Grammy Award for Best New Artist Winners List
- A Taste of Honey was an American recording act, formed in 1971 by associates Janice–Marie Johnson and Perry Kibble. In 1978, they had one of the best known chart-toppers of the disco era, "Boogie Oogie Oogie". After their popularity waned during the 1980s, Johnson went on to record as a solo artist and released the album One Taste of Honey which produced numerous minor hits. In 2004, Hazel Payne and Janice–Marie Johnson reunited for the first time in over 20 years to perform on the PBS specials Get Down Tonight: The Disco Explosion and My Music: Funky Soul Superstars.
- Albums: A Taste of Honey, Beauty and Boogie, Classic Masters, Divas of Disco: Live, Anthology
- Adele, full name Adele Laurie Blue Adkins, is a globally renowned singer and songwriter hailing from Tottenham, London. Born on May 5th, 1988, she made her way into the music industry with an impressive debut album titled 19, released in 2008. The album was named after her age at its creation and was met with massive acclaim for its mature sound and resonating lyrics about heartbreak. It featured hit singles such as Chasing Pavements and Hometown Glory. Her prowess didn't stop there; she took home two Grammy Awards in 2009 for Best New Artist and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. In 2011, Adele released her second studio album 21, again reflecting her age during composition. This time around, the commercial success outdid even that of her first release - it topped charts worldwide and broke numerous sales records. Hit singles like Rolling in the Deep, Someone Like You, and Set Fire to the Rain propelled Adele to international fame while also earning six Grammy Awards including Album of the Year. Adele released her fourth studio album titled 30 in November of 2021. The album 30 is inspired Adele's divorce, motherhood, fame, heartache, and hope. Beyond these achievements are further milestones that solidify Adele's place among musical greats: In addition to winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song with Skyfall (the theme song for a James Bond film), she returned triumphantly onto the scene after a hiatus with another chart-topping album ‘25' featuring hits like Hello. Despite personal challenges along this journey — vocal cord surgery in late-2011 being one — Adele has consistently demonstrated resilience alongside unmatched vocal talent.
- Albums: 21, 19, Make You Feel My Love, Adele Live at the Royal Albert Hall, Cold Shoulder
- Nationality: England
- Alicia Keys, born as Alicia Augello Cook on January 25, 1981, in New York City, is an American singer-songwriter, pianist and actress. Known for her soulful voice and signature piano playing, Keys is a classically trained pianist who began composing songs at age 12. She attended the Professional Performing Arts School in Manhattan, where she honed her skills and graduated as valedictorian at age 16. Keys's career breakthrough came in 2001 with the release of her debut album, Songs in A Minor, which sold over 12 million copies worldwide and earned her five Grammy Awards. This included the prestigious awards for Best New Artist and Song of the Year for her hit single "Fallin'." Over the years, Keys has released multiple chart-topping albums including The Diary of Alicia Keys, As I Am, and Girl on Fire, each showcasing her unique blend of R&B, soul, jazz, and hip-hop elements. Aside from music, Keys has also ventured into acting and philanthropy. She made her film debut in the 2006 action film Smokin' Aces and later appeared in The Secret Life of Bees. In 2003, she co-founded Keep a Child Alive, a nonprofit organization aimed at providing treatment, love, and support to families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India. With her diverse talents and relentless dedication, Alicia Keys has firmly established herself as one of the leading figures in contemporary music and continues to inspire millions around the world with her artistry and humanitarian efforts.
- Albums: Remixed & Unplugged in A minor, As I Am, Unplugged, Girl On Fire, The Diary of Alicia Keys
- Nationality: United States of America
- America is an American rock band that was formed in London in 1970 by Dewey Bunnell, Dan Peek, and Gerry Beckley. The trio met as sons of US Air Force personnel stationed in London, where they began performing live. Achieving significant popularity in the 1970s, the trio was famous for its close vocal harmonies and light acoustic folk rock sound. The band released a string of hit albums and singles, many of which found airplay on pop/soft rock stations. The band came together shortly after the members' graduation from high school, and a record deal with Warner Bros. Records followed. Its debut 1971 album, America, included the transatlantic hits "A Horse with No Name" and "I Need You"; Homecoming (1972) included the single "Ventura Highway"; and Hat Trick (1973), a modest success on the charts that fared poorly in sales, included one minor hit song "Muskrat Love". 1974's Holiday featured the hits "Tin Man" and "Lonely People"; and 1975's Hearts generated the number one single "Sister Golden Hair" alongside "Daisy Jane." History: America's Greatest Hits, a compilation of hit singles, was released the same year and was certified multiplatinum in the United States and Australia. Peek left the group in 1977, and their commercial fortunes declined, despite a brief return to the top in 1982 with the single "You Can Do Magic". The group continues to record material and tour with regularity. Its 2007 album Here & Now was a collaboration with a new generation of musicians who credited the band as an influence. America won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist and were nominated for Best Pop Vocal Group at the 15th Annual Grammy Awards in 1973. The group was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2006 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2012.
- Albums: Homecoming, The Complete Greatest Hits, A Horse With No Name, Perspective, America
- Amy Winehouse, an English singer and songwriter, was a notable personality in the music industry. She left an indelible mark with her distinct voice and soulful compositions. Winehouse was born on September 14, 1983, in London. She was introduced to jazz music at a young age by her uncles, both of whom were professional jazz musicians. This early exposure played a significant role in shaping her musical style and preference for jazz. Winehouse attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School and later the BRIT School, where she honed her talent and laid the groundwork for her future career. Winehouse's debut album, Frank, released in 2003, immediately established her as a rising star in the UK music scene. The album was critically acclaimed, fusing elements of jazz, pop, soul, and hip-hop that showcased her unique vocal style and songwriting prowess. Her breakthrough, however, came with her second album, Back to Black, in 2006. This album, featuring hits such as Rehab and You Know I'm No Good, resonated with audiences worldwide and catapulted her to international fame. Back to Black earned her five Grammy Awards in 2008, making Winehouse the first British woman to win five Grammys in one night. Despite her meteoric rise to stardom, Winehouse battled personal issues throughout her career, most notably struggles with substance abuse and mental health. Her life and career were cut tragically short when she died on July 23, 2011, at the age of 27. Yet, in her relatively short time in the spotlight, Amy Winehouse managed to leave a lasting impact on the world of music.
- Albums: Back to Black, Frank, Lioness: Hidden Treasures, Rehab, Remixes Promo 2
- Nationality: United Kingdom
- Andrew Paul Dost is an American musician, multi-instrumentalist, and current member of the indie rock band Fun., in which he plays several instruments, mainly the keyboard. He was formerly a member of the indie rock band, Anathallo, from 2000 to 2008.
- Albums: Columbus
- Nationality: United States of America
- Arrested Development is an American alternative hip hop group that formed in Atlanta in 1988. It was founded by Speech and his ex-best friend Headliner as a positive, Afrocentric alternative to the gangsta rap popular in the late 1980s.
- Albums: 3 Years, 5 Months & 2 Days in the Life of..., Unplugged, Zingalamaduni, The Heroes of the Harvest
- Born on December 1, 1945, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Bette Midler embarked on her journey to stardom in the early 1960s. With a career spanning over half a century, she has demonstrated an uncanny ability to excel in multiple fields - be it music, film, or theater. This multifaceted performer is recognized as one of the few entertainers to have bagged the industry's top four honors: Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards. Midler's music career burgeoned in the late 1960s when she began singing in New York City's Continental Baths. Her debut album, The Divine Miss M (1972), was a massive success, earning her the first of three Grammy Awards. Over the years, she has released 14 studio albums, each reflecting her unique style and diverse vocal range. A testament to her musical prowess, Midler has sold over 30 million records worldwide. On the big screen, Midler made her mark with the 1979 film, The Rose, for which she received an Academy Award nomination. She continued to star in a series of successful films like Down and Out in Beverly Hills, Beaches, and Hocus Pocus. Parallelly, she also thrived on Broadway, receiving accolades for her performances in Fiddler on the Roof, Clams on the Half Shell Revue, and Hello, Dolly! Beyond her artistic contributions, Midler has been actively involved in philanthropic activities, particularly through her non-profit, the New York Restoration Project. Bette Midler, with her indomitable spirit and unmatched talent, remains a timeless icon in the world of entertainment.
- Albums: The Rose, Cool Yule, Beaches, Bette, Some People's Lives
- Nationality: United States of America
- Bob Newhart, an American stand-up comedian and actor of grand repute, was born on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois. He graduated from Loyola University of Chicago with a business degree. He initially ventured into accounting before realizing that his comedic wit outweighed the appeal of number-crunching. This realization led to the birth of one of the most distinctive voices in comedy, known for his deadpan delivery and slightly stammering speech. Newhart's recording career took flight with his groundbreaking comedy album, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart. Released in 1960, it reached unparalleled heights by winning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, a first for a comedy album. The success of this album catapulted Newhart into the television sphere, where he starred in two long-lasting sitcoms that further cemented his legacy, The Bob Newhart Show (1972-1978) and Newhart (1982-1990). Both of these sitcoms were loved for their clever humor, unique characters, and Newhart's ability to play the straight man amidst absurd situations. Beyond his successful sitcoms, Newhart's acting prowess also extended into film. He gave memorable performances in movies like Catch-22 (1970) and Elf (2003). His multifaceted contributions to comedy and acting garnered him several accolades, including the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2002 and induction into the Television Hall of Fame in 1993. Through decades of laughter and timeless performances, Bob Newhart's influence continues to reverberate, leaving a lasting impression on the landscape of American entertainment.
- Albums: Best of the Button-Down Mind, 'Something Like This...' The Bob Newhart Anthology
- Nationality: United States of America
- Bobbie Lee Gentry (born Roberta Lee Streeter; July 27, 1942) is an American singer-songwriter who was one of the first female artists to compose and produce her own material. Her songs typically drew on her Mississippi roots to compose vignettes of the Southern United States. Gentry rose to international fame with her intriguing Southern Gothic narrative "Ode to Billie Joe" in 1967. The track spent four weeks as the No. 1 pop song on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was fourth in the Billboard year-end chart of 1967 and earned her Grammy awards for Best New Artist and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1968. Gentry charted eleven singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and four singles on the United Kingdom Top 40. Her album Fancy brought her a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. After her first albums, she had a successful run of variety shows on the Las Vegas Strip. In the late 1970s she lost interest in performing. Since 2010, Gentry has lived in a private gated community outside Memphis, Tennessee.
- Albums: Bobbie Gentry and Glen Campbell, The Delta Sweete, Local Gentry, Ode to Billie Joe, Fancy
- Nationality: United States of America
- Bobby Darin, born Walden Robert Cassotto on May 14, 1936, was a multi-talented American singer, songwriter, and actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His journey began in The Bronx, New York City, where he was raised by his maternal grandmother. Despite being diagnosed with rheumatic fever at a young age, which significantly weakened his heart, Darin didn't let his health challenges deter him from pursuing his dreams. He was known for his tenacity and drive to succeed, attributes that would serve him well throughout his career. Darin's music career took off in the late 1950s, where he distinguished himself through a wide range of musical styles, including pop, country, jazz, and folk. His first major hit, "Splish Splash," catapulted him into the limelight in 1958. However, it was his rendition of "Mack the Knife" in 1959 that solidified his place in music history, earning him two Grammy Awards and becoming his best-known song. Darin was not just limited to singing; he was also a skilled songwriter, penning songs for other artists, including "Early in the Morning" for Buddy Holly. Darin's talents extended beyond music into acting. He appeared in several films and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Captain Newman, M.D. in 1963. As an entertainer, Darin was celebrated for his charismatic performances and his ability to captivate audiences. Despite his early demise at the age of 37 due to complications from his lifelong heart condition, Darin's legacy lives on. His contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized posthumously with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1999.
- Albums: Beyond the Sea: The Very Best of Bobby Darin, You're the Reason I'm Living / I Wanna Be Around, Bobby Darin Sings Doctor Doolitle / Born Walden Robert Cassotto, Great Gentlemen of Song: Spotlight On..., Oh! Look at Me Now
- Nationality: United States of America
- Bon Iver are an American indie folk band founded in 2006 by singer-songwriter Justin Vernon. Vernon released Bon Iver's debut album, For Emma, Forever Ago, independently in July 2007. The majority of that album was recorded while Vernon spent three months isolated in a cabin in western Wisconsin. In 2012, the band won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album for their eponymous album Bon Iver. They released their third album 22, A Million to critical acclaim in 2016. Their latest album, I, I, was released in 2019. The album was nominated at the 2020 Grammy Awards for Album of the Year. The name "Bon Iver" derives from the French phrase bon hiver (pronounced [bɔn‿ivɛʁ]; "good winter"), taken from a greeting on Northern Exposure.
- Albums: For Emma, Forever Ago, Bon Iver, Bon Iver, Blood Bank
- Nationality: American
- Bruce Hornsby & The Range was a music band.
- Albums: The Way It Is, Scenes From the Southside, A Night on the Town, The Way It Is Tour
- Carly Simon, a multi-talented American singer-songwriter and children's author, is widely recognized for her profound contribution to the music industry. Born in New York City on June 25, 1945, into an intellectually and culturally vibrant family, she developed her passion for music from an early age. Her father, Richard L. Simon, co-founded the Simon & Schuster publishing company, which provided a stimulating environment that nurtured her literary and musical talents. Simon's music career, spanning five decades, showcases her prowess in multiple genres, including pop, rock, folk, and blues. She began her journey in music as part of The Simon Sisters duo with her sister Lucy in the 1960s before embarking on a solo career. Her debut solo album, released in 1971, featured the hit song "That's the Way I've Always Heard It Should Be," earning her a Grammy Award for Best New Artist. Her most iconic song, "You're So Vain," was released in 1972 and remains one of the greatest mysteries in pop culture due to speculation about who the song refers to. Throughout her illustrious career, Simon has amassed numerous awards and nominations, including two Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe Award. In addition to her music career, Simon has also made significant contributions to literature, particularly in children's books. She has authored several books, demonstrating her versatility and creative prowess. Some of her notable works include Amy the Dancing Bear and The Boy of the Bells.
- Albums: Christmas Is Almost Here, Christmas Is Almost Here Again, Spoiled Girl, Coming Around Again, Hotcakes
- Nationality: United States of America
- Carrie Underwood, a celebrated figure in the realm of country music, hails from Muskogee, Oklahoma. Born on March 10, 1983, she grew up on her parents' farm where she developed a deep passion for music at an early age. Her journey towards stardom began in earnest when she won the fourth season of American Idol in 2005, a victory that launched her into the limelight and set the stage for an illustrious career. Underwood's musical prowess has been recognized with numerous accolades. She is a seven-time Grammy Award winner, with honors that include Best New Artist and Best Female Country Vocal Performance. Additionally, she has received 14 Academy of Country Music Awards, and in 2009, was inducted into the prestigious Grand Ole Opry, a testament to her substantial impact on country music. Her discography boasts multiple multi-platinum albums, including Some Hearts, Carnival Ride, and Blown Away, each one showcasing her powerful vocals and storytelling abilities. Apart from her successful music career, Underwood is also known for her philanthropic efforts. She established the C.A.T.S Foundation (Checotah Animal, Town, and School Foundation) to aid her hometown's educational and animal-related causes. Moreover, she has supported several organizations such as the Red Cross and Save the Children, further showcasing her compassion and dedication to making a positive difference in the world. Carrie Underwood's journey from a small-town girl to an award-winning country superstar is a testament to her talent, resilience, and enduring charm.
- Albums: Blown Away, Carnival Ride, Some Hearts, Play On, Home Sweet Home
- Nationality: United States of America
- Christina Aguilera, a globally recognized pop icon, was born on December 18, 1980, in Staten Island, New York. From an early age, her exceptional vocal talent shone through, leading her to perform on the television show Star Search at just nine years old. Her breakthrough came in 1993 when she became a part of the Disney Channel's The Mickey Mouse Club, a platform that would launch her career into the stratosphere. In 1999, Aguilera released her self-titled debut album under RCA Records, which sold more than 17 million copies worldwide and led to her winning the Grammy Award for Best New Artist. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic range, she became recognized as one of the leading voices in the music industry. Her subsequent albums, such as Stripped and Back to Basics, showcased her versatility as an artist, blending elements of R&B, soul, and jazz into her predominantly pop repertoire. Outside of her musical accomplishments, Aguilera is also known for her philanthropic work. She has been involved in numerous charitable endeavors, including serving as a United Nations ambassador for the World Food Programme. Additionally, her influence extends into the realm of television where she served as a coach on the popular singing competition show, The Voice. Christina Aguilera's enduring impact on the music industry and her contributions to various social causes underscore her status as an influential figure in popular culture.
- Albums: Back to Basics, My Kind of Christmas, Stripped, Christina Aguilera, Bionic
- Nationality: United States of America
- Christopher Cross (born Christopher Charles Geppert; May 3, 1951) is an American singer-songwriter from San Antonio, Texas. Cross won five Grammy Awards for his eponymous debut album released in 1979. The singles "Sailing" (1980), and "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)" (from the 1981 film Arthur) peaked at number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. "Sailing" earned three Grammys in 1981, while "Arthur's Theme" won the Oscar for Best Original Song in 1981 (with co-composers Burt Bacharach, Carole Bayer Sager, and Peter Allen).
- Albums: Christopher Cross, Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do), Red Room, The Very Best of Christopher Cross, Cross Words: The Best of Christopher Cross
- Nationality: United States of America
- Crosby, Stills & Nash is a folk rock supergroup made up of David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash. They are known as Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young when joined by occasional fourth member Neil Young. They are noted for their intricate vocal harmonies, often tumultuous interpersonal relationships, political activism, and lasting influence on American music and culture. All four members of CSNY have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, though Young's inductions were for work not involving the group.
- Albums: Déjà vu, 4 Way Street, Crosby, Stills & Nash, So Far
- Culture Club are an English rock group that formed in London in 1981. The band comprises Boy George (lead vocals), Roy Hay (guitar and keyboards), Mikey Craig (bass guitar) and Jon Moss (drums and percussion). They are considered one of the most representative and influential groups of the 1980s.Led by singer and frontman Boy George, whose androgynous style of dressing caught the attention of the public and the media in the early 1980s, the band have sold more than 150 million records worldwide, including over 6 million BPI certified records sold in the UK and over 7 million RIAA certified records sold in the US. Their hits include "Do You Really Want to Hurt Me", "Time (Clock of the Heart)", "Church of the Poison Mind", "Karma Chameleon", "Victims", "It's a Miracle", "The War Song", "Move Away", and "I Just Wanna Be Loved". In the UK they amassed twelve Top 40 hit singles between 1982 and 1999, including the number ones "Do You Really Want To Hurt Me" and "Karma Chameleon", the latter being the biggest selling single of 1983 in the UK, and hit number one on the US Hot 100 in 1984. The song "Time (Clock of the Heart)" is included on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of 500 songs that shaped rock and roll. Their second album, Colour by Numbers, sold more than 10 million copies worldwide. It appeared on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 Best Albums of the 1980s and is also included in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. Ten of their singles reached the US Top 40, where they are associated with the Second British Invasion of British new wave groups that became popular in the US due to the cable music channel MTV. Culture Club's music combines British new wave and American soul and pop. It also includes some elements of Jamaican reggae and also other styles such as calypso, salsa, and with "Karma Chameleon", elements of country music.In 1984, Culture Club won Brit Awards for Best British Group, Best British Single ("Karma Chameleon"), and the Grammy Award for Best New Artist. They were nominated the same year for the Grammy Award for Pop Vocal by Group or Duo. The band were also nominated for a Canadian Juno Award for International Album of the Year. In January 1985, Culture Club were nominated for an American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Band/Duo/Group Video Artist, and in September 1985, they were nominated for two MTV Video Music Awards for Best Special Effects and Best Art Direction for their video "It's a Miracle". In 1987, they received another nomination for an American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Band/Duo/Group Video Artist.
- Albums: Do You Really Want to Hurt Me, Culture Club, Colour by Numbers, Move Away, Waking Up With the House on Fire
- From the vibrant streets of Queens, New York, emerged an icon of pop culture, Cyndi Lauper. Born Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper on June 22, 1953, she would go on to make history with her distinctive image and a voice that resonated across the globe. Her journey began in a family that was deeply rooted in artistry - her mother was a waitress and an amateur singer, while her sister played records by The Beatles and Judy Garland, inadvertently shaping Cyndi's musical taste. Lauper's initial foray into the music industry was marked by tumultuous experiences. She dropped out of high school and worked various jobs before forming the band Blue Angel in the late 1970s. However, the band's disbandment and subsequent bankruptcy led Lauper to consider quitting music. But fate had other plans, and her solo album, She's So Unusual in 1983, became a global sensation. It featured the hit singles "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," "Time After Time," and "She Bop," tracks that remain timeless classics. This album earned Lauper the Best New Artist award at the 27th Grammy Awards in 1985. Lauper's career is not just confined to singing. She has also made a mark in the acting industry and as a tireless activist. Her filmography includes roles in movies like Vibes and Life with Mikey. Moreover, she made a significant impact on Broadway with the musical adaptation of the film Kinky Boots, which won six Tony Awards. As an activist, Lauper has been a steadfast advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has set up the True Colors United foundation to combat homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth. Cyndi Lauper's life and career are a testament to her resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
- Albums: She's So Unusual, True Colors, Girls Just Want to Have Fun, Merry Christmas... Have a Nice Life!, A Night to Remember
- Nationality: United States of America
- Deborah Anne Boone (born September 22, 1956) is an American singer, author, and actress. She is best known for her 1977 hit, "You Light Up My Life", which spent ten weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and led to her winning the Grammy Award for Best New Artist the following year. Boone later focused her music career on country music resulting in the 1980 No. 1 country hit "Are You on the Road to Lovin' Me Again". In the 1980s, she recorded Christian music which garnered her four top 10 Contemporary Christian albums as well as two more Grammys. Throughout her career, Boone has appeared in several musical theater productions and has co-authored many children's books with husband, Gabriel Ferrer.
- Albums: Reflections of Rosemary, You Light Up My Life, Friends for Life, The Best of Debby Boone, Surrender
- Nationality: United States of America
- Esperanza Emily Spalding (born October 18, 1984) is an American jazz bassist and singer. Spalding was raised in Portland, Oregon, and was a musical prodigy, playing violin in the Chamber Music Society of Oregon at five years old. She was later both self-taught and -trained on a number of instruments, including guitar and bass. Her proficiency earned her scholarships to Portland State University and the Berklee College of Music. In 2017, she was appointed Professor of the Practice of Music at Harvard University.She has won four Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Award for Best New Artist at the 53rd Grammy Awards, making her the first jazz artist to win the award.
- Albums: Chamber Music Society, Esperanza, Junjo, Radio Music Society
- Nationality: United States of America
- Evanescence ( E(E)V-ə-NESS-ənss) is an American rock band founded in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1995 by singer and pianist Amy Lee and guitarist Ben Moody. After recording independent albums, the band released their first full-length album, Fallen, on Wind-up Records in 2003. Fallen sold more than 17 million copies worldwide and helped the band win two Grammy Awards out of seven nominations. A year later, Evanescence released their first live album, Anywhere but Home, which sold more than one million copies worldwide. In 2006, the band released their second studio album, The Open Door, which sold more than five million copies.The lineup of the group changed several times over the course of the first two studio albums' productions and promotions: David Hodges left in 2002, co-founder Moody left in 2003 (mid-tour), bassist Will Boyd in 2006, followed by guitarist John LeCompt and drummer Rocky Gray in 2007, and Terry Balsamo in 2015. As a result, none of the band's three studio albums feature the same lineup. The latter two changes led to a hiatus, with temporary band members contributing to tour performances. The band reconvened in June 2009 with a new lineup; their next studio album, Evanescence, was released in 2011. It debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 chart with 127,000 copies in sales. The album also debuted at number one on four other different Billboard charts; the Rock Albums, Digital Albums, Alternative Albums, and the Hard Rock Albums charts. The band spent 2012 on tour in promotion of their latest album with other bands including The Pretty Reckless and Fair to Midland. Troy McLawhorn also became a full-time band member during this time. Following the end of the album's tour cycle in 2012, the band entered another hiatus. In 2015, Evanescence emerged from hiatus and announced they would resume touring; however, they denied that new Evanescence material was being produced, as Lee was focusing on a solo project instead. In addition, Balsamo left the band and was replaced by Jen Majura. Late 2016 saw additional touring from the band and a statement from Lee that Evanescence would continue. In March 2017, Lee stated Evanescence was working on a fourth album for release later in 2017. Synthesis was released worldwide on November 10, 2017, and marked a stylistic change in the band's sound.
- Albums: Fallen, My Immortal, The Open Door, Evanescence, Bring Me to Life
- Fun is an American indie pop band based in New York City. It was formed by Nate Ruess, former lead singer of The Format, with Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff, of Anathallo and Steel Train respectively. Fun has released two albums: Aim and Ignite in August 2009 and Some Nights in February 2012. The band is best known for three hit singles from Some Nights: Grammy Award-winning "We Are Young", "Some Nights", and "Carry On". "We Are Young" reached number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and Digital Songs charts. It also peaked at number one in the United Kingdom. "Some Nights" was released as the album's second single in June 2012, peaking at number three on the Hot 100 chart and becoming Fun's second Top 10 single, as well as the band's second song to reach platinum status in the United States. On February 10, 2013, Fun won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and the Grammy Award for Song of the Year for "We Are Young". Additionally, Fun was a nominee for four other Grammy Awards: Record of the Year and Best Pop Duo or Group Performance along with Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album.
- Albums: Some Nights, Aim and Ignite, iTunes Session, fun. Live at Fingerprints, C’mon
- Hootie & the Blowfish are an American rock band that were formed in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1986. The band's lineup for most of its existence has been the quartet of Darius Rucker, Mark Bryan, Dean Felber, and Jim Sonefeld. The band went on hiatus in 2008 until they announced plans for a full reunion tour in 2019 and released their first new studio album in fourteen years, Imperfect Circle. As of 2019, Hootie & the Blowfish had won two Grammy Awards, landed sixteen singles on various Billboard singles charts, and recorded six studio albums. The band's debut album, Cracked Rear View (1994), is the 19th-best-selling album of all time in the United States and was certified platinum 21 times. The band is known for its three Top 10 singles: "Hold My Hand" (1994), "Let Her Cry" (1994), and "Only Wanna Be with You" (1995). The band is also popular in Canada, having had three number-one singles in that country.
- Albums: Cracked Rear View, Hootie & the Blowfish, Fairweather Johnson, Musical Chairs, Kootchypop
- Nationality: USA
- Famed as a member of Bleachers and Fun, Jack Antonoff also wrote hits for Taylor Swift, Sara Bareilles and Lorde. Raised in different parts of New Jersey, Antonoff commuted to Manhattan to attend the Professional Children's School, a renowned performing-arts high school. Two events during his teen years would be especially pivotal: One was the forming of his early punk band, Outline, when he was a sophomore in fall 1998. The second was the death of his sister Sarah from brain cancer, a tragedy that he claimed to have never fully gotten over. Outline lasted four years as a productive DIY band, touring nationally despite the members all being in their teens; Antonoff immediately loved touring and borrowed his parents' minivan to help. His next band Steel Train was formed in 2002 with Scott Irby-Ranniar, who later originated the role of Young Simba in The Lion King on Broadway. Carving out a unique territory between eccentric indie-pop and classic American roots-rock, Steel Train made three albums, played most of the major festivals, and collaborated with a number of notable artists (indie heroes Amanda Palmer and Tegan & Sara, along with Dead-associated mandolinist David Grisman) during their 11-year run. Their final show in New York in 2013 brought together every past member of the band. That same year brought Antonoff two high-profile writing collaborations: "Brave," written with Sara Bareilles, had double success as a gay anthem and a Microsoft commercial. He also teamed with Taylor Swift to write "Sweeter Than Fiction" for the movie One Change; though not a huge chart hit (it peaked at #34), it earned a Golden Globe nomination as Best Original Song. While Steel Train was still running, Antonoff teamed with Nate Ruess and Andrew Dost to form Fun (officially spelled as fun.), a pop group with a flair for emotive, anthemic hooks. Their 2009 debut Aim and Ignite was a cult and critical hit, but the 2012 followup Some Nights was a commercial smash, producing a Number One single in "We Are Young" (which featured R&B artist Janelle Monae) and a Number Three followup in the title track. The album went triple platinum and "We Are Young" was both Record of the Year and Song of the Year in the 2013 Grammys (Fun was also named Best New Group, four years after they'd formed). Despite the success Fun went on hiatus in 2014 without producing a followup. 2014 brought the debut of Antonoff's solo project Bleachers, which teamed him with a few handfuls of notable collaborators (including Yoko Ono and Antonoff's famous girlfriend Lena Dunham). While Antonoff's claimed that the band was designed as an homage to the '80s-and specifically to the John Hughes films of that era-the songwriting style harks back to his most accessible moments in Fun. Antonoff had a banner year in 2017, releasing the second Bleachers album Gone Now , co-writing and producing Lorde's Melodrama, and writing and producing Taylor Swift on her Number One hit "Look What You Made Me Do." In January 2018 he announced that he and Dunham had ended their five-year relationship.
- Nationality: United States of America
- Jody Vanessa Watley (born January 30, 1959) is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and artist whose music crosses genres including pop, R&B, jazz, dance, and electronic soul. In 1987, she won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and has been nominated for three Grammy awards.In 2008, she was the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from Billboard magazine, and was also prominently featured in the historic black issue of Vogue Italia in 2008. Her early music influences are Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, The Jackson 5, The Carpenters, Roberta Flack, Prince, Grace Jones and various jazz artists including Nancy Wilson.In December 2016 Billboard ranked her as the 21st most successful dance artist of all-time. and in 2017 Black Music Honors TV special recognized Watley as Crossover Music Icon Honoree for her groundbreaking achievements and influence.In August 2018 Billboard ranked Jody Watley as one of the top female artists of all-time, at number 53.
- Albums: Jody Watley, Larger Than Life, Affairs of the Heart, Midnight Lounge, Flower
- Nationality: United States of America
- John Legend, born as John Roger Stephens in Springfield, Ohio, is an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and musician recognized worldwide for his soulful voice and thought-provoking lyrics. Legend's journey towards fame began when he was just four years old, singing gospel songs in his church choir. His musical abilities were further honed during his time at the University of Pennsylvania, where he directed a co-ed jazz and pop a cappella group. Legend's breakthrough came when he was introduced to then up-and-coming hip-hop artist Kanye West, leading to collaborations that would eventually propel him into the limelight. His debut album, Get Lifted, released under West's GOOD Music label, won him his first Grammy Award for Best R&B Album. This marked the beginning of Legend's successful career, which has seen him release multiple hit singles and albums, earning him numerous awards, including an Oscar, a Tony, and multiple Grammys, making him one of the few artists to achieve the coveted EGOT status. Aside from his music career, Legend is also known for his philanthropy work and social activism. He launched the Show Me Campaign in 2007, an initiative that focuses on education as a key to break the cycle of poverty. He has also used his platform to speak out on issues such as criminal justice reform, education inequality, and other social issues. Despite his fame and success, Legend remains grounded, continuously using his influence to effect positive change in society.
- Albums: Get Lifted, Once Again, Evolver, Live at SOB's New York City, Love In The Future
- Nationality: United States of America
José Feliciano
Latin pop, Bolero, Acoustic musicJosé Monserrate Feliciano García (born September 10, 1945), better known simply as José Feliciano [xoˈse feliˈsjano], is a Puerto Rican musician, singer and composer, best known for many international hits, including his rendition of The Doors' "Light My Fire" and the best-selling Christmas single, "Feliz Navidad". His music is known for its fusion of styles: Latin, jazz, blues, soul and even rock, created primarily with his unique, signature acoustic guitar sound. His oftentimes mellow easy listening influences are easily recognizable in many songs heard around the world.In the United States, he first received widespread popularity in the 1960s, particularly after his 1968 album Feliciano! reached number two on the music charts. Thus far, he has released over fifty albums, worldwide, in both English and Spanish.- Albums: Feliz Navidad, And the Sun Will Shine.... Hits, Rarities, Classic Tracks 1965-1975, The Definite Best
- Nationality: Puerto Rico
- Lauryn Hill, a multi-talented artist and a trailblazer in the music industry, was born on May 26, 1975, in East Orange, New Jersey. The versatile artist's passion for music was evident early in her life, leading her to showcase her talents in local talent shows and school plays. Her musical journey took a significant turn when she joined the Fugees, a hip-hop group, in the early 1990s. Their second album, The Score, released in 1996, became a massive success, establishing them as one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history. Hill further cemented her position in the music industry with the release of her solo debut album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, in 1998. This groundbreaking album, which combined elements of R&B, hip-hop, reggae, and soul, showcased Hill's unique ability to blend diverse music genres. The album resonated with audiences worldwide, earning five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best New Artist. Notably, Hill made history as the first woman to win five Grammys in one night, a testament to her immense talent and artistic vision. Beyond her musical career, Hill is known for her activism and humanitarian efforts. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice issues and has been involved in numerous charitable endeavors. Despite facing personal challenges and controversies, Hill's resilience and commitment to her craft have solidified her legacy in the music industry. Her influence extends beyond her discography, inspiring countless artists and setting a precedent for future generations.
- Albums: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, MTV Unplugged 2.0, Ms. Hill, Greatest Singles Collection, MTV Unplugged
- Nationality: United States of America
- Born in Jackson, Mississippi, in 1982, LeAnn Rimes is a renowned American country and pop singer, songwriter, actress, and author. Her rise to prominence began at the age of 13 with her breakthrough hit "Blue". This single not only earned her nationwide recognition but also helped her win two Grammy Awards, making her the youngest recipient in history. Having sold over 37 million records worldwide, Rimes's rich, soulful voice has made a significant impact on the country music scene. Rimes's musical prowess was evident from a young age. She won her first local talent show at the age of five, and by the time she was seven, she had already performed on Star Search, a popular TV talent show. Her early success laid the groundwork for her future career, which would include numerous chart-topping hits like "How Do I Live", "Can't Fight The Moonlight", and "I Need You". These songs gained her international fame and demonstrated her ability to effortlessly blend country and pop sounds. Beyond her music career, Rimes has also dabbled in acting and writing. She starred in the television film Holiday in Your Heart in 1997, and later appeared in popular shows like American Dreams and Drop Dead Diva. Rimes is also the author of two novels and two children's books, further showcasing her artistic versatility.
- Albums: Unchained Melody: The Early Years, Sittin' on Top of the World, Put a Little Holiday in Your Heart, I Need You, Inspirational Songs
- Nationality: United States of America
- Marc Craig Cohn (; born July 5, 1959) is an American folk rock singer-songwriter and musician. He won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1992. Cohn is best known for the song "Walking in Memphis" from his eponymous 1991 album; the song, which was a Top 40 hit, has been described as "an iconic part of the Great American Songbook".
- Albums: Marc Cohn, Burning the Daze, The Rainy Season, Join the Parade, Listening Booth: 1970
- Nationality: United States of America
- Mariah Carey is known for her soulful voice and extraordinary range. Born on March 27, 1969, in Huntington, New York, Carey's passion for music was evident from her early years. Raised in a family deeply rooted in the arts, Carey's mother, an opera singer and vocal coach, played a pivotal role in nurturing her musical prowess. Despite facing financial constraints and racial prejudice, Carey's determination saw her moving to Manhattan right after high school, where she juggled several jobs while pursuing her dream of becoming a singer. Carey's breakthrough came in 1988 when her demo tape caught the eye of Columbia Records executive Tommy Mottola. Her eponymous debut album, released in 1990, topped the Billboard 200 for eleven consecutive weeks, ushering in an era of dominance for the young artist. Over time, Carey's discography expanded, blending elements of pop, R&B, hip hop, gospel, and soul, resulting in numerous chart-topping hits. Songs like "We Belong Together," "Hero," and her perennial holiday favorite "All I Want for Christmas Is You" have become integral parts of global music culture. Carey's exceptional five-octave vocal range and signature use of the whistle register have earned her the title of "Songbird Supreme" by the Guinness World Records. Beyond her musical accomplishments, Carey has also made notable strides in acting and philanthropy. She starred in the semi-autobiographical film Glitter and has appeared in various television shows and movies. As a philanthropist, Carey's efforts are primarily directed towards organizations benefiting underprivileged children, and she is actively involved in charities such as the Fresh Air Fund and Save the Music Foundation. Through her career, marked by numerous awards including Grammy Awards, World Music Awards, and over a dozen Billboard Music Awards, Mariah Carey has emerged as an emblem of resilience and artistic brilliance.
- Albums: Daydream, Music Box, Mariah Carey, The Emancipation of Mimi, Butterfly
- Nationality: United States of America
- Maroon 5 is an American pop rock band from Los Angeles, California. It currently consists of lead vocalist Adam Levine, keyboardist and rhythm guitarist Jesse Carmichael, bassist Mickey Madden, lead guitarist James Valentine, drummer Matt Flynn, keyboardist PJ Morton, and multi-instrumentalist Sam Farrar. Original members Levine, Carmichael, Madden, and drummer Ryan Dusick first came together as Kara's Flowers in 1994, while they were still in high school. After self-releasing their independent album We Like Digging?, the band signed to Reprise Records and released the album The Fourth World in 1997. The album garnered a tepid response, after which the record label dropped the band and the members focused on college. In 2001, the band re-emerged as Maroon 5, pursuing a different direction and adding guitarist Valentine. The band signed with Octone Records, a subsidiary of J Records, and released their debut album Songs About Jane in June 2002. Aided by its lead single, "Harder to Breathe", which received heavy airplay, the album peaked at number six on the Billboard 200 chart, and went platinum in 2004. The band won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 2005. In 2006, Dusick left the band after suffering from serious wrist and shoulder injuries and was replaced by Matt Flynn. The band's second album, It Won't Be Soon Before Long was released in May 2007. It debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart and the lead single, "Makes Me Wonder", became the band's first number one single on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2010, the band released the third album Hands All Over, to mixed reviews, re-releasing a year later to include the single "Moves like Jagger", which topped the Billboard Hot 100. In 2012, Carmichael left the group and was replaced by musician PJ Morton, as the band released the fourth album, Overexposed, with the song "One More Night", topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart for nine consecutive weeks. In 2014, Carmichael rejoined the band alongside Morton to record the fifth album V (pronounced: "five"), with the band signed a new label, Interscope Records and Levine's own label 222 Records. Following the release of V, it reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart. In 2016, Maroon 5 recruited their long-time collaborator and former Phantom Planet member Sam Farrar, as the band continued for the sixth studio album Red Pill Blues, which was released in November 2017, with the reveal of the band's lineup as seven official members. The album's single, "Girls Like You", peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, became the band's fourth number one single. Maroon 5 has sold more than 120 million records, making them one of the world's best-selling music artists.
- Albums: Songs About Jane, Hands All Over, Payphone, It Won't Be Soon Before Long, 2003-10-31: Philadelphia
Marvin Hamlisch
Musical theatre, Film scoreMarvin Frederick Hamlisch (June 2, 1944 – August 6, 2012) was an American composer and conductor. Hamlisch was one of only fifteen people to win Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards. This collection of all four is referred to as an "EGOT". He is one of only two people (along with composer Richard Rodgers) to have won those four prizes and a Pulitzer Prize ("PEGOT").- Albums: A Chorus Line (1975 original Broadway cast), The Sting, Bananas / Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask, Max Dugan Returns / I Ought to Be in Pictures, The Mirror Has Two Faces
- Nationality: United States of America
- Men at Work was an Australian rock band, which formed in 1978. Their founding mainstay was Colin Hay on lead vocals; he formed the group with Jerry Speiser on drums and Ron Strykert on lead guitar. They were joined by Greg Ham on flute and keyboards and then John Rees on bass guitar. This line-up achieved national and international success in the early 1980s. In January 1983, they were the first Australian artists to have a simultaneous No. 1 album and No. 1 single in the United States Billboard charts – Business as Usual and "Down Under", respectively. With the same works, they achieved the same distinction of a simultaneous No. 1 album and No. 1 single on the Australian, New Zealand and United Kingdom charts. Their second album, Cargo was also No. 1 in Australia, No. 2 in New Zealand, No. 3 in the US, and No. 8 in the UK. Their third album, Two Hearts, reached the top 20 in Australia and top 50 in the US. At the Grammy Awards of 1983 they won the Best New Artist category; while at the ARIA Music Awards of 1994 they were inducted into the related Hall of Fame. Men at Work have sold over 30 million albums worldwide.
- Albums: Business as Usual, Cargo, '81 - '85 / Business as Usual, Two Hearts, The Best of Men at Work
- Natalie Cole, born on February 6, 1950, was a renowned American singer-songwriter and actress. The daughter of two of the most celebrated figures in American music history, vocalist Nat King Cole and former Duke Ellington Orchestra singer Maria Hawkins Ellington, she carved out her unique place in the entertainment world with an illustrious career spanning over four decades. Her journey in the music industry was marked by a fusion of genres, including R&B, pop, and jazz, which contributed significantly to her legacy as a multifaceted artist. Cole's music career took off in the mid-1970s with her debut album Inseparable, which earned her two Grammy Awards. Over the subsequent years, she released numerous successful albums, including Unpredictable and Thankful, both of which were certified platinum. However, it was her 1991 album Unforgettable... with Love, featuring virtual duets with her late father, that became her biggest hit, selling over seven million copies in the United States alone and winning her three Grammy awards. Despite her thriving career, Cole's life was not without adversity. She battled drug addiction for many years, and her health issues later included Hepatitis C and kidney disease, culminating in a kidney transplant in 2009. Despite these challenges, she continued to perform and record new music until her untimely death in 2015. Natalie Cole's enduring influence on the music industry is evident in her extensive discography, numerous awards, and the admiration of countless fans worldwide.
- Albums: Christmas With You, Unforgettable: With Love, This Will Be Natalie Cole's Everlasting Love, Dangerous, Ask a Woman Who Knows
- Nationality: United States of America
- Nathaniel Joseph "Nate" Ruess is an American singer-songwriter and musician. He is the lead vocalist of indie pop band Fun, and previously of The Format. As of 2015, he also performs as a solo musician.
- Nationality: United States of America
- Norah Jones, born Geethali Norah Jones Shankar on March 30, 1979, is recognized internationally as a distinguished singer, songwriter, and pianist. Born in New York City and raised in Texas, her distinctive blend of jazz, pop, and soul music has earned her substantial acclaim across her career. She is the daughter of famed Indian sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar and concert producer Sue Jones, a lineage that undoubtedly contributed to her profound musical talent. Jones's stellar career began in earnest with the release of her debut album, Come Away with Me, in 2002. This critically acclaimed album skyrocketed her to fame, selling over 27 million copies worldwide. Her unique fusion of genres and her soulful voice struck a chord with listeners globally. The album procured her five Grammy Awards in 2003, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best New Artist, a feat that solidified her status as a musical powerhouse. Over the years, Jones has continued to experiment with diverse musical styles, from country to folk, thereby expanding her repertoire and reaching new audiences. Her discography includes seven studio albums, each charting its distinct musical course yet always echoing her signature smooth and sultry sound. Apart from her solo work, Jones has also collaborated with a wide array of renowned artists, showcasing her versatility and capability to transition seamlessly across musical landscapes. As she continues to evolve and express her artistry, Norah Jones remains an integral figure in the global music scene, captivating audiences with her timeless talent.
- Albums: Come Away With Me, Feels Like Home, The Fall, New York City, Not Too Late
- Nationality: United States of America
- Paula Cole (born April 5, 1968) is an American singer-songwriter. Her single "Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?" reached the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1997, and the following year she won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist. Her song "I Don't Want to Wait" was used as the theme song of the television show Dawson's Creek.
- Albums: This Fire, Amen, Courage, Harbinger, Ithaca
- Nationality: United States of America
- Peter Nero (born Bernard Nierow, May 22, 1934) is an American pianist and pops conductor. He directed the Philly Pops from 1979 to 2013, and has earned two Grammy Awards.
- Albums: Peter Nero Plays the Music of Duke Ellington, Great Songs From the Movies, If Ever I Would Leave You, Sunday in New York, In Person
- Rickie Lee Jones (born November 8, 1954) is an American vocalist, musician, songwriter, producer, actress and narrator. Over the course of a career that spans five decades, Jones has recorded in various musical styles including rock, R&B, blues, pop, soul, and jazz. Jones is a two-time Grammy Award winner. Additionally, she was listed at number 30 on VH1's 100 Greatest Women in Rock & Roll in 1999. Her album Pirates was number 49 on NPR's list of the 150 Greatest Albums Made by Women.
- Albums: The Evening of My Best Day, Flying Cowboys, Rickie Lee Jones, Pirates, Ghostyhead
- Nationality: United States of America
- His dramatic, commanding baritone made Robert Goulet a Broadway star, best-selling recording artist, and a television variety show staple during the 1960s, but his offbeat sense of humor and ability to poke fun of his own image kept him in the pop culture crosshairs for the rest of his life. He was forever associated with his star-making role in "Camelot" and for touring with legendary musicals like "South Pacific" and "Man of La Mancha," eventually spending the bulk of his time performing solo concerts as a Las Vegas mainstay. Younger audiences came to appreciate his helmet-like hair and cartoonishly slick delivery in a series of award-winning ESPN ads in the 1990s, and again in 2007 with an Emerald nuts ad aired during the Superbowl. In fact, the legend's appeal knew no boundaries even into his later years - when he continued to enjoy adulation from both old and young fans who saw the aging singer as an arbiter of cool.
- Albums: Camelot (1960 original Broadway cast), 16 Most Requested Songs, Greatest Hits, 36 All-Time Favorites, A Personal Christmas Collection
- Nationality: Canada, United States of America
- Sade Adu, a British-Nigerian singer and songwriter, is best known as the lead vocalist of her self-titled band, Sade. Born Helen Folasade Adu on January 16, 1959, in Ibadan, Nigeria, she moved to England at a young age following her parents' separation. This cross-cultural upbringing significantly influenced her musical journey, leading her to blend diverse genres such as soul, jazz, and R&B into her unique sound. Adu's music career took off in the early 1980s when she joined the band Pride as a background vocalist. However, her distinctive voice quickly caught attention, paving the way for her to become the group's lead singer. The band later reformed as Sade, releasing their debut album Diamond Life in 1984. The album was a global hit, charting in several countries and winning the Brit Award for Best British Album in 1985. Adu's sultry voice coupled with her enigmatic persona captivated audiences worldwide, making her a household name in the music industry. Over the years, Adu's talent and dedication have earned her numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards. Her timeless hits, such as "Smooth Operator" and "No Ordinary Love," continue to resonate with fans across generations. Despite her fame, Adu is known for her reclusive nature, choosing to live a relatively private life away from the public eye. Her profound impact on music and her ability to maintain her authenticity amidst the pressures of fame underscore Adu's status as an iconic figure in the entertainment world.
- Nationality: Nigeria, United Kingdom
- Sheena Easton, born Sheena Shirley Orr on April 27, 1959, in Bellshill, Scotland, is a renowned singer, songwriter, and actress. Her journey into the world of music was no ordinary tale, as her talent was discovered through the British Broadcasting Corporation's (BBC) documentary The Big Time: Pop Singer, which followed her attempt to gain a record contract. The exposure she gained from this film led to a deal with EMI Records, setting her course towards international acclaim. Easton's career took off with the release of her debut single, "Modern Girl" in 1980. However, it was her second single, "9 to 5," that secured her place in the UK music industry, reaching number three in the UK Singles Chart. Later, it was re-titled "Morning Train (Nine to Five)" for the U.S. market to avoid confusion with Dolly Parton's song of the same name. This move resulted in her first top ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing her presence across the Atlantic. Easton's versatility as an artist also shone through in the various genres she explored, including pop, country, dance, and jazz. Beyond her successful music career, Easton made notable contributions to the field of acting. She showcased her acting prowess in television series such as Miami Vice and The Highlander. Furthermore, she lent her voice to animated characters like "Annabelle" in the film All Dogs Go To Heaven 2. Throughout her career, Easton has won two Grammy Awards, further attesting to her immense talent and contribution to the entertainment industry. Despite her fame, she remains grounded, having held on to her Scottish roots and maintaining a private life away from public scrutiny.
- Albums: Do You, Sheena Easton, The Lover in Me, My Cherie, A Private Heaven
- Nationality: United States of America, Scotland
- Shelby Lynne (born Shelby Lynn Moorer, October 22, 1968) is an American singer and songwriter and the older sister of Allison Moorer. The success of her pop rock album I Am Shelby Lynne (1999) led to her winning the Grammy Award for Best New Artist (despite being her sixth studio album). She released a Dusty Springfield tribute album called Just a Little Lovin' in 2008. Since then she has started her own independent record label, called Everso Records, and released three albums: Tears, Lies and Alibis, Merry Christmas, and Revelation Road. Lynne is also known for her distinctive contralto voice.
- Albums: I Am Shelby Lynne, Love, Shelby, Temptation, Soft Talk
- Nationality: United States of America
- Sheryl Crow, a name synonymous with American rock music, was born on February 11, 1962 in Kennett, Missouri. Raised in a musically-inclined family, Crow's talent for singing became apparent early on. She graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in music education. However, instead of settling into a career as a music teacher, she took her chances and moved to Los Angeles, where she began working as a backup singer for industry heavyweights such as Michael Jackson. Crow's journey from backup singer to solo artist wasn't without its struggles. Her debut album was rejected by her label, which led to a period of self-doubt and personal turmoil. However, she bounced back with a group of musician friends known as the Tuesday Night Music Club. The group's collaborative work resulted in Crow's breakthrough hit, "All I Wanna Do," which catapulted her to stardom and won her three Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year. Throughout her career, Sheryl Crow has been recognized as a versatile artist, dabbling in various genres like pop, country, and blues. She has released ten studio albums, each showcasing her unique blend of thoughtful lyrics and catchy melodies. Her body of work has earned her nine Grammy Awards from over thirty nominations, proving her status as one of the most successful female artists in contemporary music.
- Albums: Sheryl Crow, The Globe Sessions, Tuesday Night Music Club, The Very Best Of (Bradypus Series), Feels Like Home
- Nationality: United States of America
- Starland Vocal Band was an American pop band, known primarily for "Afternoon Delight", one of the biggest-selling singles of 1976.
- Albums: Christmas at Home, Afternoon Delight: The Best of the Starland Vocal Band, Rear View Mirror, Starland Vocal Band, A Golden Classics Edition
- The Beatles were an English rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960. With a line-up comprising John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr, they are regarded as the most influential band of all time. The group were integral to the evolution of pop music into an art form and to the development of the counterculture of the 1960s. Their sound, rooted in skiffle, beat and 1950s rock and roll, incorporated elements of classical music and traditional pop in innovative ways. They also pioneered recording techniques and explored music styles ranging from pop ballads and Indian music to psychedelia and hard rock. As they continued to draw influences from a variety of cultural sources, their musical and lyrical sophistication grew, and they came to be seen as embodying the era's socio-cultural movements. Led by primary songwriters Lennon and McCartney, the Beatles built their reputation playing clubs in Liverpool and Hamburg over a three-year period from 1960, initially with Stuart Sutcliffe playing bass. The core trio of Lennon, McCartney and Harrison, who had been together since 1958, went through a succession of drummers, including Pete Best, before asking Starr to join them in 1962. Manager Brian Epstein moulded them into a professional act, and producer George Martin guided and developed their recordings, greatly expanding their domestic success after their first hit, "Love Me Do", in late 1962. As their popularity grew into the intense fan frenzy dubbed "Beatlemania", the band acquired the nickname "the Fab Four", with Epstein, Martin and other members of the band's entourage sometimes given the informal title of "fifth Beatle". The Beatles were international stars by early 1964, leading the "British Invasion" of the United States pop market and breaking numerous sales records. They soon made their film debut with A Hard Day's Night (1964). From 1965 onwards, they produced increasingly innovative recordings, including the albums Rubber Soul (1965), Revolver (1966) and Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967), and enjoyed further commercial success with The Beatles (also known as the "White Album", 1968) and Abbey Road (1969). In 1968, they founded Apple Corps, a multi-armed multimedia corporation that continues to oversee projects related to the band's legacy. After the group's break-up in 1970, all four members enjoyed success as solo artists. Lennon was shot and killed in December 1980, and Harrison died of lung cancer in November 2001. McCartney and Starr remain musically active. The Beatles are the best-selling band in history, with estimated sales of over 800 million albums worldwide. They are the best-selling music artists in the US, with certified sales of over 178 million units, and have had more number-one albums on the British charts, and have sold more singles in the UK, than any other act. The group were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988, and all four main members were inducted individually between 1994 and 2015. In 2008, the group topped Billboard magazine's list of the all-time most successful artists; as of 2019, the Beatles hold the record for most number-one hits on the Hot 100 chart with twenty. The band have received seven Grammy Awards, an Academy Award (for Best Original Song Score for the 1970 film Let It Be) and fifteen Ivor Novello Awards. They were also collectively included in Time magazine's compilation of the twentieth century's 100 most influential people.
- Albums: Abbey Road, Revolver, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The White Album, Rubber Soul
- The Carpenters were an American vocal and instrumental duo consisting of siblings Karen (1950–1983) and Richard Carpenter (b. 1946). They produced a distinct soft musical style, combining Karen's contralto vocals with Richard's arranging and composition skills. During their 14-year career, the Carpenters recorded ten albums, along with numerous singles and several television specials. The siblings were born in New Haven, Connecticut, and moved to Downey, California, in 1963. Richard took piano lessons as a child, progressing to California State University, Long Beach, while Karen learned the drums. They first performed together as a duo in 1965 and formed the jazz-oriented Richard Carpenter Trio followed by the middle-of-the-road group Spectrum. Signing as Carpenters to A&M Records in 1969, they achieved major success the following year with the hit singles "(They Long to Be) Close to You" and "We've Only Just Begun". Subsequently, the duo's brand of melodic pop produced a record-breaking run of hit recordings on the American Top 40 and Adult Contemporary charts, and they became leading sellers in the soft rock, easy listening and adult contemporary music genres. The Carpenters had three number-one singles and five number-two singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and fifteen number-one hits on the Adult Contemporary chart, in addition to twelve top-10 singles. They have sold more than 90 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists of all time. The duo toured continually during the 1970s, which put them under increased strain; Richard took a year off in 1979 after he had become addicted to Quaaludes, while Karen suffered from anorexia nervosa. Their career together ended in 1983 when Karen died from heart failure brought on by complications of anorexia. Extensive news coverage surrounding these circumstances increased public awareness of eating disorders. Though the Carpenters were criticized for their clean-cut and wholesome conservative image in the 1970s, their music has since been re-evaluated, attracting critical acclaim and continued commercial success.
- Albums: Christmas Portrait, An Old-Fashioned Christmas, Christmas Collection, Close to You, Lovelines
- The Swingle Singers are a vocal group, originally formed in 1962 in Paris, France by Ward Swingle with Anne Germain, Jeanette Baucomont, Jean Cussac, Christiane Legrand and other singers. Until 2011, the group consisted of eight voices: two sopranos, two altos, two tenors and two basses. The French group performed and recorded typically with only a double bass and drums as accompaniment. The current group performs primarily a cappella. In 1973, the original French group disbanded and Ward Swingle moved to London and recruited all new members who debuted as Swingle II. The group later performed and recorded under the name The Swingles and then, The New Swingle Singers and eventually, simply, The Swingle Singers. Since the London group's incarnation, the group has never disbanded. As individual members have left the group, the remaining members have held auditions for replacements.
- Albums: Rococo Á Go Go, Place Vendome, The Story of Christmas, Getting Romantic, Christmas the Singers Unlimited
- Born on June 7, 1940, in Pontypridd, Wales, Tom Jones has made an indelible mark on the international music scene with his vibrant baritone voice and charismatic stage presence. His birth name is Thomas John Woodward, but he adopted "Tom Jones" as his stage name, inspired by Henry Fielding's novel of the same title. He navigated his way from obscurity to stardom, maneuvering through a multitude of genres such as pop, rock, R&B, show tunes, country, dance, soul, and gospel, with aplomb and unerring skill. Jones had humble beginnings. His father was a coal miner, and young Tom started his professional life as a construction worker and door-to-door salesman before his vocal prowess catapulted him into the limelight. His breakthrough came in 1965 with the hit single "It's Not Unusual", which climbed its way up to the top ten charts in the UK and the US. This success laid the foundation for a glittering career that spanned over six decades, encompassing a plethora of chart-topping hits, sold-out tours, and prestigious awards, including a Grammy and a Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music. Jones continued to enchant audiences with his timeless sound throughout his career. He released over 40 studio albums and numerous successful singles like "Green, Green Grass of Home", "Delilah", and "What's New Pussycat?". His performances not only showcased his vocal range but also highlighted his versatility as an artist who could seamlessly transition from soul-stirring ballads to foot-thumping rock numbers. In addition to his musical endeavors, Jones ventured into acting and television, notably serving as a coach on the popular reality TV show The Voice UK.
- Albums: Praise & Blame, Live, She's a Lady, Tom Jones in Nashville, The Tom Jones Fever Zone
- Nationality: Wales
- Toni Braxton, an iconic figure in the world of music, was born on October 7th, 1967 in Severn, Maryland. She is known globally for her sultry voice and her talent for expressing deep emotions through her songs. The youngest of six siblings, Braxton has a deep-rooted background in religious music, honing her craft in the church choir before launching her career. She comes from a family with strong musical inclinations; all her siblings have been involved in the music industry at different points in their lives. Braxton's rise to fame began when she signed with Arista Records in the late 1980s and joined the quartet "The Braxtons," which included her sisters. This collaboration paved the way for her solo career, and in 1993, she released her self-titled debut album. It achieved remarkable success, generating several large hits such as "Another Sad Love Song" and "Breathe Again." Over the span of her illustrious career, she has won various awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Her second album, Secrets, released in 1996, was another commercial success, featuring popular tracks like "You're Makin' Me High" and "Un-Break My Heart." Despite her extraordinary accomplishments, Braxton's journey was not without its challenges. She faced financial difficulties and health issues, including a diagnosis of lupus. However, she never allowed these obstacles to deter her from her passion. Instead, she used them to fuel her creativity and resilience, becoming an inspirational figure for many. Today, Toni Braxton remains a significant figure in the music industry, revered for her unique vocal style, her soul-stirring performances, and her indomitable spirit.
- Albums: Snowflakes, Secrets, Un-Break My Heart, The Heat, Toni Braxton
- Nationality: United States of America
- Tracy Chapman, born on March 30, 1964, in Cleveland, Ohio, is an iconic American singer-songwriter renowned for her distinctive voice and poignant lyrics. Tracy's love for music was ignited in her childhood when she received a ukulele at the age of three. The passion escalated when she received her first guitar at eight, leading her down the path of music. She attended Tufts University, where she studied Anthropology and African studies, but it was her performances in coffee houses that truly resonated with her passion. Chapman's breakthrough came in 1988 when she released her self-titled debut album, featuring the hit single "Fast Car." This song skyrocketed to number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, propelling her into the international limelight. The album won three Grammy Awards including Best New Artist. Her early success was followed by more critically acclaimed albums such as Crossroads, New Beginning, and Telling Stories. One of her most memorable performances was at Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday tribute concert in London, in 1988, which helped solidify her place as a prominent figure in the fight for social justice through music. Throughout her career, Tracy Chapman has used her platform to address societal issues, turning her songs into anthems for change. Her lyrics often uncover tales of racial and social injustices, which resonate with a wide audience. Despite her fame, Chapman is known for her reclusive nature, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances. Nevertheless, her legacy in the music industry is indisputable. With millions of albums sold worldwide, numerous awards under her belt, and a reputation as a powerful voice for change, Tracy Chapman has left an indelible mark on the world of music and beyond.
- Albums: Tracy Chapman, Crossroads, Fast Car, Where You Live, Matters of the Heart
- Nationality: United States of America
- Zac Brown Band is an American country band based in Atlanta, Georgia. The lineup consists of Zachary Alexander "Zac" Brown (lead vocals, guitar), Jimmy De Martini (fiddle, vocals), John Driskell Hopkins (bass guitar, guitar, baritone guitar, banjo, ukulele, upright bass, vocals), Coy Bowles (guitar, keyboards), Chris Fryar (drums), Clay Cook (guitar, keyboards, mandolin, steel guitar, vocals), Matt Mangano (bass guitar), and Daniel de los Reyes (percussion). The band has released six studio albums along with two live albums, one greatest-hits album, and two extended plays. They have also 16 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs or Country Airplay chart, of which 13 have reached number 1. Their first album, The Foundation, is certified triple-platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, while its follow-ups, You Get What You Give and Uncaged, are certified platinum. Artists with whom they have collaborated include Alan Jackson, Jimmy Buffett, Kid Rock, Jason Mraz, Dave Grohl, Chris Cornell and Avicii.
- Albums: The Foundation, Uncaged, Live - The Rock Bus Tour, Home Grown, Pass the Jar: Live From the Fabulous Fox Theater in Atlanta
- Sam Smith seemed like an overnight success upon the release of his 2014 debut album In the Lonely Hour, but the London-born 22-year-old had actually been working toward his big break since he began singing at the age of 12. Smith's professional career began in Youth Music Theatre UK, but along with show tunes, Smith also studied composition and singing with British jazz performer Joanna Eden. Smith's breakthrough came in 2012 when he sang lead vocals on the hit single "Latch" by electronic music duo Disclosure. The following year, he scored an even bigger hit, reaching number 1 on the UK pop chart as the vocalist on "La La La" by British DJ and producer "Naughty Boy." Smith released his debut EP Nirvana in October 2013, followed by his first full-length album, In the Lonely Hour, in May 2014. Due in large part to an impressive performance of the gospel-influenced ballad "Stay With Me" on Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975-), the album reached the number 2 position on the Billboard album charts, and spawned several further hit singles including "Money On My Mind," "Lay Me Down," and "I'm Not the Only One." The following year, "Stay With Me" won the coveted Record of the Year (for production) and Song of the Year (for songwriting) awards at the 2015 Grammy Awards. Smith also won Best New Artist and Pop Album of the Year. In May of that year, Smith underwent successful surgery on his vocal cords following a recurrent hemorrhage. His first release following the surgery was a reunion with Disclosure on their 2015 single "Omen." In September 2015, it was announced that Sam Smith had recorded "Writing's on the Wall," the theme for the James Bond thriller "SPECTRE" (2015); the song won both the Golden Globe and Academy Award for Best Original Song. Smith released his second album The Thrill of It All in November 2017, featuring the hit single "Too Good At Goodbyes."
- Albums: Nirvana, Latch, Lay Me Down, In the Lonely Hour, Money on My Mind
- Nationality: United Kingdom
- Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are an American hip hop duo formed in 2009, from Seattle, Washington. The duo is composed of Ben Haggerty, a rapper who goes by the name of Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, a record producer, DJ, and professional photographer, who met the former at a photo shoot and they have significantly collaborated ever since. In 2009, they released their first collaborative effort, an EP titled VS. EP. They have since followed up with VS. Redux and the Grammy Award-winning album The Heist.
- Albums: Same Love
- Olivia Isabel Rodrigo (born February 20, 2003) is an American singer-songwriter and actress. She rose to prominence with her lead roles on the Disney television programmes Bizaardvark and High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. After signing with Interscope and Geffen Records, she released her debut single "Drivers License" in 2021, which broke various streaming records and finished as one of the best-selling songs of the year along with its successors "Deja Vu" and "Good 4 U". Rodrigo's debut studio album, Sour (2021), topped charts globally and received widespread critical acclaim. She is nominated in seven categories at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist, Album of the Year for Sour, and Record of the Year and Song of the Year for "Drivers License."
- Albums: SOUR
- Nationality: American
- Megan Jovon Ruth Pete (born February 15, 1995), known professionally as Megan Thee Stallion (pronounced "Megan the Stallion"), is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. Originally from Houston, Texas, she first garnered attention in 2013 when videos of her freestyling in cyphers became popular on social media platforms such as Instagram. In 2016, Megan Thee Stallion began writing, performing and releasing raps exclusively onto SoundCloud. She has commercially released three EPs since 2017—Make It Hot, Tina Snow, and Suga—with the latter two charting on the US Billboard 200. She signed to 300 Entertainment in 2018, where she released her first full-length mixtape, Fever, in 2019 to critical acclaim.
- Albums: Suga
- Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O'Connell (born December 18, 2001) is an American singer and songwriter. She first gained public attention in 2015 with her debut single "Ocean Eyes", written and produced by her brother Finneas O'Connell, with whom she collaborates on music and live shows. In 2017, she released her debut extended play (EP), Don't Smile at Me. Commercially successful, it reached the top 15 of record charts in numerous countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
- Albums: When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?, Happier Than Ever
- Nationality: American
- Dua Lipa (born August 22, 1995) is an English singer, songwriter, and model. Her musical career began at age 14, when she began covering songs by other artists on YouTube. In 2015, she was signed with Warner Music Group and released her first single soon after. In December 2016, a documentary about Lipa was commissioned by The Fader magazine, titled See in Blue. In January 2017, she won the EBBA Public Choice Award. Her self-titled debut studio album was released on June 2, 2017. The album spawned seven singles, including two UK top-10 singles "Be the One" and "IDGAF" and the UK number-one single "New Rules".
Alessia Cara
Alternative R&B, Pop, SoulAlessia Caracciolo (born July 11, 1996), known professionally as Alessia Cara, is a Canadian singer and songwriter. After producing acoustic covers she signed with Def Jam Recordings and released her debut single, "Here", which reached number 19 on the Canadian Hot 100 chart and was a sleeper hit in the United States, peaking at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Cara's debut studio album, Know-It-All (2015), reached number 8 on the Canadian Albums Chart and number 9 on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States. The album's third single, "Scars to Your Beautiful", reached number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2016. In 2017, Cara collaborated with producer Zedd to create the single "Stay", and rapper Logic to feature in his song "1-800-273-8255". Cara received her first Grammy Award in 2018, for Best New Artist.- Chancelor Bennett (born April 16, 1993), better known by his stage name Chance the Rapper, is an American hip hop recording artist from the Chatham neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. In 2013, he began to gain major recognition following the release of his second mixtape Acid Rap. Chance is also a member of the Chicago collective SAVEMONEY with frequent collaborator Vic Mensa and lead vocalist for the band The Social Experiment.
- Albums: Acid Rap, Confident, Songs from Scratch: Paranoia
- Nationality: United States of America
- An established professional songwriter before she'd even hit her 20s, Meghan Trainor became a star in her own right with a doo-wop throwback which promoted body acceptance in an impossibly infectious manner. Born on the island of Nantucket, MA in 1993, Trainor first began performing alongside her father, younger brother, aunt and uncle, the latter of whom also introduced her to the Trinidadian soca music which would later help to shape her sound. Trainor also played the trumpet in her high school jazz band and was taught guitar by Johnny Spampinato of The Incredible Casuals and NRBQ. But it was the songwriting skills she first started to develop on GarageBand at the age of 11 which would make the music industry sit up and take notice. While still in high school, Trainor attended the Berklee College of Music's five-week Performance Program in both 2009 and 2010, and then the Durango Songwriters' Expo where she was offered a publishing deal with Big Yellow Dog Music. In 2011, she independently released her debut album as a performer, "I'll Sing With You," and after moving to Nashville with her family, she penned tracks for the likes of country music trio Rascal Flatts ("DJ Tonight," "I Like The Sound Of That"), "Girl Meets World" (Disney Channel, 2014-17) actress Sabrina Carpenter ("Can't Blame A Girl For Trying"), YouTube star Macy Kate ("You Gave Me Love") and Polynesian musicians The Common Kings ("24/7"). However, it was "All About That Bass," a song she co-wrote with Grammy-nominated producer Kevin Kadish (Jason Mraz, Stacie Orrico) without any particular artist in mind, that changed the course of her career. Impressed by the demo recording, record company mogul L.A. Reid ignored the attempt to pass on the ode to bodies of all shapes and sizes to a big-name act and instead offered Trainor a solo deal with Epic Records. Accompanied by a striking pastel-colored video directed by Fatima Robinson, its infectious blend of doo-wop, country-pop and rock 'n' roll reached No. 1 in New Zealand, Australia and Canada in 2014, hit the US Top 10 and propelled Trainor from behind the studio desk into the global spotlight.
- Albums: Only 17, I'll Sing With You, All About That Bass, Title
- Nationality: United States of America
- Samara Joy McLendon (born November 11, 1999) is an American jazz singer. She released her self-titled debut album in 2021 and was subsequently named Best New Artist by JazzTimes. Her second album, Linger Awhile, was released in September 2022, winning the award for Best Jazz Vocal Album and herself for Best New Artist at the 2023 Grammy Awards.
- Albums: Linger Awhile
- Nationality: American
- American singer, songwriter, and record producer Victoria Monét was born in Atlanta, Georgia on May 1, 1989. Monét began her music career as a songwriter, penning tracks for various artists such as Fifth Harmony, Nas and Lupe Fiasco. Notably, Monét has writing credits on the majority of Ariana Grande's studio albums, including a Grammy nomination for her writing efforts in "Thank U, Next" (2019). Her breakthrough as a solo artist in her own right came with her debut EPs, "Nightmares & Lullabies: Act 1" (2014) and "Nightmares & Lullabies - Act 2" (2015). While touring as an opening act for Ariana Grande, Victoria Monét gained a following and released two singles, "Do You Like It" (2016) and "Ready" (2017). Grande and Monét worked together releasing the single "Monopoly" (2019). When the song appeared on the Billboard Hot 100 chart Monét also began charting on the Billboard's Emerging Artists list.
- Albums: Jaguar II
- Nationality: United States
