Chris Bell

The Profile

American singer-songwriter and founding member of Big Star. Known for the single "I Am the Cosmos" and posthumous compilations; died in 1978. Regarded as an influential figure in power pop.

Founding member of Big Star; collaborated with Alex Chilton; recordings include contributions from figures such as Jim Dickinson; the compilation I Am The Cosmos was released posthumously in 1992 and assembled by his brother.

A strongly positive review of Chris Bell's posthumous collection I Am The Cosmos. The reviewer praises Bell's power-pop songwriting and fragile, moving performances. Comparisons to Big Star, Kinks, Byrds and Nick Drake appear; standout tracks and the album's compilation history are noted.