The Best Black Rock Bands
Revolutionizing the electric guitar with unparalleled virtuosity and innovative techniques, this legendary musician became synonymous with psychedelic rock, transcending racial barriers, and propelling the genre into the mainstream. From jaw-dropping solos to mind-bending feedback manipulation, his talents continuously blurred the lines between technicality and creativity, leaving an indelible mark on both pop culture and the music world. Despite a tragically short career, his distinctive sound and unforgettable stage presence have immortalized him as one of the most iconic rock artists of all time.
Exuding sexuality and mystique, this enigmatic singer-songwriter captivated audiences with a dynamic blend of funk, R&B, and rock that transcended norms and defied categorization. A consummate musician, he played multiple instruments with dazzling proficiency, while his stunning vocal range and magnetic stage presence enraptured fans across the globe. With a prolific and diverse discography that cemented his status as a pop culture icon, his untimely death left an unfillable void in the musical landscape.
Commonly referred to as the "father of rock and roll," this trailblazing guitarist popularized rhythm and blues in the 1950s, wielding power chords and melodic solos that laid the groundwork for future generations. Beloved for his duck walk and swaggering charisma, his infectious tunes and poetic lyrics chronicled American life and youth culture like never before. As an influential figure whose innovations helped shape the course of modern music, his impact on the evolution of rock remains unparalleled.
Fusing hard rock with an eclectic mix of genres, this groundbreaking quartet challenged racial stereotypes and shattered expectations within the predominantly white 1980s rock scene. Showcasing virtuosic musicianship and thought-provoking lyrics, their powerful sound tackled issues like racism, gentrification, and political corruption. With a dedicated following and multiple awards under their belt, they remain a testimony to the limitless possibilities of rock music.
Pioneering a funk-rock fusion that blended elements of psychedelic rock, soul, and rhythm and blues, this racially diverse ensemble broke barriers both musically and socially. Led by a visionary frontman who crafted a sound that was groovy, political, and unmistakably original, the group's innovative arrangements and genre-defying style paved the way for future generations of artists. With tremendous influence on the evolution of popular music, their afro-centric vibrations continue to resonate.
No stranger to controversy, this flamboyant piano prodigy pushed boundaries with a wild onstage persona and a soulful fusion of gospel, R&B, and rock. His electrifying performances, unparalleled showmanship, and groundbreaking songs laid the foundation for rock and roll, inspiring countless artists who followed in his footsteps. Though he faced significant roadblocks due to both race and sexuality, his indomitable spirit and influential contributions stand testament to his status as a rock legend.
Blending the mind-altering sounds of psychedelic rock with heavy funk grooves, this eccentric collective broke new ground through intricate guitar interplay, and outlandish outfits that pushed the limits of convention. Fronted by the enigmatic George Clinton, their genre-defying tunes mixed social commentary with tongue-in-cheek humor, giving birth to a unique sound that would eventually be branded as P-Funk. Leaving an indelible mark on the development of music, their influence can still be heard across various contemporary genres.
A multi-instrumentalist prodigy with a voice that belies his age, this blind sensation wowed the world with his extraordinary musical talents and socially conscious songwriting. His immense creativity and ambition exploded during the 1970s, as he delved into funk, soul, and rock, paving the way for future African-American musicians to make their mark. Despite numerous awards and accolades, it's his impact on contemporary music and unyielding relevance that truly solidifies his place among the pantheon of rock artists.
No list would be complete without mentioning the late, great, reggae icon and his band, whose music transcended both genre and race, uniting people across the globe. Combining elements of rock, soul, and ska, their infectious tunes and stirring lyrics touched on themes of love, spirituality, and the struggle for freedom, creating a unique sound that has since become synonymous with the singer's name. Ingrained in popular culture and cemented as a symbol of rebellion and resistance, their legacy lives on through countless covers, adaptations, and tributes.
Fronted by the charismatic and fiercely talented Phil Lynott, this Irish outfit pioneered the "twin guitar" sound that would become a defining characteristic of hard rock. Marrying tough, bluesy riffs with folk-infused ballads, their music showcased Lynott's poetic storytelling and a distinctively evocative approach that set them apart from their contemporaries. Though often overlooked in the annals of rock history, their influence can be heard across multiple generations of musicians who've cited them as an inspiration.
Ushering in a new era of soulful, harmonious vocals and nigh-impeccable choreography, this legendary Motown ensemble's infectious tunes and impeccable stage presence struck a chord with audiences and critics alike. While initially gravitating towards R&B, their experimentation with psychedelic rock and funk would expand their sound and pave the way for new avenues within the genre. With numerous chart-topping hits and a legacy spanning over half a century, their contributions to the world of music are undeniable.
Spanning multiple decades and genres, this family band's musical journey saw them evolve from gospel and doo-wop roots to a dynamic and innovative rock-infused R&B sound. With Ernie Isley's guitar wizardry as a driving force, they crafted a slew of groundbreaking tunes that have since become staples in the lexicon of popular music. Having weathered numerous lineup changes and withstanding the test of time, their indelible mark on the industry is unquestionable.
Combining the raw intensity of punk with the rhythmic complexity of reggae, this innovative outfit wielded a ferocious sound that made them an influential force within the burgeoning hardcore scene. Distinguished by their breakneck tempos, intricate musicianship, and politically charged lyrics, these trailblazers demonstrated that rock music could, indeed, be both thought-provoking and moshpit-inducing. Despite numerous lineup changes and a career mired in controversy, their impact reverberates through generations of punk, metal, and alternative bands alike.
A multitalented performer who deftly maneuvers between various instruments, this enigmatic artist's signature blend of retro-inspired rock and soulful funk has earned him widespread acclaim and a string of chart-topping hits. Flaunting an unmistakable style - both sonically and aesthetically - his music harkens back to classic rock's golden era while simultaneously pushing the envelope with contemporary themes and sensibilities. As an unyielding force in pop culture for over three decades, his enduring appeal is proof that sometimes, the old ways are best.
Neither rhythm nor blues is quite the same without this titan of rock 'n' roll, whose iconic "Bo Diddley beat" and innovative guitar techniques laid the groundwork for future generations. A true original, his songs were a thrilling blend of African rhythms, call-and-response chants, and bluesy guitar licks that made him a trailblazer within the rock canon. Often imitated but never replicated, his enduring impact on popular music is irrefutable.
Laying down some of the most influential guitar riffs and mournful vocals in history, this prolific blues pioneer opened doors for African-American musicians and helped popularize the genre. Armed with a stripped-down, minimalist approach that placed emphasis on raw emotion, his hypnotic grooves and brooding lyrics captivated audiences around the world. As one of the most influential and widely covered artists in blues history, his lasting impact on rock and roll is nothing short of monumental.
Nicknamed "The Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," this powerhouse vocalist boasts a career spanning five decades, during which she has overcome adversity and defied the odds to become one of the greatest live performers in history. Blending raw R&B sensibilities with electrifying stage presence and dance-worthy grooves, her boundary-shattering sound and infectious energy have inspired generations of musicians. With numerous awards and accolades under her belt, her influence on popular culture is undeniable, and her indomitable spirit continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
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Boldly shattering racial stereotypes in the 1980s, this eclectic ensemble tackled a dizzying array of genres - from punk and ska to funk and metal - crafting a sound as diverse as their influences. Led by the charismatic Angelo Moore, their incessant energy and theatrical stage presence created a palpable sense of urgency that resonated with fans and critics alike. Though commercial success proved elusive, their innovative output and unflinching attitude have earned them a dedicated following and left an indelible mark on alternative rock.
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Unapologetically fusing together elements of funk, rock, R&B, reggae, and jazz, this genre-bending ensemble crafted a politically charged sound as diverse as the members themselves. Known for their extended jams and infectious grooves, the group's experimental approach and cross-cultural appeal made them one of the first multi-ethnic bands to achieve widespread commercial success. With numerous hits to their name and a legacy that continues to inspire, their contributions to popular culture are undeniable.
Formed in tumultuous times, this short-lived power trio showcased a different side to the incendiary talents of a certain legendary guitarist, as he delved into heavier, more experimental territory. Joined by bass virtuoso Billy Cox and drum maestro Buddy Miles, the group's mind-bending jams pushed the limits of musical expression while engaging in deeply personal, socially conscious themes. Though their time together was fleeting, their unique sound would go on to inspire legions of progressive and experimental rock artists for years to come.
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This proto-punk trio's propulsive sound and intense energy were ahead of their time, blazing trails with distorted riffs and socio-political lyrics that would later become hallmarks of punk rock. Despite disbanding before releasing an album, their groundbreaking material was rediscovered years later, garnering a cult following and cementing their place as punk-rock pioneers. Their innovative, barrier-breaking sound continues to influence the genre and inspire musicians today.
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Love
This formidable husband-wife duo's raw vocal prowess, powerful stage presence, and boundary-shattering blend of R&B, soul, and rock earned them international acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Despite a tumultuous relationship, their undeniable chemistry and dynamic performances went on to influence generations of musicians. As one of the most memorable partnerships in music history, their enduring impact on the world of rock is indisputable.
Defying genre conventions and pushing creative boundaries, this versatile act's fusion of indie rock, electronica, and soulful melodies has consistently garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. With a penchant for challenging societal norms and tackling themes of love, loss, and political unrest, their thought-provoking lyrics and innovative sound continue to make them stand out from the pack. As pioneers in modern alternative rock, their commitment to exploration and experimentation remains unwavering.
A master of reinvention, this jazz legend's foray into rock via electric fusion in the late 1960s and early '70s pushed the boundaries of both genres and solidified his place as a musical visionary. Though primarily known for his groundbreaking trumpet skills, his experimental approach and willingness to embrace new sounds influenced countless rock musicians and helped shape the evolution of music. With a staggering discography and a lasting impact on popular culture, his contributions to the world of rock are unequivocal.
Pioneers of alternative metal with a career spanning three decades, this aggressive outfit's explosive sound and high-energy performances have solidified their place within the heavy rock pantheon. Unafraid to tackle complex emotional themes and embodying a relentless work ethic, their consistently powerful output and unwavering commitment to their craft have earned them legions of fans and critical praise alike. As one of the standout acts in modern rock, their influence and dedication to pushing the envelope are undeniable.
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The Equals
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Introducing southern hip-hop to the masses with their genre-defying fusion of funk, soul, and psychedelic rock, this innovative duo became one of the most influential and critically acclaimed acts of the 1990s and 2000s. Boasting a distinctive sound, daring visuals, and boundary-breaking approach to both music and fashion, they've transcended hip-hop's limitations and left an inimitable impact on popular culture. As fearless pioneers in blending disparate musical styles, their influence reverberates through multiple genres, including rock.
One of the most iconic voices in soul music, this legendary singer-songwriter's emotive performances and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide and left an indelible mark on the industry. His powerful croon, infused with a gospel and blues-driven sensibility, transcended racial barriers and helped pave the way for future generations of soul and rock artists alike. Despite a short life tragically cut short, his influential sound and timeless songs continue to captivate fans old and new.
This multi-talented singer-songwriter, producer, and musician played a crucial role in shaping the sound of Southern soul, helping birth the influential Stax Records sound and paving the way for a new generation of funk and R&B artists. His unmistakable baritone voice and penchant for extended orchestral arrangements blurred the lines between soul, rock, and funk, resulting in a unique and innovative sound that would reverberate through popular culture. As a Grammy and Academy award-winning composer, his contributions to the world of music are incontestable.
One of the most iconic and influential blues artists in history, this gravel-voiced singer and guitarist left an indelible mark on the development of rock 'n' roll with his powerful performances and emotive songwriting. Known for his charismatic stage presence and raw, unfiltered sound, he helped shape the future of the genre and paved the way for countless artists to follow in his footsteps. Revered by legends like Eric Clapton and The Rolling Stones, his lasting impact on the world of rock cannot be overstated.
Often hailed as the "King of Soul," this golden-voiced crooner's smooth stylings and innovative songwriting bridged the gap between gospel, R&B, and pop, influencing generations of musicians to follow. From tender ballads to raucous dance tunes, his versatile talents and penchant for pushing boundaries helped pave the way for future African-American musicians to make their mark on the world stage. Though gone too soon, his timeless songs and enduring influence continue to resonate with fans and artists alike.
Arguably the most politically charged group in hip-hop history, this seminal outfit pushed sonic boundaries with their explosive fusion of rock, punk, and rap, crafting a sound that was both incendiary and infectious. Led by the iconic Chuck D and the irrepressible Flavor Flav, their groundbreaking output tackled issues of race, class, and social injustice, inspiring a generation of socially conscious musicians. As fearless innovators in both music and activism, their far-reaching impact on popular culture remains undeniable.
Formed by rapper and actor Ice-T, this controversial and provocative outfit melded the raw aggression of punk, the technicality of metal, and the lyrical force of hip-hop, creating a sound that was both groundbreaking and incendiary. Known for their explosive live shows and willingness to tackle contentious political issues, their unflinching commitment to artistic integrity and social commentary has earned them a dedicated fanbase and a place within the upper echelons of modern rock. As trailblazers in the fusion of disparate genres, their influence on popular culture is indisputable.
As the mastermind behind Sly & the Family Stone, this visionary frontman and multi-instrumentalist broke barriers with his innovative fusion of funk, rock, and soul, carving out new territory within the musical landscape. By embracing a diverse range of genres and incorporating politically charged lyrics, he crafted a sound that made waves across the industry and influenced countless artists in his wake. As a true trailblazer, his impact on popular music remains palpable.
A modern-day guitar hero, this virtuosic musician blends blues, rock, and soul with electrifying skill, earning comparisons to some of history's greatest axemen. His diverse musical palette and commitment to pushing creative boundaries have garnered him numerous accolades and a devoted fanbase, solidifying his place as one of the most exciting and innovative artists of his generation. As a torchbearer for the future of rock 'n' roll, his influence is already being felt across the industry.
As one of the first racially integrated bands in popular music, this trailblazing instrumental outfit pioneered the "Memphis sound" and helped revolutionize the world of soul and R&B. With their unique blend of organ-driven grooves, crisp guitar licks, and tight rhythms, they provided the backbone for countless Stax Records hits and influenced subsequent generations of rock, soul, and funk musicians. As both a groundbreaking ensemble and session players par excellence, their impact on popular music is irrefutable.
True pioneers in the realm of funk-rock, this genre-defying ensemble broke racial barriers in the 1970s with their electrifying fusion of rock, soul, and funk, creating a sound that was both innovative and infectious. Anchored by powerful vocals and a tight, dynamic rhythm section, their passionate performances and incisive lyrics earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. As trailblazers in the blending of genres and cultures, their influence on the rock scene is unquestionable.
Armed with angular riffs, propulsive rhythms, and introspective lyrics, this indie rock quartet broke onto the scene in the early 2000s and quickly gained acclaim for their innovative approach to post-punk revival. With a penchant for experimentation and a willingness to explore beyond genre boundaries, their fusion of rock, electronica, and dance music has proven both influential and enduring. As one of the standout acts of the underground rock renaissance, their contributions to popular culture are undeniable.
Fronted by the smooth, soulful vocals of Darius Rucker, this South Carolina-based quartet dominated the airwaves in the 1990s with their infectious blend of rock, pop, and folk. Their heartfelt, relatable lyrics and toe-tapping tunes resonated with fans across the globe, earning them multiplatinum status and a permanent place in the pantheon of '90s rock royalty. As one of the era's most successful bands, their influence on popular culture is indisputable.
Armed with an unmistakable voice and a gift for evocative storytelling, this singer-songwriter's heartfelt fusion of folk, rock, and pop has captivated audiences for over three decades. Infused with a deep sense of social consciousness, her introspective lyrics tackle themes ranging from love and loss to political activism and the human experience. As an enduring figure in popular music, her influence on the rock and folk landscapes is indelible.
The godmother of rock 'n' roll, Sister Rosetta Tharpe's pioneering guitar techniques, and powerful voice laid the groundwork for future generations of artists. In partnership with Marie Knight, the duo became a force in gospel music with their captivating harmonies and innovative blending of spiritual, rock, and blues sounds. As trailblazing women in a male-dominated industry, their lasting impact on rock history is indisputable.
Wielding a unique blend of metalcore aggression and soaring melody, this influential quintet has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between heavy metal and mainstream rock. With passionate vocals, intricate guitar work, and thought-provoking lyrics, their powerful sound and unyielding commitment to their craft have earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. As trailblazers within the metalcore genre, their far-reaching impact on rock music continues to be felt across the industry.
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Skunk Anansie
Fronted by the fierce and powerful Skin, this alternative rock outfit made waves in the 1990s with their incendiary blend of punk, metal, and electronic sounds. Known for tackling themes like race, sexuality, and politics, their provocative lyrics and explosive live performances garnered them both a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. As trailblazers within the rock scene, their legacy of breaking barriers and pushing boundaries endures.
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Fusing elements of rock, punk, metal, and reggae, this genre-defying Welsh outfit boasts a truly unique sound that has earned them legions of fans and critical acclaim. With charismatic frontman Benji Webbe at the helm, their high-octane live performances are equal parts moshpit-inducing and crowd-pleasing. As one of the standout acts in the modern rock scene, their boundary-pushing hybridization of genres is unmistakably influential.
Heralded by the soulful, powerhouse vocals of Brittany Howard, this Grammy-winning rock band quickly gained acclaim for their electrifying blend of blues, rock, and Southern soul. Fueled by raw emotion, tight musicianship, and a knack for crafting unforgettable hooks, their timeless tunes struck a chord with fans and critics alike. As champions of a classic yet innovative sound and a testament to rock's enduring spirit, their influence on popular culture is indisputable.
- 47Cameo is an American soul-influenced funk group that formed in the early 1970s. Cameo was initially a 13-member group known as the New York City Players; this name was later changed to Cameo to avoid a lawsuit from Ohio Players, another group from that era. As of 2009, some of the original members continue to perform together, while two others were hired by the hip hop group Outkast. Cameo was a top R&B/Funk band in an era with notable peers such as: Rick James, Parliament-Funkadelic, Bar-Kays, Earth, Wind & Fire, Ohio Players and The Isley Brothers, and singers like Marvin Gaye, Billy Paul, Prince, Isaac Hayes, Stevie Wonder, and Bootsy Collins.
An undeniable influence on countless guitar heroes, this blues legend's signature string-bending style and soulful vocals inspired a new generation of musicians to push the boundaries of rock and roll. Known for his commanding stage presence and electrifying performances, his timeless tunes continue to resonate with fans both old and new. As one of the "Three Kings of the Blues Guitar," his impact on popular music and the world of rock is immeasurable.
By fusing elements of hip-hop, Latin, and rock, this pioneering outfit broke ground in the early '90s with their distinctive sound and their championing of cannabis culture. With B-Real's peculiar nasal delivery and DJ Muggs' innovative beats, they expanded the boundaries of rap music and influenced a generation of hip-hop and rock artists alike. As trailblazers in genre-defying fusion, their impact on popular culture endures.
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Perhaps best known for his role as a pioneering hip-hop artist, this multifaceted performer also made waves with his incendiary fusion of rap and rock as the frontman of Body Count. Fearlessly tackling contentious political issues and pushing sonic boundaries, his provocative output has blurred the lines between genres and garnered both controversy and acclaim. With an indomitable spirit and an unwavering commitment to artistic integrity, his influence on popular culture and the world of rock is undeniable.
Breaking racial barriers with their infectious blend of rock 'n' roll, R&B, and new wave, this genre-defying group rose to prominence in the 1980s with a series of high-profile TV and film appearances. Led by the charismatic Brian O'Neal, their energetic performances, catchy hooks, and infectious grooves earned them both a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. As pioneers in the world of rock, their enduring influence is undeniable.
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Fronting the eponymous band that bears her name, this Nigerian-British singer-songwriter's sultry fusion of jazz, R&B, and rock has made her a global icon. Known for her velvety voice and elegant stage presence, her timeless tunes have captivated audiences for over three decades. With multiple Grammy awards to her name and a lasting influence on pop culture, her place within the pantheon of rock artists is undeniably secure.
- Janelle Monáe was never a typical R&B singer. She based her music around a science fiction concept of a dystopian world called "Metropolis," and developed the alter ego of an android, Cindi Mayweather, living in the year 2719. For all the visionary trappings of her music, Monáe was also a straightforward pop singer who fully engaged with the 21st-century pop mainstream, starring in makeup commercials for a major international brand and finding success in the animated cartoon feature "Rio 2" (2014) and period drama "Hidden Figures" (2016). Janelle Monáe Robinson was born on December 1, 1985 in Kansas City, Kansas. As a child, Monáe often lived in her own imaginary world, which would later inspire her music. Monáe moved to New York to study drama at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, and also went to a performing arts school called Freedom Theatre in Philadelphia. Monáe moved to Atlanta in 2001, where she met her early mentor, rapper and producer Big Boi from OutKast. Founding her own arts collective and record label, Wondaland Arts Society, Monáe self-released her first EP, The Audition. Although The Audition didn't get much exposure, it did bring Monáe to the attention of Sean "Puffy" Combs, who signed her to his Bad Boy label in 2006. There, Monáe began plotting out an ambitious series of concept recordings collectively known as "Metropolis," the story of a runaway android named Cindi Mayweather in the year 2719. First came the EP Metropolis: Suite 1 (The Chase), a critically-acclaimed released that earned Monáe an opening slot for No Doubt in 2009. Monáe kept forging ahead with the Metropolis concept, releasing her full-length debut The ArchAndroid in 2010. Featuring the hit singles "Tightrope" and "Cold War," the acclaimed album was nominated for Best Contemporary R&B Album at the 53rd Grammy Awards. Monáe also won the ASCAP Vanguard Award at the Billboard Music Awards in 2010. In keeping the multimedia reality of modern pop stardom, Monáe then became a spokeswoman for an extensive TV and print ad campaign for CoverGirl, and also appeared in commercials for Sonos Wireless HiFi. Monáe became a bona fide pop star when her guest performance on the song "We Are Young" by the New York alt-rock act Fun. became a number-one hit in 2012. Monáe's second solo album, The Electric Lady, came out in September 2013, continuing the Metropolis storyline and featuring the hit single "Q.U.E.E.N.," with a guest spot by Queen Latifah. She then performed at a "Women of Soul" concert at the White House along with legends Patti LaBelle, Aretha Franklin, and more. In addition to her successful music career, Monáe provided the voice of Dr. Monáe in the animated hit "Rio 2" (2014), and also wrote and performed a song for the soundtrack, "What Is Love." Monae's acting career took a major stride forward with her starring role alongside Octavia Spencer in the '60s-set NASA-based drama "Hidden Figures" (2016). Following a five-year break from music, which she attributed partly to the death of her idol and latter-day mentor Prince, Monáe returned with the album Dirty Computer in April 2018. While doing press for the album, Monáe addressed her sexuality for the first time, declaring herself "pansexual" in an interview with Rolling Stone.
Armed with a blistering punk sound, biting humor, and politically charged lyrics, this influential outfit helped shape the face of American punk rock in the 1980s. Eschewing major-label support in favor of a fiercely independent, DIY approach, their uncompromising stance on both music and politics left an indelible mark on the underground rock scene. As one of the most iconic punk bands in history, their influence on popular culture is irrefutable.
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X-Ray Spex
X-Ray Spex were an English punk rock band from London that formed in 1976. During their first incarnation (1976–79), X-Ray Spex were "deliberate underachievers" and only managed to release five singles and one album. Nevertheless, their first single, "Oh Bondage Up Yours!", is now acknowledged as a classic punk rock single and the album Germfree Adolescents is widely acclaimed as a classic album of the punk rock genre. - 56Nonpoint is an American heavy metal band from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The band currently consists of vocalist Elias Soriano, drummer Robb Rivera, guitarists Rasheed Thomas and B.C. Kochmit, and bassist Adam Woloszyn. They are currently signed with Razor & Tie and released their latest album, The Return, on September 30th, 2014.
- 57Radkey is an American rock band. Radkey consists of three home-schooled brothers from St. Joseph, Missouri. Isaiah Radke (bass), Solomon Radke (drums), and Dee Radke (lead vocals and guitar) who formed their family-titled band in 2010, and played their first show in 2011 when they opened for Fishbone.
- 59Free were an English rock band formed in London in 1968, best known for their 1970 signature song "All Right Now". They disbanded in 1973 and lead singer Paul Rodgers went on to become the frontman of the band Bad Company, which also featured his Free bandmate Simon Kirke on drums. Lead guitarist Paul Kossoff formed Back Street Crawler in 1975, but died from a pulmonary embolism at the age of 25 in 1976. Bassist Andy Fraser formed Sharks.Free became renowned for their live shows and non-stop touring. However, their studio albums did not sell very well until their third, Fire and Water, featured the massive hit "All Right Now". The song helped secure them a place at the Isle of Wight Festival 1970, where they played to 600,000 people. In the early 1970s, Free became one of the biggest-selling British blues rock groups; by the time they disbanded, they had sold more than 20 million albums around the world and had played more than 700 arena and festival concerts. "All Right Now" remains a rock staple and has been entered in ASCAP's "One Million" airplay singles club.Rolling Stone has referred to the band as "British hard rock pioneers". The magazine ranked Rodgers No. 55 in its list of the "100 Greatest Singers of All Time", while Kossoff was ranked No. 51 in its list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time". Free were signed to Island Records in the UK and A&M Records in North America. Both labels became part of the PolyGram group in 1989, then Universal Music Group (UMG) in 1998; UMG now controls the band's catalogue worldwide.
- Cody Chesnutt (stylized as Cody ChesnuTT) is an American R&B and neo soul musician from Atlanta, Georgia.
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Jon Butcher Axis
- Born on October 28, 1969, in Pomona, California, Benjamin Chase Harper is an iconic figure in the music industry. He is best known for his unique blend of reggae, blues, rock, soul, and folk genres in his music. Harper found his love for music at a very young age, thanks to his family-owned music store. This early exposure led him to master an array of instruments, including the guitar, slide guitar, and keyboards. Harper's breakthrough into mainstream success came in 1994 with his debut album, Welcome to the Cruel World. His distinct sound and poignant lyrics quickly resonated with audiences worldwide. One of his most famous songs, "Burn One Down," from the 1995 album "Fight for Your Mind" has become an anthem for the singer-songwriter genre. Throughout his career, Harper has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and won three Grammy Awards, testament to his musical prowess and influence. Beyond the music, Harper is also recognized for his social activism. He is deeply committed to causes such as environmental conservation and the fight against racial discrimination. His activism is often reflected in his songwriting, where he uses his platform to voice his concerns and inspire change. Despite his fame and success, Harper remains grounded, focusing not only on his music but also on making a positive impact in the world through his actions and artistry.
