Utopia (band)

Utopia was an American rock band formed in 1973 by Todd Rundgren. Initially conceived as a progressive rock ensemble with a focus on lengthy, complex compositions, Utopia evolved into a more pop-oriented group during the late 1970s and early 1980s, achieving commercial success with albums such as Adventures in Utopia (1980).

The band's original lineup featured Rundgren on guitar and vocals, alongside keyboardist Moogy Klingman, bassist John Siegler, and drummer Kevin Ellman. This incarnation of Utopia was characterized by its experimental and improvisational nature.

Over time, the lineup underwent several changes. Klingman, Siegler, and Ellman were eventually replaced by Kasim Sulton (bass, vocals), Willie Wilcox (drums, vocals), and Roger Powell (keyboards, vocals). This is generally considered the classic and most commercially successful Utopia lineup.

Utopia's musical style encompassed a diverse range of genres, including progressive rock, art rock, pop, and hard rock. Their live performances were known for their visual spectacle and theatrical elements.

The band released a string of albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including Todd Rundgren's Utopia (1974), Ra (1977), Oops! Wrong Planet (1977), Adventures in Utopia (1980), and Swing to the Right (1982). Their biggest hit single was "Set Me Free," from Adventures in Utopia.

Utopia disbanded in 1986. However, the classic lineup reunited for a brief tour in 1992 and again in 2018. Todd Rundgren has continued to perform Utopia material in his solo shows. The band's music has maintained a cult following, and they are regarded as influential figures in the progressive rock and power pop genres.