Top 10 Most Influential Music Artists of All Time
The Beatles were an English pop rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960. The members consisted of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. They were soon known as the foremost and most influential act of rock era. Rooted in skiffle, beat, and 1950s rock and roll, the Beatles later experimented with several genres, ranging from pop ballads and Indian music to psychedelia and hard rock, often incorporating classical elements in innovative ways. ...read more. Creative studio geniuses is what this group really were. This is their legacy and how they should be remembered and revered. Their commercial success was almost in spite of what they were doing rather than because of it. Don't forget they only toured for the first 3 years of their career and for the rest from the end of 65 until their split at the end of 69 they just locked themselves in the office. Yes they had to keep the record labels happy so they would throw out a number 1 every few months to achieve that. But it wasn't their focus and isn't how they should be assessed. Their ground-breaking studio recording techniques and song writing experimentation are the core of this group, and they laid the foundations for the 50 years of rock and pop music that has followed, leaving no area of music untouched by their influence. They belong in a category entirely on their own.
John Lennon had the greatest voice of all time, and was the greatest lyricist of all time. Strawberry a Fields a Forever, A Day in the Life, In My Life, and Girl are some of the greatest songs ever. Paul McCartney is right behind Brian Wilson when it comes to melody. I mean Hey Jude, Let It Be, Blackbird, etc. George Harrison is behind Hendrix and Berry when it comes to most important guitarist, with songs like something, while My Guitar Gently Weeps, and Here Comes the Sun. And Ringo is a very talented drummer. This is the most important band of all time. They created the album as an art form with the help of Dylan and Wilson. They created the music video, the stadium rock concert, they changed studio recording almost 100%, and they inspired more people to pick up guitars, basses, drums, and microphones than any other musician ever.
I see a lot of dissing of Beatles influence on these rankings. take it from someone who's lived thru music morphing from bobby sox crooners thru todays electronic stuff - the Beatles changed the course of popular music! Because of their exposure as children to many various styles of music due to living in the port city of Liverpool (seamen brought back music from around the world) they blended those many styles into their own unique style, while their choice to use only rhythm, bass & lead guitars with drums was a radical idea in the early 60's. Also insisting on being their own songwriters was something that was NOT DONE til they forced the issue. As they matured they grew as musicians & songwriters, always pushing the envelope of musical composing and recording. Because of the era & situation they were born into, not to mention their combined musical genius, there will never again be a confluence of factors that join to form the influential greatness that was the Beatles.
The Beatles made their debut long before Michael Jackson and were far more experimental. They even gave up touring to be more experimental. Without them, Michael Jackson might not have become a musical artist and we'd still be in the classical era. They released 200+ songs in less than a decade. Could you live without the Beatles if it meant no Beach Boys, the Who, the Kinks, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Genesis, Rush, Iron Maden, Radio Head, Muse, Coldplay, Keane and a countless number of other bands inspired by the Beatles. Michael Jackson doesn't come close in terms of influence. Also, they did NOT copy Justin Bieber. Anyone who says they did is either a troll or an idiot. Justin Bieber didn't exist back then. If anything, crappy musical artists like Justin Bieber, One Direction, and Niki Manaj copied them.
Michael Jackson (Michael Joseph Jackson; August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009) was an American singer, dancer, and songwriter. He passed away from cardiac arrest caused by a propofol and benzodiazepine overdose on June 25, 2009. He donated (at least) a remarkable 500,000,000 dollars to charity. Michael is also known as The King of Pop (a title given to him by Elizabeth Taylor) or under the initials MJ. Dubbed the King of Pop, he is regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20th century. ...read more. The greatest artist, the greatest entertainer, a superb composer, a brilliant person in terms of business and making music and most importantly a great humanitarian and a good person though a bit odd sometimes but it is what made him magical, cosmic and unique... he broke a lot of records having 31 Guinness world records including best entertainer of all time, an artist who donated most to charities donating not less than $350 million, best selling album of all time, highest paid artist of all time and many more. He is the most popular and the most famous.. Though a lot of elvis and Beatles fans won't agree.. however wherever site you go, still Michael Jackson remains at the top.. moreover some may not say so especially if you're a westerner but the fact is that he is the most famous in the whole world, ask anyone, may it be illiterate, someone from the alps or someone who knows no civilization, if you mention the name "Michael JACKSON" then they'd all smile and say "hey I know that ...more
Michael Jackson was by far the greatest entertainer in history of Show Business. Michael could do it all: Sing, Dance, Write music for himself as well as other artists, Compose, Organize, Choreograph everything that most artists including the so-called king of rock and roll could never do himself. Michael Jackson accomplished a great many things in his 50 years of life. He would have accomplished a lot more that he lived on. None of this begins to describe the magic and electricity Michael brought to show business and what he brought to the music industry. Not to mention all the money he's generously and selfllessly donated to charitable causes over the years. None of this begins to describe the magic and electricity Michael brought to show business in particular the music industry. In my opinion Michael Joseph Jackson, "The King of Pop" should be ranked number ONE!
Elvis Presley opened the doors worldwide for white people to listen to black music ( in the fifties they were separated at radios for Airplay ). B.B. King, James Brown, Little Richard etc... all said it. Elvis made black music popular. I'm not here to give critics at the talent of Michael Jackson but without Elvis, Michael would never made it in popularity ( not because of his talent but because of racial issues ) and therefore never be able to be influential. I think Elvis should be number one, The Beatles number two and Michael Jackson number three. Since we're not talking about talent or taste on this list but about influence I believe that my statement has some truth when it comes to popular cultural facts in the history of music. Don't get me wrong, I love Michael Jackson ( especcially his late seventies records and early eighties records ) but Elvis Presley deserves to be above him on this list.
Michael Jackson is the world's all time greatest entertainer. Michael Jackson is incomperable when it comes to music. Jackson's talent was natural, almost too natural to be compared to any artists in his era or in today's music. Jackson was not only one of the best vocalists, but the greatest dancer. Michael Jackson created all his dance moves and danced with perfection. Michael Jackson inspired so many artists today like Pharrel Williams, Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown, Usher, Bruno Mars, Kanye West, Beyoncé, The Weeknd, and so much more. Michael Jackson was so influential that he even influenced the Hip -Hop music. In thirty to fifty years from now, believe me, people would still hear and listen to the music of Michael Jackson.
Elvis Aaron Presley (January 8, 1935 – August 16, 1977) was an American singer and actor. Dubbed the "King of Rock and Roll", he is regarded as one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century. His energized interpretations of songs and sexually provocative performance style, combined with a singularly potent mix of influences across color lines during a transformative era in race relations, led him to both great success and initial controversy. ...read more. Obviously the most influential of all time. All of the artist that are above and below would tell you that. That voice, charisma, those hips & lips. The remarkable ability he had to connect with an audience. One billion people watched aloha from Hawaii - on average half a million people from around the world visit Graceland ( the most visited residence, 2nd only to the whit House) He mixed multiple genres to create a sound, even thoug, it was just instinct. Humble, fun loving and loved all over the world to this Day. Hard to believe that he has that much influence globally, both then and today. He's the most imitated, impersonated man there is. Yep, he's the king. I'm only 40 so don't presume I'm a baby boomer.
There has been no other artist that changed the course of music as did Elvis. Further his legacy continues to grow 40 years after his passing. No other single person has come close to what Elvis did and is doing spanning genres and generations. He is a favorite of my Mother, myself and my children. He is loved for his gospel, folk and rock. Elvis #1. Beatles #2. MJ #3 (really not close- Jackson benefited hugely from the rise of music videos and mass media which Elvis and the Beatles did not enjoy). After these 3 it's a different tier including Bob Dylan, Hendrix, Madonna, Stones, etc...
Elvis should be number one! He had charisma, good looks, no fear to be different in a very oppressed time, great voice, a master and artist of his work loved his fans and never turned them away EVER, and may I mention MANNERS which is so lacking in artists! He was the first, the leader of all that came after and made the after possible! His albums and songs from 56' and 57' weren't even counted because there was no top chart count at that time...HELLO, those were some of his best songs. First music video (Jailhouse Rock) circa 1958'
before MTV! The true #1 Trailblazer THE KING!
Elvis was an innovator, being able to merge his influences into a new style. He influenced Buddy Holly, among many others. Because Elvis had such remarkable success, others wanted to follow, including the Beatles. Rock and roll is something that needed to happen to help bring blacks and whites together. Elvis was that man. And, if Elvis wasn't around, where would the Beatles get a big inspiration?
Queen are an English rock band formed in London in 1970. The original lineup was Freddie Mercury (lead vocals, piano), Brian May (guitar, vocals), Roger Taylor (drums, vocals), and John Deacon (bass guitar, vocals). Before forming into Queen, Brian May and Roger Taylor had played together in a band named Smile. Freddie Mercury was a fan of Smile and encouraged them to experiment with more elaborate stage and recording techniques. He then joined the band in 1970, suggested "Queen" as a new band name, and adopted his familiar stage name. John Deacon was also recruited to complete the line-up. ...read more. Freddie had a unique/special singing voice in his expression of emotion, his range, and his use of vibrato and subharmonics. He was a talented pianist who, as Brian May said, played as if a drummer sat down at a piano and learned it; he had perfect timing. Roger Taylor's falsetto in the 70s is like no other, Brian May has always been a skilled (I love his runs and bends) with a pleasant warm tone to his singing voice, and John Deacon wrote several iconic bass- heavy hits in Another One Bites The Dust and Under Pressure, among others. These four really revolutionized music, even the music video, with their MV for Bohemian Rhapsody. I'll love them always
I hear artist talk about Freddie's voice and ability to hold stadiums in the palm of his hand. Great musicians, song writers and composers.
You guys are the real Deal! I put only Elvis ahead go queen.
Even Michael Jackson just adored Freddie and of course Elvis.
As John Lennon said "before Elvis there was nothing
Queen Rocks
QUEEN FOREVER NUMBER ONE. He inspired countless musicians and even till this day, he is acknowledged for his greatness. Despite Michael being slightly more popular than Queen, Queen has had much more influence to today's artists than you think. Maybe the mainstream hail Michael but the mainsteam sucks, if you actually look at the ones who don't suck like the Killers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and blah blah blah... They don't suck and their inspiration's Queen. Sorry, Michael, you were great, but Queen's better.
Queen should be number one on this list. How can you get better than Freddie Mercury's vocals, Brian May's guitar wails, john Deacon's killer bass, Roger Taylor's pounding drums. Just a sheer heart attack.
Jimi Hendrix (born November 27, 1942 - September 18, 1970) was an American rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter.
Although his mainstream career spanned only four years, he is widely regarded as one of the most influential electric guitarists in the history of popular music, and one of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame describes him as "arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music". Hendrix is consistently ranked on lists of musicians who died too soon. Jimi Hendrix played from the heart, his soul was channeled through his music. He revolutionized the guitar sound and techniques. Inspired many of latter-day's great guitarists and musicians in general and continues to be an inspiration. Even 45 years after his death, he is the greatest guitarist that has ever lived. I unfortunately wasn't born yet to witness his powerful, beautiful and genuine performances, but I'm appreciative to be able to hear and watch him jam in videos. What a blessing to the whole world! Rest in peace, Jimi.
He played from the heart, his soul was channeled through his music. He revolutionized the guitar sound and techniques. Inspired many of latter-day's great guitarists and musicians in general and continues to be an inspiration.
Even 45 years after his death, he is the greatest guitarist that has ever lived. I unfortunately wasn't born yet to witness his powerful, beautiful and genuine performances, but I'm appreciative to be able to hear and watch him jam in videos. What a blessing to the whole world! Rest in peace, Jimi.
Do you ever wonder if the musical landscape would be different if Hendrix would have lived another 50 years?
Hendrix should be #1 on this list. This list is a JOKE.
Bob Dylan is an American singer-songwriter, author, and artist who has been an influential figure in popular music and culture for more than five decades. In my opinion he and elvis should be above the beatles as they both influenced the Beatles as well as being very influential themselves.
I really respect the beatles and I know they were extremely influential and creative... But one of the main things people always say about the Beatles is that most music since then wouldn't exist without them, and I agree... But would the Beatles have existed without guys like Dylan, Elvis, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash and Justin Bieber? No they wouldn't so rose guys also deserve some recognition and a shot at challenging the Beatles for first.
by the way... I'm not saying I necessarily think the Beatles shouldn't be first and the justin bieber thing was a joke.
And also I'm pretty sure Beethoven, Mozart, Bach and whoever were very influential too
Bob Dylan is more than a musician, more than a poet, more than "influential." He is one of the greatest story tellers in American history. His talent is unprecedented. He ushered in the hippie movement of the 60s, then quickly abandoned it. Didn't matter. He reimagined himself, and created some of the best music of any time: "Blood on the Tracks."
His poetry, his tale spinning, his musical prowess, is a treasure, and he has touched the imagination of countless artists in his wake.
If you have listened to any music after the 1960s you are listening to music that was affected by Bob Dylan. Go look up on youtube the beatles comments on bob dylan and you can see the effect that he had on the greatest band in the history of music. Behind the beatles, he is the most covered artist of all time. He blended the depth of folk music with rock. He Sung blowing in the wind at the march on washington right before MLK jr gave his I have a dream speech. He didn't just change music He changed the world.
Bob Dylan makes the case for the most influential of all time. His popularity is surpassed by more famous acts such as the Beatles and Elvis but it can be easily argued Bob Dylan has been more influential. If there were a pedigree of musicians allowing influences and styles to be traced to the beginning of modern music, Bob Dylan would be at the very beginning.
Led Zeppelin was an English hard rock band formed in London in 1968 as the New Yardbirds. The group consisted of Robert Plant (Vocal), Jimmy Page (Guitar), John Paul Jones (Bass, Keyboard) and John Bonham (Drums) and was very much the child of Jimmy Page who even financed their first tour. He had tasted some previous success with The [original] Yardbirds and was friendly with some big names in rock. Page states it was Keith Moon of The Who that claimed the band could only go down, like a lead balloon -- thus prompting the iconic name of Led Zeppelin. The band's heavy, guitar-driven sound, rooted in blues and psychedelia on their early albums, has earned them recognition as one of the progenitors ...read more. THE BEST BAND EVER, objectively all band member are the best technical wise in their categories. Combined with their love for hard rock and blues and creativity in later years they are unprecedented and visceral almost enigmatic as gods of rock. I don't consider the Beatles a Rock Band they are more than that, but as the best rock band the throne goes to the hammer of the gods: LED ZEPPELIN!
Where would we be without legendary Led Zeppelin? Their music is so diverse and truly inspiring. You never get sick of Bonham's thundering drums, page's singing guitar, plant's bluesy screams and Jone's funky bass. In a relaxed mood? Zeppelin. In a workout mood? Zeppelin. In a mood where you want to punch through a drywall? Zeppelin. Want to be truly blown away? ZEPPELIN.
Pretty much started that whole hard rock sound. I say hard rock because although they were considered heavy metal, they really were only heavy metal compared to other bands before and during their time. Bands like AC/DC and Kiss were heavier than they were, but this band no doubt set the standard for what hard rock could be and became.
Classic musicians in their own right. Their music is still popular, and can be heard around the world, on the radio throughout the day. Their timeless style, influencing and drawing in young and old fans alike.
Ludwig van Beethoven was a German composer and pianist. A crucial figure in the transition between the Classical and Romantic eras in Western art music, he remains one of the most famous and influential of all composers. His best-known compositions include 9 symphonies, 5 piano concertos, 1 violin concerto, 32 piano sonatas, 16 string quartets, his great Mass the Missa solemnis, and one opera, Fidelio. ...read more. Great classical composer, but not the 2nd most influential.
David Robert Jones, known professionally as David Bowie (January 8, 1947 - January 10, 2016) was an English singer born in London, the son of a fundraiser and a waitress. He is credited for his experimental and creative musical discography which has won praise and accolades for many critics and fans.
The man who the world knew as David Bowie was an actor, a painter, a philosopher, and many other things. But first and foremost, and what he was known for most, he was a rock star, covering every genre from psychedelic folk to industrial. His influence on fashion, music, and pop culture in general remains as his legacy--along, of course, with his unforgettable music. Bowie always tried something different in each album no matter the drastic change and the risk in said change. He was always trying to make fun dance music while trying to make it artistic and he definitely succeeded. There is a reason he's so famous after all. Bowie was always getting new influences from all genres and putting them to work in the best way possible.
I mean what more can you say? Easily the most influential artist to ever live. Not only were his tracks just utterly amazing and beautifully crafted, he pushed the music industry so incredibly far at a shocking speed. Sure Ziggy was fashionably trendy, but everyone seems to forget about the albums that cemented him in history as one of the greatest musicians of all time. (Station to Station, Low, Heroes, Blackstar, etc.) Everywhere you look has some relation to Bowie. If someone did it, I can guarantee Bowie paved the way. Can't get much greater than him.
He had the greatest voice ever. And influenced more musician than anyone else. He also sang in all areas of music. And played 14 instruments.
Bowie changed musical direction at an amazing speed( especially in the 70's and early 80's), influencing entire musical movements in the process but still managing to stay ahead of the curve. Bowie is up there with The Beatles for me, compared to Michael Jackson, Bowie was a lot more inventive and groundbreaking, Jackson did not constantly change musical direction while still influencing the main stream industry.Jackson was a better dancer that's it...but this is about music not dancing moves..
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, baptised as Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart, was a prolific and influential composer of the Classical era, born in Salzburg. Most famous classical artist, presenting the prestigious models of classical melodies and structures, therefore impacting the European high-class and afterwards the entire world listening and taking inspiration from classical music.
He should be top ten. His name and pieces are more recognizable than most of those in the top ten.
Tupac Amaru Shakur, also known as 2Pac, was an American rapper and actor born on June 16, 1971 in East Harlem, New York. Tupac sold over 75 million records worldwide and has been referred to in multiple major publications such as Rolling Stone as one of the greatest music artists of all time. 2Pac was assassinated on September 1996 at the age of 25. ...read more. Though Pac is a great rapper, your missing two who should be way ahead of him, first james brown, the godfather of soul, without him he there would be no MJ or Pac. Your also forgetting the greatest lyricist of them all Biggie- he really grew up in the streets selling drugs and who not, as opposed to 2pac who came from a family of African American extremists, and actually live a middle class live and studied ballet and Shakespeare at a wealthy high school before he realized there was more money in rapping. I'm not trying to take anything away from him, I think he has just be slightly overstated on his influence in the music scene...slightly
I think this list is very genre biased (90% of the options have some sort of rock basis). Also this list incredibly "baby boomer" biased, meaning the vast majority of artists on this list became popular during the baby boomer generation. This list speaks more on the demagraphics voting as opposed to who was truly was most influential in their genres, and in rap, no man is truly more influential than Tupac Amaru Shakur. (Kanye West and Radiohead are heavily slighted on this list due to the baby boomer bias).
Simple once in a life time artist. You can't put into words the impact that this man brought in music and culture, even today artist take from his music legacy and use his wise words. He change the way the music industry and artist should work. At the young age of 25 Tupac did more in a quarter of his life that most artist have done in there life time.Tupac his music, voice will live on forever.
2pac has got to be at least in the top 3, he was way more than just a rapper! He fight's for what he believes in and doesn't back down. Fought for women's rights and black rights against the goverment and police. He had a thug side to him because he was raised in the ghetto and at the same time a intelligent side when he tried to get his message across though his songs. His thug side was brought out even more when he was shot in 1994 and went to jail in 1995 for a crime he didn't commit. The system was always out to get him. Live by the gun, die by the gun.R.I. P
Charles Edward Anderson "Chuck" Berry was an American guitarist, singer and songwriter, and one of the pioneers of rock and roll music. He died on 18 March 2017. Modern music owes everything to Chuck Berry. He was arguably one of the first, if not the first, storyteller in music. It should also be noted how he incorporated a social movement in the song "Roll Over Beethoven", a song that signiefies rock and rolls increasing popularity, at the time. Without Berry, it's extremely difficult to see where music would be today.
Set the stage for a whole new generation of rock and he was black. In his time this was unheard of! He really is the king, Elvis is #2.
Why are the Beatles number 1? The Beatles were emulated greatly by Chuck Berry these voters are clueless.
Chuck berry, buddy holly, bill haley. All great singers that people seem to have forgotten, sadly
Nirvana was an American grunge band that was formed in Aberdeen, Washington in 1987. Nirvana disbanded after Kurt Cobain committed suicide in 1994. The drummer of the band, David Grohl, went on to start the Foo-Fighters, an alternative rock band.The band was comprised of Kurt Cobain (Vocals, Guitar), Dave Grohl (Drums) and Krist Novoselic (Bass).
Nirvana is most well-known for their albums Bleach, Nevermind, In Utero and MTV Unplugged in New York and their songs "About a Girl", "Smells Like Teen Spirit", "Come As You Are", "Lithium", "In Bloom", "Heart-Shaped Box", "All Apologies" and "Pennyroyal Tea". The band is known for being one of the most influential bands of all time. Together with Soundgarden, Pearl Jam and Alice In Chains, the band is part of the Big 4 of Grunge. ...read more.
Changed music for me. More to music than hair bands and pop. Music was actually about important issues. Most important band since The Clash
Nirvana was the most influential band of the 90's. They were so important because the 90's rock was going stale. Nirvana came along and influenced everyone. Kurt Cobain was so good. Nirvana needs to be higher!
Nirvana brought grunge into the mainstream. Their story is interesting. They were the soundtrack to teens lives in the nineties. Iggy Pop said, and I quote,"Kurt Cobain was truly a nobody from nowhere who reached out and touched the world. And he may have touched it right in its wound"
Why Nirvana is so low on the list? They are the kings of their genre. They changed the face of music in 90's. Cobain is one of the most influential musicians of all time. Common people!
Pink Floyd are an English progressive rock band formed in 1965 in London, England. They achieved international acclaim with their progressive and psychedelic music. The band consisted of 5 members - David Gilmour (Vocals and Guitar), Syd Barrett (Vocals and Guitar), Nick Mason (Drums), Roger Waters (Vocals and Bass), and Richard Wright (Vocals and Keyboard). Barrett was replaced by Gilmour in 1968. ...read more. Helped shape Progressive Rock and Psychedelia. Dark Side of the Moon is arguably the best album of all times, and the proceeding three are remarkable as well. Truly one of the greatest bands of all times.
I love Pink Floyd ( especially their psychedelic period ) but to say like one of the comments that they should be higher than Elvis Presley is ridiculous. The start of modern music begins with Elvis Presley in the fifties ( " Before Elvis there was nothing " said John Lennon once ) and when raw rock started to fade away in the sixties came the British invasion. The Beatles and many other groups came with a new sound based on raw rock ( Them, The Animals, The Kinks, The Yardbirds etc... ). Even Pink Floyd ( just listen to their Demos from 1966 ) were influenced by that. Later on Pink Floyd developed their own sound. But you can't in historical chronology put Pink Floyd before Elvis Presley in matter of influence because that doesn't make sense.
It's totally my opinion.I am not writing this to disgrace Pink Floyd, as I also want them to be higher on the list. But it's wrong to say that they should be above Elvis or Beatles. Yes there is no doubt they are great, even I listen to them more than any artist after Beatles and Eric Clapton. (And two of the Albums from my top 5 favourite albums are : "Wish you were here" and "Dark side of the moon")
Pink Floyd, the greatest rock band of all time on number 16? While Elvis Presley has been ranked higher than them! Pink Floyd deserve to be on #1 or #2
Madonna Louise Ciccone, known professionally as Madonna, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman. She influenced a lot of singers such as: Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Beyonce Knowles and Britney Spears. She is known as Queen of Pop and at modern pop culture specifically in 2012 "Madge" or MDNA. She has 14 studio albums (Madonna, Like a Virgin, True Blue, Like a Prayer, Erotica, Bedtime Stories, Ray of Light, Music, American Life, Confessions on a Dance Floor, Hard Candy, MDNA, Rebel Heart, and Madame X), 3 soundtrack albums (Who's That Girl, I'm Breathless, and Evita), 4 compilation albums (The Immaculate Collection, Something to Remember, GHV2, and Celebration), ...read more. Madonna should certainly be ranked among the top 5. She's up there with Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley as a solo artist. EVERY female pop solo artist since her is directly or indirectly influenced by her. If you removed Madonna from history the whole pop landscape today would be unrecognizable. And I daresay her influence transcends the world of entertainment quite considerably too.
History will prove that Madonna is one of the most influential pop artists of all time. She sculpted the fashion, ideology, music and culture of the 1980s and 1990s. This statement may be controversial as she is still viewed from a contemporary perspective. When she is gone her historical significance will finally be realized. Mark my word.
Should be in the middle of the top 10, like closing the top 5.
4th best selling artist, best selling female artist (after Elvis, Beatles and Michael), most dominant music pop icon alongside Michael during the late decades of the 20th century, and defining new artistry and provocativeness with presenting sexiness of appearance in new manners.
Most influential in the way that if you want it bad enough, you can effectively market yourself and dominate the pop world by being overtly sexual, controversial and self-promoting.
Black Sabbath were a Heavy Metal band formed in Birmingham, England in 1968 by guitarist and songwriter Tony Iommi, singer John "Ozzy" Osbourne, bassist and main lyricist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward.
The band became mainstream after improving after their debut album got panned. In 1978, Osbourne was fired and replaced with former Rainbow vocalist Ronnie James Dio. Who went to release 2 albums before leaving in 1983, only for Osbourne to return in 1992.
Black Sabbath are cited as the godfathers of Heavy Metal. Their final album, 13. Was released in 2013. They were ranked by MTV as the "Greatest Metal Band" of all time, and placed second in VH1's "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock" list.
Black Sabbath were inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006. You can argue these guys are number 1,2,3 or 4. They started Heavy Metal which has become a giant genre or music. You ever go to Metallica, Slayer? These guys sell out everywhere. Underrated for sure
Black Sabbath paved the road for metal. And not only that, they are legends. I think people are forgetting the meaning of this list; it's not the best musicians, it's the ones who influence
How is Metallica above Black Sabbath? Don't get me wrong, I like both, but without Black Sabbath there wouldn't be any metal at all.
They were one of the first bands to be METAL, and nothing else, so they laid the groundwork for all the metal music to come.
David Christian Bongartz, better known by his stage name David Garrett, is a record-breaking German pop and crossover violinist and recording artist.
The Who is an English rock band formed in London, England in 1964. The most recognizable lineup was Roger Daltrey (lead vocals), Pete Townshend (guitar), John Entwistle (bass guitar), and Keith Moon (drums). They are best known for their live performances and hit songs Baba O'Riley, My Generation, and Won't Get Fooled Again. Some noted achievements were their rock operas, Tommy (album), Quadrophenia (album), and A Quick One, While He's Away (song). ...read more. Basically any on stage pyrotechnics were thanks to these guys. They were the kings of wrecking instruments. Yes, it is true that it doesn't take much skill to destroy an instrument, but the Who were just so good at putting that into shows. Plus, Pete Townsend introduced the Windmill arm for guitarists
Robert Nesta "Bob" Marley was a Jamaican reggae singer, songwriter, musician, and guitarist who achieved international fame and acclaim. Not only did Bob Marley fight for the rights of Jamaica and other countries, actively, he also made a career after having to fight his whole life in a violent part of Jamaica. Then with his career he also fought for the rights of the world as his fame increased steadily and eventually, the whole world was his stage. I also consider him the first person in the world to actually Practice what he Preached
This list is so Western-centric. Come on! The question is who was/is most influential. I am an anthropologist who has lived in more than a dozen countries. I now live in Papua New Guinea, in a remote village where you see Marley t-shirts. "Get up! Stand up!" The same goes for villages in Namibia, Thailand, and Colombia. Marley t-shirts, Jah Rastafari! Beatles? What social movement did they ever inspire? No t-shirts in Cambodia. Elvis? No one in a village in PNG has any idea who he is. No t-shirts in Chile. Marley died in 1981 - 36 years ago. He only had an international career of less than five years. Think about that! And today, he is still the most popular and influential musician in 90% of the world. If you are really talking about influence, then wake up to the real world. The Beatles, Michael, and Elvis together have not had a tenth of the influence Marley had - and continues to have.
What the hell! Marley is a legend he inspired nations. He influence the entire continent of Africa. He also was a social and political activist. He started a religious movement. He is a diety in the music world. This list is the most influential muscians not most influential American musicians.
Bob Marley is the greatest, he was much much more than a musician
He fought all his life for justice,peace,love and unity
His music is timeless,lyrics that not only joyful and uplifting but deep and spiritual,
One good thing about Marley is when he hits you with Music, you feel no pain.
The Rolling Stones are an English rock band formed in London in 1962. The first settled line-up consisted of Brian Jones (guitar, harmonica), Ian Stewart (piano), Mick Jagger (lead vocals, harmonica), Keith Richards (guitar), Bill Wyman (bass) and Charlie Watts (drums).
Their best works include songs like Paint it Black, Sympathy for the Devil, Satisfication (Which ranked no. 2 in The Rolling Stones Magazine’s best songs of all time list).
The Rolling Stones were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004. In 2012, the band celebrated its 50th anniversary. A band that has been performing for over 50 years is The Rolling Stones.
They weren't the originators of blues rock, but they made it their own and influenced many others in the process.
Keith Richards is not the most technical guitarist in the world, and he knows that. He leaves it to people like Clapton and Page. But no one compares to him and his rhythm. His variations in tuning mean that when he plays, it's the perfect tone for what he wants to achieve. Tom Morello said himself that even though he's persisted for many years, he still can't achieve the same sound Keith does with his riffs. Bear in mind Keith also did this without all the effects and distortion tricks of many other guitarists.
Mick Jagger is again another huge influence on music everywhere and has one of the most iconic although jittery dance styles ever (hence "Moves Like Jagger" by Maroon 5).
What other band can you just see a logo and automatically know who it is?
Honestly I think they were probably more influential than Queen and that's despite preferring Queen's music.
Ladies and Gentlemen...The Rolling Stones! There's a reason why The Stones are known as the World's Greatest Rock and Roll Band.
They are the best
Prince Rogers Nelson (June 7, 1958 - April 21st, 2016) was an American musician, best known for being one of the most popular and influential artists from the 80s, with songs such as "Purple Rain", "Little Red Corvette", "1999", and "When Doves Cry" . I saw him live on so many occasions, but only met him once. He was an interesting guy who had a different thought process to us normals... he remans the most inspirational guy I ever met in my life... he should be number 1
Rip to an icon who's shows were the stuff of legends. The soundtrack to my youth. He rocked therefore he was! The very best up there with the greats
Could do anything! Instruments, song writing, entertaining, etc. He also adapted his music with the times over and over.
How can this guy be after ANYONE? Almost everybody who plays music today is influenced by Prince to a degree...
Roderick David "Rod" Stewart is a British rock singer-songwriter. Born and raised in London, he is of Scottish and English ancestry. Pearl Jam, Black Crowes, Rage Against The Machine and even the Sex Pistols claim they were influenced by Rod Stewart and the Faces. Need I say more?
Krishnan Nair Shantakumari Chithra, often credited as K. S. Chithra or simply Chithra, is an Indian playback singer from Kerala. Chithra also sings Indian classical, devotional, and popular music. History will prove that Chithra is one of the most influential artists of all time. She sculpted the fashion, ideology, music and culture of the 1980s to till now. This statement may be controversial as she is still viewed from a contemporary perspective.
The most popular musician in India, the world's second-largest country.
Nobody cares that American kids keep saying "who is she", because India's 1,000,000,000 people don't care about what those inconsequential brats have, or have not heard of.
Adorable person ever I have seen. Most talented, dedicated and committed Musician. Very down to earth, Very simple person. Simplicity is not a simple to maintain. You are the best Amma...Salute...
Humble, Down to Earth and and an inspiration to many. She's a wonderful singer from India which has produced Great playback singers like Dr.KJ Yesudas, Mohammed Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle.
Dear West, please Google & listen to these voices and feel the passion in their singing!
James Joseph Brown was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, musician, record producer and bandleader. A progenitor of funk music and a major figure of 20th century popular music and dance, he is often referred to as the "Godfather of Soul". Bob Marley, The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson and Prince all claimed him as a huge influence (with Prince and Michael claiming him as their primary influence). That alone should earn him a place on the top 10, but the fact that he's the most sampled musician ever and laid the groundwork for rap & funk should make him top 5. James Browns loops and yells and horn stabs will be featured on rap & electronic music forever, and his dance moves will be and were watched by any credible dancer that followed him. For him not to be in the top 10 is ignorant
After James Brown, every beat started on what James called " The One " or the first note. He also had all artists play as if their
Instrument was a drum. People are confusing " Most Popular with Most Influential "
Without The Godfather of Soul, there would be no King of Pop.
He's amazing. Deserves to be in the top 10.
Buddy Holly, born Charles Hardin Holley (September 7, 1936 – February 3, 1959) was an American musician and singer-songwriter who was a central figure of mid-1950s rock and roll. He was a rising star when a tragic plane crash struck him down at age 22.
During his short career, Holly wrote, recorded, and produced his own material. He is often regarded as the artist who defined the traditional rock-and-roll lineup of two guitars, bass, and drums. Holly was a major influence on later popular music artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and Elton John.
He was among the first artists inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, in 1986. Rolling Stone Magazine ranked him number 13 in its list of "100 Greatest Artists".
The February 3, 1959, and the plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson and their pilot Roger Peterson has been remembered as “The Day the Music Died”. Rock and Roll and all subsequent music would not be had it not been for the influence of Buddy Holly. What would music be like today if it weren't for that unfortunate plane crash in 1959?
A lot of people haven't heard of him. But don't forget, rock music came from America BEFORE England. He affected all rock music to come, which took hold in England
He is the one who came up with the format of, you only need a lead singer, lead guitar and a rhythm section of Bass and Drums.
He is the only reason The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, The Who, and others are what they are/ were what they were.