The band is best known for featuring Cliff Burton in its initial lineup, who left in 1982 to become the bassist for Metallica.

The group disbanded in 1985 before re-establishing itself after twenty-eight years (2013) around original vocalist Donny Hillier and returning drummer Kris Gustofson.

On September 28, 2020, Hillier died following an undisclosed illness;[1] he was replaced by vocalist Brian Allen nearly a year later on August 24, 2021.

[2] On December 6, 2022, Marty Friedman and Trauma were announced as special guests for Queensrÿche's 2023 Digital Noise Alliance Tour;[3] on February 21, 2023, Casey Trask was named as substitute rhythm guitarist for Joe Fraulob on that tour.

[4] Its current line-up consists of members Gustofson, Steve Robello, Allen and Michael Spencer, with Trask as their touring rhythm guitarist.