The most charismatic prog-frontman?

Peter Gabriel, Peter Hammill. Two "Peter"s both on Charisma label. Hence charismatics

Hammill is certainly charismatic. I saw him doing a completely uncaccompanied encore twice, without microphone even. He just approached the front of the stage alone (he had already done 4 or 5 encores before), a towel around his neck, and started to sing. Everyone was completely silent, but after he finished the whole concert hall shook! Once he sang "Again", the other time it was (surprise, surprise) "I Smile Like Chicago" from Robert Fripp's first solo album "Exposure" (on which Hammill guested).

I think John Wetton in 72-74 KC was charismatic in much decent style, as he didn't dress up as a flower...  The music he played and sung on to was also so emotional in both beutiful and aggressive way, that I'll vote for 'im.

^ 60's too!

I saw MAGMA live in DVD once and I was very impressed with the fantastic Christian Vander's contributions and costumes...

Peter Gabriel in his Genesis years. Hands down! Who could ever forget his turning the musical stories of their old songs into "live" visual dramatic theatre. The Fox-head red dress and later the old man mask from "The Musical Box," Brittania from "Dancing With The Moonlit Night,"  the black cape and batwings of "Watcher of the Skies," the various costume changes during "Supper's Ready," the different personnas in "The Lamb," including Rael's black leather jacket and the Slipperman, and so many more not mentioned. That along with the eye and face make-up, plus Peter's unique voice, physical body language and stage moves has earned him the deserved title of deity. CandyAppleRed is spot on! There will never be anything as mind blowing as this again.  

Edited by Dennis

1.mars volta lead singer
2.peter hammil

Syzygy wrote: Much as I'm tempted to go along with Christian Vander, he's more of a drummer than a frontman (though certainly a compelling figure). Captain Beefheart was a truly mesmerising performer, but I'd have to say Ian Anderson is the most charismatic prog performer I have seen, and pretty close to the most charismatic in any genre. Hammill would come a close second, just followed by Gabriel, and Brian Gulland (Gryphon) deserves a special award as well.

I second Ian Andersson, specilly the younger and more energetic him.

thumbs up for your interview btw, really encouraged me to check out these amazing bands

BaldFriede wrote: Hammill is certainly charismatic. I saw him doing a completely uncaccompanied encore twice, without microphone even. He just approached the front of the stage alone (he had already done 4 or 5 encores before), a towel around his neck, and started to sing. Everyone was completely silent, but after he finished the whole concert hall shook! Once he sang "Again", the other time it was (surprise, surprise) "I Smile Like Chicago" from Robert Fripp's first solo album "Exposure" (on which Hammill guested).

I had the same kind of experience with Hammill in Utrecht. He was sitting on a chair before the curtains that were already closed. Also with a towel round his neck. And he sang... incredible! Too bad half of the audience had already left! I can't tell which song it was, but the encore was certainly very, very impressive! He played with the audience in his own inimitable way. Stopping and starting the song again, lifting his finger and winking... Fascinating!

Edited by Moogtron III

Ian Anderson, Peter Hammill, Robert Calvert