February 27

 Adrian Smith

February 27, 1957. Iron Maiden underwent a significant sonic evolution when Adrian Smith joined the lineup as a lead and rhythm guitarist in 1980. Before his tenure with the heavy metal pioneers began, he fronted the melodic rock band Urchin as their primary vocalist and guitarist from 1974 to 1980. 

His arrival in Iron Maiden just before the turn of the decade helped facilitate their transition into the global forefront of the new wave of British heavy metal. Smith maintained his membership in Iron Maiden from 1980 to 1990 and 1999 to the present.

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Neal Schon

February 27, 1954. Santana integrated the youthful energy of Neal Schon into their lineup as a lead guitarist in 1971, where he debuted on the acclaimed album Santana III. His fluid style and technical proficiency quickly garnered attention within the Latin rock scene before he departed to explore new musical avenues. In 1973, he co-founded the group Journey, steering the band from their early progressive jazz-fusion roots toward a more commercially successful melodic rock sound.

Throughout the late seventies, Schon remained a prolific force, performing on major albums such as Infinity and Evolution. His role expanded to include backing vocals and occasional songwriting, helping define the arena rock genre. He maintained his membership in Santana from 1971 to 1972 and has been the constant guitarist for Journey from 1973 to the present day.

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