The Secret Behind Sweet Home Alabama
Sweet Home Alabama is one of those classic rock songs that’s great to sing along to. It’s hard to imagine anyone over the age of 40 that doesn’t know this …
7 Greatest Hair Rock Bands of the 1980s
Hair rock was the most notorious music genre of the 1980s. With over-the-top outfits, tabloid-worthy antics, and plenty of hairspray, these bands occupied every corner of American culture for a …
Why You Should Go to the Beale Street Music Festival
The Beale Street Music Festival brings incredible artists to downtown Memphis each year. If you love spending time outside while listening to live music, you won’t want to miss this …
Is Graceland Worth a Visit?
You may be wondering if going to Graceland would be worth a side trip when visiting Memphis. Elvis superfans and other curious tourists make the pilgrimage to this iconic mansion …
The Zombies Scam That Involved ZZ Top’s Dusty Hill and Frank Beard
The Zombies Scam is a funny footnote in the history of rock and roll. It’s when a fake band, including two up-and-coming rockers, tried to cash in on an established …
7 Greatest Hits by Queen
The 1970s produced some fantastic bands, Queen being one of them. As lyricists, they were collectively strong, with each member writing songs. And as musicians, they meshed together incredibly well. …
The Making and Breaking of a Band: Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young
The tale of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young is an interesting one. First, there was Crosby, Stills, and Nash, or CSN, which became CSNY with the addition of yet another …
Why Did Rush Break Up?
The rock band Rush has left a powerful musical mark that may indeed be timeless. But sadly, for its legion of fans, the group bowed out gracefully in 2016. While …
5 Greatest Progressive Rock Songs
Progressive rock songs defined a generation and carry their intensity into present times. This style of music is heavily based on music theory and narrative fantasy, with storylines so elaborate …
7 Songs That Defined the 80s
We think certain 80s songs stand above the rest. While some people say no good music came out of that decade, we like to think these seven great hits prove …
7 Greatest Hair Rock Bands of the 1980s
Hair rock was the most notorious music genre of the 1980s. With over-the-top outfits, tabloid-worthy antics, and plenty of hairspray, these bands occupied every corner of American culture for a …
Why You Should Go to the Beale Street Music Festival
The Beale Street Music Festival brings incredible artists to downtown Memphis each year. If you love spending time outside while listening to live music, you won’t want to miss this …
Is Graceland Worth a Visit?
You may be wondering if going to Graceland would be worth a side trip when visiting Memphis. Elvis superfans and other curious tourists make the pilgrimage to this iconic mansion …
The Zombies Scam That Involved ZZ Top’s Dusty Hill and Frank Beard
The Zombies Scam is a funny footnote in the history of rock and roll. It’s when a fake band, including two up-and-coming rockers, tried to cash in on an established …
7 Greatest Hits by Queen
The 1970s produced some fantastic bands, Queen being one of them. As lyricists, they were collectively strong, with each member writing songs. And as musicians, they meshed together incredibly well. …
The Making and Breaking of a Band: Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young
The tale of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young is an interesting one. First, there was Crosby, Stills, and Nash, or CSN, which became CSNY with the addition of yet another …
Why Did Rush Break Up?
The rock band Rush has left a powerful musical mark that may indeed be timeless. But sadly, for its legion of fans, the group bowed out gracefully in 2016. While …
5 Greatest Progressive Rock Songs
Progressive rock songs defined a generation and carry their intensity into present times. This style of music is heavily based on music theory and narrative fantasy, with storylines so elaborate …
7 Songs That Defined the 80s
We think certain 80s songs stand above the rest. While some people say no good music came out of that decade, we like to think these seven great hits prove …
Who Is the Man With the Golden Ears?
You might’ve heard Clive Davis called the man with the golden ears. As one of the most influential record executives of the 20th century, he mentored some of the biggest …
7 Greatest Patty Loveless Songs
Patty Loveless songs are known for their emotional lyrics and contemporary twang. As one of the most popular voices of her time, Patty Loveless paved the way for countless female …
Where is Garfunkel Today?
Garfunkel was a legendary part of the 70s folk scene, but where is he today? And what was his relationship with Paul Simon really like? We did a deep dive …
The Evolution of Angel from Montgomery
Angel from Montgomery is a cherished song among many music fans. Numerous artists have covered the hit. But one very talented female singer specifically stands out. Some may even think …
The Greatest Classic Rock Songs About Witches
Some of the greatest classic rock songs are about witches. Often these storied witches are just pretty ladies who make men uncomfortable, sometimes they’re metaphors, and sometimes we have no …
What Is Shania Twain’s Real Name?
Of all the things Shania Twain is known for, her real name isn’t one of them. When Twain joined Harry Styles on stage at Coachella in April 2022, her star …
The Greatest 90s Love Songs
When you think of the 90s, which great love songs come to mind? The 90s were full of loud, bold new music genres with attitude. The romantic side of the …
Will the Foo Fighters Ever Be the Same?
The rock music world received a blow recently when the drummer of Foo Fighters died while on tour in Colombia. Taylor Hawkins, 50, exuded a contagious joy and enthusiasm in …
Who Had a Better Career, Garth Brooks or George Strait?
You don’t have to live in Nashville to have heard of Garth Brooks or George Strait. They’re members of the Country Music Hall of Fame and two of the most …
5 Greatest Southern Rock Songs
What do you think of when you hear the phrase Southern rock songs? Maybe you think of Lynyrd Skynyrd and something that sounds a bit country, but also a little …
Who Are Bob Dylan’s Children?
Bob Dylan’s known for many things, good and bad, but he’s definitely not known for his children. Did you know he has six kids? You’ll most likely know some of …
Great Musicians
7 Great Singers Who Were Born in Alabama
Alabama is home to some incredible singers that left a huge influence on American music. After all, there’s a reason the people call this state the Heart of Dixie. Who are …
The Story of The Monkees
The Monkees, a made-for-TV rock group created for a sitcom, became one of the most adored bands of the 60s. From a casual beginning to somewhat of a musical phenomenon, …
How Did Steely Dan Get Their Name?
American rock band Steely Dan influenced an entire generation of music with their eclectic style. They fused rock, pop, and jazz to create some of the greatest hits of their …
5 Great Musicians Who Called Seattle Home
Some of the best musicians of our time have come from Seattle. While you likely know of a few famous Pacific Northwest artists, you may be surprised to discover others …
The Evolution of David Bowie
David Bowie was an iconic figure with a unique evolution. As one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, people were paying close attention. But it was more …
Why Is Yes Called Yes?
A band’s name is important, and the legendary British group Yes may have one of the best of all time. It’s short, easy to spell, and undoubtedly positive. And it …
Whatever Happened to PJ Harvey?
No other artist commands attention quite like PJ Harvey. Both daring and soft, her visceral yowls leave men lusting after her and women wanting to be her. But rather than …
Was Whitesnake a One-Hit Wonder?
The iconic rock group Whitesnake helped shape the sound of the 1980s. When we think of hair metal, this band immediately comes to mind. But many people might only know …
The Greatest Women of Punk Rock
Some of the greatest musicians in the punk rock genre were women. And if you’re a dedicated music fan, you likely know of at least a few females in this …
Who Is Hootie from Hootie & The Blowfish?
We asked the question that’s been on your mind since hearing the hit Only Wanna Be With You over 20 years ago: “Who is Hootie?” The answer we found might …
7 Great Rock Bands Who Turned Disco
Disco was equal parts counterculture scene and dance music, but traditional rock bands tended to steer clear of the genre. However, the excess associated with disco may have appealed to …
Where Was Garth Brooks’ First Gig?
Like most musicians, Garth Brooks had humble beginnings for his first gig. Before he elevated country music to the mainstream, the icon played in Oklahoma venues near where he grew up. …
What Is Bob Dylan’s Real Name
Bob Dylan has one of the most recognizable voices in the world, but casual fans may not know his real name. It’s not unusual for stars to have a stage …
What Country Music Star is Dubbed Master of the Telecaster?
If any musician deserves the title Master of the Telecaster, it’s Vince Gill. The country-western superstar has dazzled audiences with his playing and singing since the 1980s. Known for his …
Cream: The Supergroup That Defined Blues-Rock
As far as rock bands go, Cream might hold the record for the shortest history with the longest legacy. While you may think you’ve never heard of them, these lyrics …
Where Is Bob Seger Now?
Bob Seger spent nearly 60 years writing music and performing live. With his distinctive voice and uniquely nostalgic lyrics, Seger churned out some of the greatest hits of the 1970s. …
Who Founded Lilith Fair?
In the 90s, musicians shook up the music scene with the Lilith Fair. Of course, many great touring music festivals got their start during that time such as Lollapalooza, Coachella, …
Is Debbie Harry of Blondie Still Singing?
When Debbie Harry hit the New York punk scene in the 1970s, she changed rock and roll forever. With her band, Blondie, Harry created a new sound combining the best …
Did Steven Tyler Release a Country Album?
When most people hear the name Steven Tyler, they likely don’t think of him as a country star. Instead, he’s best known for his rocking stage presence with Aerosmith. But …
Unbelievable Secrets About The Beatles That Will Shock You!
The Beatles are one of the most famous bands of all time, but they have their fair share of secrets. The group influenced generations of music to come with their …
Is Hans Zimmer the Greatest Film Composer Ever?
Hans Zimmer is one of the most sought-after film composers in history. You may not know him by name, but you’ve likely heard his work. Known for his massive soundscapes …
7 Greatest Stevie Nicks Songs
We’ve all probably jammed out to a song by Stevie Nicks before. Between her solo work and her time with Fleetwood Mac, she’s released over fifteen albums filled with great …
What is Outsider Music?
Outsider music isn’t just a subgenre; it’s a celebration of self-expression. Pioneered by unskilled musicians with few resources, this music style became well-known during the 20th century. Even if you’ve …
John Williams: The Jazz Musician You Didn’t Think You Knew
Even if you aren’t a music nerd, John Williams is a name you’ve heard before. Known primarily for his iconic film scores, it turns out he has a forgotten past. …
5 Greatest Billy Ray Cyrus Songs
You’ve probably heard of Billy Ray Cyrus if you love country music. He’s released more than 50 singles in the last 30 years. With a track record like his, selecting …
Who Discovered Tina Turner?
Tina Turner is a music icon that many refer to as the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. While her career dates back to the 1950s, her story doesn’t start there. …
Are Dolly Parton’s Breasts Real?
When she’s not making headlines for her music or philanthropy, Dolly Parton’s breasts capture media attention. Everything about the country music icon is larger than life. From her hair and …
What the Hell Happened to Paula Cole?
Paula Cole wrote and sang some of the biggest hits of the 90s. She won a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1998 and a BMI Pop Award for her …
Why Does Third Eye Blind Get No Respect?
Few bands represent the joy of 90s alt-rock quite like Third Eye Blind. The group dominated the radio dial in the later years of the decade. The band’s string of …
5 Best Natalie Merchant Songs
Natalie Merchant was among the most popular college radio artists of the 80s and 90s. Back in the day, a certain set of softer yet edgy songs got airplay on …
11 Best Eagles Songs
Chances are pretty good that you can name at least a few Eagles songs. Classic rock radio stations around the country play their hits with regularity. And, the Eagles truly …
Music News
The Story Behind All You Need Is Love by The Beatles
The Beatles sang All You Need Is Love to the world during the summer of 1967. And the world responded, at least in some small way. As designed, The Beatles’ …
5 Greatest Songs of the 1960s Hippie Movement
The 1960s wouldn’t have been the same without all the hippie songs from that time period. It’s hard to imagine that decade and not picture young people with long hair …
5 Greatest Protest Songs of the 1970s
Protest songs were as much a part of 1970s music as love, sex, and drugs were. The decade exploded historically and culturally in all directions. Sure, we had the sexual …
The Evolution of the Record
The evolution of the record began with a need to preserve and replay sound. They made it possible to hear music apart from a live performance for the first time …
Was Cleveland the Birthplace of Rock and Roll?
Cleveland, of all places, has long been hailed as the birthplace of rock and roll. The style upended traditionally held racial lines in music and entertainment. In the early 1950s, …
The Controversy Behind Rock Around the Clock
If you need an introduction to how it all began, just put on Rock Around The Clock. This song sonically personifies how rock and roll started in the uptight decade …
Boston Is Calling You to Their Greatest Music Festival
Music lovers won’t want to miss this great Boston music festival. Every Memorial Day weekend, Boston Calling brings big-name artists to the city to perform for thousands of attendees. While …
Alan Freed: The Father of Rock and Roll
If you love rock and roll music or enjoy listening to the radio, the name Alan Freed may be familiar to you. While he had his troubles, Freed etched his …
The Evolution of Jazz
Scholars, moviemakers, and music nerds love to talk about the evolution of jazz. However, the same isn’t true about other genres like garage rock or disco. Many music styles are …
7 Greatest Rush Songs
Rush is a band with dozens of hit songs under their belts. Their story is indeed impressive, from their first show in a church basement to sold-out stadiums across the …
Great Albums*
7 Musicians Who Teamed Up With Artists to Create Album Cover Art
They say, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” but what about album cover art? Musicians often pour as much of themselves into cover images as they do into their …
Revisit Bob Dylan’s Desire Album If You’ve Forgotten His Genius
Bob Dylan’s Desire album is a prime example of him at the height of his genius. It highlights that he’s one of the most prolific, controversial, and long-lasting songwriters of …
What’s The Greatest Greatest Hits Album of All Time?
Johnny Mathis released the first greatest hits album, Johnny’s Greatest Hits, in 1958. It spent three weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Pop LP Chart. Now, it’s common for artists to …
5 Albums That Prove You Love Great Music
If you think you love great music, we’re here to test that theory! Of course, opinions on what great music is can be subjective. What one person thinks is great, …
The Joe Dirt Soundtrack Is Surprisingly Amazing
Whether or not you’ve seen the movie, you’ll want to check out the Joe Dirt soundtrack. The classic rock collection boasts excellent songs from solid musicians. We’ll walk you through …
Blow’s Classic Rock Soundtrack Perfectly Captures the Movie
The era-encapsulating Blow soundtrack is classic rock gold. It captures the sensibility of the film and the decades in which it takes place. Director Ted Demme paid great attention to …
The Greatest Southern Rock Albums
The greatest Southern Rock albums are American treasures. They paint a 70s imagery of rock but aren’t contained to that decade. They vary in subject matter, from simple booze tunes …
Is Astral Weeks a Concept Album?
Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks is considered one of the most impactful albums in music history. It’s inspired countless musicians since its release in 1968. The eight songs recorded for the …
What Guitar Did Bob Dylan Play for Blood on the Tracks?
Blood on the Tracks is one of Bob Dylan’s most acclaimed and beloved albums. It’s a haunting portrait of his personal and musical lives coming together. The record featured one …
What Was Bruce Springsteen’s First Album?
Bruce Springsteen’s first album wasn’t the one that made him a star. That would take another two years. In hindsight, though, that debut record shows more than a glimmer of …
7 Cover Songs That Are Better Than the Original
Songwriters don’t usually anticipate that a cover of any of their songs will be better than the original. But artists have been successfully reimagining existing tunes forever. You might be …
7 Greatest 10,000 Maniacs Songs
Iconic folk-rock band 10,000 Maniacs had many hits in their 35-year run. But how can you pick a favorite with so many excellent songs to choose from? We’ve done the …
Is Money For Nothing a Homophobic Song?
Money for Nothing includes a word that many people wouldn’t tolerate if released today. Dire Straits would likely feel the impact of cancel culture so prevalent now. However, language and …
Everybody Wants to Rule the World: A Perfect Song Explained
The decade associated with greed and excess has a perfect anthem in Everybody Wants to Rule the World. Pop music is chock full of songs about desire. However, this great …
Is 80s INXS Better than 90s INXS?
If you were of a certain age in the 90s, you’re likely very aware of INXS. While they didn’t get much attention in the internet age, their legacy is profound. …
What Was the Original Name for Matchbox Twenty?
You couldn’t scan radio stations in the late 90s and early 2000s without hearing a Matchbox Twenty song. The band experienced a great amount of success, including multiple multi-platinum albums. …
7 Worst 90s Pop Rock Bands
Millennials and Gen Xers are quick to wax nostalgic about their favorite 90s pop-rock bands. Like their parents before them, they claim their generation’s music is better than anything new. …
Do The Isley Brothers Still Exist?
If you’ve heard the 1963 song Twist and Shout, then you know the soulful sounds of The Isley Brothers. The siblings have played R&B music together for just shy of …
5 Greatest Songs by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Few rock and rollers are as beloved as Tom Petty. This singer-songwriter and his band, the Heartbreakers, left their mark on roots and heartland rock. Even if you don’t own …
According to U2, Where Do the Streets Have No Name?
The Irish rock band U2’s hit tune Where the Streets Have No Name is just one of the group’s numerous great songs. Lyrically, the meaning of this track encompasses many …