Ted Poley Ted Poley

Ted Poley and the Journey to Escape from the City

In the vibrant tapestry of rock music, the name Ted Poley stands out as a symbol of both triumph and adversity. His iconic vocal performance on the 1986 anthem "Escape from the City" catapulted him into the spotlight, etching his name into the annals of rock history.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Born in 1953, Ted Poley's musical journey began in the late 1970s when he joined the band Danger Zone as a vocalist. The group enjoyed moderate success, releasing two albums before disbanding in 1983. Undeterred, Poley embarked on a solo career, hoping to find his own unique voice.

Fate intervened in 1986 when Poley was approached by Survivor, a struggling rock band seeking a new lead singer. The chemistry between Poley and the band was undeniable, and together they crafted the timeless anthem "Escape from the City." Its soaring melody and empowering lyrics resonated deeply with audiences, propelling the song to the top of the charts and establishing Survivor as a household name.

Challenges and Controversies

However, success came at a price. Poley's newfound fame brought with it intense scrutiny and pressure. He struggled with substance abuse and personal demons, which led to his departure from Survivor in 1989. The fallout from his exit cast a shadow over his career, as fans and critics alike questioned his reliability.

Resurgence and Redemption

Unwilling to let adversity define him, Poley embarked on a period of introspection and recovery. In the early 1990s, he returned to music with a newfound determination and resilience. He released several solo albums, including "Ted Poley" (1994) and "Between the Cracks" (1998).

Despite the challenges he had faced, Poley's voice and songwriting prowess remained undeniable. His later works showcased a more mature and introspective side of his artistry, earning him critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Discography

* Danger Zone: "Danger Zone" (1979), "Go for the Throat" (1981)
* Survivor: "Escape from the City" (1986), "Reach" (1988)
* Ted Poley: "Ted Poley" (1994), "Between the Cracks" (1998)

Members

* Ted Poley: Vocals
* Frankie Sullivan: Guitar
* Jim Peterik: Guitar, Vocals
* Dave Bickler: Drums (former)
* Dennis Johnson: Bass (former)