In late '50s Britain, the young Beatles absorbed a surprisingly eclectic mix of styles, including early rock & roll, pop, jazz, blues, folk, country & western, and swing. Here are the songs that inspired the 20th century's most influential band.
Hit the southern backroads with these classic 45s from the birth of rock 'n' roll. And while you're out there, visit 706 Union Street in Memphis, where Sam Phillips' Sun Records birthed their pioneering mix of R&B and hillbilly music.
Characterized by its lush vocal harmonies, "doomph, doomph" bass lines, group snapping, and high falsetto, doo-wop was one of the most popular musical styles of the '50s and '60s.
Meet the '50s rockers who combined hillbilly music and rock & roll, and see how their music has influenced subsequent generations of rockers. And not just the ones who put pomade in their hair, either.
Essential recordings from the 1930s and '40s Swing-era big bands, which featured upwards of 12 musicians. During their heyday, big bands produced America's most popular dance music.
The decorations are set and the toddies are spiced, but a Christmas party isn't complete without a classic, and classy, soundtrack. Listen to the lush arrangements and sonorous voices of the iconic post-war crooners who set the standard for holiday music.
Meet the '50s rockers who combined hillbilly music and rock & roll, and see how their music has influenced subsequent generations of rockers. And not just the ones who put pomade in their hair, either.
A collection of classics and lesser-known gems from the beginning of rock & roll, with an emphasis on country-leaning "hillbilly rock," otherwise known as rockabilly.
Marshall Bruce Mathers III, or Eminem to his fans, is one of the most verbally dexterous MCs to emerge since the genre's beginnings. Here are the highlights of his solo career, as well as other artists he inspired, through lyricism or production.
Welcome to the world of Ray Charles, where you'll encounter not only monumental cuts from the man who melded blues, soul, country, jazz, and gospel into a harmonious whole, but also some titanic tracks by Brother Ray's influences, peers, and disciples.