Artists & Music In Review

Ed Sheeran, the British singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt lyrics and acoustic sound, has become one of the most successful and beloved artists of his generation. With his signature loop pedal performances, catchy melodies, and relatable lyrics, Sheeran’s rise to stardom has been meteoric. Known for hits like "Shape of You," "Thinking Out Loud," "Perfect," and "Castle on the Hill," Sheeran’s ability to blend pop, folk, and R&B influences has made him a global phenomenon. Born in Halifax, England, in 1991, Ed Sheeran began writing and performing music at a young age. He moved to London in 2008 to pursue a music career, playing small gigs and self-releasing albums before catching the attention of the music industry. His big break came in 2011 with the release of his debut studio album, + (pronounced "Plus"), which featured the hit single "The A Team." The song’s poignant lyrics about homelessness and addiction resona...

Rihanna, the Barbadian singer, songwriter, and business mogul, has become one of the most influential figures in both music and fashion. With her genre-blurring sound and fearless sense of style, Rihanna has evolved from a pop star to a global icon. Known for hits like "Umbrella," "Diamonds," "We Found Love," and "Work," her music spans a range of genres, including pop, R&B, reggae, and dancehall. Beyond her musical achievements, Rihanna has also made a major impact as a beauty and fashion entrepreneur with her Fenty brands. Born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in Saint Michael, Barbados, in 1988, Rihanna was discovered by American record producer Evan Rogers and quickly signed to Def Jam Recordings. Her debut single, "Pon de Replay" (2005), introduced her Caribbean-infused pop sound to the world, but it was her third album, Good Girl Gone Bad (2007), that launched her to superstardom. The album’s lead single, "Umbrella," featuring J...

 Madonna, often hailed as the "Queen of Pop," is one of the most influential and groundbreaking artists in music history. Over a career spanning four decades, Madonna has continually reinvented herself, shaping the sound and style of pop music while pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Known for iconic hits like "Like a Virgin," "Vogue," "Like a Prayer," and "Hung Up," Madonna’s ability to blend music, fashion, and controversy has made her a global cultural icon. Born Madonna Louise Ciccone in Bay City, Michigan, in 1958, she moved to New York City in the late 1970s to pursue a career in dance but quickly found her calling in music. Her self-titled debut album, Madonna (1983), introduced her to the world with dance-pop hits like "Holiday" and "Borderline." However, it was her 1984 album Like a Virgin that propelled her to superstardom. The album’s title track became one of the defining songs of the decade...

 Miley Cyrus, one of the most dynamic and versatile pop stars of her generation, has undergone a remarkable evolution from Disney Channel darling to boundary-pushing artist. Known for her powerful voice, daring persona, and ability to blend pop, rock, and country influences, Miley’s career has been marked by constant reinvention. From her early days as the star of Hannah Montana to her chart-topping hits like "Wrecking Ball," "Party in the U.S.A.," and "Midnight Sky," Miley has established herself as one of the most compelling figures in contemporary music. Born Destiny Hope Cyrus in Franklin, Tennessee, in 1992, Miley comes from a musical family—her father, Billy Ray Cyrus, is a country music star best known for his hit "Achy Breaky Heart." Miley’s career began in 2006 when she starred in Hannah Montana , a Disney Channel series that made her a household name. As the fictional pop star Hannah Montana, Miley quickly became a teen idol, with the ...

Elton John, the flamboyant British singer, songwriter, and pianist, is one of the most enduring and beloved figures in the history of rock music. With a career spanning over five decades, Elton John’s unique blend of pop, rock, and theatricality has made him one of the best-selling artists of all time. Known for hits like "Rocket Man," "Tiny Dancer," "Your Song," and "Candle in the Wind," his music is characterized by powerful melodies, emotive lyrics, and his signature piano playing. Born Reginald Dwight in Pinner, England, in 1947, Elton John displayed an early talent for music, playing piano by ear at a young age. His partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin in 1967 marked the beginning of one of the most successful songwriting duos in rock history. Together, they crafted timeless hits that combined Elton’s musical genius with Taupin’s poignant and often poetic lyrics. Elton’s breakthrough came with the release of his self-titled album Elton Jo...

 Whitney Houston, often referred to simply as "The Voice," is one of the most successful and influential singers of all time. With her extraordinary vocal range, impeccable control, and emotional delivery, Houston became a global icon in the 1980s and 1990s. Known for hits like "I Will Always Love You," "Greatest Love of All," and "How Will I Know," Houston’s music has transcended generations, leaving an indelible mark on pop and R&B. Born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1963, Whitney Houston came from a musical family—her mother, Cissy Houston, was a successful gospel singer, and her cousin, Dionne Warwick, was a pop music legend. From a young age, Whitney displayed incredible vocal talent, performing in her church choir and later working as a background singer for prominent artists. In 1985, she released her debut album, Whitney Houston , which became an instant success, spawning hit singles like "Saving All My Love for You" and "H...

 Adele, the British singer-songwriter, has captivated the world with her powerful voice, emotional ballads, and deeply personal lyrics. Known for hits like "Someone Like You," "Rolling in the Deep," and "Hello," Adele’s music resonates with fans across the globe, offering a blend of heartache, resilience, and soul. Her ability to channel raw emotions through her music has made her one of the best-selling artists of all time, and her distinctive sound has set her apart in the world of contemporary pop. Born Adele Laurie Blue Adkins in Tottenham, London, in 1988, Adele rose to fame with her debut album 19 (2008), which introduced the world to her soulful voice and heart-wrenching lyrics. The album, featuring the hit single "Chasing Pavements," earned her critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards, but it was her sophomore album, 21 (2011), that catapulted her to global stardom. The album, which chronicled the aftermath of a painful breakup, beca...

 The Clash, one of the most iconic and influential punk rock bands of all time, brought political awareness, social commentary, and musical diversity to the punk scene of the 1970s and 1980s. Formed in London in 1976, The Clash was led by frontman Joe Strummer, guitarist Mick Jones, bassist Paul Simonon, and drummer Topper Headon. Their music blended punk rock’s raw energy with elements of reggae, ska, dub, and rockabilly, making them pioneers of genre fusion within the punk movement. Known for their rebellious spirit and hits like "London Calling," "Should I Stay or Should I Go," and "Rock the Casbah," The Clash earned their place as one of the most important bands in rock history. The Clash’s debut self-titled album The Clash (1977) was a rallying cry for the punk movement. With its stripped-down sound and politically charged lyrics, the album captured the frustrations of Britain’s disillusioned youth during a time of social and economic upheaval. Songs...

 Talking Heads, one of the most innovative and influential bands of the late 20th century, helped define the sound of new wave and art rock with their eclectic mix of punk, funk, world music, and avant-garde experimentation. Formed in 1975 in New York City by lead vocalist and guitarist David Byrne, bassist Tina Weymouth, drummer Chris Frantz, and keyboardist Jerry Harrison, Talking Heads combined quirky, cerebral lyrics with infectious rhythms and a pioneering use of electronic sounds. Their music, known for hits like "Psycho Killer," "Once in a Lifetime," and "Burning Down the House," continues to resonate with fans of all ages. Talking Heads’ debut album, Talking Heads: 77 (1977), introduced the band’s unique blend of punk energy and intellectualism. The album’s standout single, "Psycho Killer," with its eerie lyrics and jagged guitar lines, quickly became an anthem of the burgeoning punk and new wave movements. David Byrne’s distinctive voic...

 Nine Inch Nails, the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist and producer Trent Reznor, revolutionized industrial rock with their aggressive, dark, and introspective sound. Formed in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1988, Nine Inch Nails (NIN) became one of the most influential bands of the 1990s and beyond, blending electronic music, heavy metal, and punk rock into a sonic experience that was both abrasive and deeply emotional. Known for hits like "Closer," "Hurt," and "Head Like a Hole," NIN has pushed the boundaries of alternative music and continues to influence a wide range of genres. The band’s debut album, Pretty Hate Machine (1989), introduced the world to Reznor’s unique vision of industrial rock. The album was a dark exploration of personal and societal turmoil, with tracks like "Head Like a Hole" and "Terrible Lie" showcasing a mix of electronic beats, distorted guitars, and haunting melodies. Pretty Hate Machine was one of the first album...

 Black Sabbath is widely regarded as the band that gave birth to heavy metal, forging a sound that was darker, heavier, and more intense than anything that had come before. Formed in Birmingham, England, in 1968, by guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, drummer Bill Ward, and frontman Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath’s doom-laden riffs and occult-themed lyrics laid the foundation for the metal genre. Their music, marked by Iommi’s pioneering guitar work and Osbourne’s distinctive vocals, continues to influence generations of rock and metal bands. Black Sabbath’s self-titled debut album, released in 1970, was a groundbreaking moment in rock history. With tracks like "Black Sabbath" and "The Wizard," the band embraced themes of darkness, the supernatural, and existential dread. Tony Iommi’s down-tuned guitar riffs, combined with the ominous atmosphere, created a sense of foreboding that was completely new in rock music. The album is widely considered one of the fir...

 U2, one of the biggest and most enduring rock bands in history, has spent over four decades at the forefront of rock music, blending powerful anthems with socially conscious lyrics. Formed in Dublin in 1976 by lead vocalist Bono (Paul Hewson), guitarist The Edge (David Howell Evans), bassist Adam Clayton, and drummer Larry Mullen Jr., U2 became known for their signature sound—characterized by The Edge’s jangly, delay-heavy guitar and Bono’s impassioned vocals. Their ability to craft stadium-filling anthems like "With or Without You," "Where the Streets Have No Name," and "Beautiful Day" has made them one of the most successful bands in the world. U2 first gained widespread recognition with their 1983 album War , which included the hit single "Sunday Bloody Sunday." The song’s politically charged lyrics, referencing the 1972 Bloody Sunday massacre in Northern Ireland, showcased the band’s willingness to engage with social and political issues thr...

 Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), a band known for its distinctive blend of swamp rock, blues, and country, was a defining force in American rock music during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Led by singer-songwriter and guitarist John Fogerty, alongside his brother Tom Fogerty, bassist Stu Cook, and drummer Doug Clifford, CCR produced a string of timeless hits that captured the American spirit. Songs like "Proud Mary," "Fortunate Son," and "Bad Moon Rising" remain staples of classic rock radio and continue to resonate with audiences decades after their release. Formed in El Cerrito, California, CCR’s music was deeply rooted in the sounds of Southern rock and blues, despite the fact that the band hailed from the West Coast. Their ability to capture the essence of rural America with their swampy, blues-infused sound set them apart from other bands of the era. John Fogerty’s gritty, soulful voice and politically charged lyrics gave CCR’s music a sense of a...

The Supremes, one of the most successful and influential girl groups of all time, helped define the sound of Motown and brought the sound of black America to a global audience. Formed in Detroit in 1959, The Supremes originally consisted of Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, and Florence Ballard, and their string of chart-topping hits during the 1960s made them the face of Motown’s success. Their polished, glamorous image, combined with their powerful vocal harmonies, made The Supremes a trailblazing force in pop music, breaking racial barriers and becoming one of the first black groups to achieve mainstream success. Under the guidance of Motown founder Berry Gordy, The Supremes became a hit-making machine. Their breakthrough came with the 1964 single "Where Did Our Love Go," which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The Supremes followed this success with a string of hits, including "Baby Love," "Stop! In the Name of Love," "Come See About Me," a...

Coldplay is one of the most successful and beloved bands of the 21st century, known for their anthemic sound, emotional lyrics, and genre-defying music. Formed in London in 1996 by lead vocalist and pianist Chris Martin, guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman, and drummer Will Champion, Coldplay’s rise to global stardom has been marked by their ability to consistently evolve their sound while staying true to their signature blend of heartfelt rock, pop, and alternative elements. With chart-topping hits like "Yellow," "Fix You," and "Viva La Vida," Coldplay has remained at the forefront of modern rock for over two decades. The band first gained widespread attention with their debut album, Parachutes (2000), which featured the breakout single "Yellow." The song’s introspective lyrics and atmospheric sound made it an instant classic, introducing the world to Coldplay’s unique ability to blend soft, reflective melodies with powerful, emotion...

 The Velvet Underground, a pioneering band from New York City, is widely regarded as one of the most influential bands in rock history. Though they achieved little commercial success during their time, their avant-garde approach to music, provocative lyrics, and collaborations with artist Andy Warhol helped shape the direction of punk rock, alternative music, and art rock. Formed in 1964 by Lou Reed, John Cale, Sterling Morrison, and Maureen Tucker, The Velvet Underground’s music explored themes of urban life, drug culture, and alienation, setting them apart from the flower-power optimism of the 1960s. The band’s debut album, The Velvet Underground & Nico (1967), produced by Andy Warhol, is considered one of the most groundbreaking albums of all time. Warhol’s involvement brought a sense of art and rebellion to the band’s image, and his protégé, German singer Nico, lent her distinctive voice to several tracks. The album featured songs like "Heroin," "I’m Waiting for...

The Who, one of the most influential bands in rock history, are known for their explosive live performances, innovative albums, and powerful social commentary. Formed in London in 1964 by Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon, The Who became trailblazers of the British rock scene, blending hard rock with power pop, mod culture, and musical innovation. With hits like "My Generation," "Baba O’Riley," and "Won’t Get Fooled Again," The Who’s music defined the sound of the 1960s and 1970s, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence rock music today. The band’s early years were marked by their association with the mod movement, a British youth subculture known for its fashion and scooter-riding lifestyle. Their early singles, including "My Generation" (1965), captured the rebellious spirit of the youth, with Pete Townshend’s famous line, "Hope I die before I get old," becoming an anthem for the anti-establish...

The Stooges, often considered the godfathers of punk rock, are a band whose influence on rock music cannot be overstated. Formed in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1967, by frontman Iggy Pop, guitarist Ron Asheton, drummer Scott Asheton, and bassist Dave Alexander, The Stooges were pioneers of a raw, aggressive sound that would later serve as the foundation for punk rock. With their stripped-down, primal music and confrontational stage performances, The Stooges paved the way for countless punk, alternative, and garage rock bands that followed in their wake. The band’s self-titled debut album The Stooges (1969) introduced the world to their unique brand of proto-punk, blending elements of blues, garage rock, and psychedelia. Songs like "I Wanna Be Your Dog" and "No Fun" showcased Iggy Pop’s snarling vocals and the Asheton brothers’ fuzzy, distorted guitar riffs. Although the album was not initially a commercial success, it became a cult classic and is now regarded as one of...

Van Halen, the legendary American hard rock band, revolutionized rock music in the late 1970s and 1980s with their high-octane performances, virtuosic guitar playing, and infectious energy. Founded in Pasadena, California, by brothers Eddie and Alex Van Halen, along with David Lee Roth on vocals and Michael Anthony on bass, the band quickly rose to prominence with their debut album Van Halen (1978), which showcased Eddie Van Halen’s groundbreaking guitar techniques and Roth’s charismatic frontman persona. At the heart of Van Halen’s success was Eddie Van Halen, whose innovative use of finger-tapping, harmonics, and rapid-fire solos redefined what was possible on the electric guitar. His iconic instrumental track "Eruption" became a benchmark for guitarists worldwide and cemented his place as one of the greatest guitar players in history. Songs like "Runnin’ with the Devil," "Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love," and "Jamie’s Cryin’" quickly made Van Halen ...

Nirvana, the iconic grunge band that emerged from Seattle in the late 1980s, became the voice of a generation with their raw, angst-filled music and rebellious spirit. Led by Kurt Cobain, along with bassist Krist Novoselic and drummer Dave Grohl, Nirvana’s meteoric rise to fame revolutionized rock music and brought the grunge movement to the forefront of mainstream culture. Though their time in the spotlight was brief, Nirvana’s influence on music and popular culture is still deeply felt today. The release of their second album, Nevermind (1991), catapulted Nirvana to international fame. The album’s lead single, "Smells Like Teen Spirit," became an anthem for disaffected youth and established Cobain as an unlikely rock star. Nevermind was a perfect storm of heavy guitar riffs, melodic hooks, and introspective lyrics that resonated with listeners who were disillusioned by the excesses of 1980s hair metal and mainstream rock. Songs like "Come As You Are" and "L...

Radiohead, one of the most influential and innovative bands of the past three decades, has continually pushed the boundaries of rock music with their experimental sound and genre-defying albums. Formed in 1985 in Oxfordshire, England, by Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Ed O’Brien, Colin Greenwood, and Phil Selway, Radiohead’s music spans a wide array of styles, from alternative rock and electronica to art rock and ambient music. Their ability to seamlessly blend complex soundscapes with deeply emotional lyrics has earned them a loyal global fan base and critical acclaim. Radiohead gained mainstream attention in the early 1990s with their breakthrough single "Creep," from their debut album Pablo Honey (1993). The song’s raw lyrics and grunge-infused sound resonated with disillusioned youth, earning the band early comparisons to contemporaries like Nirvana. However, rather than staying confined to the grunge scene, Radiohead soon began evolving their sound. Their second album, Th...

 Barry Manilow is one of the most successful and enduring pop balladeers of all time, known for his smooth vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and timeless melodies. With a career spanning over five decades, Manilow has crafted iconic hits such as "Mandy," "Copacabana," "Can’t Smile Without You," and "I Write the Songs." His ability to evoke deep emotions through his music has earned him a place in pop music history, and his songs continue to resonate with audiences around the world. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1943, Barry Manilow began his music career writing jingles and performing in clubs before gaining widespread recognition with his debut single "Mandy" in 1974. The song, with its lush orchestration and emotional lyrics, became a number-one hit and marked the beginning of Manilow’s rise to fame. His subsequent albums, including Barry Manilow II (1974) and Even Now (1978), solidified his status as a pop music sensation, with hits like ...

 Kansas is one of the most influential progressive rock bands of the 1970s, known for their complex compositions, poetic lyrics, and genre-defining sound. With iconic songs like "Carry On Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind," Kansas blended elements of classical music, rock, and folk to create epic tracks that have stood the test of time. Their fusion of intricate instrumental arrangements and philosophical lyrics set them apart from other rock bands of the era and helped cement their place in rock history. Formed in Topeka, Kansas, in 1970, the band’s breakthrough came with the release of their fourth studio album, Leftoverture (1976). The album featured their signature hit "Carry On Wayward Son," a powerful anthem that became a staple of classic rock radio and remains one of their most popular songs. With its soaring guitar riffs, dramatic shifts in tempo, and introspective lyrics, "Carry On Wayward Son" showcased Kansas’s ability to create pro...

Bill Withers was a masterful singer-songwriter whose music touched the hearts of millions with its raw emotion, sincerity, and timeless messages. Known for hits like "Lean on Me," "Ain’t No Sunshine," "Lovely Day," and "Just the Two of Us," Withers created music that transcended genres, blending soul, R&B, and folk with a profound simplicity that resonated deeply with listeners. His songs are enduring classics, celebrated for their humanity and ability to capture the essence of life’s most universal emotions. Born in Slab Fork, West Virginia, in 1938, Bill Withers didn’t pursue music until later in life. After serving in the Navy, Withers moved to Los Angeles to follow his passion for music, despite having no formal training. His debut album, Just As I Am (1971), quickly made an impact with the breakout single "Ain’t No Sunshine." The song’s haunting repetition of the phrase "I know" and its melancholic tone made it an in...

 Lynyrd Skynyrd is synonymous with Southern rock, a genre they helped define with their blend of blues, country, and hard rock. Formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1964, the band became iconic for their rebellious spirit, gritty guitar riffs, and storytelling lyrics. Led by Ronnie Van Zant, Lynyrd Skynyrd created timeless anthems like "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird," which continue to resonate with audiences today as powerful symbols of Southern pride and rock 'n' roll rebellion. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s debut album, (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd) (1973), introduced the world to their Southern rock sound, with songs like "Gimme Three Steps" and "Simple Man" setting the tone for what would be an illustrious career. However, it was their sophomore album, Second Helping (1974), that catapulted them to national fame. The album’s standout hit, "Sweet Home Alabama," became a rallying cry for the South and a definin...

 Hall & Oates are a legendary pop and soul duo whose music dominated the airwaves in the 1970s and 1980s. Comprised of Daryl Hall and John Oates, the duo’s signature blend of rock, soul, and R&B created what is known as "blue-eyed soul," a fusion that would go on to make them one of the best-selling musical acts of all time. With chart-topping hits like "Maneater," "Rich Girl," "Private Eyes," and "You Make My Dreams," Hall & Oates became a staple of American pop music, delivering infectious melodies, smooth harmonies, and unforgettable hooks. Daryl Hall and John Oates first met while attending Temple University in Philadelphia, and their shared love of soul music laid the foundation for their partnership. Their early albums, including Abandoned Luncheonette (1973), gave audiences a taste of their unique sound, but it was their transition into the mainstream pop world in the late 1970s that truly skyrocketed their career. T...

Boston is a band whose name is synonymous with classic rock and the booming arena rock sound of the 1970s. Formed in the mid-1970s by guitarist and songwriter Tom Scholz in Boston, Massachusetts, the band quickly rose to stardom with the release of their self-titled debut album in 1976. Featuring enduring hits like "More Than a Feeling," "Peace of Mind," and "Foreplay/Long Time," Boston became one of the best-selling debut albums in music history, propelling the band into the rock stratosphere. The band's sound, characterized by Scholz’s meticulously crafted guitar riffs, Brad Delp’s soaring vocals, and lush harmonies, set them apart from their peers. Scholz, an MIT-trained engineer, brought an attention to detail and technical precision to his music that created a highly polished and unique sound. He built much of his own recording equipment and used his engineering skills to create the band’s signature multi-layered guitar sound that became a hallma...