Morrissey. (see, Anastasaeon, you have some company here–he’s been nominated by at least four people so far!). While his work with The Smiths is the stuff of legend, his solo work stands quite well on its own.
I will also nominate David Byrne. I loved Talking Heads, but I also love Byrne’s solo work, which I think is highly underrated. IMHO, he’s one of the most gifted songwriters and musicians ever.
Touche
I just thought I would throw it out there. Elfman and Mothersbaugh should really have their own category…The Super Solo Composer Artist, or something.
Elliott Smith.
Aimee Mann – she fronted Til Tuesday, then went solo.
Well, Paul Weller doesn’t suck as a solo singer; he’s pretty good, but still, give me The Jam anyday.
Les Claypool’s solo work hasn’t been bad.
I would say Billy Corgan and Zwan, but he was for all intents and purposes a solo artist with Smashing Pumpkins so it doesn’t count.
Enya from Clannad hasn’t done badly, either.
Oh yeah… who can forget John Lennon?
Martin Gore
Ben Gibbard (if the Postal Service counts)
Alan Wilder (Recoil)
All four Beatles, including Ringo.
Burton Cummings and Randy Bachmann.
Jack White
Steve Winwood
Eric Clapton
Pete Townsend
Brian Setzer
Brian Wilson
John Fogerty
Neil Young
Jeff Lynne
Frank Sinatra
Lowell George
Paul Simon
Rod Stewart
Ryan Adams
George Michael (sort of)