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Status Quo facts for kids

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Status Quo
Status quo 2005.jpg
Background information
Also known as The Quo, Quo, The Spectres, Traffic, Traffic Jam, The Status Quo
Origin London, England
Genres Rock, hard rock, boogie rock, psychedelic rock, blues rock
Years active 1962–present
Labels Fourth Chord, Sanctuary, Eagle, Polydor, Vertigo, Pye
Members Francis Rossi
Andy Bown
John "Rhino" Edwards
Matt Letley
Past members Rick Parfitt
Alan Lancaster
John Coghlan
Jess Jaworski
Roy Lynes
Pete Kircher
Jeff Rich

Status Quo, often called The Quo or just Quo, is a famous rock band from England. They started way back in 1962. At first, they had different names like The Spectres and Traffic Jam. In 1967, they became "The Status Quo" and then simply "Status Quo" in 1970.

This band has made a huge mark in music! They've had over 60 hit songs in the UK. They've also sold an amazing 118 million records all around the world. In the UK, they've had 33 hit albums. Only The Rolling Stones have had more! Their most popular time was in the early to mid-1970s. Some of their big hits from then include "Caroline," "Whatever You Want," and "Down Down."

Even though some people say their guitar style is simple, Status Quo has shown how good they are with songs like "Ice in the Sun" and "Pictures of Matchstick Men." These songs show off their amazing vocal and guitar harmonies. These sounds are a big part of their unique style.

A very famous moment for Status Quo was in 1985. They opened the huge Live Aid concert with their song "Rocking All Over the World." This was one of the biggest live TV broadcasts ever! Sadly, Rick Parfitt, one of the main members, passed away in 2016.

Meet the Band Members

The band has had several members over the years. Here are the main ones:

  • Francis Rossi - He sings and plays lead guitar. He has been with the band since 1962.
  • Rick Parfitt - He sang and played rhythm guitar. He joined in 1967 and was with the band until he passed away in 2016.
  • Andy Bown - He plays keyboards, guitar, and harmonica. He also sings backing vocals. He joined in 1973.
  • John 'Rhino' Edwards - He plays bass guitar and sings backing vocals. He joined the band in 1986.
  • Leon Cave - He plays the drums and percussion. He joined in 2013.

How the Band Changed Over Time

Status Quo has had different lineups through the years. Here's a quick look at how the band members changed:

  • In 1962, the band started as The Scorpions. The members were Francis Rossi, Alan Lancaster, Alan Key, and Barry Smith.
  • Later in 1962, Jess Jaworski joined on keyboards.
  • By 1963, they were called The Spectres. John Coghlan joined on drums.
  • From 1964 to 1967, Roy Lynes joined on keyboards.
  • In 1967, they briefly became Traffic Jam.
  • From 1967 to 1970, they were The Status Quo. This is when Rick Parfitt joined the band.
  • From 1971 to 1973, they were simply Status Quo. Roy Lynes left the band.
  • From 1973 to 1981, Andy Bown joined on keyboards.
  • From 1982 to 1985, Pete Kircher took over on drums.
  • From 1986 to 2000, John 'Rhino' Edwards joined on bass guitar and Jeff Rich played drums.
  • From 2000 to 2013, Matt Letley was the drummer.
  • Since 2013, Leon Cave has been the drummer.
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