October 2025

28 Geoff Tate: THE Voice, Vision, and the Final Chapter BY RICH TAYLOR For more than four decades, Geoff Tate has beenmy favorite singer. His voice—soaring, intense, and unmistakably dramatic — has been the soundtrack to countless moments of my life. From the first time I dropped the needle on a Queensrÿche record to finally meeting him and his new band in person, his music has been both companion and inspiration. That meeting, after years of following his career, remains one of those treasured experiences I will carry forever. THE RISE OF QUEENSRŸCHE Tate’s journey into the spotlight began in the early 1980s, when Queensrÿche quickly emerged as a force in progressive metal. Albums like The Warning (1984) and Rage for Order (1986) built their reputation, but it was 1988’s Operation: Mindcrime that cemented their place in rock history. More than an album, it was a concept-driven masterpiece — a politically charged story told with gripping intensity. Tate’s com- manding vocals gave life to its characters and pulled listeners deep into its narrative. Then came Empire (1990), a record that reached new commercial heights while still carrying depth. Tracks like “Silent Lucidity” proved that the band could deliver both radio-friendly hits and thought- provoking artistry. Through it all, Tate’s voice remained the core — not just a frontman’s instrument, but a vehicle for storytelling. THE RADIO ROOM GREENVILLE, SC SEPT 25TH, 2025 9PM