LeAnn Rimes
LeAnn Rimes is an international multi-platinum selling acclaimed singer and ASCAP award-winning songwriter who has sold more than 44 million units globally, won 2 Grammy® Awards; 12 Billboard Music Awards; 2 World Music Awards; 3 Academy of Country Music Awards; one Country Music Association Award and one Dove Award. At 14, Rimes won “Best New Artist” making her the youngest recipient to take home a Grammy® Award.
Out of the 42 singles she has released throughout her expansive career, LeAnn’s record “How Do I Live” continues to rank #4 on Billboard’s “Greatest of All Time: Hot 100 Songs,” and it holds the record for being the second longest charting song ever on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. 15 of her multi-genre singles are top-10 hits, including “Can’t Fight the Moonlight,” which went #1 in 11 countries.
In 2017, the world-renowned singer released her 16th studio RCA UK/Thirty Tigers album, Remnants, which debuted at # 4 on Billboard’s Independent Album Chart, peaked at #3 on iTunes ® overall charts in its first week, garnered two #1 Billboard Dance hits with “Long Live Love” and “LovE is LovE is LovE,” and one Top 5 hit with “Love Line.” In the fall of 2018, Rimes revealed a new EP for her fans titled Re-Imagined that featured five new versions of some of her record-breaking hits, including an epic duet with the music icon Stevie Nicks.
Leona Lewis
Leona Lewis, the British singing sensation, has achieved remarkable success in her music career, having sold over 20 million records globally and securing the top spot in more than 35 countries with her sensational hit single “Bleeding Love.” Known for her exceptional vocal prowess and range, Lewis is a distinguished 3-time GRAMMY Award nominee, 7-time BRIT Award nominee, winner of MTV VMA and World Music Award, and has received nominations for MTV EMAs and Billboard Music Awards. Her debut album, Spirit, made history by making her the first British female solo artist to dominate the US Billboard 200 album chart in over two decades. In 2014, she collaborated with Toby Gad, the producer of Echo, to craft her deeply personal fifth album, ‘I Am.’
Apart from her musical talents, Leona is a fervent humanitarian and animal rights activist, dedicating her efforts to various renowned organizations like The Prince’s Trust, RED, MTV Staying Alive, Teenage Cancer Trust, Sports Relief, WWF, Humane Society, and World Animal Protection. Her philanthropic endeavors were recognized in 2016 when she was nominated for a CMT Award and honored with the Music Pioneer Award at the United Nations Women’s Entrepreneurship Day. Recently, Leona marked her brilliant Broadway debut in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS, portraying the iconic character Grizabella and delivering a captivating rendition of the timeless classic “Memory.”
In 2017, Leona embarked on exciting collaborations with Pitbull, Hans Zimmer, and Dinah Jane from Fifth Harmony, graced live shows with KYGO, and paid tribute to Lionel Richie at the Kennedy Centre Honors. Notably, she featured on Calum Scott’s heartwarming track ‘You Are The Reason.’ Currently, Leona is hard at work in the studio, focusing on creating new and captivating music for her fans worldwide.
Tina Turner
Tina Turner is a global icon, captivating millions with her extraordinary journey, mesmerizing vocals, and captivating performances. Her musical legacy comprises timeless classics such as ‘The Best,’ ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It,’ and ‘Proud Mary,’ resonating with audiences worldwide. Tina’s electrifying stage presence has illuminated arenas across the planet, including her historic record-breaking show at the Maracanã, where she enthralled over 180,000 devoted fans.
In recent years, Tina has ventured into literary works with releases like ‘My Love Story,’ collaborated with renowned producer Kygo for remixes, and seen her remarkable life story portrayed in the Tony-nominated musical ‘Tina: The Tina Turner Musical’ and the acclaimed documentary ‘TINA.’ Boasting numerous chart-toppers, platinum certifications, 12 Grammy® Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and a recent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, Tina remains a cherished figure in the music industry, attracting new admirers and perpetuating her legacy with unwavering success.
Starship
Starship was formed as a band resulting from a legal settlement, which marked the beginning of their journey in the mid-’80s. Their repertoire included popular hits like ‘We Built This City,’ ‘Sara,’ and ‘Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now,’ showcasing a polished pop/rock style. The group eventually disbanded in the early ’90s, leaving behind a legacy of chart-topping music.
Initially, Starship emerged from the remaining members of Jefferson Starship after a lawsuit settled the ownership of the band’s name. Led by Paul Kantner and Grace Slick, the band transitioned into Starship with notable members like Mickey Thomas, Craig Chaquico, and more. Their hits like ‘We Built This City’ and ‘Sara’ propelled them into stardom, solidifying their place as a distinct musical entity. The evolution and challenges faced by Starship shaped their musical direction and led to a lasting impact on the music industry.
Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, an iconic rock band led by the legendary Joan Jett, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with their electrifying performances and timeless hits. Formed in the late 1970s, the band quickly rose to fame with their rebellious attitude and infectious energy, becoming synonymous with the rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. Joan Jett, known for her raw vocals and fierce guitar skills, has captivated audiences worldwide with her empowering lyrics and charismatic stage presence. The Blackhearts, a talented group of musicians backing Joan Jett, bring a unique blend of punk rock and classic rock sounds that have defined their signature sound.
With iconic songs like ‘I Love Rock ‘n Roll’ and ‘Bad Reputation,’ Joan Jett & The Blackhearts have become a staple in the rock music scene, inspiring generations of fans and musicians alike. Joan Jett’s influence extends beyond music, as she has been a trailblazer for women in rock, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for female artists to thrive in a male-dominated industry. The band’s enduring legacy continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, showcasing the power of music to unite and empower. Joan Jett & The Blackhearts’ electrifying performances and rebellious spirit make them a timeless icon in the world of rock music, proving that authenticity and passion are the keys to creating lasting impact in the music industry.
Survivor
Survivor is renowned for their brand of melodic, hard, album-oriented rock that produced numerous hits in the 1980s, notably contributing two iconic themes to the Rocky films. Established in 1978 by guitarist/keyboardist Jim Peterik, previously known as the lead singer of the Ides of March, and guitarist Frankie Sullivan. The lineup expanded with the addition of lead singer Dave Bickler and studio musicians Dennis Johnson and Gary Smith for their self-titled debut album, later replaced by permanent members Stephen Ellis and Marc Droubay.
The pinnacle of Survivor’s career arrived in 1982 when Sylvester Stallone enlisted the band to compose the theme for Rocky III, resulting in the chart-topping success of “Eye of the Tiger.” This achievement propelled their album of the same name past one million sales. Despite facing challenges such as Bickler’s departure in 1983, Survivor regrouped with new vocalist Jimi Jamison and enjoyed further success with hits like “High on You” and “The Search Is Over.” However, internal changes led to a decline in the band’s popularity, culminating in their disbandment in 1989. The original members reunited in 1997, releasing the album Reach in 2006 before experiencing lineup changes over the years.
The Bangles
The Bangles, known for combining the chiming riffs and catchy melodies of British Invasion guitar pop with a touch of new wave energy, were a standout among the ’80s all-female bands that achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success. Their journey began with the release of their self-titled debut EP and album, All Over the Place, which garnered critical praise. As they evolved their sound, incorporating synthesizers and moving away from their signature jangling guitar hooks, the band reached platinum sales status, solidifying their place in music history. Despite disbanding soon after their peak, the Bangles left behind a legacy of timeless pop hits.
Formed in 1981, the original lineup of the Bangles comprised guitarist/vocalist Vicki Peterson and drummer/vocalist Debbi Peterson, who responded to an ad by guitarist/vocalist Susanna Hoffs in a local Los Angeles publication. Initially named the Bangs, the trio later changed their name to the Bangles due to a naming conflict. After signing with IRS Records’ Faulty Products label, the band gained momentum, releasing their first EP followed by their debut album. The Bangles continued to rise in popularity, signing with CBS Records in 1983 and adding bassist/vocalist Michael Steele to their lineup. Their second album, Different Light, propelled them to stardom with hits like “Manic Monday” and “Walk Like an Egyptian,” showcasing their versatility and musical talents.
Simple Minds
Simple Minds are one of the UK’s most successful bands, having achieved six No.1 albums as well hitting the top spot in countless other territories including Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Australia and New Zealand.
One of the things I’m most proud of is that people say to me what Simple Minds are you talking about? The avant-garde, the art-rock, the pop, the ambient, the instrumental group, the political, the folk, the stadium band? We’ve been on one hell of a journey. To play all those different styles but at the same time be quintessentially Simple Minds is an amazing thing.” Jim Kerr.
Simple Minds have been musical pioneers for 40 glittering years. Catching the mood of the post-punk era, when the angry sounds of 1977 were splintering into a thousand different shapes. They went on to become one of the great bands of their generation, deploying rousing choruses and booming atmospherics to provide a soundtrack that has endured.
Topping the American chart with Don’t You (Forget About Me) and in the UK with Belfast Child and selling over 60 million records, they have seen three of their 20 studio albums reach number one in the UK – Sparkle In The Rain, Once Upon A Time and Street Fighting Years – a chart-topping feat equalled by their live album Live In The City Of Light and the compilation Glittering Prize. A spellbinding touring band, they have graced the world’s biggest stadiums, starring at Live Aid and playing three momentous London shows in honour of Nelson Mandela.
UB40
The story of UB40 is a remarkable journey of a group of young friends from Birmingham who defied their humble beginnings to emerge as the world’s most successful reggae band. With record sales exceeding 100 million and a cumulative 11 years in the UK album charts, UB40’s ascent is far from a mere fairytale. Despite leading a somewhat charmed existence, the band’s path has been strewn with challenges, originating from the days of meeting in local bars and clubs in Moseley, where some members struggled to make ends meet on meager unemployment benefits.
The options for those who left school early were stark: work in local factories like Robin Campbell or drift aimlessly while awaiting a change of fate. However, a turning point arrived in the summer of 1978 when the core members of UB40 commenced rehearsals in a modest local basement. Consisting of Robin’s younger brother Ali, Earl Falconer, Brian Travers, James Brown, and Norman Hassan, who had long-standing connections from Moseley School of Art and junior school, the band’s lineup remained intact for three decades. In 2021, UB40 introduced Matt Doyle as the new lead vocalist, succeeding Duncan Campbell, who had earlier replaced Ali Campbell in 2008.
Naked Eyes
Naked Eyes, a prominent figure in the synth-pop movement of the early ’80s, originated in Britain in 1981. The group was formed by Pete Byrne (vocals) and Rob Fisher (keyboards), who were former schoolmates. Their first album, Burning Bridges, was released in March 1983 and later reissued in the U.S. under a self-titled version, gaining popularity with the lead single, a striking rendition of the classic ‘Always Something There to Remind Me’ by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. This single achieved significant success on both sides of the Atlantic, notably reaching the Top Ten in the U.S. propelled by its widely broadcast music video on MTV. Despite this early triumph, their subsequent album ‘Fuel for the Fire’ in 1984 faced commercial challenges, with its main single ‘(What) In the Name of Love’ barely making it into the Top 40. The group eventually disbanded, and in 1988, Rob Fisher reemerged as one half of the pop duo Climie Fisher. Tragically, Fisher passed away on August 25, 1999, due to complications following stomach surgery, leaving behind a musical legacy.
Read MoreEric Carmen
Eric Carmen, the talented singer/songwriter, left a remarkable legacy with a string of hit singles throughout his extensive career. Whether performing as a member of the Raspberries, as a solo artist, or as a gifted songwriter for others, Carmen’s musical influence was profound. The Raspberries, pioneers of power pop in the early ’70s, set the stage for the genre with their blend of captivating melodies, powerful rhythms, and Carmen’s captivating vocals. Their track ‘Go All the Way’ became a chart-topper, solidifying their place in music history.
Aside from his success with the Raspberries, Carmen achieved solo stardom with iconic songs like ‘All by Myself’ and ‘Hungry Eyes.’ His musical journey began in Cleveland, Ohio, where he honed his skills in music from a young age, eventually transitioning to rock & roll inspired by the Beatles. Carmen’s impact extended beyond his own performances, as his songwriting talent contributed to popular soundtracks like ‘Dirty Dancing’ and ‘Footloose,’ ensuring his melodies resonated with audiences worldwide.
Paula Abdul
Paula Abdul has had a remarkable career in the music industry, with record sales exceeding 60 million and a collection of prestigious awards under her belt. Her accolades include 17 MTV Video Music Awards nominations, two GRAMMY Awards, three American Music Awards, two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Choreography, and two People’s Choice Awards as Favorite Female Music Performer. Additionally, she has been honored with five Juno Awards and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Notably, Paula Abdul was the first entertainer to receive the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards Hall of Fame Award and was also recognized with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Paula Abdul’s journey began as a Laker girl, where she eventually transitioned into a choreographer for the team. Her talent caught the eyes of industry legends like Janet Jackson and Michael Jackson, both of whom entrusted her with choreographing their iconic dance routines. Her choreography skills were also sought after by numerous other superstars, films, and television shows, solidifying her reputation in the entertainment world. Paula gained international fame as an original judge on the groundbreaking TV show American Idol, showcasing her keen eye for talent and charismatic personality.
One of Paula Abdul’s most memorable hits, “Straight Up!”, made history by achieving multiple #1 Billboard chart positions from her debut album. The song has amassed over 100 million streams globally and continues to resonate with audiences, especially on platforms like TikTok. Interestingly, the song title inspired the name of Richard Branson’s first space rocket, highlighting Paula Abdul’s influence beyond music into the realms of popular culture and innovation. Paula is set to captivate audiences once again in 2024, as the Special Guest on the highly anticipated Magic Summer Tour alongside New Kids On The Block, proving that her star power continues to shine brightly in the music industry.