
Following the success of his solo work and songwriting career, Robert Fleischman entered one of the most energetic chapters of his musical journey when he joined forces with former KISS guitarist Vinnie Vincent. Alongside bassist Dana Strum and drummer Bobby Rock, Fleischman became the original voice of Vinnie Vincent Invasion, a band that would emerge as one of the defining acts of the mid-1980s hard rock and glam metal scene.
Released by Chrysalis Records in 1986, the band's self-titled debut showcased an explosive combination of Vincent's lightning-fast, technically ambitious guitar work and Fleischman's soaring, melodic vocal style. While Vincent's playing often commanded the spotlight, it was Fleischman's ability to craft memorable vocal melodies that gave the songs their emotional core and commercial appeal. His voice brought balance to the band's aggressive sound, elevating tracks beyond pure virtuosity into anthemic rock songs.
Fleischman co-wrote much of the album's material, helping shape the band's identity from the ground up. Songs such as "Boyz Are Gonna Rock," "Back on the Streets," "No Substitute," and "Animal" became fan favorites and remain staples among enthusiasts of 1980s hard rock. The music video for "Boyz Are Gonna Rock" received regular airplay on MTV, introducing the band to a broad international audience and helping establish the Invasion as one of the era's most exciting new acts.
Although Fleischman's tenure with the band was relatively brief, his contributions were instrumental in defining its original sound and direction. His combination of powerful range, melodic sensibility, and commanding stage presence distinguished the debut album from many of its contemporaries. Over the years, the record has become a cult classic, praised by fans and critics alike as one of the standout hard rock releases of the decade.
Looking back, Fleischman's work with Vinnie Vincent Invasion stands as one of the defining vocal performances of his career. It demonstrated his remarkable versatility, proving he could move seamlessly from the melodic arena rock of Journey to the heavier, more aggressive world of 1980s metal while retaining the distinctive voice and songwriting instincts that have characterized his work throughout his career.


