Allow me to illuminate a fascinating facet of some of your favorite rock stars – their connection to Freemasonry. This mysterious and often misunderstood fraternal organization has counted among its members a surprising array of the world’s most influential musicians. In “Rock Stars Who Are Freemasons”, you’ll uncover the interplay between rock and roll and the world of Freemasons, revealing a side of your beloved musicians you might have never known.
Understanding Freemasonry
Before we delve deeper into Freemasonry and music, let’s begin by understanding what Freemasonry is. Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest fraternities. It is a society of men who believe in brotherhood, charity, honesty, and integrity. It’s filled with symbols and rituals, many of which originate from architectural tools. Freemasons are found in nearly every country around the world, and they are active both in their lodges and their communities.
Overview of Freemasonry
Freemasonry dates back to the medieval periods, arising from the guilds of stonemasons, those who were responsible for constructing Europe’s grand cathedrals. In the late 16th century, these guilds began accepting honorary members, men who weren’t actually stonemasons. These non-tradesmen were called “speculative” masons. Today’s modern Freemasons are speculative masons, using the tools and symbols of the stonemasons as metaphorical tools for self-improvement.
Freemasonry and Music
Freemasonry shares a deep connection with music, with many composers and musicians throughout history known to have been Freemasons. It is said that music, especially the orchestrated kind, represents a form of unity and harmony which Freemasons strongly advocate. Traditionally, music played an integral role in lodge meetings and rituals, enhancing the overall experience.
Famous Freemasons in History
History is filled with notable Freemasons, including political leaders, scientists, writers and, of course, musicians. Some of the well-known Freemason musicians include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, John Philip Sousa, and George Gershwin. Now let’s shift the focus to some notable Freemasons in the rock and roll world.
Dave Davies of The Kinks
Dave Davies, the lead guitarist of The Kinks, is one of rock’s influential guitarists, renowned for his raw sound and unique playing style.
Dave Davies’ Career with The Kinks
Davies formed The Kinks in the early 1960s with his brother Ray. They are best known for their hit “You Really Got Me,” which is often credited as one of the foundational tracks of hard rock and heavy metal. His playing style greatly influenced many guitarists that came after him.
Dave Davies and Freemasonry
Dave Davies has been open about his membership in the Freemasons. He has often spoken about how he has been able to apply some of the teachings of Freemasonry in his personal life, helping him overcome his struggles and improve as an individual.
Impact of Freemasonry in his Music
While it’s not apparent in every song, Dave Davies’ masonic influences sometimes make subtle appearances in his music. Most of these influences are in the form of symbolic messages about unity and brotherhood, which are major tenets of the Freemasons.
Rick Wakeman of Yes
Rick Wakeman, the progressive rock icon and keyboardist for the band Yes, has a unique style that blends classical motifs with rocking energy.
Rick Wakeman’s Contribution to Yes
Wakeman’s unique keyboard work contributed largely to the signature progressive sound of Yes. His technical proficiency and knack for composition were instrumental in the creation of some of the band’s most iconic songs including “Roundabout” and “Close to the Edge.”
Rick Wakeman’s Freemason Membership
Wakeman is not only a member of the Freemasons but also an avid spokesperson for the fraternity. He has often spoken about the organizations’ values and how he incorporates their teachings in his daily life.
Freemasonry in Rick Wakeman’s Solo Career
In his solo career, Wakeman has often woven elements of Freemasonry into his music. Though not blatantly obvious, keen listeners can identify various symbolic references and themes popular in masonic teaching in Wakeman’s composition.
John Entwistle of The Who
John Entwistle was the distinctively talented bassist for one of rock’s most legendary bands, The Who.
Entwistle’s Musical Career
Entwistle was The Who’s anchor, with his bass playing serving as the driving rhythmic and harmonic foundation for the band’s sound. He earned the nickname “The Ox” for his seeming imperturbability on stage. His bass solo on “My Generation” is considered one of the greatest in rock history.
Entwistle’s Freemasonry Background
Entwistle was a known Freemason and was part of the Chelsea Lodge # 3098, a lodge famous for its membership of top music stars.
Influence of Freemasonry on The Who’s Music
The influence of Freemasonry in The Who’s music is not overt but rather, reflective in the dominant themes of unity, harmony, and truth present in their lyrics and melodies.
Chris Squire of Yes
Chris Squire was the co-founder and longtime bassist of progressive rock band Yes and has a music legacy that spans more than four decades.
Chris Squire’s Role in Yes
Squire’s unique, melodic style of bass fundamentally shaped the sound of Yes, establishing them as one of the pioneers in the progressive rock genre. His innovative approach to the bass guitar played a significant role in placing the instrument in a more prominent position in rock music.
Squire’s Connection to Freemasonry
Chris Squire was an active member of the Freemasons and was a part of the prestigious Chelsea Lodge in London. His work with the fraternity greatly influenced his life and work.
The Masonic Influence in Chris Squire’s Music
Squire’s music, both solo and with Yes, carries subtle hints of his masonic affiliations. The themes of unity, peace, spirituality, and metaphysical exploration often seen in his lyrics are linked to masonic principles.
Scott Ian of Anthrax
Scott Ian, the driving force behind the thrash metal band Anthrax, is celebrated for his highly energetic performances and distinctive rhythm guitar style.
Ian’s Legacy in Anthrax
Ian’s signature guitar riffs and energetic stage presence shaped Anthrax’s sound and made them one of the “big four” bands of thrash metal.
Ian’s Induction into Freemasonry
Ian is a documented Freemason and often displays his masonic affiliation through various symbols and icons, especially his distinctive square and compass tattoo.
Masonic References in Anthrax’s Music
It’s not evident in every Anthrax song, but certain tracks contain explicit and implicit references to masonic symbols and teachings.
Craig Goldy of Dio
Craig Goldy, known for his time as the guitarist for the band Dio, is recognized for his technical expertise and emotive soloing.
Goldy’s Role in Dio
Goldy joined Dio in the mid-’80s, replacing the departing Vivian Campbell. His melodic and intense guitar playing contributed significantly to the band’s sound and success.
Goldy’s Freemasonry Membership
Goldy is a Freemason and has openly spoken about his affiliation, promoting its positive influence over his personal and professional life.
How Freemasonry Affected Dio’s Music
While Goldy’s time with Dio doesn’t exhibit an overt masonic influence, certain symbolisms and themes found in the band’s lyrics and album art suggest a masonic connection.
Robbie Williams
Robbie Williams, formerly of Take That and now a solo artist, is one of the best-selling British solo artists in the UK.
Robbie Williams’ Solo Career
Williams’ solo career took off after parting from Take That. He has sold more than 75 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Williams’ Freemason Affiliation
Williams is known to be a member of the Freemasons and has shown his interest in the fraternity through his music and public life.
Freemasonry Impact on Williams’ Music
As with other musicians, Robbie’s music subtly reflects masonic influences. Themes of unity, brotherhood, and self-improvement can be traced in his lyrics.
Steve Wozniak of Apple Inc.
While Steve Wozniak is widely recognized as the co-founder of Apple Inc., his contribution to the music industry is equally notable.
Wozniak’s Contribution to Music Industry
Wozniak was instrumental in creating the US Festival, a large music and technology festival held in the early ’80s. He was passionate about merging the worlds of tech and music, and this event marked an important chapter in that effort.
Wozniak’s Freemasonry Membership
An active Freemason, Wozniak has shared his positive experiences within the fraternity and expressed how its teachings have influenced his life and work.
Influence of Freemasonry in Wozniak’s Music Festivals
Wozniak’s events like the US Festival embraced the masonic spirit of unity and collective enjoyment, presenting a diverse range of music that appealed to different tastes, mirroring the diverse yet united brotherhood of Freemasonry.
Brad Wilk of Rage Against The Machine
Brad Wilk, the skilled drummer of Rage Against The Machine, is known for his dynamic and pulsating rhythmic patterns.
Brad Wilk’s Role in RATM
Wilk’s aggressive and impassioned drumming is a key component of RATM’s forceful sound.
Wilk’s Involvement in Freemasonry
Brad Wilk is a professed Freemason and has been open about the impact freemasonry has had on his personal development and worldview.
Freemasonry References in RATM’s Music
Rage Against The Machine’s music often delves into themes of power, oppression, and liberation, which might reflect some of Wilk’s masonic influences. Still, as with most Freemason musicians, the reference is implicit rather than explicit.
In conclusion, Freemasonry plays a fascinating and complex role in the world of music. From its large-scale influence on orchestral compositions to its subtle presence in rock and roll, its impact is as varied as it is profound. From these musicians, it’s clear they view Freemasonry as more than just a fraternity. To them, it’s a source of inspiration, a guiding compass, and a way of life.
