Britney Spears
Multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning pop icon Britney Spears is one of the most successful and celebrated entertainers in pop history with nearly 150 million records worldwide. In the U.S. alone, she has sold more than 70 million albums, singles and songs, according to Nielsen Music. Born in Mississippi and raised in Louisiana, Spears became a household name as a teenager when she released her first single “…Baby One More Time,” a Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 smash and international hit that broke sales records with more than 20 million copies sold worldwide and is currently 14x Platinum in the U.S. Her musical career boasts countless awards and accolades, including six Billboard Music Awards and Billboard’s Millennium Award, which recognizes outstanding career achievements and influence in the music industry as well as an American Music Award and the 2011 MTV Video Vanguard Award. So far, Spears has earned a total of six No.1-debuting albums on the Billboard 200 chart and 22 top 40 hit singles on the Billboard Hot 100 — four of which went to No. 1. Spears has been nominated for eight Grammy Awards and won for Best Dance Recording in 2005.
Her cutting-edge pop concert Las Vegas residency, “Britney: Piece of Me,” at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino has been voted “Best Show in Las Vegas” and “Best Bachelorette Show in Las Vegas.” Spears also has been creating fragrances for over ten years, and currently has over 20 fragrances available in over 85 countries around the world.
Scotty McCreery
Since winning the 10th season of “American Idol” in 2011 at age 17, Scotty McCreery has been a household name for nearly half his life. He then made history in 2011 as both the first country artist and the youngest male artist of any genre to debut his first studio album at No. 1 on the all-genre Billboard Top 200 Albums chart.
With his latest album Rise & Fall, featuring his sixth No. 1 single “Cab in a Solo” and 12 additional tracks, 11 of which Scotty wrote, McCreery explores classic themes of heartbreak, rowdy nights, nostalgia, faith, newfound joy, fatherhood, and enduring love.
The 30-year-old has sold more than 4 million albums and achieved 6 No.1 hits : the recent “Cab in a Solo,” the RIAA Platinum certified “Damn Strait,” the RIAA Gold certified “You Time,” the RIAA Gold certified “In Between,” the RIAA Platinum certified “This is It,” and the RIAA Triple Platinum certified ‘Five More Minutes.”
Last fall McCreery was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame and invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry by Garth Brooks. McCreery was officially welcomed into the Opry family on April 20 by his heroes, Josh Turner and Randy Travis. The singer/songwriter married his high school sweetheart Gabi in 2018, and the couple had their first son Avery in October 2022.
Audioslave
Zack de la Rocha left Rage Against the Machine in October 2000, putting the future of the band in question. Rumors quickly spread that Soundgarden frontman Chris Cornell would replace de la Rocha, and in May 2001, Cornell joined the remaining members of Rage in the studio. The collaboration resulted in a strong musical bond, leading to a year of writing and recording. By spring 2002, the group no longer used the Rage Against the Machine name and participated in Ozzfest. However, before the tour began, Cornell left the project temporarily due to diverging creative directions. After his brief absence, Cornell returned, and the band chose the name Audioslave. Their debut album, including the hit single ‘Cochise,’ was released in November 2002 and achieved multi-platinum status. The band followed up with the album ‘Out of Exile’ in May 2005, which debuted at number one on Billboard. They made history with a performance in Havana, Cuba, and continued their success with platinum-selling singles like ‘Be Yourself’ and ‘Doesn’t Remind Me.’ In September 2006, they released ‘Revelations,’ their third album, which was completed in just five weeks. However, in 2007, shortly after Rage announced a reunion, Cornell departed from Audioslave over personal and musical differences. Sadly, Cornell passed away in May 2017 at the age of 52.
Read MoreNicki Minaj
Nikki Minaj, a renowned artist in the music industry, has captivated audiences worldwide with her unique style and talent. Born as Onika Tanya Maraj, she adopted the stage name Nikki Minaj to showcase her fierce persona and lyrical prowess. With a career that spans over decades, Nikki Minaj has established herself as a trailblazer in the rap and hip-hop genre, setting trends and breaking records along the way.
Known for her bold fashion choices, empowering lyrics, and dynamic performances, Nikki Minaj has become a cultural icon and a symbol of female empowerment in the music industry. Her chart-topping hits, including collaborations with other top artists, have solidified her position as one of the most influential figures in contemporary music. Beyond her musical talents, Nikki Minaj is also actively involved in philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes and advocating for social justice issues.
Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne, originally known as Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr., emerged as a unique figure in the world of hip-hop, starting his career as a young prodigy in Southern hip-hop. His evolution over the years has been remarkable, transitioning from a youthful artist with hardcore rhymes to a seasoned veteran with a vast discography. With a distinct style marked by wit, humor, and wordplay, Lil Wayne’s rise to fame was inevitable. He made his debut at the age of 12 and quickly rose to prominence, earning platinum certifications and creating a massive body of work that solidified his status as a million-unit-selling artist. Wayne’s claim of being the “best rapper alive” is not unfounded, given his innovative approach to music and his ability to reinvent himself over time.
Growing up in the notorious neighborhood of Hollygrove in New Orleans, Lil Wayne, a straight-A student, realized that his true intelligence was best expressed through music. Transitioning from Gangsta D to Lil Wayne, he embarked on a musical journey that would redefine the hip-hop landscape. Joining forces with talented artists like Mannie Fresh and B.G., Wayne’s early collaborations laid the foundation for his solo success. Despite facing challenges such as accidental injuries and label transitions, Wayne persevered and continued to push the boundaries of his art. His strategic mixtape releases and feature appearances on mainstream hits propelled him to superstardom, culminating in the groundbreaking success of albums like Tha Carter III and Tha Carter V.
Wayne’s career has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and tribulations, marked by legal battles, creative disputes, and delayed releases. Through it all, he remained a dominant force in the music industry, consistently delivering chart-topping albums and hit singles. His collaborations with iconic artists like DJ Khaled and Future have solidified his position as a key player in the rap game. Wayne’s genre-defying approach, including forays into rock music with albums like Rebirth, showcased his versatility and willingness to explore new sonic territories. As he continues to release music and build on his legacy, Lil Wayne remains a true rap icon, revered for his talent, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his craft.
Disturbed
Disturbed is a hard-hitting, multi-platinum-selling heavy metal band based in Chicago. The band emerged in the late ’90s with a unique blend of hard rock, alternative, and nu metal genres. Led by the distinctive voice of frontman David Draiman, Disturbed made a significant impact with their debut album, The Sickness, in 2000. The album achieved platinum status five times and set the stage for the band’s subsequent success. Disturbed’s sophomore album, Believe, released in 2002, marked a breakthrough for the band, reaching number one on the charts. Despite a four-year hiatus starting in 2011, Disturbed returned in 2015 with Immortalized followed by Evolution in 2018, solidifying their position as one of the most commercially successful acts in their genre.
The formation of Disturbed came about through a combination of talented musicians coming together. Longtime friends Dan Donegan, Mike Wengren, and Fuzz played together before teaming up with vocalist David Draiman in the mid-’90s. The band’s rise to fame began with their demo tape catching the attention of Giant Records, leading to the release of their debut album, The Sickness, in 2000. Disturbed’s popularity soared after playing at the 2001 Ozzfest and embarking on their own headlining tour across the U.S. The band’s second album, Believe, released in 2002, showcased their growth and musical prowess, propelling them to the top of the Billboard 200 chart. With subsequent albums like Ten Thousand Fists and Indestructible, Disturbed continued to dominate the metal scene, earning critical acclaim and chart-topping success.
From Ashes to New
From Ashes To New utilize their outlier perspective to break boundaries. The Lancaster, PA band consists of—Matt Brandyberry [rap vocals, keys, synths, programming, guitar], Danny Case [clean & unclean vocals], Lance Dowdle [lead guitar], and Mat Madiro [drums]—churn out an anthemic hybrid of hard rock, hip-hop, electronic, and alternative with enough energy to inspire you to get up, move forward, and maybe even, make a change. Since 2013, the group have risen from humble beginnings to the top of the 21st century rock vanguard with hundreds of millions of streams, radio hits, sold out shows across the country, and acclaim from LoudWire, Alternative Press, and more.
Read MoreFlo Milli
Flo Milli, an American rapper and songwriter, has taken the music scene by storm with her unique style and powerful lyrics. Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Flo Milli, whose real name is Tamia Monique Carter, burst onto the scene in 2019 with her hit single ‘Beef FloMix.’ Since then, she has gained widespread recognition for her fierce and confident presence in the male-dominated hip-hop industry.
Flo Milli’s music is known for its bold and empowering messages, addressing topics like self-confidence, independence, and resilience. Her energetic performances and infectious beats have captivated audiences worldwide, making her a rising star in the rap genre. With her distinctive flow and sharp wit, Flo Milli continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes, carving out her own unique path in the music industry.
Kanye West
Ye, also known as YAY, was born Kanye Omari West on June 8, 1977. He is a multi-talented American artist, excelling as a rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer. Growing up in Atlanta and Chicago, West initially made a name for himself as a producer at Roc-A-Fella Records in the early 2000s. His distinctive production style, heavily influenced by old-school soul music, set him apart.
Transitioning to a solo career, West released his debut album ‘The College Dropout’ in 2004, receiving both critical acclaim and commercial success. This marked the beginning of a prolific music journey that included founding the record label GOOD Music and experimenting with various musical genres and styles. Throughout his career, West has been a trailblazer, pushing boundaries with albums like ‘My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy’ and ‘Yeezus,’ which garnered widespread praise.
Shania Twain
Shania Twain, the renowned country star of the 1990s, emerged as a game-changer in the music industry. Unlike Garth Brooks who appealed to a pop audience, Twain carved her path by infusing country with classic rock and adult contemporary elements, reshaping the genre’s appeal. The collaboration with producer Robert John ‘Mutt’ Lange resulted in chart-topping hits like ‘You’re Still the One’ and ‘Man! I Feel Like a Woman,’ setting a new standard for blending country and pop music. Her global influence was evident with albums like ‘Up!’ targeting international markets, solidifying her status as a music icon.
Born in Windsor, Ontario, Shania Twain’s early life in Timmins, Ontario, laid the foundation for her musical journey. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of her parents at a young age, Twain displayed resilience by taking care of her siblings while pursuing her passion for music. Her rise to fame began with a showcase concert in Canada, leading to a record deal with Mercury Nashville. Twain’s debut album, although not a chart-topper initially, showcased her talent and paved the way for collaborations with Robert John ‘Mutt’ Lange, culminating in successful albums like ‘The Woman in Me’ and ‘Come on Over.’ Her eventful career, marked by personal milestones like marriage and motherhood, reflects her unwavering commitment to her craft and her ability to captivate audiences worldwide.
Tasha Cobbs Leonard
Tasha Cobbs Leonard is a Georgia-based gospel singer, songwriter, and pastor who gained prominence in 2013 with the Grammy Award-winning single “Break Every Chain.” Her musical journey has been marked by successful releases such as One Place Live in 2015, the collaborative project Heart. Passion. Pursuit. in 2017, and Royalty: Live at the Ryman in 2020. Despite her musical achievements, Tasha Cobbs Leonard has remained dedicated to her pastoral work in Atlanta. Born and raised in Jesup, Georgia, she initiated her worship leadership at Jesup New Life Ministries, the church established by her father, Bishop Fritz Cobbs. Transitioning to a role with Pastor William H. Murphy III and the dReam Center Church of Atlanta in 2006, she toured extensively for three years as part of the music ministry. In 2010, she ventured into her solo gospel career with the independent release of Smile on her label, Tasha Cobbs Ministries.
Tasha Cobbs Leonard’s career experienced significant growth when she signed with EMI in 2013, leading to the success of her major-label debut album, Grace, which topped the gospel chart and achieved crossover success on the pop chart. The breakthrough single, “Break Every Chain,” not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned her a Grammy Award. Subsequently, she joined Motown Gospel for One Place Live, a live album recorded in South Carolina that soared to the top of the gospel chart. In 2017, Cobbs married music producer Kenneth Leonard and released her fourth album, Heart. Passion. Pursuit., featuring collaborations with renowned artists like Kierra Sheard, Anna Golden, and Nicki Minaj. Following the success of this studio album, she delivered a live rendition at Atlanta’s Passion City Church the next year.
Continuing her musical journey, Tasha Cobbs Leonard released the EP Intercession in 2020, recorded live at Ocean Way Studio in Nashville. The same year, she unveiled Royalty: Live at the Ryman, which included the popular gospel radio hit, “In Spite of Me.” Her exceptional talent and dedication have earned her multiple Grammy nominations and solidified her position as a prominent figure in the gospel music industry. With a blend of powerful vocals, inspiring lyrics, and heartfelt performances, Tasha Cobbs Leonard continues to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide with her profound musical and spiritual contributions.
Shinedown
Multi-platinum band Shinedown, consisting of Brent Smith on vocals, Zach Myers on guitar, Eric Bass on bass and production, and Barry Kerch on drums, have solidified their position as one of the most influential and innovative forces in contemporary rock music. Their seventh studio album, Planet Zero, represents a pinnacle of their artistry, showcasing a level of ambition and craftsmanship unparalleled in their discography. This album firmly establishes Shinedown as visionaries who propel the music culture forward through their unique perspective, unwavering honesty, and dedication to continuous growth. Recognized as trendsetters, the band has shattered records and set new standards in the industry. With numerous #1 hits on the Mainstream Rock Songs Chart, Shinedown was honored as the top artist of all time in Billboard’s rankings. Visit shinedown.com for ticket information.
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