12 Bands Every True Music Fan Would Love To Reunite (If Possible)
Some bands leave such an undeniable mark on music history that their breakups feel like unfinished stories. Whether due to creative differences, personal clashes, or tragic circumstances, these legendary groups disbanded, leaving fans forever wishing for one more encore.
While some reunions are more likely than others, the following 12 bands top the list of the most-wanted comebacks.
1. Led Zeppelin
Few bands have defined rock music as powerfully as Led Zeppelin. With their thunderous performances, blues-infused riffs, and mystical lyrics, they shaped an entire genre. When drummer John Bonham passed away in 1980, the band disbanded rather than attempt to replace his irreplaceable talent.
Over the years, they’ve teased fans with one-off reunions, most notably in 2007 at the O2 Arena, where Jason Bonham filled in for his father. However, Robert Plant remains reluctant, despite Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones expressing interest in revisiting their magic.
A full reunion may never happen, but Zeppelin’s immortal influence on rock music ensures their spirit never truly left the stage.
2. Rage Against the Machine
When Rage Against the Machine exploded onto the scene in the 1990s, they weren’t just a band—they were a movement. With their fiery mix of rap, rock, and revolutionary politics, they gave a voice to the voiceless and delivered some of the most powerful anthems of all time.
They’ve reunited sporadically over the years, most recently announcing a highly anticipated comeback tour in 2020. Unfortunately, the pandemic and Zack de la Rocha’s injury put a halt to their plans.
Fans continue to hope for a full return, knowing that in today’s political climate, Rage’s voice is needed more than ever.
3. Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd didn’t just play music—they built sonic worlds. From the psychedelic landscapes of The Dark Side of the Moon to the haunting dystopia of The Wall, their influence stretches far beyond rock music.
The group’s breakup in the 1980s was fueled by long-standing creative tensions, particularly between Roger Waters and David Gilmour. Though they reunited for Live 8 in 2005, it was a fleeting moment, and with the passing of Richard Wright in 2008, a full reunion seems even less likely.
Still, Pink Floyd’s music remains timeless, and fans will always dream of seeing their visionary performances brought back to life.
4. Oasis
Few bands have embodied both genius and dysfunction as perfectly as Oasis. The Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, delivered anthem after anthem in the ‘90s, defining the Britpop era with hits like Wonderwall and Don’t Look Back in Anger.
Unfortunately, their legendary sibling rivalry proved too much, leading to their breakup in 2009. Reunion rumors emerge every year, with Liam openly expressing interest, while Noel remains less enthusiastic, to say the least.
Should they ever reconcile, an Oasis reunion would likely be one of the biggest music events in decades, reigniting the spark that made them icons.
5. The Smiths
With Morrissey’s poetic melancholy and Johnny Marr’s shimmering guitar work, The Smiths helped define indie rock. Songs like There Is a Light That Never Goes Out and How Soon Is Now? remain deeply cherished classics.
However, bad blood and lawsuits between band members make a reunion nearly impossible. Morrissey and Marr have repeatedly shut down the idea, despite ongoing speculation.
While fans still dream of seeing them together again, the enduring power of their music ensures their legacy remains untouched.
6. Guns N’ Roses
Guns N’ Roses were the ultimate rock & roll wild card—one part brilliance, one part self-destruction. With Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan, they dominated the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, but infighting led to their split in the mid-’90s.
Fans rejoiced when Slash and Duff rejoined Axl in 2016, bringing much of the magic back. However, the absence of drummer Steven Adler and guitarist Izzy Stradlin means it’s not quite the original lineup.
A true full-fledged reunion would blow the roof off stadiums worldwide, reminding the world why they were once called the most dangerous band in the world.
7. Genesis
Genesis evolved from progressive rock pioneers to pop music superstars, thanks to the combined genius of Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, and Tony Banks. However, their musical journeys led them in different directions, and Gabriel left in 1975, followed later by Collins.
In 2021, Collins, Banks, and Mike Rutherford embarked on a farewell tour, but Gabriel was absent. Collins’ health issues make a full reunion unlikely, but the dream of hearing “Supper’s Ready” with Gabriel on vocals still lingers for fans.
Their impact on both prog and pop music remains unmatched, making their absence all the more bittersweet.
8. R.E.M.
With their introspective lyrics and distinctive jangly sound, R.E.M. helped define alternative rock in the ‘80s and ‘90s. After calling it quits in 2011, the band has repeatedly stated that their breakup is permanent.
Unlike other groups, Michael Stipe and company remain adamant that they will not return. Yet, their music still resonates deeply, from Losing My Religion to Everybody Hurts, making a reunion all the more tempting.
Should they ever reconsider, it would be a momentous occasion for alternative rock fans everywhere.
9. NSYNC
For pop fans, there was no bigger boy band than NSYNC. With their tight harmonies, infectious hits, and dazzling dance moves, they ruled the late ‘90s before going on an indefinite hiatus in 2002.
Despite a brief reunion at the 2013 MTV VMAs, a full-fledged comeback seems unlikely, largely due to Justin Timberlake’s solo success. However, with the rise of boy band nostalgia, fans still hold onto hope.
If they ever returned, it would be a pop culture event of epic proportions, bringing back the magic of an era that still holds a special place in fans’ hearts.
10. The White Stripes
A garage rock revolution was unleashed when Jack and Meg White took the stage as The White Stripes. Their raw, minimalist sound and Meg’s pounding drumbeats created a sonic experience unlike anything else at the time.
In 2011, they officially disbanded, leaving behind a catalog of blues-infused rock anthems, including Seven Nation Army, which still dominates stadiums. Jack White remains active, but Meg has largely disappeared from the spotlight.
A reunion feels highly unlikely, but if it ever happened, it would be a triumphant return of one of the most distinctive duos in modern music.
11. The Police
Blending rock and reggae, The Police crafted some of the most unforgettable songs of the ‘70s and ‘80s. However, tensions between Sting, Andy Summers, and Stewart Copeland led to their 1986 breakup.
They briefly reunited for a world tour in 2007, but any further collaboration seems unlikely. Sting has built a successful solo career, while Copeland and Summers have pursued other projects.
Even so, the demand remains—hearing “Every Breath You Take” live once again would be a dream come true for millions.
12. Talking Heads
Talking Heads’ quirky artistry and genre-blending brilliance made them pioneers of new wave. Fronted by David Byrne, they delivered unforgettable hits like Once in a Lifetime.
Despite occasional reunions for interviews, Byrne has repeatedly dismissed any possibility of performing together again. The band’s tension still lingers, making a reunion seem unlikely.
Still, the thought of one final Talking Heads performance feels like a fever dream waiting to happen.