Taylor Dayne
Taylor Dayne is an American singer, songwriter, and actress with a career spanning three decades. Her debut single ‘Tell It to My Heart’ catapulted her to international stardom in 1987, paving the way for a successful journey in the music industry. Over the years, Taylor has delivered a string of hits including chart-toppers like ‘Love Will Lead You Back’, ‘Prove Your Love’, and ‘I’ll Always Love You’, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in the music scene.
Throughout her illustrious career, Taylor has achieved remarkable milestones, selling over 75 million albums and singles globally. Her talent has been recognized with three Grammy nominations, an American Music Award, and several New York Music Awards. Notably, she has been honored with a place in the New York Hall of Fame and acknowledged as the 18th Female Dance artist of all time by Rolling Stone magazine. Taylor’s ability to seamlessly transition across various music genres, from Pop to Rock, has further cemented her legacy in the industry.
Furthermore, Taylor’s impact on the music scene extends to topping the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart multiple times, showcasing her enduring popularity among audiences. In a testament to her enduring legacy, Billboard magazine ranked Taylor as the 28th most successful dance artist of all time in December 2016, underlining her enduring influence and contribution to the world of music.
Lisa Loeb & Nine Stories
Lisa Loeb & Nine Stories is an iconic American singer-songwriter known for her distinctive eyeglasses and soulful music. Lisa Loeb, along with her band Nine Stories, rose to fame in the mid-1990s with the hit single ‘Stay (I Missed You)’. Her enchanting vocals and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide, establishing her as a prominent figure in the alternative rock and pop music scenes. Lisa Loeb’s music is a blend of introspective melodies and evocative storytelling, creating a unique and unforgettable sound that resonates with fans of all ages.
With a career spanning over three decades, Lisa Loeb continues to inspire and influence generations of music lovers. Her songwriting prowess and emotive performances have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Beyond music, Lisa Loeb is a multifaceted artist, venturing into acting, children’s music, and philanthropy. Her unwavering passion for creativity and connecting with her audience is evident in every aspect of her work. Lisa Loeb & Nine Stories’ legacy is not just in their music but also in the impact they have made on the industry, paving the way for independent artists and redefining the boundaries of artistic expression.
Lisa Loeb
Lisa Loeb is a renowned Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, accomplished touring musician, and dedicated philanthropist. Her musical journey took off with the iconic 1994 hit song ‘Stay (I Missed You)’ from Reality Bites, which made history as the first track by an unsigned artist to reach No. 1, catapulting her into a significant recording contract. With an impressive repertoire, Lisa has launched 15 studio albums, including a selection of five children’s albums and two captivating illustrated children’s books complemented by musical accompaniment. Her most recent musical endeavor, ‘A Simple Trick to Happiness,’ stands as a testament to her artistic versatility and creativity.
In addition to her musical pursuits, Lisa Loeb is deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors. She is the visionary behind The Camp Lisa Foundation, a noble initiative dedicated to providing enriching summer camp experiences for underprivileged children. Furthermore, Lisa actively manages the strategic aspects of Lisa Loeb Eyewear, a flourishing eyewear line that can be found in optical stores and Costco locations worldwide. Adding to her diverse portfolio, Lisa lends her voice to the animated series “Creative Galaxy” and showcases her songwriting prowess in the Emmy-nominated “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” series.
Lisa’s influence extends beyond music and philanthropy into the realm of film and television. Her recent appearances in renowned productions like “Fuller House,” “AP Bio,” “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver,” “About a Boy,” “Hot Tub Time Machine 2,” and Sprout’s “Sunny Side Up” highlight her multifaceted talent and enduring popularity.
Will To Power
Will to Power is the brainchild of producer/writer/performer Bob Rosenberg and lead vocalist, Elin Michaels. Bob first hit the spotlight in 1985 as Miami’s first “Hot Mix Master” on Hot 105. His Mega Mixes were a major part of Hot 105’s success and later, Power 96. Legendary Program Director, Bill Tanner stated that “Bob Rosenberg left an indelible mark on South Florida’s music history”. Bob wrote his first hit, Dreamin” in memory of his twin sister Robin, who passed away in August of 1986. Dreamin’ holds the record as the longest running Pop single to remain on South Florida’s Top 5 for 36 weeks.
‘Baby I Love Your Way/Freebird’ was released in September 1988 and hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. Other hits included “Say it’s gonna Rain” and “Fading Away” which both hit #1 on Billboard’s Dance charts. Sophomore album, “Journey Home” was named as Music Critic, Chuck Eddy’s “favorite album of the 90s” in LA Weekly. ‘I’m not in Love’ hit #7 on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1990. Journey Home” first became available on digital format on November 3rd, 2017! Bob remixed ‘Beat Box’ for ‘2 Live Crew’ on their 1st album and was credited as ‘Bob “King of the Edits” Rosenberg’. Will to Power released the “Spirit Warrior” album in 2005 which included “Dreamin (again)” which hit #1 in DJ Times magazine as well as Dance stations. Current Will to Power lineup: Bob Rosenberg and Elin Michaels.
John Mayer
John Mayer, a talented musician known for his sensitive and acoustic songwriting style, made a remarkable debut with his album ‘Room for Squares’ in 2001. Over the years, Mayer evolved his musical approach, incorporating blues-rock, adult contemporary, and jazz influences into his songs. His diverse skills as a guitarist and singer garnered widespread acclaim, reflected in the success of his albums like ‘Heavier Things’ and ‘Continuum,’ which earned him multiple Grammy Awards. Mayer’s collaborations with music legends such as Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton, B.B. King, and Herbie Hancock showcased his versatility across various genres. His ability to reinvent his sound with each album, blending elements of rock, blues, and soul, has solidified his position as one of the top songwriters of his generation.
Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and raised in Fairfield, John Mayer’s musical journey began with a passion for blues at a young age. After a brief stint at Berklee College of Music, Mayer delved into the Atlanta music scene, where he honed his skills and developed a unique songwriting style. His early collaborations with Clay Cook led to the release of ‘Inside Wants Out’ in 1999, setting the stage for his signing with Aware Records and the subsequent success of ‘Room for Squares.’ Mayer’s rise to fame was marked by chart-topping hits like ‘No Such Thing’ and ‘Your Body Is a Wonderland.’ As he ventured into different genres and explored new musical territories with albums like ‘Battle Studies’ and ‘Born and Raised,’ Mayer continued to push boundaries and captivate audiences with his soulful vocals and intricate guitar work.
Throughout his career, John Mayer’s music has evolved in fascinating ways, blending elements of pop, rock, and blues to create a signature sound that resonates with fans worldwide. His critically acclaimed albums, including ‘The Search for Everything’ and ‘Sob Rock,’ highlight Mayer’s growth as a musician and his dedication to craftsmanship. Despite facing challenges in his personal life, Mayer’s commitment to his artistry remains unwavering, evident in his enduring success and influence in the music industry. With each new project, Mayer continues to surprise and delight listeners, cementing his legacy as a visionary artist and an enduring voice in contemporary music.
The Go-Go’s
The Go-Go’s rose to fame as the leading all-female band to break through in the punk and new wave scene of the late ’70s and early ’80s, marking a pivotal moment for women in music. Unlike many female groups of their time, the Go-Go’s stood out for their independence, free from male producers or managers, paving the way for future female artists. Their infectious hit singles like ‘We Got the Beat,’ ‘Our Lips Are Sealed,’ ‘Vacation,’ and ‘Head Over Heels’ defined the vibrant, energetic sound of new wave pop. Despite their commercial success, the Go-Go’s roots lay deep in the California punk culture, embodying the rebellious spirit of the era.
Formed originally in 1978 as the Misfits, the group underwent a transformation to become the Go-Go’s, comprising Belinda Carlisle on vocals, Jane Wiedlin on guitar, vocals, Charlotte Caffey on lead guitar and keyboards, Margot Olaverra on bass, and Elissa Bello on drums. The addition of Gina Schock as the drummer in 1979 further solidified their lineup. The band’s journey was marked by resilience and perseverance, from recording demos to touring England, where their breakout single ‘We Got the Beat’ on Stiff Records gained them underground fame in the States. Despite initial struggles to secure a record deal, the Go-Go’s finally signed with IRS Records in 1981, leading to the release of their debut album ‘Beauty and the Beat,’ which skyrocketed to the top of the charts and solidified their status as music icons.
Throughout their musical career, the Go-Go’s encountered both triumphs and challenges, with subsequent albums like ‘Vacation’ and ‘Talk Show’ showcasing their evolving sound and musical growth. Despite internal changes and eventual disbandment in 1985, each member pursued individual paths in the music industry. Belinda Carlisle emerged as a highly successful solo artist, while Charlotte Caffey and Jane Wiedlin ventured into new musical projects. The Go-Go’s reunion in the ’90s and early 2000s brought nostalgic joy to their loyal fan base, with new compilations and studio albums reigniting their legacy in the music industry, showcasing the enduring influence and timeless appeal of the pioneering all-female band.
Donna Summer
Donna Summer, known as the ‘Queen of Disco,’ was not just a talented vocalist but a remarkable songwriter with a magnetic stage presence. Her collaboration with studio partners led to a string of hits during the ’70s, including ‘Love to Love You Baby,’ ‘I Feel Love,’ ‘MacArthur Park,’ and ‘Hot Stuff.’ These songs defined the disco era with their audacious musicality and uninhibited sensuality, solidifying her as a disco icon. Summer’s influence extended beyond disco as she transitioned to dance music with songs like ‘She Works Hard for the Money,’ continuing to dominate the club charts for decades after her debut. Her impact on music was undeniable, earning her recognition in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame the year following her passing.
Born LaDonna Andre Gaines in 1948, Donna Summer’s musical journey began in Boston’s gospel choir and later with the rock group the Crow. She ventured to Europe in the late ’60s, where she honed her craft in stage productions and musicals. It was in Europe where she met her husband Helmut Sommer, adopting an Anglicized version of his last name. Summer’s breakthrough came in 1974 when she collaborated with producers Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte on ‘Love to Love You Baby,’ a chart-topping sensation that catapulted her into fame. Subsequent albums like ‘Love Trilogy’ and ‘Four Seasons of Love’ showcased her versatility and the evolving sophistication of her producers in arrangement and style. Summer’s impact on the music industry continued with iconic hits like ‘I Feel Love,’ ‘Last Dance,’ and ‘MacArthur Park,’ solidifying her as a music powerhouse across genres.
Despite the changing music landscape, Donna Summer’s artistry remained dynamic, as she transitioned to R&B and pop-rock on albums like ‘The Wanderer.’ Her fruitful collaboration with Quincy Jones and Michael Omartian led to hits like ‘Love Is in Control’ and ‘She Works Hard for the Money,’ showcasing her ability to adapt to new sounds while maintaining her signature style. Summer’s influence extended to faith-based music with songs like ‘He’s a Rebel’ and ‘Forgive Me,’ earning her critical acclaim and multiple Grammy awards. Her musical journey continued through the ’80s and ’90s with successful albums and collaborations, cementing her legacy as a versatile and enduring artist. Donna Summer’s impact on music culture transcended generations, leaving a lasting legacy that earned her a well-deserved place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The B-52’s
The B-52s, among the pioneers of American new wave music, rose to fame in the late ’70s as one of the most successful acts from the American underground scene. Their music, characterized by its quirky and danceable nature, blended elements of surf music, ’60s pop, vintage soul, and low-budget sci-fi soundtracks, creating a unique kaleidoscope of pop culture influences. The band’s vocal style drew inspiration from artists like Yoko Ono and Yma Sumac, incorporating an eccentric but enjoyable appeal. With a penchant for kitschy fashion and offbeat humor, the B-52s catered to the skinny tie crowd, infusing a queer sensibility into their music during a time when punk rock was becoming more macho and misogynistic. Despite facing a setback with the tragic loss of guitarist Ricky Wilson in 1985, the group made a remarkable comeback with the multi-platinum album Cosmic Thing in 1989, marking a significant milestone with their hit single ‘Love Shack.’ Today, the B-52s are revered figures in alternative pop, continuing to tour and explore electronic influences in their music.
Formed in Athens, Georgia in 1976, the B-52s emerged in a city known for its progressive and bohemian culture, standing out as a creative force in a generally conservative environment. Comprising longtime friends Ricky Wilson and Keith Strickland, along with Cindy Wilson, Fred Schneider, and Kate Pierson, the band found its eclectic influences during a fateful gathering at a Chinese restaurant, culminating in a decision to form a musical group. Initially, only Ricky and Keith possessed musical skills and began crafting the band’s sound through collaborative jam sessions. Over time, the members honed their live performance, with each member contributing distinct talents, such as Ricky on guitar, Kate on vocals and keyboards, Cindy on vocals and percussion, Fred on vocals, and Keith on drums. Adopting the moniker the B-52s, a nod to high-rise beehive hairstyles, the band garnered a devoted following in Athens, setting the stage for their musical journey.
As the B-52s gained momentum, they caught the attention of the music industry, leading to the release of their debut single ‘Rock Lobster’ in 1978, which quickly became a hit in the independent music scene. Venturing into the vibrant punk and new wave scene of New York City, the band’s distinct sound and quirky style resonated with audiences, propelling them to prominence at renowned venues like CBGB and Max’s Kansas City. Signing deals with labels like Island Records and Warner Bros., the B-52s ventured to Compass Point Studios to record their self-titled debut album in 1979, earning critical acclaim. Subsequent releases like Wild Planet and Whammy! showcased the band’s evolving sound and experimental spirit, paving the way for their groundbreaking success with the chart-topping album Cosmic Thing in 1989. Despite facing challenges, including the loss of Ricky Wilson, the B-52s persevered, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry and continuing their legacy with innovative projects and memorable live performances.
Elle King
Multi-Platinum artist Elle King has made a significant mark in the music industry with the release of her second album, Shake The Spirit, in October 2018. This critically-acclaimed album includes the lead single ‘Shame,’ which became King’s fourth radio No. 1 hit. Remarkably, Elle King stands out as the only artist in history to achieve number 1 singles on multiple charts, including Adult Pop Songs, Adult Alternative Songs, Alternative Songs, and Country Airplay. Her latest single, ‘Baby Outlaw,’ continues to showcase her talent, described by Rolling Stone as a blues-rock track that alternates between a howl and a whisper, accompanied by dust-blown electric guitars.
Shake The Spirit follows Elle King’s debut record, Love Stuff, which introduced her double Platinum breakthrough single ‘Ex’s & Oh’s.’ This hit track not only reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Rock Songs Chart but also dominated the AAA, Hot AC, and Alternative Radio charts. Elle King’s collaboration with Dierks Bentley on the Grammy-nominated hit ‘Different For Girls’ further solidified her success in the industry, earning the CMA award for “Vocal Event of the Year.” As her influence grew, Elle King headlined the Shake The Spirit Tour, attracting diverse audiences with her genre-blending music. She continues to captivate fans on HEART’s Live Alive Tour and will soon join Miranda Lambert’s The Roadside Bars & Pink Guitars Tour as direct support. Learn more about Elle King’s journey at www.elleking.com.
Peter Gabriel
As the founding member of Genesis in the early ’70s, Peter Gabriel played a pivotal role in elevating progressive rock to new heights of theatricality. Transitioning to a solo career, Gabriel showcased his profound artistry through subtle yet innovative approaches. His eponymous debut album in 1977 delved into dark and cerebral themes, blending avant-garde, electronic, and worldbeat influences. This marked the beginning of a critically acclaimed journey, with successive albums cementing Gabriel’s status as a revered cult figure. The breakthrough came with 1982’s ‘Security,’ featuring the chart-topping hit ‘Shock the Monkey,’ paving the way for the iconic album ‘So’ in 1986. The accompanying groundbreaking videos and the smash single ‘Sledgehammer’ propelled Gabriel to international stardom.
After parting ways with Genesis in 1976, Gabriel embarked on a solo venture, releasing three self-titled albums consecutively. Each album, labeled ‘Peter Gabriel,’ symbolized different chapters of his artistic evolution. Notably, the third eponymous album, produced by Steve Lillywhite and released in 1980, established Gabriel as a trailblazing musician known for his political activism. Hits like ‘Biko’ and ‘Games Without Frontiers’ resonated as powerful protest anthems. As his solo career flourished, Gabriel’s dedication to social causes shone through his involvement in projects like WOMAD and founding Real World label in 1985.
The pinnacle of Gabriel’s commercial success arrived with ‘So’ in 1986, featuring the iconic track ‘Sledgehammer’ and the mesmerizing ‘In Your Eyes.’ Alongside musical triumphs, Gabriel’s contributions to humanitarian efforts, including Amnesty International tours, showcased his noble character. His foray into worldbeat culminated in the Grammy-winning ‘Passion: Music for The Last Temptation of Christ.’ Subsequent releases like ‘Us’ in 1992 and ‘Up’ in 2002 demonstrated Gabriel’s continuous evolution and enduring impact on the music industry. Gabriel’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 celebrated his legacy as both a solo artist and a key figure in the legendary Genesis.
Patrick Swayze
Patrick Swayze was an American actor, singer, and dancer who became a beloved icon in the entertainment industry. Born on August 18, 1952, in Houston, Texas, Swayze displayed his talent for performing from a young age. Known for his charismatic presence and versatile skills, he rose to fame with his roles in hit films like ‘Dirty Dancing’, ‘Ghost’, and ‘Point Break’. Swayze’s smooth dance moves and soulful performances captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Throughout his career, Patrick Swayze garnered critical acclaim, earning numerous awards and nominations for his work. His passion for acting and dedication to his craft shone through in each role he portrayed, earning him a place among Hollywood’s elite. Beyond his on-screen success, Swayze also showcased his musical talents, releasing albums that further endeared him to his fans. Despite facing health challenges later in his life, his spirit and resilience continued to inspire all who knew of his journey.
Patrick Swayze’s legacy endures through his timeless performances, which continue to captivate new generations of viewers. His impact on the entertainment industry remains significant, with his name synonymous with talent, charm, and enduring star power. Whether on the dance floor or the silver screen, Swayze’s influence is felt to this day, solidifying his status as a true legend in the world of entertainment.
Haddaway
Best known for his insistent 1993 club hit “What Is Love,” Eurodisco enigma Haddaway was born in Trinidad but raised in Cologne, Germany. Little else is known about the performer, later based in Monaco; his 1993 debut, Haddaway–The Album, launched the smash “What Is Love,” which was not only a hit upon its initial release but subsequently enjoyed renewed popularity thanks to its recurring use in the Saturday Night Live sketch which formed the basis for the 1998 film comedy A Night at the Roxbury. In the meantime, Haddaway issued two new LPs — 1996’s The Drive and 1998’s Let’s Do It Now — neither of them as successful as his debut. ~ Jason Ankeny, Rovi
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