Guitarists often fly under the radar in rock music, especially when their fame is eclipsed by more flamboyant vocalists or pop-driven trends. But every now and then, a player emerges whose skill, tone, and soul demand recognition. One such talent is Ian Thornley, frontman of the Canadian rock band Big Wreck, who has quietly built a legacy as both a guitarist’s guitarist and a powerful vocalist. Thornley’s choice to stay true to his roots—most notably by turning down a potential frontman role in Velvet Revolver—only adds to his mystique and integrity.
A recent event that brought Thornley’s talents into sharp focus was Creed’s Summer of ’99 Cruise, featuring a powerhouse lineup from the era of Creed’s Human Clay. While many fans showed up to relive nostalgic moments, Thornley left a lasting impression with his guitar work, prompting music journalists to once again champion his genius.
Big Wreck, formed in 1992 at Berklee College of Music in Boston, quickly built a reputation for combining technical proficiency with rich, melodic songwriting. Despite a hiatus between 2003 and 2010, the band has released seven studio albums and built a loyal following. During the band’s break, Thornley also released two solo records, further showcasing his songwriting and instrumental talents.
Thornley has often been praised not only for his guitar skills but also for his compelling voice. He’s been compared to Chris Cornell, though many argue that Thornley’s vocal tone and phrasing are uniquely his own. Songs like “Locomotive” exemplify this comparison—raw, powerful, and deeply emotional.
Perhaps one of the most fascinating chapters in Thornley’s career came when Slash himself reached out with an offer. After Scott Weiland left Velvet Revolver, Thornley was approached to audition for the lead vocalist role. Reflecting on the experience in a 2011 interview with Jam! Music, Thornley described the surreal moment:
“I got a phone call from Slash — how fing weird is that? And they had sent me a few tunes and I went down into my basement studio and just sang over one and just tried to build hooks and I was like, ‘This is killer,’… It’s fing Slash!”
However, things hit a snag when the band’s manager raised concerns about Thornley playing guitar while singing. The suggestion? That he should drop the guitar altogether and focus solely on fronting the band:
“The manager said, ‘Is there any chance you can do a couple without the guitar?’ And I was like, ‘Not really, no… I’ve never learned those moves.’”
Thornley recognized that his identity as a performer was rooted in playing guitar. Unlike Weiland, who could command the stage with glam-rock flair and dance-like movement, Thornley’s style was more grounded—less about showmanship, more about soul and substance.
“When Slash goes off on some kickass solo, I’m not going to grab a f***ing tambourine, it’s not my bag… It was kind of like a square peg in a round hole.”
Despite not joining Velvet Revolver, Thornley’s credibility among elite guitarists is well established. His skill with slide guitar is especially notable—some rank him just below Derek Trucks, widely considered the modern master of the style.
One vivid memory from a performance featured Thornley alongside guitarists Clint Lowery (Sevendust, Korn) and Mark Tremonti (Creed, Alter Bridge), all of whom were visibly moved during his solos. Every note seemed to send shivers through the room, as they watched in awe:
“Every time Thornley played a solo, we’d all just look at each other in amazement with goosebumps on our arms.”
During the Creed Cruise, any time Thornley took the stage, the other guitarists on board watched intently—proof of his status among the best in the business.
Why Isn’t Ian Thornley a Household Name?
With such immense talent, one may wonder why Ian Thornley hasn’t reached mainstream superstardom. Several factors seem to contribute.
First, Big Wreck’s sound came at a time when guitar solos were declining in popularity. The early 2000s were dominated by simpler riffs and radio-friendly structures. Big Wreck’s music, with its complex arrangements and sophisticated harmonic layers, might have been “too smart” for its time.
Second, being Canadian may have limited their exposure in the U.S. While many Canadian acts have made the crossover (think Nickelback, Rush, Alanis Morissette), others like Big Wreck and The Tragically Hip have remained huge at home while never fully breaking into the American mainstream.
Canada’s music industry has its own award shows, radio charts, and cultural circles. While this provides a strong local foundation, it sometimes leads to exceptional talent being confined to a regional stage.
Since reforming, Big Wreck has undergone lineup changes but continues to evolve and impress. The current formation includes Chris Caddell as co-guitarist, creating a twin guitar assault that is a treat for any rock fan. Their live shows are dynamic and emotionally powerful—fueled by Thornley’s exceptional touch, tone, and timing.
Currently on tour with Creed, the band is reaching new audiences and reminding longtime fans of their musical brilliance. If you ever get the chance to see Big Wreck live, it’s highly recommended—especially if you’re a fan of guitar-driven rock.
Ian Thornley is not interested in gimmicks or flash. He never wanted to be a frontman who pantomimed over a solo. Instead, he wants to make music where he’s part of the sound, guitar in hand, heart in the song.
His decision to turn down Velvet Revolver wasn’t about ego or fear. It was about authenticity. Thornley knew who he was and what made him a compelling artist—and he stayed true to that.
In a world where flash often trumps feel, Ian Thornley is a rare artist of substance, a musician who lets the strings do the talking. His voice and guitar remain underappreciated gems in the world of modern rock—and for those who know, he’s already a legend.
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