5 Well-known Musicians with Autism

The symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) include difficulties in social interaction and communication. Nevertheless, many people with autism have achieved remarkable success in diverse disciplines, including musicality. In this piece, we'll take a closer look at the lives and work of five well-known artists who have been diagnosed with autism and gone on to make important contributions to the music business.

James Durbin

The heavy metal/hard rock singer and guitarist James William Durbin from Santa Cruz, California, came in fourth place in the tenth season of American Idol. His high-octane rocker songs on American Idol were only one of the things that made James stand out. He also happens to have Tourette Syndrome and Asperger Syndrome (now categorized as an autism spectrum disorder, or ASD). Tics were evident on video, but singing was a proven way to eliminate them. He is now Quiet Riot's lead singer. 

Marty Balin

Marty was not only a founding member, lead vocalist, and primary composer for the iconic San Francisco visionary band Jefferson Airplane but also a pivotal part of the group's 1970s successor, Jefferson Starship. As a kid, Marty was diagnosed with autism, which he managed throughout his adolescence. He was passionate about music, but he was held back by the criticism of others who said he was not talented enough to make it as a performer. He died in 2018.

Susan Boyle

In 2009, Scottish singer Susan Boyle shot to stardom after competing on a season of Britain's Got Talent. Boyle sang "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Misérables with such conviction that she made it to the program's finals, despite the judges' initial doubts. Boyle has released many albums and toured worldwide as a singer. Numerous others have found encouragement and motivation from her journey, which has increased broad awareness of autism.

Travis Meeks

In 1997, Travis created the band Days of the New, whose self-titled album featured the hit track "Touch, Peel and Stand," which spent 16 weeks at the top of Billboard's Mainstream Rock Chart. Travis's traumatic upbringing made him a poor student, but he wasn't diagnosed with ASD until he was an adult. His substance misuse and self-medication have been a problem throughout his life and career, and he is most currently focused on a stint in rehab.

Saul Zur-Szpiro and Jack Beaven-Duggan (The AutistiX)

British rock band The AutistiX was established in 2010 in London. Saul (drums) and Jack (electric guitar, backup vocals) are two of the band's members who have autism, contributing to their distinct sound and perspective. Jack's dad, John Duggan, plays electric guitar, and Saul's dad, Michael Zur-Szprio, and mentor, Jim Connelly. This unique band demonstrates the talent and potential of disabled musicians and the benefits they can bring to society. Music fans from many walks of life have fallen in love with The AutistiX.