Members
Select a Bad English band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Bad English was a hard rock supergroup formed in 1987, featuring members from two prominent rock bands, Journey and the Babys. The lineup included Neal Schon (guitar), Jonathan Cain (keyboards), John Waite (vocals), Ricky Phillips (bass), and Deen Castronovo (drums). Known for their arena rock anthems and power ballads, Bad English combined elements of hard rock, glam metal, and album-oriented rock (AOR) to create a sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Their self-titled debut album achieved platinum status, driven by hit singles like "When I See You Smile" and "Price of Love."
How to Sound Like Bad English
The sonic character of Bad English is defined by its powerful, melodic hard rock sound. Their music features soaring guitar solos and emotive vocal performances, supported by lush keyboard arrangements and a driving rhythm section. Neal Schon's guitar work often employed rich, overdriven tones achieved with the Gibson Les Paul Supreme and Floyd Rose Original Tremolo System, creating a dynamic range from searing solos to expressive, nuanced riffs. The warm, resonant textures of Jonathan Cain's keyboards added depth to their sound, complementing the guitars and enhancing the emotional impact of their ballads. Drummer Deen Castronovo's precise, energetic style provided the rhythmic backbone, using tools like the Vater Power 5B drumsticks to deliver powerful yet controlled performances. Bad English's music thrives on a blend of emotional intensity and technical prowess, making their sound both accessible and compelling for rock enthusiasts.
Discography
Get the Bad English Sound
Want to sound like Bad English? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
