Sophie Ellis-Bextor
Sophie Ellis-Bextor is one of the most prominent British pop artists of the 2000s, known for her infectious disco and ’80s-synth-pop dance tunes. Her breakthrough came with the chart-topping hit “Murder on the Dancefloor” from her debut album, Read My Lips, which reached number two on the U.K. Albums Chart in 2001. Over the years, she continued to captivate audiences across the U.K. and Europe with successful albums like Shoot from the Hip and Trip the Light Fantastic. Ellis-Bextor’s musical journey evolved with her 2011 release, Make a Scene, setting the stage for a transition to a more diverse sound.
Born in London in 1979, Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s early exposure to music and performance shaped her artistic path. Starting with her involvement in the band theaudience, she quickly made her mark in the music scene, ultimately venturing into a solo career that included collaborations with renowned artists like Ed Harcourt. Her discography reflects a blend of dance-pop hits and experimental projects, such as the folk-infused Wanderlust and the Latin-inspired Familia. With each album, Ellis-Bextor’s versatility and artistry shine through, culminating in the release of Hana in 2023, a musical journey inspired by her experiences in Tokyo and a nod to her creative evolution.
Ms. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill broke through with multi-platinum-selling, Grammy-winning group the Fugees, but with her 1998 solo debut The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, the singer, songwriter, rapper, and producer established herself as a creative force on her own. She successfully integrated rap, soul, and reggae into a singular sound. Eclectic, uplifting, and empowering, the album was often cited by younger artists as a touchstone. Following its success, Hill was something of an enigma, her recorded output limited to a live set, scattered compilation appearances, and a handful of collaborations. Disenchantment with the entertainment industry, along with legal issues and erratic performances, did not lessen the impact of her ’90s work.
Raised in South Orange, New Jersey, Hill spent her youth listening her parents’ multi-genre, multi-generational record collection. She began singing at an early age and snagged minor roles on television (As the World Turns) and in film (Sister Act II: Back in the Habit). Her on-again/off-again membership in the Fugees began at the age of 13, but was often interrupted by both the acting gigs and her enrollment at Columbia University. After developing a following in the tri-state area, the group’s first release — the much-hyped but uneven 1994 album Blunted on Reality — bombed, and almost caused a breakup. But with the multi-platinum 1996 release The Score, the Fugees became one of the most prominent rap acts on the strength of hit singles “Killing Me Softly,” “Ready or Not,” and “No Woman, No Cry.”
Hill followed it in August 1998 with The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, her first solo release. Apart from a cover of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” popularized by Frankie Valli, each song was either written or co-written by Hill. She was also credited with the arrangement and production of the whole album, which was steeped in her old-school background, both musically (the Motown-esque singalong of “Doo Wop [That Thing]”) and lyrically (the nostalgic “Every Ghetto, Every City”). As Miseducation began a long reign on the charts through most of the fall and winter of 1998, Hill became a national media icon, as magazines ranging from Time to Esquire to Teen People vied to put her on the cover.
blink-182
Blink-182, a legendary pop-punk band, rose to fame in the early 2000s with their catchy and energetic songs, setting themselves apart from mainstream teen pop and nu-metal. The trio, featuring Mark Hoppus, Tom DeLonge, and Travis Barker, achieved success with hits like ‘Enema of the State’ and ‘Take Off Your Pants and Jacket,’ both top-charting albums. Despite DeLonge’s temporary departure in 2015 and subsequent return for the cathartic ‘One More Time…’ in 2023, the band continued to thrive, releasing popular albums like ‘Neighborhoods’ and ‘California’. Formation in the suburbs of San Diego, the band faced challenges, including a name change to blink-182, but their perseverance led to platinum records and worldwide tours.
Known for their humorous music videos and infectious anthems like ‘Dammit’ and ‘All the Small Things,’ blink-182’s journey includes collaborations, personal setbacks, and side projects. Post-hiatus in 2009, the band reunited and embarked on a successful tour with Weezer, marking a new chapter in their career. Despite lineup changes and internal tensions, blink-182’s resilience shone through as they released albums like ‘Nine,’ exploring darker themes amidst personal challenges. DeLonge’s return in 2022 and the subsequent release of ‘Edging’ reinvigorated the band’s fanbase, leading to a highly anticipated world tour interrupted briefly by Barker’s injury but culminating in the triumphant launch of ‘One More Time…,’ a chart-topping album that solidified the classic lineup’s enduring legacy.
Def Leppard
Def Leppard is a legendary hard rock band that rose to prominence in the ’80s with their unique fusion of glam rock, hair metal, and catchy pop ballads. Originating in the late ’70s as part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, the band garnered widespread acclaim by incorporating melodic elements into their heavy riffs. Their breakthrough came with the 1983 album ‘Pyromania’ and the iconic 1987 release ‘Hysteria,’ solidifying their status as one of the most successful acts of the era. Despite evolving music trends, Def Leppard maintained their signature sound and loyal fanbase, delivering albums like ‘Adrenalize’ in 1992 that defied industry shifts towards grunge.
The band’s journey began in Sheffield with founding members Rick Savage and Pete Willis in 1977, later joined by vocalist Joe Elliott, whose admiration for music legends like Mott the Hoople and T. Rex inspired the band’s early days. Over the years, Def Leppard’s lineup evolved, welcoming new talents like guitarist Steve Clark and drummer Rick Allen, who overcame a life-changing accident to continue his musical pursuits. Their resilience and dedication led to chart-topping albums like ‘High ‘n’ Dry’ and ‘Pyromania,’ propelling them to international stardom despite internal challenges and tragic losses. Through countless tours and studio recordings, Def Leppard’s legacy endures as they continue to captivate audiences with their timeless hits and enduring rock spirit.
Def Leppard’s narrative is marked by triumphs and tribulations that shaped their illustrious career. From chart-topping singles like ‘Pour Some Sugar on Me’ to critical setbacks and personal struggles, the band navigated turbulent waters while staying true to their rock roots. Albums like ‘Adrenalize’ and ‘Hysteria’ cemented their place in music history, showcasing a blend of innovation and resilience that defined the ’80s rock scene. Despite facing adversities like the loss of band members and changing industry landscapes, Def Leppard’s unwavering commitment to their music and fans has solidified their status as rock icons with a lasting impact that transcends generations.
Jack Harlow
Jackman Thomas “Jack” Harlow, born on March 13, 1998, is a versatile American artist known for his talents as a rapper and singer. Embarking on his musical journey in 2015, Harlow has since captivated audiences with his unique style and catchy tunes. His career took a significant turn when he signed with Don Cannon and DJ Drama’s record label Generation Now, a part of Atlantic Records, in 2018, marking a pivotal moment in his rise to fame.
One of Harlow’s major breakthroughs arrived in 2020 with the release of his hit single “Whats Poppin,” which gained massive popularity, especially on platforms like TikTok. The remix of this track featuring renowned rappers DaBaby, Tory Lanez, and Lil Wayne propelled it to number two on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, earning Harlow a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rap Performance. The success continued with his debut studio album “Thats What They All Say” (2020), achieving platinum certification and further establishing his position in the music industry.
In the following years, Harlow continued to expand his presence in the music scene, collaborating with artists like Lil Nas X and Jungkook on chart-topping singles. His accolades include winning Top New Artist at the 2021 Billboard Music Awards and being recognized as Variety’s “Hitmaker of the Year.” Beyond music, Harlow ventured into acting, making his debut in the 2023 remake of “White Men Can’t Jump.” With a growing list of achievements and a dedicated fan base, Jack Harlow remains a prominent figure in contemporary music and entertainment.
50 Cent
50 Cent, renowned for his tumultuous yet remarkable life journey, faced significant challenges before emerging as a pivotal figure in rap and pop music around 2003. Originating from the rough streets of Jamaica, Queens, he endured a life filled with drugs, crimes, imprisonments, and the infamous experience of surviving multiple gunshot wounds. 50 Cent’s authenticity as a rapper stemmed from the real-life experiences he incorporated into his music, resonating with audiences from all walks of life. Embracing both his gritty past and musical talent, he captivated listeners with his catchy hooks and compelling narratives, paving his way to crossover success in the industry.
Born Curtis James Jackson III in 1975 in Southside Jamaica, Queens, 50 Cent grappled with a turbulent upbringing, losing his mother at a young age and subsequently being raised by his grandmother. Transitioning from a troubled youth involved in hustling and encounters with the law, he found a new path in hip-hop after meeting influential figures in the music scene. Despite facing near-death experiences and setbacks in his early music career, 50 Cent’s resilience and determination led him to collaborations with renowned artists like Eminem and Dr. Dre, propelling him to superstardom with hit singles and record-breaking album releases.
As he navigated through the peaks and pitfalls of fame, 50 Cent’s journey was marked by headline-making incidents, industry accolades, and creative endeavors beyond music. Establishing his crew G-Unit as a successful entity and venturing into various ventures such as video games and films, he solidified his position as a multifaceted artist. Despite challenges and controversies along the way, 50 Cent’s impact on the music industry and popular culture remained undeniable, with his legacy continuing to evolve through ventures like his acclaimed television series and ongoing creative projects.
NLE Choppa
NLE Choppa is relentless. With more than 5.5 billion total streams, 14 RIAA-certified plaques, 18 million combined followers, and two 2023 singles that found a comfortable home on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, the superstar 20-year-old MC from Memphis has already accomplished a lot. And yet he’s constantly working to satiate the needs of his fans and prove wrong any remaining doubters. Choppa’s recent work—culminating in his new album, Cottonwood 2 is still an ante-up on every conceivable level. Choppa’s emergence in the rap game is the stuff of legend, but for the uninitiated: His Platinum-certified single “Shotta Flow” became one of the biggest rap songs of 2019 without a premiere, co-sign, or major label push. Desiring creative control and ownership, he partnered with Warner Records to distribute his music and future releases on his label, No Love Entertainment. Fast forward to 2023 and the technical pyrotechnics remain, but Choppa has spent more time turning inward, reflecting on his devotion to family and spirituality, and sharing more of himself than he ever has. His songs about overcoming struggles and celebrating wins have won support from Billboard, The New York Times, Forbes, GQ, and Complex. Now, he just wants the rap conversation to reflect his immense talent. “When you mention the greatest artists, or when you mention the hottest artists out right now, I have to be in that conversation,” he declares.
Read MoreRachel Platten
Rachel Ashley Platten is an American singer-songwriter and author. Born on May 20, 1981, she gained recognition after signing with Columbia Records in 2015. Platten’s mainstream debut single, ‘Fight Song,’ reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US, topping charts in the UK and globally. Her major-label debut album, ‘Wildfire,’ released in 2016, achieved gold certification by RIAA. This album featured hit singles like ‘Stand by You’ and ‘Better Place.’ Following this success, her second major-label album, ‘Waves,’ was released in 2017.
Apart from her music career, Platten is involved in various charitable activities. She has supported organizations like Music Unites, Ryan Seacrest Foundation, Autism Speaks, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Platten’s philanthropic work extends to programs like Musicians on Call, where she sings bedside to hospital patients. She has volunteered for over 50 Musicians On Call programs, and her dedication was recognized with the Music Heals Award in 2015. In addition, Platten has ventured into modeling, featuring in Aerie’s unretouched advertising campaign and gracing the cover of The Improper Bostonian magazine. Recently, she performed at the Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s virtual fashion show in 2020.
Latto
Alyssa Michelle Stephens, professionally known as Latto, is an American rapper and singer hailing from Atlanta, Georgia. Latto gained initial recognition on Jermaine Dupri’s reality show, The Rap Game, where she emerged as the winner of the first season but declined a recording contract. Her breakthrough came with the release of the 2019 hit single ‘Bitch from da Souf,’ which achieved double platinum status and debuted on the Billboard Hot 100. Signing with RCA Records, Latto’s debut album, ‘Queen of da Souf’ in 2020, featured the chart-topping single ‘Muwop’ with Gucci Mane, attaining platinum certification.
Changing her name to Latto, she further broadened her fame with the 2021 track ‘Big Energy,’ reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100, securing a triple platinum status, and garnering a Grammy Award nomination. This song led her second studio album ‘777’ in 2022, which debuted at number 15 on the Billboard 200 chart. Latto’s collaboration with Jungkook on ‘Seven’ marked her first track to top both the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard Global 200. Additionally, her release ‘Put It on da Floor Again’ featuring Cardi B peaked at number 13 on the Hot 100 chart. ‘Sugar Honey Iced Tea,’ her third studio album in 2024, also achieved significant success on the Billboard 200.
Alan Jackson
A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and an inductee to the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Alan Jackson’s membership among music’s all-time greats is part of a long line of career-defining accolades that include three CMA Entertainer of the Year honors, over 30 years of membership in the Grand Ole Opry, a Billboard ranking as one of the Top 10 Country Artists of All-Time, induction to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Heritage Award as the most-performed country songwriter-artist of ASCAP’s first 100 years.
The man from rural Newnan, GA has sold nearly 60-million albums worldwide, ranks as one of the 10 best-selling male vocalists of all-time (rock, pop and country). He has released more than 60 singles – registering 50 Top Ten hits and 35 #1s (including 26 Billboard chart-toppers). He has earned more than 150 major music industry awards – including 19 Academy of Country Music Awards, 16 Country Music Association Awards, a pair of Grammys and ASCAP’s Founders and Golden Note Awards.
Jackson is one of the most successful and respected singer-songwriters in music, and his latest album, Where Have You Gone, is out now. He’s also the man behind one of Nashville’s most-popular tourist stops, AJ’s Good Time Bar, a four-story honky-tonk in the heart of downtown featuring daily live music and a rooftop view of Music City…and he recently unveiled Silverbelly Whiskey, a new premium spirit distilled exclusively for – and hand-selected by – the country superstar.
The Chainsmokers
The Chainsmokers, a Grammy Award-winning and Billboard Chart-topping artist/producer duo, have established themselves as a dominating musical force in the industry. Comprised of Alex Pall and Drew Taggart, The Chainsmokers boast a diverse repertoire of songs that span across indie, progressive, and pop genres. Their unique sound has propelled them to the forefront of the music scene, solidifying their position as one of the hottest recording artists in the industry.
Read MoreJourney
The artist, known for their unique style and innovative approach, has captivated audiences worldwide with their mesmerizing creations. Their work transcends boundaries, blending various influences to create a harmonious and captivating experience for all who encounter it. From their early days honing their craft to their current status as a renowned figure in the art world, the artist has continually pushed the boundaries of creativity and originality. Each piece tells a story, evoking emotions and sparking thought-provoking conversations among viewers.
Driven by a passion for pushing artistic boundaries, the artist continues to evolve and redefine the art landscape. Their dedication to their craft is evident in every brushstroke, every composition, and every exhibition. Through their art, they challenge norms, provoke introspection, and inspire new ways of seeing the world. The artist’s signature style is a testament to their artistic vision and creative prowess, garnering acclaim and recognition from critics and art enthusiasts alike. With each new creation, the artist invites the audience on a journey of discovery and contemplation, inviting them to delve deeper into the realms of imagination and creativity.