Musical Icons
Being an ardent music fan, I thought, I should just look back at some of the best musical icons of our times, who influenced music, as we know it.
The list, I compiled below is of artistes, producers, songwriters, etc. I owe this list to the hard work of Tom Lane, I have merged many of his lists as well as added some artistes, which were absent from them to present this list.
The list is in alphabetical order, if I have missed any musicians, please remind me or inform me of the same.
I have not included some of the greatest artistes as this list is more on the lines of how these artistes influenced others, created a new sound, created their own identity etc.
So, Enjoy and keep on listening to great music!
TORI AMOS
Amos has always been a world apart from other female singer/songwriters in that she is... she is well, a bit mental. Great hysterical voice though, and some equally fascinating music has slipped onto the page from her left-field mind over the years.
LOUIS ARMSTRONG
There's no escaping that growl, his jazz improvisations and the fact that he was the ambassador of jazz. He brought the world of jazz in to many homes that wouldn't have paid attention, otherwise. Oh yeah, he was a great vocalist, as well.
CHET ATKINS
A fine guitarist, his role in developing the "Nashville Sound" in the 50's changed Music City's sound forever. Among his acts that he worked on: Don Gibson, Jim Reeves and Elvis Presley. Also signed Charley Pride and Waylon Jennings.
BABYFACE
Kenneth "Babyface" Edmunds' songs and productions defined the smooth pop soul of the 90's. His partner, L.A. Reid, co-wrote and co-produced many of their early classics. When they split, Babyface went on to even greater creative success. Productions: Waiting To Exhale Soundtrack, Boyz II Men, Whispers, etc.
BURT BACHARACH/HAL DAVID
Burt wrote the melodies and David wrote the words. Great songs that on the surface were pure ear candy, but beneath were brilliant rhythms and lyrics. Key songs: Walk On By, What's New Pussycat, I Say A Little Prayer, etc.
ARTHUR BAKER
One of the first and best dance remixers. Songs like Planet Rock helped invent hip-hop in the early 80's.
RALPH BASS
A producer and executive. Among the acts he brought to us: James Brown, Dominoes, Etta James. Among the records he produced: Work With Me Annie and Call It Stormy Monday.
DAVE BARTHOLOMEW
A key ingredient of the New Orleans Sound. Produced Fats Domino and Lloyd Price and Smiley Lewis. Wrote with Fats: I'm Walkin' and Ain't It A Shame, to name but a few.
BEACH BOYS
Beneath the lyrics about the sun and cars and girls and adolescence, is a serious side to Brian Wilson's California Dreams. His studio expertise still captivates artists today.
BEATLES
Like Elvis, their force is still with us. Changed the face of Rock & Roll in an exhilarating way. With John Lennon & Paul McCartney, they had Rock's greatest songwriters. Their records grew in maturity so fast that we will still marvel at what they accomplished in less than a decade.
IRVING BERLIN
The most famous songwriter of the first half of the Century. "White Christmas", "God Bless America" say it all.
CHUCK BERRY
He invented the rock and roll dictionary. His guitar licks were copped by the Beach Boys, Beatles and others. His songs, celebrating rock and roll's unlimited fervour, are still a blueprint for all bands today.
OWEN BRADLEY
Along with Chet Atkins helped invent the "Nashville Sound". Produced Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Ernest Tubb, Brenda Lee etc.
MICHELLE BRANCH
"Serious" teen musician. She is one of the best new songwriters.
JACKSON BROWNE
West Coast rock-lite balladeer Browne has never been someone I've looked to for aspiring pieces of music, but he's got a fervent following even today, which speaks volumes in itself. Is the 'best songwriter' tag a fitting one? Yes.
JAMES BROWN
"The Godfather of Soul" He basically invented funk music. And his 50's records were a forerunner of vocalists to come, from Otis Redding on.
JOHNNY CASH
The one country star that became a household name.
JJ CALE
He's another songwriter who's more "legend" than "big seller"
ERIC CLAPTON
The guitar legend.
DICK CLARK
It's true that American Bandstand didn't set trends, but followed them. Yet, Clark must be given credit for giving a wide net of artists TV exposure, and for giving America the chance to see them.
PATSY CLINE
The most soulful singer in country music. Influence ranges from Loretta Lynn to KD Lang.
TRACY CHAPMAN
Tracy Chapman has shunned the spotlight where she can help it during her career. She's a serious musician for serious people, and one can't argue with the quiet fury of her folksy spacious social anthems. She's earned her place on this list.
RAY CHARLES
Soul music as we know it today came through the fingers of this genius. Combining gospel, blues, jazz and country, Brother Ray's reach knew no end. From Joe Cocker to Steve Winwood and more.
LEONARD AND PHIL CHESS
Founded Chess Records, which brought post-war Chicago blues to the fore. Acts on their label: Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, Willie Dixon, and more.
NAT "KING" COLE
Smooth as Silk, made unforgettable, unforgettable.
JOHN COLTRANE
What musicians loved about 'Trane was his free-form jazz, which still inspires them today.
RY COODER
An oft-overlooked legend of slide.
SAM COOKE
The greatest Soul Singer used gospel and secular music to (along with Ray Charles) create soul music. His smooth image and vocals are still imitated today.
BING CROSBY
Before Sinatra, there was Bing. Brought a new style of singing in to the pop culture. More masculine, less wimpy. It's a style that Sinatra and others took and ran with.
SHERYL CROW
Crow embodied the American take on Girl Power back in the mid-'90s.
CLIVE DAVIS
He signed Santana, Donovan, Janis Joplin and others at Columbia. At Arista he gave us Patti Smith, Barry Manilow, Whitney Houston and Kenny G. For the latter he's not listed here. He is listed because he had the best ears in the business. A true Record Biz Man.
MILES DAVIS
Innovation. That was Miles. From Bebop to group playing to free-form to jazz-rock-fusion. He always moved on. And never look back.
BO DIDDLEY
The "Bo Diddley backbeat" provided many future rockers with an eternal rhythm.
WILLIE DIXON
He was a blues singer, arranger, guitarist. But it's as a songwriter that he left his legacy. Among his classics: Wang Dang Doodle and Spoonful.
FATS DOMINO
The most popular and influential performer of the New Orleans Sound.
BOB DYLAN
The singer/songwriter of all time. So, you don't think he could sing. Keep it to yourself. Then ask how influential was that voice?
DUKE ELLINGTON
Could be the Century's most imitated composer. "Exuberant and elegant" is how one writer described Duke's pieces. A special salute, as well, to his long-time composer and arranger Billy Strayhorn.
BRIAN ENO
A performer as well. But as a producer for Talking Heads, U2, David Bowie and an original member of Roxy Music, he helped further the sounds of techno, ambient, art rock and punk.
AHMET AND NESUHI ERTEGUN
Along with brother Nesuhi and Herb Abramson, founded Atlantic Records. Also instrumental in establishing the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. Nesuhi focused on the jazz side of Atlantic working with John Coltrane, etc.
EVERLY BROTHERS
Mixing Country with rock and roll, they're harmonies were felt by the Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel and more
ELLA FITZGERALD
The most popular Jazz vocalist, and perhaps its greatest. Her scatting is what puts her over. As does the richness of her voice.
ARETHA FRANKLIN
"The Queen of Soul" Her incredible voice brought a gospel sound to her gritty soul, resulting in a voice whose sound is still being imitated by all female voices today.
ALAN FREED
A disc jockey who brought R&B to white audiences. As a concert promoter he introduced integrated bills. And he was one of rock's great defender's in the 50's.
LEFTY FRIZZELL
Do you know Merle Haggard, Keith Whitley, Randy Travis, etc.? This overlooked great is where they got their style from.
GLEN FREY
Ex-Eagle Frey's collective back catalogue stands up to the 'best' test. You still know all the lyrics to 'Hotel California' and 'Take It Easy’ don't you?
MILT GABLER
A record company founder (Commodore), his greatest achievements were as a producer, bringing black music to the forefront. Among his productions: Billie Holiday, Louis Jordan and Louis Armstrong.
KENNY GAMBLE/ LEON HUFF
Founded Philadelphia International Records, and were the chief architects of the "Philly Sound". As songwriters and producers, their acts included Teddy Pendergrass, O'Jays, Jerry Butler and more.
GEORGE GERSHWIN
The greatest American composer
BERRY GORDY JR
Founded Motown Records. Also an ace songwriter and producer.
GRATEFUL DEAD
Improvisation to new levels, psychedelic officially ended when Jerry Garcia died.
DAMON GOUGH
An incredibly talented songwriter.
WOODY GUTHRIE
The most influential artist of the Folk revival of the 60's.
MERLE HAGGARD
His "working man songs" helped change country song writing; and influenced many country-rockers.
JOHN HAMMOND SR
A producer and talent scout. He brought the world Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and Billie Holiday, and more.
BEN HARPER
A pretty exciting live performer and his first couple of albums were solid affairs.
EMMY LOU HARRIS
Successor to Gram Parsons, in many people's minds, Harris is a true star (despite often being overshadowed by other artists). Harris is still up there in the song writing ranks.
JIMI HENDRIX
Not only one of the most influential and important but, perhaps, the greatest guitarist ever.
BILLIE HOLIDAY
The Greatest Jazz Vocalist Ever! Lady Day's genius was getting to the heart of a song. Her life was the song. She was able to make any song her own
HOLLAND-DOZIER-HOLLAND
That's Brian-Lamont-Eddie. Wrote a ton of Motown's classic songs. Sample: Reach Out, I'll Be There and Where Did Our Love Go.
BUDDY HOLLY
His imitated vocals, use of the recording studio, writing his own classic songs, Holly's legend touched the Beatles to Marshall Crenshaw.
HOWLIN' WOLF
Blues vocalists don't get any rougher that the Wolf. Outside of Muddy Waters, he was the most influential of the Chicago blues legends.
USTAD ZAKIR HUSSEIN
Percussionist par excellence! I don’t think I need to add anything more.
MICHAEL JACKSON
With Thriller he has the biggest selling album of all time. A sound and style that was copied by numerous musicians in the 80's. With the Jackson 5, he and his brothers' were just as influential in the 70's and beyond.
MAHALIA JACKSON
Gospel's most famous voice; brought its sound to the masses
JIMMY JAM AND TERRY LEWIS
One of the best dance producers and songwriters of the 80's and 90's. Their influential work with Janet Jackson helped popularize the Minneapolis Sound (along with Prince).
ELTON JOHN
The 70's biggest star, behind the glamour and fashion, were some of that decade's best rock and roll. Sir John is still going strong!
ROBERT JOHNSON
He only recorded 29 songs. But it's those songs and the legend that they've brought that have made him the most identifiable Delta bluesman ever.
AL JOLSON
Was he "the World's Greatest Entertainer" or a true ham? And what of the blackface routines?
GEORGE JONES
One of the Century's great voices; his vocal styling helped shape the way Country was and is heard.
NORAH JONES
Having a maestro for a father and yet, disowning his legacy and making her own mark as one of the finest voices to hit the scene. Jones is one of the best vocalists in recent history, sweeping all the Grammy, she proved her worth, it remains to be seen how well her next venture would be appreciated. Just listen to her singing Cold, Cold Heart!
QUINCY JONES
For his work as an arranger, composer, producer for countless acts. Particularly, with Michael Jackson and USA For Africa.
JANIS JOPLIN
One of the most unusual voices that made history. Her unfortunate death along with Jimi Hendricks and Jim Morrison the very same year left a void that no one could ever fill.
SCOTT JOPLIN
"The king of ragtime” and its best composer.
LOUIS JORDAN
As an entertainer and as a musician, his "jump style" R&B was influential on Ray Charles and Chuck Berry
B.B. KING
Blues' goodwill ambassador
CAROLE KING AND GERRY GOFFIN
Carole as a songwriter (along with ex-husband Goffin) is a legend. Songs" Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, You've Got A Friend, Natural Woman, Up On The Roof and more.
USTAD NUSRAT FATEH ALI KHAN
Hypnotic, divine. Those words are often used when discussing this World music legend. His was a sound that was inspirational and thrilling.
KD LANG
Another artist who experienced huge sales and appeal at the outset of her career, but hasn't been able to successfully retain the audience in recent times.
ROBERT JOHN “MUTT” LANGE
His approach on AC/DC's Back In Black and the Def Leppard records from the 80's, in addition to producing hits for Billy Ocean and Bryan Adams (even his wife Shania Twain), is still copied today.
JERRY LEIBER AND MIKE STOLLER
Two of rock and roll's great songwriters. You want songs? They wrote Hound Dog, Yakety Yak and Jailhouse Rock to name a few.
JOHN LENNON
Imagine; Imagine without him, inspired so many, calling Kurt Cobain, etc.
ANNIE LENNOX
Why?
JERRY LEE LEWIS
May have been the most exciting, outrageous rocker of them all.
LITTLE RICHARD
A ferocious rock and roller
CHRIS REA
Gruff-voiced, easy-listening songwriter.
MADONNA
Doing it her way. Throughout her career, she has upset feminists, even while rewriting the book on feminism in the 80's and 90's; and oh yeah, made some of the great pop hits of the 80's and 90's. All the while, shamelessly playing to the media. Why the word icon was invented.
BOB MARLEY
Reggae's greatest superstar. His songs of faith and hope and anti-violence rang with an honesty that is still felt in the rock musicians that he inspired.
JOHN MAYOR
A fairly new kid on the block, who is definitely going places in near future.
JONI MITCHELL
The most influential female singer/songwriter ever. It's hard to look at a female with a guitar, singing their own songs on stage, and not think of Joni Mitchell. If anything, her net has only grown wider.
THELONIOUS MONK
A great jazz pianist, but it is as a composer that he left his mark.
BILL MONROE
"Father of bluegrass music", its chief exponent.
ALANIS MORISSETTE
The sudden popularity of her first album made Morissette look like a force to be reckoned with (and listened to, over and over). Jagged Little Pill was a big seller, and while her album sales have gone steadily downhill since, it can still be argued that she writes tunes with interesting twists and turns. Ignoring the Alanis backlash, her material still often shines.
GIORGIO MORODER
His disco productions for Donna Summer changed dance music. Also a producer and songwriter. Worked with Blondie and more.
VAN MORRISON
A rock, soul, folk, Celtic singer who loves the rock and roll we all grew up with; fits into no category but his own.
RANDY NEWMAN
'Little ditty' producer extraordinaire, Newman has gone on to be a major hitter in the Hollywood film score sector. A well deserved Oscar finally rests on his mantle now.
WILLIE NELSON
Spearheaded the Outlaw movement in Country Music.
STEVIE NICKS
Speaking of unique voices, Nicks' nasal tones are probably even recognisable to tribesmen in the Sudanese hinterland.
NIRVANA
Greatest and most influential rock band of the 90's. Brought the word "grunge" into your living room. But Kurt Cobain had more to offer. A shame we'll never find out what!
SINEAD O’CONNOR
She's an oddball to say the least; she is capable of writing some good music. Unique voice too.
BETH ORTON
One of the best female singer/songwriters around.
CHARLIE PARKER
His mastery of be-bop and improvisation influenced every jazz artist that came after him. From Miles to Coltrane and many musicians, forward.
LEE “SCRATCH” PERRY
Reggae's greatest Producer. Also a disc jockey and songwriter. Worked with Bob Marley, Toots and the Maytals and more. Helped further the development of the dub style.
SAM PHILLIPS
Founded Sun Records and signed and Produced Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, BB King and many more.
DOC POMUS
One of rock's great songwriters and grandest men. Among his classics were Save The Last Dance For Me and Viva Las Vegas.
COLE PORTER
Was he the greatest songwriter of the 20th Century? Could be risqué and funny all in the same song.
ELVIS PRESLEY
Author Peter Guralnick wrote it best, "The world was not ready for Elvis Presley. The violence of its reaction to him ("unspeakably untalented") more than testified to this. Other rock & rollers had a clearer focus to their music. But Elvis had the moment. He hit like a Pan American flash, and the reverberations still linger from the shock of his arrival." In other words, the King of Rock & Roll.
PRINCE
Took the funk of James Brown, the outrageousness of P-Funk and the recorded genius of Sly Stone and took it to new heights of originality in the 80's. His sound dominated the 80's.
PROFESSOR LONGHAIR
His piano playing influenced New Orleans piano legends Fats Domino, Dr. John, Allen Toussaint and Huey "Piano" Smith.
EDDI READER
Cult heroine of folksy commentary, Reader has quite a following.
TEDDY RILEY
Basically he invented New Jack Swing. The sound of hip-hop meeting R&B.
RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN
Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein (who with Jerome Kern wrote Show Boat) changed Broadway. Oklahoma! And South Pacific, to name two
JIMMIE RODGERS
"The Father of Country Music", Rodgers combined blues and folk and old-timely music to create Country Music as we used to know it. Influenced everyone from Merle Haggard to Bob Dylan.
NILE RODGERS AND BERNARD EDWARDS
More famous as members of the great Chic. But it's as songwriters and producers that I believe they will be remembered. Their influential sound could be heard on their productions and songs of Diana Ross, Sister Sledge, etc. In addition they've worked with many acts on their own.
ROLLING STONES
The greatest Rock & Roll Band Ever, The Stones took their Blues learning and rebellious attitude and influenced countless rock bands.
RICK RUBIN
His productions of records by LL Cool J, Run DMC, Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, etc. was influential in its sound and hardness.
RUN D.M.C.
Took hip-hop and made it commercially viable. The most influential rap group ever.
PETE SEEGER
Folk music's greatest cheerleader.
SELENA
First even Latina to make a crossover album, Selena paved way for numerous Latin stars and would have gone places undreamed of, but with her like snubbed at such a tender age, all one can do is sing, ‘I could fall in love with you!’ A sorely missed artiste.
SEX PISTOLS
Gave rock & roll a much need kick in the ass in the mid-70. Punk-rock is still with us, and the Pistols were its most exhilarating attraction.
PANDIT RAVI SHANKAR
Brought Indian music to international platform. Arguably, one of the finest Sitar players, if not the best. Winner of three Grammy, Guru of the Beatles, Ravi Shankar played Ragas at Woodstock, if that does not impress anyone, nothing will.
BILLY SHERRILL
Probably the most successful and controversial Country producer ever. Helped popularized the "Countrypolitan" sound (strings and orchestration) that's still around today. But his artists and songs were a mile above today's drecks. Artists he produced: George Jones, Charlie Rich and Tammy Wynette. Also a fine songwriter.
CARLY SIMON
Simon is definitely worthy of the title of a great song writer! Not many can see clouds in their coffee, can they?
PAUL SIMON
A great example of both a 'best' song and a 'best' songwriter.
FRANK SINATRA
One of the greatest singers ever. It's his love of his craft, (singing and recording) that will have as lasting an impact as his legend.
PHIL SPECTOR
Created the "Wall of Sound". A production that raised everything a little bit higher. Instruments bouncing off each other to thrilling results. A songwriter, session player, producer and all around legendary figure.
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
A rock and roll "working class hero", opened the doors for all the future working class rockers.
STEVEN STILLS
Huge unit shifter as part of Crosby, Stills and Nash, Steven Stills' rambling solo songs are perhaps for fans only. But you can't argue with star power, even if the quarrelling singer/songwriter hasn't troubled the charts in well over a couple of decades.
BARBRA STREISAND
With her off beat looks, the funny girl made people need people and made Yentl just to sing, Papa, can you hear me? The genius of Streisand can be best described by just using the line from her first ever recorded song, you’ll never know if you don’t know now! A star was born to write ‘EVERGREEN’ and get an Oscar as a proof.
TANITA TIKARAM
Tikaram's talents were heralded as a break with uniformity when she first appeared on the scene and released Ancient Heart. Subsequent offerings didn't appeal quite so strongly.
TINA TURNER
Proud Mary, the woman survived an abusive marriage to sing what’s love got to do with? At 40 plus she came back as a solo artiste and swept the Grammy and boy can she dance! Energy personified!
ALLEN TOUSSAINT
Helped popularize the New Orleans Sound. This songwriter, producer, performer helped move the sound in to the 70's and beyond.
SUZANNE VEGA
"Luka" still stands up as a great song with a message that stood in stark contrast to the pop-stars-on-yachts excesses of much of what the charts were made up of prior to Vega coming along. A distinct lack of consistent releases counts against her, but this song is an example of great song writing.
MUDDY WATERS
The greatest of all bluesman. His Chicago blues influenced all the British Invasion rock bands of the 60's. A commanding singer and presence.
JERRY WEXLER
A producer of artists like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, he along with the Ertegun's was a chief player at Atlantic Records.
BOB WILLS
Along with the Texas Playboys popularized Western Swing.
HANK WILLIAMS
Country Music's greatest star and songwriter. His presence still haunts Music City.
STEVIE WONDER
His do-it-all-by-myself studio work and hybrid of African rhythms and pop savvy were the highlight of his still-influential 70's albums)
WARREN ZEVON
An off-kilter songwriter. Zevon never fails to brighten the corner of any compilation his work is a part of - no matter how strange a collection of music it is otherwise.
Obviously, each artiste would have had contributed to this vast ocean we call music, so pardon my ignorance and overlooking some names, which deserve to be there.
I am sure many would object to inclusion of fairly new names to this list, but I thought that these names show some promise and hence I added them.
Looking forward to seeing more names,
I end this with a quote by Jim Morrison,
“We hide ourselves in our music to reveal ourselves.”
The list, I compiled below is of artistes, producers, songwriters, etc. I owe this list to the hard work of Tom Lane, I have merged many of his lists as well as added some artistes, which were absent from them to present this list.
The list is in alphabetical order, if I have missed any musicians, please remind me or inform me of the same.
I have not included some of the greatest artistes as this list is more on the lines of how these artistes influenced others, created a new sound, created their own identity etc.
So, Enjoy and keep on listening to great music!
TORI AMOS
Amos has always been a world apart from other female singer/songwriters in that she is... she is well, a bit mental. Great hysterical voice though, and some equally fascinating music has slipped onto the page from her left-field mind over the years.
LOUIS ARMSTRONG
There's no escaping that growl, his jazz improvisations and the fact that he was the ambassador of jazz. He brought the world of jazz in to many homes that wouldn't have paid attention, otherwise. Oh yeah, he was a great vocalist, as well.
CHET ATKINS
A fine guitarist, his role in developing the "Nashville Sound" in the 50's changed Music City's sound forever. Among his acts that he worked on: Don Gibson, Jim Reeves and Elvis Presley. Also signed Charley Pride and Waylon Jennings.
BABYFACE
Kenneth "Babyface" Edmunds' songs and productions defined the smooth pop soul of the 90's. His partner, L.A. Reid, co-wrote and co-produced many of their early classics. When they split, Babyface went on to even greater creative success. Productions: Waiting To Exhale Soundtrack, Boyz II Men, Whispers, etc.
BURT BACHARACH/HAL DAVID
Burt wrote the melodies and David wrote the words. Great songs that on the surface were pure ear candy, but beneath were brilliant rhythms and lyrics. Key songs: Walk On By, What's New Pussycat, I Say A Little Prayer, etc.
ARTHUR BAKER
One of the first and best dance remixers. Songs like Planet Rock helped invent hip-hop in the early 80's.
RALPH BASS
A producer and executive. Among the acts he brought to us: James Brown, Dominoes, Etta James. Among the records he produced: Work With Me Annie and Call It Stormy Monday.
DAVE BARTHOLOMEW
A key ingredient of the New Orleans Sound. Produced Fats Domino and Lloyd Price and Smiley Lewis. Wrote with Fats: I'm Walkin' and Ain't It A Shame, to name but a few.
BEACH BOYS
Beneath the lyrics about the sun and cars and girls and adolescence, is a serious side to Brian Wilson's California Dreams. His studio expertise still captivates artists today.
BEATLES
Like Elvis, their force is still with us. Changed the face of Rock & Roll in an exhilarating way. With John Lennon & Paul McCartney, they had Rock's greatest songwriters. Their records grew in maturity so fast that we will still marvel at what they accomplished in less than a decade.
IRVING BERLIN
The most famous songwriter of the first half of the Century. "White Christmas", "God Bless America" say it all.
CHUCK BERRY
He invented the rock and roll dictionary. His guitar licks were copped by the Beach Boys, Beatles and others. His songs, celebrating rock and roll's unlimited fervour, are still a blueprint for all bands today.
OWEN BRADLEY
Along with Chet Atkins helped invent the "Nashville Sound". Produced Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Ernest Tubb, Brenda Lee etc.
MICHELLE BRANCH
"Serious" teen musician. She is one of the best new songwriters.
JACKSON BROWNE
West Coast rock-lite balladeer Browne has never been someone I've looked to for aspiring pieces of music, but he's got a fervent following even today, which speaks volumes in itself. Is the 'best songwriter' tag a fitting one? Yes.
JAMES BROWN
"The Godfather of Soul" He basically invented funk music. And his 50's records were a forerunner of vocalists to come, from Otis Redding on.
JOHNNY CASH
The one country star that became a household name.
JJ CALE
He's another songwriter who's more "legend" than "big seller"
ERIC CLAPTON
The guitar legend.
DICK CLARK
It's true that American Bandstand didn't set trends, but followed them. Yet, Clark must be given credit for giving a wide net of artists TV exposure, and for giving America the chance to see them.
PATSY CLINE
The most soulful singer in country music. Influence ranges from Loretta Lynn to KD Lang.
TRACY CHAPMAN
Tracy Chapman has shunned the spotlight where she can help it during her career. She's a serious musician for serious people, and one can't argue with the quiet fury of her folksy spacious social anthems. She's earned her place on this list.
RAY CHARLES
Soul music as we know it today came through the fingers of this genius. Combining gospel, blues, jazz and country, Brother Ray's reach knew no end. From Joe Cocker to Steve Winwood and more.
LEONARD AND PHIL CHESS
Founded Chess Records, which brought post-war Chicago blues to the fore. Acts on their label: Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, Willie Dixon, and more.
NAT "KING" COLE
Smooth as Silk, made unforgettable, unforgettable.
JOHN COLTRANE
What musicians loved about 'Trane was his free-form jazz, which still inspires them today.
RY COODER
An oft-overlooked legend of slide.
SAM COOKE
The greatest Soul Singer used gospel and secular music to (along with Ray Charles) create soul music. His smooth image and vocals are still imitated today.
BING CROSBY
Before Sinatra, there was Bing. Brought a new style of singing in to the pop culture. More masculine, less wimpy. It's a style that Sinatra and others took and ran with.
SHERYL CROW
Crow embodied the American take on Girl Power back in the mid-'90s.
CLIVE DAVIS
He signed Santana, Donovan, Janis Joplin and others at Columbia. At Arista he gave us Patti Smith, Barry Manilow, Whitney Houston and Kenny G. For the latter he's not listed here. He is listed because he had the best ears in the business. A true Record Biz Man.
MILES DAVIS
Innovation. That was Miles. From Bebop to group playing to free-form to jazz-rock-fusion. He always moved on. And never look back.
BO DIDDLEY
The "Bo Diddley backbeat" provided many future rockers with an eternal rhythm.
WILLIE DIXON
He was a blues singer, arranger, guitarist. But it's as a songwriter that he left his legacy. Among his classics: Wang Dang Doodle and Spoonful.
FATS DOMINO
The most popular and influential performer of the New Orleans Sound.
BOB DYLAN
The singer/songwriter of all time. So, you don't think he could sing. Keep it to yourself. Then ask how influential was that voice?
DUKE ELLINGTON
Could be the Century's most imitated composer. "Exuberant and elegant" is how one writer described Duke's pieces. A special salute, as well, to his long-time composer and arranger Billy Strayhorn.
BRIAN ENO
A performer as well. But as a producer for Talking Heads, U2, David Bowie and an original member of Roxy Music, he helped further the sounds of techno, ambient, art rock and punk.
AHMET AND NESUHI ERTEGUN
Along with brother Nesuhi and Herb Abramson, founded Atlantic Records. Also instrumental in establishing the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame. Nesuhi focused on the jazz side of Atlantic working with John Coltrane, etc.
EVERLY BROTHERS
Mixing Country with rock and roll, they're harmonies were felt by the Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel and more
ELLA FITZGERALD
The most popular Jazz vocalist, and perhaps its greatest. Her scatting is what puts her over. As does the richness of her voice.
ARETHA FRANKLIN
"The Queen of Soul" Her incredible voice brought a gospel sound to her gritty soul, resulting in a voice whose sound is still being imitated by all female voices today.
ALAN FREED
A disc jockey who brought R&B to white audiences. As a concert promoter he introduced integrated bills. And he was one of rock's great defender's in the 50's.
LEFTY FRIZZELL
Do you know Merle Haggard, Keith Whitley, Randy Travis, etc.? This overlooked great is where they got their style from.
GLEN FREY
Ex-Eagle Frey's collective back catalogue stands up to the 'best' test. You still know all the lyrics to 'Hotel California' and 'Take It Easy’ don't you?
MILT GABLER
A record company founder (Commodore), his greatest achievements were as a producer, bringing black music to the forefront. Among his productions: Billie Holiday, Louis Jordan and Louis Armstrong.
KENNY GAMBLE/ LEON HUFF
Founded Philadelphia International Records, and were the chief architects of the "Philly Sound". As songwriters and producers, their acts included Teddy Pendergrass, O'Jays, Jerry Butler and more.
GEORGE GERSHWIN
The greatest American composer
BERRY GORDY JR
Founded Motown Records. Also an ace songwriter and producer.
GRATEFUL DEAD
Improvisation to new levels, psychedelic officially ended when Jerry Garcia died.
DAMON GOUGH
An incredibly talented songwriter.
WOODY GUTHRIE
The most influential artist of the Folk revival of the 60's.
MERLE HAGGARD
His "working man songs" helped change country song writing; and influenced many country-rockers.
JOHN HAMMOND SR
A producer and talent scout. He brought the world Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and Billie Holiday, and more.
BEN HARPER
A pretty exciting live performer and his first couple of albums were solid affairs.
EMMY LOU HARRIS
Successor to Gram Parsons, in many people's minds, Harris is a true star (despite often being overshadowed by other artists). Harris is still up there in the song writing ranks.
JIMI HENDRIX
Not only one of the most influential and important but, perhaps, the greatest guitarist ever.
BILLIE HOLIDAY
The Greatest Jazz Vocalist Ever! Lady Day's genius was getting to the heart of a song. Her life was the song. She was able to make any song her own
HOLLAND-DOZIER-HOLLAND
That's Brian-Lamont-Eddie. Wrote a ton of Motown's classic songs. Sample: Reach Out, I'll Be There and Where Did Our Love Go.
BUDDY HOLLY
His imitated vocals, use of the recording studio, writing his own classic songs, Holly's legend touched the Beatles to Marshall Crenshaw.
HOWLIN' WOLF
Blues vocalists don't get any rougher that the Wolf. Outside of Muddy Waters, he was the most influential of the Chicago blues legends.
USTAD ZAKIR HUSSEIN
Percussionist par excellence! I don’t think I need to add anything more.
MICHAEL JACKSON
With Thriller he has the biggest selling album of all time. A sound and style that was copied by numerous musicians in the 80's. With the Jackson 5, he and his brothers' were just as influential in the 70's and beyond.
MAHALIA JACKSON
Gospel's most famous voice; brought its sound to the masses
JIMMY JAM AND TERRY LEWIS
One of the best dance producers and songwriters of the 80's and 90's. Their influential work with Janet Jackson helped popularize the Minneapolis Sound (along with Prince).
ELTON JOHN
The 70's biggest star, behind the glamour and fashion, were some of that decade's best rock and roll. Sir John is still going strong!
ROBERT JOHNSON
He only recorded 29 songs. But it's those songs and the legend that they've brought that have made him the most identifiable Delta bluesman ever.
AL JOLSON
Was he "the World's Greatest Entertainer" or a true ham? And what of the blackface routines?
GEORGE JONES
One of the Century's great voices; his vocal styling helped shape the way Country was and is heard.
NORAH JONES
Having a maestro for a father and yet, disowning his legacy and making her own mark as one of the finest voices to hit the scene. Jones is one of the best vocalists in recent history, sweeping all the Grammy, she proved her worth, it remains to be seen how well her next venture would be appreciated. Just listen to her singing Cold, Cold Heart!
QUINCY JONES
For his work as an arranger, composer, producer for countless acts. Particularly, with Michael Jackson and USA For Africa.
JANIS JOPLIN
One of the most unusual voices that made history. Her unfortunate death along with Jimi Hendricks and Jim Morrison the very same year left a void that no one could ever fill.
SCOTT JOPLIN
"The king of ragtime” and its best composer.
LOUIS JORDAN
As an entertainer and as a musician, his "jump style" R&B was influential on Ray Charles and Chuck Berry
B.B. KING
Blues' goodwill ambassador
CAROLE KING AND GERRY GOFFIN
Carole as a songwriter (along with ex-husband Goffin) is a legend. Songs" Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, You've Got A Friend, Natural Woman, Up On The Roof and more.
USTAD NUSRAT FATEH ALI KHAN
Hypnotic, divine. Those words are often used when discussing this World music legend. His was a sound that was inspirational and thrilling.
KD LANG
Another artist who experienced huge sales and appeal at the outset of her career, but hasn't been able to successfully retain the audience in recent times.
ROBERT JOHN “MUTT” LANGE
His approach on AC/DC's Back In Black and the Def Leppard records from the 80's, in addition to producing hits for Billy Ocean and Bryan Adams (even his wife Shania Twain), is still copied today.
JERRY LEIBER AND MIKE STOLLER
Two of rock and roll's great songwriters. You want songs? They wrote Hound Dog, Yakety Yak and Jailhouse Rock to name a few.
JOHN LENNON
Imagine; Imagine without him, inspired so many, calling Kurt Cobain, etc.
ANNIE LENNOX
Why?
JERRY LEE LEWIS
May have been the most exciting, outrageous rocker of them all.
LITTLE RICHARD
A ferocious rock and roller
CHRIS REA
Gruff-voiced, easy-listening songwriter.
MADONNA
Doing it her way. Throughout her career, she has upset feminists, even while rewriting the book on feminism in the 80's and 90's; and oh yeah, made some of the great pop hits of the 80's and 90's. All the while, shamelessly playing to the media. Why the word icon was invented.
BOB MARLEY
Reggae's greatest superstar. His songs of faith and hope and anti-violence rang with an honesty that is still felt in the rock musicians that he inspired.
JOHN MAYOR
A fairly new kid on the block, who is definitely going places in near future.
JONI MITCHELL
The most influential female singer/songwriter ever. It's hard to look at a female with a guitar, singing their own songs on stage, and not think of Joni Mitchell. If anything, her net has only grown wider.
THELONIOUS MONK
A great jazz pianist, but it is as a composer that he left his mark.
BILL MONROE
"Father of bluegrass music", its chief exponent.
ALANIS MORISSETTE
The sudden popularity of her first album made Morissette look like a force to be reckoned with (and listened to, over and over). Jagged Little Pill was a big seller, and while her album sales have gone steadily downhill since, it can still be argued that she writes tunes with interesting twists and turns. Ignoring the Alanis backlash, her material still often shines.
GIORGIO MORODER
His disco productions for Donna Summer changed dance music. Also a producer and songwriter. Worked with Blondie and more.
VAN MORRISON
A rock, soul, folk, Celtic singer who loves the rock and roll we all grew up with; fits into no category but his own.
RANDY NEWMAN
'Little ditty' producer extraordinaire, Newman has gone on to be a major hitter in the Hollywood film score sector. A well deserved Oscar finally rests on his mantle now.
WILLIE NELSON
Spearheaded the Outlaw movement in Country Music.
STEVIE NICKS
Speaking of unique voices, Nicks' nasal tones are probably even recognisable to tribesmen in the Sudanese hinterland.
NIRVANA
Greatest and most influential rock band of the 90's. Brought the word "grunge" into your living room. But Kurt Cobain had more to offer. A shame we'll never find out what!
SINEAD O’CONNOR
She's an oddball to say the least; she is capable of writing some good music. Unique voice too.
BETH ORTON
One of the best female singer/songwriters around.
CHARLIE PARKER
His mastery of be-bop and improvisation influenced every jazz artist that came after him. From Miles to Coltrane and many musicians, forward.
LEE “SCRATCH” PERRY
Reggae's greatest Producer. Also a disc jockey and songwriter. Worked with Bob Marley, Toots and the Maytals and more. Helped further the development of the dub style.
SAM PHILLIPS
Founded Sun Records and signed and Produced Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, BB King and many more.
DOC POMUS
One of rock's great songwriters and grandest men. Among his classics were Save The Last Dance For Me and Viva Las Vegas.
COLE PORTER
Was he the greatest songwriter of the 20th Century? Could be risqué and funny all in the same song.
ELVIS PRESLEY
Author Peter Guralnick wrote it best, "The world was not ready for Elvis Presley. The violence of its reaction to him ("unspeakably untalented") more than testified to this. Other rock & rollers had a clearer focus to their music. But Elvis had the moment. He hit like a Pan American flash, and the reverberations still linger from the shock of his arrival." In other words, the King of Rock & Roll.
PRINCE
Took the funk of James Brown, the outrageousness of P-Funk and the recorded genius of Sly Stone and took it to new heights of originality in the 80's. His sound dominated the 80's.
PROFESSOR LONGHAIR
His piano playing influenced New Orleans piano legends Fats Domino, Dr. John, Allen Toussaint and Huey "Piano" Smith.
EDDI READER
Cult heroine of folksy commentary, Reader has quite a following.
TEDDY RILEY
Basically he invented New Jack Swing. The sound of hip-hop meeting R&B.
RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN
Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein (who with Jerome Kern wrote Show Boat) changed Broadway. Oklahoma! And South Pacific, to name two
JIMMIE RODGERS
"The Father of Country Music", Rodgers combined blues and folk and old-timely music to create Country Music as we used to know it. Influenced everyone from Merle Haggard to Bob Dylan.
NILE RODGERS AND BERNARD EDWARDS
More famous as members of the great Chic. But it's as songwriters and producers that I believe they will be remembered. Their influential sound could be heard on their productions and songs of Diana Ross, Sister Sledge, etc. In addition they've worked with many acts on their own.
ROLLING STONES
The greatest Rock & Roll Band Ever, The Stones took their Blues learning and rebellious attitude and influenced countless rock bands.
RICK RUBIN
His productions of records by LL Cool J, Run DMC, Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, etc. was influential in its sound and hardness.
RUN D.M.C.
Took hip-hop and made it commercially viable. The most influential rap group ever.
PETE SEEGER
Folk music's greatest cheerleader.
SELENA
First even Latina to make a crossover album, Selena paved way for numerous Latin stars and would have gone places undreamed of, but with her like snubbed at such a tender age, all one can do is sing, ‘I could fall in love with you!’ A sorely missed artiste.
SEX PISTOLS
Gave rock & roll a much need kick in the ass in the mid-70. Punk-rock is still with us, and the Pistols were its most exhilarating attraction.
PANDIT RAVI SHANKAR
Brought Indian music to international platform. Arguably, one of the finest Sitar players, if not the best. Winner of three Grammy, Guru of the Beatles, Ravi Shankar played Ragas at Woodstock, if that does not impress anyone, nothing will.
BILLY SHERRILL
Probably the most successful and controversial Country producer ever. Helped popularized the "Countrypolitan" sound (strings and orchestration) that's still around today. But his artists and songs were a mile above today's drecks. Artists he produced: George Jones, Charlie Rich and Tammy Wynette. Also a fine songwriter.
CARLY SIMON
Simon is definitely worthy of the title of a great song writer! Not many can see clouds in their coffee, can they?
PAUL SIMON
A great example of both a 'best' song and a 'best' songwriter.
FRANK SINATRA
One of the greatest singers ever. It's his love of his craft, (singing and recording) that will have as lasting an impact as his legend.
PHIL SPECTOR
Created the "Wall of Sound". A production that raised everything a little bit higher. Instruments bouncing off each other to thrilling results. A songwriter, session player, producer and all around legendary figure.
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
A rock and roll "working class hero", opened the doors for all the future working class rockers.
STEVEN STILLS
Huge unit shifter as part of Crosby, Stills and Nash, Steven Stills' rambling solo songs are perhaps for fans only. But you can't argue with star power, even if the quarrelling singer/songwriter hasn't troubled the charts in well over a couple of decades.
BARBRA STREISAND
With her off beat looks, the funny girl made people need people and made Yentl just to sing, Papa, can you hear me? The genius of Streisand can be best described by just using the line from her first ever recorded song, you’ll never know if you don’t know now! A star was born to write ‘EVERGREEN’ and get an Oscar as a proof.
TANITA TIKARAM
Tikaram's talents were heralded as a break with uniformity when she first appeared on the scene and released Ancient Heart. Subsequent offerings didn't appeal quite so strongly.
TINA TURNER
Proud Mary, the woman survived an abusive marriage to sing what’s love got to do with? At 40 plus she came back as a solo artiste and swept the Grammy and boy can she dance! Energy personified!
ALLEN TOUSSAINT
Helped popularize the New Orleans Sound. This songwriter, producer, performer helped move the sound in to the 70's and beyond.
SUZANNE VEGA
"Luka" still stands up as a great song with a message that stood in stark contrast to the pop-stars-on-yachts excesses of much of what the charts were made up of prior to Vega coming along. A distinct lack of consistent releases counts against her, but this song is an example of great song writing.
MUDDY WATERS
The greatest of all bluesman. His Chicago blues influenced all the British Invasion rock bands of the 60's. A commanding singer and presence.
JERRY WEXLER
A producer of artists like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, he along with the Ertegun's was a chief player at Atlantic Records.
BOB WILLS
Along with the Texas Playboys popularized Western Swing.
HANK WILLIAMS
Country Music's greatest star and songwriter. His presence still haunts Music City.
STEVIE WONDER
His do-it-all-by-myself studio work and hybrid of African rhythms and pop savvy were the highlight of his still-influential 70's albums)
WARREN ZEVON
An off-kilter songwriter. Zevon never fails to brighten the corner of any compilation his work is a part of - no matter how strange a collection of music it is otherwise.
Obviously, each artiste would have had contributed to this vast ocean we call music, so pardon my ignorance and overlooking some names, which deserve to be there.
I am sure many would object to inclusion of fairly new names to this list, but I thought that these names show some promise and hence I added them.
Looking forward to seeing more names,
I end this with a quote by Jim Morrison,
“We hide ourselves in our music to reveal ourselves.”
posted by Ankur Joshi at 8:19 AM
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