away" to "Too Much Time on My Hands," "Mr. Roboto," and "Don't Let it End." Yes, there are a couple cuts missing here and there, but for the most part, this has nearly everything a casual fan needs. 

Album: Man of Miracles by Styx (1974)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Man of Miracles is the fourth album by Styx, released in November 1974. Produced by John Ryan and Bill Traut, who had produced the band's first two albums, this would be the band's last original album on the independent Chicago-based label Wooden Nickel Records before moving to the major label A&M.

The original issue contained "Best Thing," a re-release from the Styx album, as the opening track on side two. A second release of Man of Miracles substituted the song "Lies," originally recorded by The Knickerbockers in 1966. The album was reissued in 1980 with new artwork and a newly abbreviated title, Miracles. This version started the second side with "Unfinished Song."

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 2. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Man of Miracles is the fourth album by Styx, released in November 1974. Produced by John Ryan and Bill Traut, who had produced the band's first two albums, this would be the band's last original album on the independent Chicago-based label Wooden Nickel Records before moving to the major label A&M.

The original issue contained "Best Thing," a re-release from the Styx album, as the opening track on side two. A second release of Man of Miracles substituted the song "Lies," originally recorded by The Knickerbockers in 1966. The album was reissued in 1980 with new artwork and a newly abbreviated title, Miracles. This version started the second side with "Unfinished Song."

Album: The Serpent Is Rising by Styx (1973)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: The Serpent Is Rising is the third album by Styx, released in October 1973, a mere three months after their previous album Styx II. The album was reissued in 1980 with new artwork and a new title, Serpent. The band considers this to be their worst recording. Dennis DeYoung has gone far as saying it was "one of the worst recorded and produced in the history of music." Described as a loose concept album, the recording contains a number of sexual innuendos, including the title track, "The Grove of Eglantine" and "Krakatoa". The album peaked at #192 on the Billboard 200, their second-lowest charting album, and as of 2007 has sold fewer than 100,000 copies worldwid

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 2. Based on 1 votes


The Serpent Is Rising is the third album by Styx, released in October 1973, a mere three months after their previous album Styx II. The album was reissued in 1980 with new artwork and a new title, Serpent. The band considers this to be their worst recording. Dennis DeYoung has gone far as saying it was "one of the worst recorded and produced in the history of music." Described as a loose concept album, the recording contains a number of sexual innuendos, including the title track, "The Grove of Eglantine" and "Krakatoa". The album peaked at #192 on the Billboard 200, their second-lowest charting album, and as of 2007 has sold fewer than 100,000 copies worldwid

Album: Regeneration: Volume I by Styx (2010)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Compilation

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 2010s, Compilation, Universal Records


Album: Cyclorama by Styx (2003)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Cyclorama is the fourteenth studio album by Styx, released in 2003. This was the first studio album with Lawrence Gowan, following the departure of group co-founder Dennis DeYoung in 1999. It was also the last album to feature Glen Burtnik, and the only album released by the Lawrence Gowan/Tommy Shaw/James Young/Glen Burtnik/Chuck Panozzo/Todd Sucherman lineup. The album peaked significantly higher on the Billboard album charts than Styx's previous release, Brave New World, ending up 48 slots higher at #127.

The album's first single was "Waiting for Our Time". It failed to chart.

To date, this is the band's last album of original material.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 2000s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 2. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Cyclorama is the fourteenth studio album by Styx, released in 2003. This was the first studio album with Lawrence Gowan, following the departure of group co-founder Dennis DeYoung in 1999. It was also the last album to feature Glen Burtnik, and the only album released by the Lawrence Gowan/Tommy Shaw/James Young/Glen Burtnik/Chuck Panozzo/Todd Sucherman lineup. The album peaked significantly higher on the Billboard album charts than Styx's previous release, Brave New World, ending up 48 slots higher at #127.

The album's first single was "Waiting for Our Time". It failed to chart.

To date, this is the band's last album of original material.

Album: One With Everything by Styx (2006)
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Live

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: 2000s, Live, Universal Records


Album: Edge of the Century by Styx (1990)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Edge of the Century is the twelfth studio album by Styx, released in 1990. It was the first Styx album featuring A&M solo artist Glen Burtnik, the only album to feature the Dennis DeYoung/James Young/Glen Burtnik/Chuck Panozzo/John Panozzo lineup, and the last album to feature John Panozzo on drums (he would die six years later of gastrointestinal hemorrhaging).

The album spawned three singles. "Show Me the Way" was written by DeYoung and peaked at #3, due to the Gulf War Troops adopting the song as an anthem. Some radio stations played an edited version with the children of troops singing. "Love Is the Ritual", written by Burtnik and Plinky, and "Love at First Sight", written by Burtnik, DeYoung and Young, were also released as singles, but neither garnered the same amount of success as "Show Me the Way".

The album was certified gold by the RIAA.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1990s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 2. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Edge of the Century is the twelfth studio album by Styx, released in 1990. It was the first Styx album featuring A&M solo artist Glen Burtnik, the only album to feature the Dennis DeYoung/James Young/Glen Burtnik/Chuck Panozzo/John Panozzo lineup, and the last album to feature John Panozzo on drums (he would die six years later of gastrointestinal hemorrhaging).

The album spawned three singles. "Show Me the Way" was written by DeYoung and peaked at #3, due to the Gulf War Troops adopting the song as an anthem. Some radio stations played an edited version with the children of troops singing. "Love Is the Ritual", written by Burtnik and Plinky, and "Love at First Sight", written by Burtnik, DeYoung and Young, were also released as singles, but neither garnered the same amount of success as "Show Me the Way".

The album was certified gold by the RIAA.

Album: Regeneration Volume II by Styx (2011)
Genre: Hard Rock | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Compilation

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Rock/Pop, Gritty, 2010s, Compilation, Universal Records


Album: Crystal Ball by Styx (1976)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Crystal Ball is the sixth album by Styx, released in 1976.

This album marked the recording debut of new guitarist Tommy Shaw. The track "Mademoiselle" was Tommy Shaw's vocal debut and the album's Top-40 hit.

The album's title track would become a concert staple for the band, as it was performed on every subsequent Styx tour with which Shaw was involved.

"Shooz" was co-written by Shaw and James "J.Y." Young. The bluesy rocker had Shaw on slide guitar while Young contributed a Hendrix-like solo to the middle of the track after Shaw's slide solo.

"This Old Man" is a song that DeYoung wrote for his father and the impact his dad had on his life.

Debussy's classical piece "Clair De Lune" served as the intro to the album's closing track, "Ballerina." The version of "Clair De Lune" on Crystal Ball just had DeYoung on piano and changed the key from D flat to C as the next track ("Ballerina") started in C minor.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 7. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Crystal Ball is the sixth album by Styx, released in 1976.

This album marked the recording debut of new guitarist Tommy Shaw. The track "Mademoiselle" was Tommy Shaw's vocal debut and the album's Top-40 hit.

The album's title track would become a concert staple for the band, as it was performed on every subsequent Styx tour with which Shaw was involved.

"Shooz" was co-written by Shaw and James "J.Y." Young. The bluesy rocker had Shaw on slide guitar while Young contributed a Hendrix-like solo to the middle of the track after Shaw's slide solo.

"This Old Man" is a song that DeYoung wrote for his father and the impact his dad had on his life.

Debussy's classical piece "Clair De Lune" served as the intro to the album's closing track, "Ballerina." The version of "Clair De Lune" on Crystal Ball just had DeYoung on piano and changed the key from D flat to C as the next track ("Ballerina") started in C minor.

Album: Pieces of Eight by Styx (1978)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Pieces of Eight is the eighth studio album by Styx, released on September 1, 1978.

Like the band's previous album, The Grand Illusion, it managed to achieve triple-platinum certification, thanks to the hit singles "Sing for the Day", "Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)" and "Renegade".

The band members produced and recorded the album (like their previous three efforts) at Paragon Studios in Chicago with recording engineer Barry Mraz and mixing engineer Rob Kingsland. "I'm O.K." was recorded at Paragon and St. James Cathedral. This would be the last album to be produced at Paragon Studios.

Some consider the album to be Styx' second concept album, The Serpent Is Rising arguably being the first, as well as the last Styx album with significant progressive rock leanings that characterized their previous albums. The theme of the album, as Dennis DeYoung explained on In the Studio with Redbeard which devoted an entire episode to Pieces of Eight, was about "not giving up your dreams just for the pursuit of money and material possessions".

Two of the album's ten tracks are instrumentals: the DeYoung synthesizer showcase "The Message" and Tommy Shaw's closing "Aku-Aku" (although for the latter, there was one lyric spoken, the title of the song). "The Message" serves as a prelude for "Lords of the Ring", and "Aku-Aku" is a postlude for "Pieces of Eight".

The album's cover was done by Hipgnosis. DeYoung stated in the same 1991 interview with Redbeard on the "In the Studio" episode that he initially hated the cover but grew to like it as he got older.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 9. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Pieces of Eight is the eighth studio album by Styx, released on September 1, 1978.

Like the band's previous album, The Grand Illusion, it managed to achieve triple-platinum certification, thanks to the hit singles "Sing for the Day", "Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)" and "Renegade".

The band members produced and recorded the album (like their previous three efforts) at Paragon Studios in Chicago with recording engineer Barry Mraz and mixing engineer Rob Kingsland. "I'm O.K." was recorded at Paragon and St. James Cathedral. This would be the last album to be produced at Paragon Studios.

Some consider the album to be Styx' second concept album, The Serpent Is Rising arguably being the first, as well as the last Styx album with significant progressive rock leanings that characterized their previous albums. The theme of the album, as Dennis DeYoung explained on In the Studio with Redbeard which devoted an entire episode to Pieces of Eight, was about "not giving up your dreams just for the pursuit of money and material possessions".

Two of the album's ten tracks are instrumentals: the DeYoung synthesizer showcase "The Message" and Tommy Shaw's closing "Aku-Aku" (although for the latter, there was one lyric spoken, the title of the song). "The Message" serves as a prelude for "Lords of the Ring", and "Aku-Aku" is a postlude for "Pieces of Eight".

The album's cover was done by Hipgnosis. DeYoung stated in the same 1991 interview with Redbeard on the "In the Studio" episode that he initially hated the cover but grew to like it as he got older.

Album: Greatest Hits by Styx (1995)
Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Compilation

Description: Styx - Greatest Hits is a compilation album by the American rock band Styx. It was released by A&M Records on August 22, 1995.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Gritty, 1990s, Compilation, Universal Records


Styx - Greatest Hits is a compilation album by the American rock band Styx. It was released by A&M Records on August 22, 1995.

Album: Paradise Theatre by Styx (1981)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Paradise Theatre is the tenth album by the rock band Styx, released in January 1981 (see 1981 in music).

A concept album, the album is a fictional account of Chicago's Paradise Theatre from its opening to closing (and eventual abandonment), used as a metaphor for America's changing times from the late 1970s into the 1980s. (Dennis DeYoung confirmed this in an episode of In the Studio with Redbeard which devoted an entire episode to the making of the album.)

Four singles from the album charted. "The Best of Times", written by Dennis DeYoung, went to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. "Too Much Time on My Hands", written by Tommy Shaw, went to #9 on the Billboard Hot 100, Shaw's only top 10 hit for Styx. "Nothing Ever Goes as Planned", written by DeYoung, went to #54 on the US Pop Chart. "Rockin' the Paradise" — written by DeYoung, Shaw and James Young — went to #8 on the Top Rock Track Chart.

The song "Snowblind" (lyrics by Young, music by Young and DeYoung) was an attack on drug addiction. The track would come under fire for alleged backward messages and was branded by Tipper Gore's Parents Music Resource Center as "Satanistic". James Young and DeYoung denied this on the In the Studio episode devoted to the making of Paradise Theatre.

Paradise Theatre became Styx's only US #1 album. It was the band's fourth consecutive triple-platinum album, and (as of 2015) the last multi-platinum album by the band.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1980s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 2. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Paradise Theatre is the tenth album by the rock band Styx, released in January 1981 (see 1981 in music).

A concept album, the album is a fictional account of Chicago's Paradise Theatre from its opening to closing (and eventual abandonment), used as a metaphor for America's changing times from the late 1970s into the 1980s. (Dennis DeYoung confirmed this in an episode of In the Studio with Redbeard which devoted an entire episode to the making of the album.)

Four singles from the album charted. "The Best of Times", written by Dennis DeYoung, went to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. "Too Much Time on My Hands", written by Tommy Shaw, went to #9 on the Billboard Hot 100, Shaw's only top 10 hit for Styx. "Nothing Ever Goes as Planned", written by DeYoung, went to #54 on the US Pop Chart. "Rockin' the Paradise" — written by DeYoung, Shaw and James Young — went to #8 on the Top Rock Track Chart.

The song "Snowblind" (lyrics by Young, music by Young and DeYoung) was an attack on drug addiction. The track would come under fire for alleged backward messages and was branded by Tipper Gore's Parents Music Resource Center as "Satanistic". James Young and DeYoung denied this on the In the Studio episode devoted to the making of Paradise Theatre.

Paradise Theatre became Styx's only US #1 album. It was the band's fourth consecutive triple-platinum album, and (as of 2015) the last multi-platinum album by the band.

Album: Equinox by Styx (1975)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Equinox is the fifth album by Styx, released in December 1975.

The album was the band's first release for A&M Records (with whom they signed earlier in 1975, after the unexpected success of the single "Lady").

The album also marked the final appearance of original Styx guitarist John Curulewski who left the band  abruptly following the release of Equinox. The band went into a frantic search to find a replacement for their upcoming tour to support Equinox. Soon after, they found Tommy Shaw.

The album's biggest hit was the track "Lorelei", which was Styx's second US Top 30 hit. Another well-known song in the album was "Suite Madame Blue" (the title of which has a play on the word "sweet" to refer to the musical term of "suites", i.e. unrelated instrumental successions) which was written about the upcoming Bicentennial of the US. The track became a staple for all Styx tours with Dennis DeYoung. It's a rare example of a Styx song that (briefly) requires four voice parts; during the Return to Paradise tour, the "America" bridge would be sung by DeYoung, Shaw, James Young and the usually silent Chuck Panozzo.

Although Equinox stalled at #58, it went Gold in 1977 shortly before the release of The Grand Illusion.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 2. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Equinox is the fifth album by Styx, released in December 1975.

The album was the band's first release for A&M Records (with whom they signed earlier in 1975, after the unexpected success of the single "Lady").

The album also marked the final appearance of original Styx guitarist John Curulewski who left the band  abruptly following the release of Equinox. The band went into a frantic search to find a replacement for their upcoming tour to support Equinox. Soon after, they found Tommy Shaw.

The album's biggest hit was the track "Lorelei", which was Styx's second US Top 30 hit. Another well-known song in the album was "Suite Madame Blue" (the title of which has a play on the word "sweet" to refer to the musical term of "suites", i.e. unrelated instrumental successions) which was written about the upcoming Bicentennial of the US. The track became a staple for all Styx tours with Dennis DeYoung. It's a rare example of a Styx song that (briefly) requires four voice parts; during the Return to Paradise tour, the "America" bridge would be sung by DeYoung, Shaw, James Young and the usually silent Chuck Panozzo.

Although Equinox stalled at #58, it went Gold in 1977 shortly before the release of The Grand Illusion.

Album: Greatest Hits, Part 2 by Styx (1996)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Compilation

Description: Styx - Greatest Hits Part 2 is a 1996 compilation album by the rock band Styx and a follow-up to Greatest Hits, another compilation album released in 1995. The album features 14 previously released Styx songs as well as two new songs, "Little Suzie" and "It Takes Love".

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1990s, Compilation, Universal Records


Styx - Greatest Hits Part 2 is a 1996 compilation album by the rock band Styx and a follow-up to Greatest Hits, another compilation album released in 1995. The album features 14 previously released Styx songs as well as two new songs, "Little Suzie" and "It Takes Love".

Album: Cornerstone by Styx (1979)
Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Presenting radio with one of the best rock ballads ever, Cornerstone gave Chicago's Styx their big break with the number one single "Babe," which held that spot for two weeks in October of 1979. "Babe" is a smooth, keyboard-pampered love song that finally credited Dennis De Young's textured vocals. While this single helped the album climb all the way to the number two spot on the charts, the rest of the tracks from Cornerstone weren't nearly half as strong. "Why Me" made it to number 26, and both "Lights" and "Boat on the River" implement silky harmonies and welcoming choruses, yet failed to get off the ground. De Young's keyboards are effective without overly dominating the music, and the band's gritty rock & roll acerbity has been slightly sanded down to compliment the commercial market. The songs aren't as tight or assertive as their last few albums, but Shaw's presence can be felt strongly on most of the tracks, especially where the writing is concerned. Outside of "Babe," Cornerstone tends to sound a tad weaker than one would expect.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Presenting radio with one of the best rock ballads ever, Cornerstone gave Chicago's Styx their big break with the number one single "Babe," which held that spot for two weeks in October of 1979. "Babe" is a smooth, keyboard-pampered love song that finally credited Dennis De Young's textured vocals. While this single helped the album climb all the way to the number two spot on the charts, the rest of the tracks from Cornerstone weren't nearly half as strong. "Why Me" made it to number 26, and both "Lights" and "Boat on the River" implement silky harmonies and welcoming choruses, yet failed to get off the ground. De Young's keyboards are effective without overly dominating the music, and the band's gritty rock & roll acerbity has been slightly sanded down to compliment the commercial market. The songs aren't as tight or assertive as their last few albums, but Shaw's presence can be felt strongly on most of the tracks, especially where the writing is concerned. Outside of "Babe," Cornerstone tends to sound a tad weaker than one would expect.

Album: The Mission by Styx (2017)
Genre: Hard Rock | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: "The Mission"  is the sixteenth studio album by the band Styx, released on June 16, 2017 through Universal Music LLC.   It is the band's first studio album since 2005's Big Bang Theory and the first album of original material since Cyclorama in 2003. A concept album, it tells the story of a mission to the planet Mars.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Rock/Pop, Gritty, 2010s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Available on Discogs marketplace


"The Mission"  is the sixteenth studio album by the band Styx, released on June 16, 2017 through Universal Music LLC.   It is the band's first studio album since 2005's Big Bang Theory and the first album of original material since Cyclorama in 2003. A concept album, it tells the story of a mission to the planet Mars.

Album: Crash of the Crown by Styx (2021)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: UMe
Format: Album

Description: "Crash of the Crown" is the seventeenth studio album by the band Styx, released on 18th June 2021 on the UMC label.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 2020s, Album, UMe


"Crash of the Crown" is the seventeenth studio album by the band Styx, released on 18th June 2021 on the UMC label.

Album: Styx by Styx (1972)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Styx is the self-titled debut album by Styx. It was released in 1972 on Wooden Nickel Records. The album was reissued in 1980 under the title Styx I with new artwork. In late 2012, it was re-released for CD and digital download, along with Styx II, The Serpent Is Rising, and Man of Miracles.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 2. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Styx is the self-titled debut album by Styx. It was released in 1972 on Wooden Nickel Records. The album was reissued in 1980 under the title Styx I with new artwork. In late 2012, it was re-released for CD and digital download, along with Styx II, The Serpent Is Rising, and Man of Miracles.

Album: Styx II by Styx (1973)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Styx II is the second album by Styx. It was released in 1973 on Wooden Nickel Records.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 2. Based on 1 votes


Styx II is the second album by Styx. It was released in 1973 on Wooden Nickel Records.

Album: Brave New World by Styx (1999)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Brave New World is the thirteenth studio album by Styx, released in 1999. It is the last album with the band's original keyboardist and vocalist, Dennis DeYoung. The album peaked at #175 on the Billboard 200 and notably reached the top 10 on the Top Internet Albums chart. However, its position on the Billboard charts was the lowest from a Styx album of all new material since 1973's The Serpent Is Rising.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1990s, Album, Universal Records


Brave New World is the thirteenth studio album by Styx, released in 1999. It is the last album with the band's original keyboardist and vocalist, Dennis DeYoung. The album peaked at #175 on the Billboard 200 and notably reached the top 10 on the Top Internet Albums chart. However, its position on the Billboard charts was the lowest from a Styx album of all new material since 1973's The Serpent Is Rising.

Album: Come Sail Away: The Styx Anthology by Styx (2004)
Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Compilation

Description: Come Sail Away – The Styx Anthology is a musical album by Styx, released on May 4, 2004. It is a compilation consisting of two compact discs and contains a thorough history of the band. The album encompasses many of the band's most popular and significant songs, ranging from the band's first single, "Best Thing", through the song "One with Everything", a track included on Styx's most recent album at the time of release, Cyclorama.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Gritty, 2000s, Compilation, Universal Records


Come Sail Away – The Styx Anthology is a musical album by Styx, released on May 4, 2004. It is a compilation consisting of two compact discs and contains a thorough history of the band. The album encompasses many of the band's most popular and significant songs, ranging from the band's first single, "Best Thing", through the song "One with Everything", a track included on Styx's most recent album at the time of release, Cyclorama.

Album: The Grand Illusion by Styx (1977)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: The Grand Illusion is the seventh studio album by Styx, released on July 7, 1977. It launched the band to stardom, spawning the hit singles "Come Sail Away" and "Fooling Yourself", and selling over three million copies in the US. The album was recorded at Paragon Recording Studios in Chicago; the album cover art, created by Alton Kelley and Stanley Mouse, is an homage to a painting by René Magritte entitled "Le Blanc-Seing".

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1970s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


The Grand Illusion is the seventh studio album by Styx, released on July 7, 1977. It launched the band to stardom, spawning the hit singles "Come Sail Away" and "Fooling Yourself", and selling over three million copies in the US. The album was recorded at Paragon Recording Studios in Chicago; the album cover art, created by Alton Kelley and Stanley Mouse, is an homage to a painting by René Magritte entitled "Le Blanc-Seing".

Album: Kilroy Was Here by Styx (1983)
Genre: Hard Rock | Mood: Gritty
Record Label: Universal Records
Format: Album

Description: Kilroy Was Here is the eleventh studio album by the rock band Styx, released on February 22, 1983. The album is named after a famous World War II graffito, "Kilroy was here." It was the final album of original material to be released by the "classic" lineup of Dennis DeYoung, Tommy Shaw, James "J.Y." Young, John Panozzo, and Chuck Panozzo.

The album is certified platinum by the RIAA. As of 2016, it is the last studio album by the band to be certified platinum.

Artist Background: Styx is an American rock band that became famous for its albums from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The Chicago band is known for melding the style of prog-rock with the power of hard rock guitar, strong ballads, and elements of American musical theater. The band is best known for the hit songs "Lady" (#6, 1975), "Come Sail Away" (#8, 1977), "Babe" (#1, 1979), "The Best of Times" (#3, 1981), "Too Much Time on My Hands" (#9, 1981), and "Mr. Roboto" (#3, 1983). Other hits by the band include "... Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Hard Rock, Gritty, 1980s, Album, Universal Records

Additional Context: Rating score: 7. Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Kilroy Was Here is the eleventh studio album by the rock band Styx, released on February 22, 1983. The album is named after a famous World War II graffito, "Kilroy was here." It was the final album of original material to be released by the "classic" lineup of Dennis DeYoung, Tommy Shaw, James "J.Y." Young, John Panozzo, and Chuck Panozzo.

The album is certified platinum by the RIAA. As of 2016, it is the last studio album by the band to be certified platinum.

Album: Pieces of Eight by Styx (2017)
Genre: aor | Style: progressive rock
Record Label: Audio Fidelity
Format: Hybrid SACD (CD layer)

Artist Background: Artist from US, known for aor, classic rock, hard rock, pop rock, progressive rock

Musical Influences: John Curulewski, John Panozzo, Dennis DeYoung, Tommy Shaw

Related Artists: Kansas, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Boston

Music Scene: Part of the Chicago, Illinois, USA music scene. Emerged in the 1970s era. Associated with Hard Rock movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: aor, progressive rock, 2010s, Hybrid SACD (CD layer), Audio Fidelity


Styx

Biography

Quick Facts

Discography

Links