Top Ten Ex-Punk Musicians Who Went on to Play in Popular or Mainstream Bands
William Michael Albert Broad, known professionally by his stage name Billy Idol, is an English musician, singer, songwriter and actor. In 1976 Idol played guitar for the British punk band Chelsea. Three of the five members (including Idol) left the band to form Generation X where Idol became the front man.
Joan Marie Larkin known professionally by her stage name Joan Jett, is an American rock guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer and occasional actress, best known for her work with Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, preceded by success with The Runaways, including their hit song "Cherry Bomb". Joan Jett and Sandy West were the first two original members of The Runaways.
Belinda Jo Carlisle is an American singer who gained worldwide fame as the lead vocalist of the Go-Go's, one of the most successful all-female bands of all time. She was the original Germs drummer.
I believe he's a top ten living rock drummer. As the permanent drummer for The Vandals and Devo, he has drummed for countless other bands and musicians.
Roberto Agustin Trujillo, better known as Robert Trujillo, is an American musician known for his role as the current bassist of heavy metal band Metallica. Suicidal pretty much started it all for him.
Georg Albert Ruthenber, professionally known as Pat Smear, was the rhythm guitarist for the grunge band Nirvana, and is currently the rhythm guitarist for the post-grunge band Foo Fighters. Played Guitar for the Germs.
Lita Rossana Ford is an English-born American rock guitarist, vocalist and songwriter, who was the lead guitarist for The Runaways in the late 1970s, an all-female rock band formed by Joan Jett and Sandy West. In the 1980s Lita Ford embarked on a solo career. Originally played bass for The Runaways but later moved to lead and rhythm guitar.
Guitarist on Wasted Youths Black Daze album. One of the founding members of Velvet Revolver.
John Joseph Lydon, also known by his former stage name Johnny Rotten, is an English singer, songwriter, and musician. Fronted "post punk" alternative band Public Image Limited. They were really popular amongst the alternative radio stations here in So. Cal in the mid and late 80's.
Drummer on two albums for Queens of the Stone Age. Also drummed for Eagles of Death Metal.