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  6. A friend
    Be Thankful for What You Got
    Alanis Morisette
    Sly Stone
    ??

    Bonus 1. Gratitude
    Bonus 2. Stan
    Bonus 3. ??

    1. Thanks for playing, Barb. The ones you guessed you guessed correctly! I’m posting the next Jeopardy momentarily with the results to this one. Stay tuned!

  12. Queen, Bruce, Dylan, Whitney, The Doors, Amy, Tina, Elton, and on and on and on . . . all these biopics leave me with one overwhelming feeling. It’s one you mention as well. I’m glad I have been alive during each of these superstar careers. I fully expect there to be major holes in time frames, major deletion of events that seem unimportant or perhaps contorversial. I expect even if they touch on a few negative aspects we will overwhelmingly be showered with “the good side” of things. I’m grateful I went to the concerts, that I bought the albums and have listened to them endlessly, that I paid attention to what we were allowed to see as the persons behind the music. I’m a front row attendee to these things that cannot be erased or take away from me as a lover of the music. As good or as bad as the Michale biopic will end up being may disappoint — as they ususally do — and may leave us wishing for what could or should have been. Don’t show me the life if you’re not truly going to show me the life. But . . . I can put on the glorious music and live the past and present memories I personally have of how incredibly good and alive the music made/makes me feel.

  13. (Apologies if this is a duplicate comment).

    The recent Dylan and Springsteen bios focused on one or two critical years in the respective artists’ life. Even though the Springsteen movie has disappointing box office, is that an approach you would prefer? As far as Michael goes; there are several pivot points that would make great movies. I would love to see a film (documentary or acted-out) that focused on the 1984 Victory Tour. So many compelling sidebar stories! And the casting could get really fun: Who would -you- cast as Don King (I’m rooting for RuPaul!)

  14. The recent Springsteen and Dylan movies focused on one or two critical years in the respective artists’ life. Even though the Springsteen movie has disappointing box office, is that an approach you would prefer? When it comes to Michael, there are several pivot points deserving of their own film. I’d love to see one (documentary or acted-out) which focused on the 1984 Victory Tour. So many sidebar stories! And casting would be fascinating: Who would play Don King, for example (I’m hoping for RuPaul!)

    1. No, I’d prefer the lifetime span used in the Jackson film. One or two years would be too few, unless it was the two years centered around Thriller—from its inception to its final chart hit with the title track.

  17. Cardi B is a smart cookie (fine af too) to hang her shingle on Damita Jo’s roof. The monies earned will make nice trust for Issa, or a Lamborghini for his 16th birthday. Now that aside, can Missy E and Damita Jo do a collabo? We need a club banga!!!

  18. Clue 1-Mick Jagger & Keith Richards
    Clue 2-“Drive”
    Clue 3-“Too Much Time On My Hands”
    Clue 4-Pete Townshend & Roger Daltrey
    Clue 5-Foreigner
    Bonus 1-Roger Hodgson & Rick Davies
    Bonus 2-Glen Tillbrook & Chris Difford

    from Tim McDonnell

  19. Who is Ford?
    Who is Ford?
    Who is Chubby Checker?
    Who is Biden?
    Who are Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars?
    B1. Who is Beyoncé?
    B2. Who is Obama?
    B3. Who is George Michael?

  20. What is Material girl
    Who is Ray Charles
    Idk who the boz is 🤷‍♀️
    Don’t know
    Tambourines and elephants are playing in the band…. I’m guessing the name is not tambourines
    Who is Price, when doves cry
    What the bitch is back and idk.

    Not bad for someone born in 1980, eh?

    1. Awesome guesses, Amanda! You got a couple correct (even if you didn’t have the right title for the CCR hit). Boz is Boz Scaggs btw (“Lowdown”).

  22. Thank you for bringing back such great memories. I sang each song as I read through your article. #80sForever

  23. 1]Who is Charlie Daniels. 2 What is Renagade 3] Who is Terry Bradshaw. 4} what is Black and Yellow 5} Bonus number 1 No reply and 2 Guessing Who is Kenny Rogers, He once owned part of Houston Gamblers USFL. From Wendell Blackett

  24. Who is Charlie Daniels?
    What is Renegade?
    Who is Terry Bradshaw?
    What is Black and Yellow?
    What is The Waterboy?
    Who is someone who has never been in my kitchen?
    Who is Glenn Sutton?

  25. Anita Baker
    Madonna
    Sara McLachlan
    Aerosmith
    Shaggy
    Bonus 1. ?
    Bonus 2. Jim Hendrix

  27. Brings me back to my club days, where rock, disco and country music all shared the same dance floor!

  28. No mention of Billboard’s Bill Wardlow? I’ll bet he had a role in this.

  29. Organic is what comes to mind after reading your article. Even her iconic tshirt and jeans photo gives organic vibes. I’m willing to bet it wasn’t a planned photo shoot. Mom of three at that time with good genes. Dayum that was hot. Nowadays it has to be extra T and A in designer duds, cookie cutter make up and hair just to give a Diana feel. At 80+ she still got it. Thanks DJ Rob

  30. 1) What is Tipsy?
    2) What is (Love Is) Thicker Than Water?
    3) What is I Like It?
    4) What is 9 to 5?
    5) What is Without You?
    Bonus: What is All Night Long (All Night)

  32. Congrats, Rob! I’m a reader — I can’t get into TikTok or all that video short stuff — and I really appreciate your thoughtful writing. Here’s to many more posts!

  33. Hmm. Not sure.
    1. Lou Christie
    2. ?
    3. ?
    4. Bobby Sherman
    5. The Whispers
    Bonus: Cavin Yarbrough

    1. Thanks! I’ve been listening to The Beach Boys ever since. “I’m Waiting For The Day” may be my new favorite track by them.

  36. Well said! I think this album is so relevant at this period of time politically and socially. I’m reminded of the lyric from Stand! “Stand, you’ve been sitting much too long
    There’s a permanent crease in your right and wrong. Stand, there’s a midget standing tall
    And a giant beside him about to fall” RIP Sly.

  38. As usual, another brilliant telling of music history. Don’t know how you find the time to do it, it please don’t stop!

    1. Haha. Thanks, Ron. I wrote this while on a plane to Florida for another oversight board. How’s retirement?

  39. Gladys Knight is an all-time favorite, who infuses her songs with an adult understanding too often ignored on the pop charts. That bit in “If I Were Your Woman” where she sings, “yet you beg her to love you / But me you don’t ask” gets me every time.

    Thanks, DJ Rob. Glad the ladies can still sing it.

  41. No one has tried this. Even Taylor tried but she pulled back. Why doesn’t -any- current clout-heavy star try this?

    “Outside of my singles, my upcoming album will be available only physically for the first nine months. You want to buy the whole package? You’ll have to find your way to a local (deep breath) record store to buy it.”

    The -first- artist who declares this could save the malls. And possibly the entire U.S. economy over the next year.

    1. I’m sure some of that was meant to be tongue in cheek, but I like the idea of an album being released vinyl-only and available either on the artist’s website or in big box stores like Target and Walmart, or in vinyl specialty stores.

  42. Though he’s apparently not credited, you KNOW Thom Bell did the arrangement for “Back Stabbers” and “For the Love of Money.”

    1. Yeah, I need to rethink the list to include songs he’s not credited for. That list would also include “I’ll Always Love My Mama” by the Intruders and a whole host of O’Jays songs.

    2. I just researched: he did arrange “Back Stabbers” and “Love Train,” but not “For The Love of Money.” He arranged the whole Back Stabbers album.

  43. I must admit that I haven’t paid much attention to these artists. I still listen to Kendrick’s first release – love it. Sza; I have an interest in after seeing her in the movie ‘Just One of Those Days’ co-starring Keke Palmer. Okay young folk, I’m paying attention and listening to you. Do your thang!

  45. What a fun exercise this must have been! Where did England Dan & John Ford Coley place among the 70s acts?

  46. Who is David Bowie?
    Who is Maurice White?
    Who is Prince?
    Who is Glenn Frey?
    Who is George Michael?

  47. While I’m not a follower/fan of Taylor Swift, I respect her as an artist. This ain’t her first time in a showdown with Kanye West. This guy is definitely “unhinged”. His attacks of other artist warrant some intervention and diagnosis of mental illness. I’m sure psychologists know and recognize symptoms. The black leather klan outfit did it for me. Somebody please pull this guy aside and get him some help.

  48. Would welcome your take on this; I may have posted this before. Feel free to delete if you have.

    My prediction for Taylor’s next move isn’t musical or marital. It’s corporate. I’ve always sensed she has Oprah aspirations. With that in mind, I’m guessing within the next year . . . She will make a bid to buy Spotify.

  52. Hi Rob – I don’t have my Whitburn in front of me, but I think “Love Is Here” was between “Ruby Tuesday” and “Penny Lane,” not “All You Need Is Love” (which came out in summer).

  53. Pure genius! There is no denying what was birth out of Motown.

  62. Looking forward to seeing this! I’m guessing since you didn’t mention it in your review that there wasn’t much info in the doc about the -other- rumor about Luther – that he was a little . . . difficult to work with on the road or in the studio. Even when he was paired with performers he idolized, like Aretha Franklin. Wonder if the producers tried to get a quote from Anita Baker or the members of En Vogue.

    1. You would be correct. No mention of any of that. There was discussion from backup singers about how detail-oriented and exacting he was, but that was provided in a positive context.

  63. DJRob, thank you for a stunning review of all that President Carter brought to our country and the music he enjoyed during a vital part of the music industry. Including the particulars about addressing the need to the deal with nuclear’s role — or worry about it — but by a true american hero. As if this is enough to make for a well done post, you are then able to dig deeper into it all, including your own time during your role in caring for the nuclear age for a long-term time in the work you have worked on. I’ve always been fond of all you do and I hope that this epic post will be seen by many others. Excellence like this doesn’t come around much. Well done, sir!

    1. Thank you so much for those compliments! It’s made easy when the subject is as exceptional as President Jimmy Carter was. He was a true American hero in every sense of the phrase. And thank you for taking the time to read it!

    1. Alex, no problem. I absolutely loved her. She and Bernard Edwards were my favorite members of my favorite group all time.

  65. Relevant🔥 I wonder if there is any artist addressing our political climate in such an impactful way? I know the answer to my question. I think James Baldwin said it best -“Those who say it can’t be done are usually interrupted by others doing it.” I still have my Dad’s original album in great condition. Thank you Stevie Wonder! Thank you DJRob!

  66. I wonder with all that is going on in the music industry currently how many of them could be operating in the spiritual realm to bring about justice? Although not mentioned here, I can’t help but think of Lisa Lefteye Lopes – it’s been 22years now. She was 30 years old when she transitioned. Great read as always!

    1. Thanks! And yeah, if this weren’t focused on the very specific issue of chart placements, I would’ve incorporated “September Song” along with “September Morn” and others!

  71. Great list, Rob! (Especially since I agree with “Bernadette”!)

  72. Okay, imma say it. I need to see a whole lot more talent and a lot less ass. I’m sorry, but in 50 years, I ask what have we come to? I also watched the pre-show #disappointment. My weekend wasn’t good. I’d rather see replays of the Source Awards a-la-a Tupac and Biggie. Plus Douda was smoked on The Chi, and I need Ghost to come back in the end on Power 🤦🏾‍♂️

    1. Poor thing. You’ve got issues that go beyond Sexyy Red shaking her non-sexy ass! As John Mellencamp once said, “don’t confuse the problem with the issue, girl.” Lol

  73. DJR
    Thanks for a great trip back to 1979 – the summer of Summer. I fondly remember it well.

  74. …and every summer since then “Hot Girl Summer” has been defined. Donna Summer ushered in a new liberalism. Bring on the heat!

    1. Yeah but with a brashness and hedonism that I don’t think even the late Ms. Summer would approve of if she were still here.

  75. Good! I’m glad some old chart records can’t easily be broken by the new chart methodologies.

  76. I wonder if the strategy Peter Gabriel tried last year – releasing one new song a month and then officially dropping “the album” will be attempted by any more prominent artists during the next few years. Do you think the Taylor Swifts and Drakes will get tired of carpet-bombing the charts and maybe just once present new music in the Old School 70’s-80’s way?

    1. Don’t know, but I highly doubt they’re even concerned about some of the records I mentioned in the article.

  77. We, the American public never embraced social media the way it was intended to be used. Fast forward, Tik Tok is banned for government use. One by one, in my opinion these apps will go away. “Private eyes are watching you” so said Hall & Oates.

  79. Great summary as usual. I’m aligned with all of them but among those I support reluctantly is Foreigner – my coming of age years. While great talent and Lou Graham’s vocals are tough to beat, I find “Hot Blooded,” and “Cold as Ice” to be akin to nails on a chalkboard to me. However, whenever I get critical like this, I chalk it up (no pun intended) to FM Radio just overplaying such music rather than it being inherently distasteful!

    1. Thanks for the comment and reading the blog. I love Foreigner and Lou Gramm’s voice in particular. I agree songs like the two you mentioned got overplayed, while smaller hits like “Blue Morning, Blue Day” and “Head Games” were superior IMHO. But “Cold As Ice” holds huge memories for me as it was on the first American Top 40 countdown I listened to and solidified the group as more than a one-hit wonder.

  82. That’s interesting- I would have guessed the mid-60s, during the first British Invasion. Look forward to finding out! Thanks

      1. Thanks – sorry for the multiple replies – wasn’t sure the first one went through!

  83. Hey DJR. Thanks for another insightful article. I have a follow-up “reverse” question. Which year in Hot 100 history had the most foreign artists to top the Charts?

    1. Hey no problem, Alex! That would require some research, but I’m willing to bet it’s somewhere between 1985-87.

      1. Will be interesting to see – I would have thought the mid-60s (British Invasion)

        1. I’ll look there too, of course. But the reason I guessed the mid-1980s first was because of the sheer number of No. 1 songs. There were on average 30-plus different chart toppers in each of the years 1985, ‘86 and ‘87, not to mention we were in the midst of the second British Music Invasion, but I’ll focus on both eras in my research.

  84. On point! I love what Beyoncé is doing and I simply without question keep Stevie Wonder on my daily playlist. Thanks for that.

  85. Hmmm, I’ve always wondered lyrically who this song was about given her marital status at that time? Berry Gordy perhaps. It’s time to share the story of that love affair and solid friendship. My favorite Diana Ross song has always been the love letter Ain’t No Mountain High Enough. It’s very sentimental in its delivery. HB Ms. Ross 🎉

  86. “Don’t call it a comeback” He’s smart but not genius. This feels to me that he’s addressing being black listed by the industry. He almost had us with the Yezus church revivals lol.

  87. Eminem, настоящее имя Маршалл Брюс Мэтерс III, известен как один из величайших рэп-исполнителей всех времен. Своими пронзительными текстами, ярким стилем и потрясающим мастерством в ритме и рифме он завоевал миллионы поклонников по всему миру. Его лучшие песни включают “Lose Yourself”, гимн к само-преодолению, “Stan”, с поразительно интенсивным сюжетом, и “Rap God”, где он демонстрирует свою невероятную скорость и технику. Все эти треки, а также многие другие, отражают его гениальность и влияние на музыкальную индустрию. Скачать mp3 музыку 2024 года и слушать онлайн бесплатно.

  88. You are gifted keyboard artist, making music with words. As usual, a thoughtful read, with a self-revealing perspective. Thanks for creating and then sharing.

  90. RIP Brother Fambrough🙏🏽. I wonder if we will ever this kind of talent and presentation ever again….(in my thoughts).

  91. Would love to see other folks comment on alternatives! Can’t argue with any of your choices, but my top twenty would definitely include “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” (Temptations).

  92. I look forward to saying…for one brief shining moment, there was Camelot!

  93. DjRob, as always you’ve done a fine job sharing lots of good information about a performer. As an official Woodstock attendee I can say her music was not my fave — I still occasionally get an earworm going with the roller skate song — but I’m glad there were alot of people who found it special and took it to heart. And thanks again for taking the time and trouble to dig in to her life as a performer. — Curt the pool player

  94. My faith in Hip-Hop has been diminished. There are some great artists currently out here making good music, but then we get the trash. #GodSaveHipHop!🗣️

  96. Mind. Blown. So many amazing covers, often duetting with the OG artists what made them famous. All of ’em still got it! Wish #Prince4Ever could have taken his place among them. But she does #PurpleRain the justice it deserves! ☔️🔥🎵🔥✨️

  98. Prince, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Aretha Franklin. Have trouble with the fifth, I won’t choose myself though. But I can’t decide between Curtis Mayfield, Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, Al Green, Beyonce, Mavis Staples, Bill Withers, Patti Labelle, Otis Redding, Sly Stone, George Clinton… I mean, there’s just too many.

  110. Wow, this one hits deep. What an iconic and legendary actor. He began his career as a model at North Carolina Central College (University). The first Black action hero has his own soundtrack and theme music. I always wanted to be John Shaft! To this day
    When I put on a leather jacket, I feel the empowerment of Shaft. In closing here, my theme song (in my head) is Cafe Regio by the late music legend Issac Hayes…so much more to say, not enough space. Right On!

  111. I consider Prince’s sequence from Dirty Mind to Lovesexy to be unparalleled in popular music. Only Stevie, the Beatles, Aretha and a few others can come close.

    1. Yeah, it’s hard to top that sequence of eight albums. Picking the best four in a row from those was tough, so I included his first two albums and broke his streak up (and added a third beginning with Diamonds and Pearls). But Prince is clearly in a class by himself with that kind of dilemma and consistency!

      1. Right, and you listed five albums for your number 4 pick instead of four. That’s because he couldn’t be contained in those days. He could have released 5 more masterpieces in between the others. I love Stevie and Aretha too, so I won’t argue about their placement. I don’t agree on Michael Jackson, I’ve never seen him in the same league as these 3.

        1. Yeah, I love MJ. Musically, his albums are more polished and clearly the result of some studio mastery. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, and I gave him credit for the commercial and cultural impact those albums had. This list wasn’t about who I loved or didn’t like. If it were, Chic would’ve been No. 3, and Earth, Wind & Fire possibly 2.

          1. Earth, Wind & Fire were giants. I think many black artists don’t get the credit they deserve. Black music has been the main force for over a century now, but still most of the credit somehow manages to land somewhere else. I mean, James Brown, Nina Simone, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Muddy Waters, Rosetta Tharpe, Howlin’ Wolf, Erykah Badu, Miles Davis, Charles Mingus, Etta James, Dinah Washington, Thelonious Monk, Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, Charlie Parker, Billie Holiday, John Coltrane, Tupac, Janelle Monae, Duke Ellington, Marvin Gaye, Bessie Smith, Robert Johnson, Kanye are all geniuses beyond compare, and I’m forgetting many. They molded modern music.

          2. I agree with you wholeheartedly! Thank goodness that at least the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has done its part in recognizing many of the musicians you named above (it almost reads like a Who’s Who of Black musicians in The RRHOF ). People like Kanye will eventually get in (he’s eligible in six years).

  112. I’d remove Material Girl, Eye Of The Tiger, and Sweet Child O’ Mine and add:

    I Melt With You – Modern English
    Into The Groove – Madonna
    Girls Just Want To Have Fun – Cyndi

  115. Tabu records defined my young adult life. So much good music from that era alone. I remember the big gorilla break dancing in the Cherelle video…fun times!

  116. […] pop music in recent decades – evident even to an old fart like me – which has seen the almost total disappearance of love songs from the charts, to be replaced by an emphasis on ‘lust and one’s physical attributes’. But it is clear, […]

  117. I LOVE THIS BLOG‼️ why are we (Hip Hop Culture) not chronicling these historical facts? For me, I’m still believing that Debbie Harry (Blondie) is the first female rap artist, and Sequence with Angie Stone, the first female rap group. I give DJ Kool Herc his propers. But, in the back of my mind I feel it goes back even further. After all, isn’t it a culture moreso than a genre? Where were you when you fell in love with Hip Hop? Rap, graffiti, breaking, and fashion define it. I have to say RIP to Scott La Rock, and Keith Elam-Guru.

  119. Another great job, sir! As one who was at Woodstock at the ripe old age of 14, your listing was a treat to go back in time and reminisce about so many others not in attendance. My only gripe is Melanie, who always sounded like scratches on a chalkboard

    1. Thanks, Curt! I’m not a huge fan of Melanie, but I love “Lay Down”! I’d love to hear about your Woodstock experience!

  120. Your post keeps me updated I appreciate you a lot of things I didn’t know

  122. Thank you for this! Hip Hop has cliques. Rather than get into who really controls the narrative, I’ll just say it was missed like a friend at a class reunion. Not only was electro-funk missed, but also the native tongues movement. I hold the power of censorship in my hand…I changed the Channel 💯. May I add that a tribute to the legendary Tina Turner by the legendary Patti LaBelle seemed out of place. Being this was focused as a 50 year anniversary to Hip Hop, it felt out of place -like a struggle plate. Bring back the Source Awards for Hip Hop, “petty” beefs (Busta) and all. I guess beefs no longer sell records/a marketing gimmick perhaps.

    1. Very good points, Carlous! Yeah, for as extra and “inclusive” as those awards were, they missed on so many levels.

  123. Linda Ronstadt could be considered a first queen of rock. Great article

  124. Actually, Shania’s first major label album is 1993’s self-titled album which although there were a few minor charting singles that had videos heavily played on CMT, it wasn’t that big a hit and is a much more traditional country album than those that followed.

  125. Great list. I think there many many more to name. I am waiting on a Sylvester biopic. I think his story would be excellent and very eye opening.

    1. Yeah I left off a couple (Josephine Baker, Rahsaan Patterson) that I had in an earlier list 🧐. Thanks and yes it would be good to see a pic on Sylvester, who may be my favorite artist on that list.

  126. Interesting note on Dim All The Lights:
    On the extended mix (7:10), they reprise the slow intro at 5:30 before launching into the end of the song.

    1. Yeah they simply edited the intro into that part, which seemed senseless to me. But anything to make the song longer I guess.

  127. Darrel, again, I say you are simply amazing. Each time I read your articles I learn something new. They bring back memories and emotional thoughts. Thanks for all that you do!

  128. So glad I got the chance to witness the Queen of Rock and Roll live. So many in my generation heard the stories of her tumultuous relationship and witnessed her electrifying stage performance (loved those mini skirts, heels, and shakes). She persevered with grace. She was the Queen! She even had a succession plan which brought along Beyoncé as an apprentice, and gave actress Gloria Reuben a second career as a back-up singer/dancer/choreographer.

    1. I think the succession plan involving Beyoncé might be theatre of the mind, but your point is well-taken.

  129. I can just see your play list booming while you wrote this. That was and always will be the greatest era in music history. Nile Rogers served it like no other HOT🔥

  131. First off I like it! Next; in my mind I can see Smokey and Berry Gordy sitting in a den sipping Courvoisier talking about their exploits as men. This is that kind of music. Cruising and Quiet Storm are my favorites as chill music, so this is a welcome plus to all that have been listening to. “cruise with me baby”🎼

  132. I loved this blog, DJRobb! 🥰 Congratulations to the Eta Lambda Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated for a great show.
    A fond memory of mine was Eta Lambda entering the stage to ‘Moments in Love’ at my very first Overton R. Johnson Memorial Step Show.
    Wish I could have been in Blacksburg this past April to see everyone.

    Tickle, Spring 87
    MAde #6
    Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated

    1. Thanks, Twana! It was a festive weekend and I’m glad I was there. I’m sure you’ve heard your chapter took 32 neos over that week! Unheard of!

  133. It is a double standard but it is what it is. The world is going to be how it is going to be. Overall I believe Morgan Wallen is a great singer and song writer for the country music community!

    1. Great songwriter? On his latest album he’s found 36 different ways of saying he has problems with drinking and women. If that’s the work of a great songwriter, then yes he is.

  134. Another great article! There is not one Beatlesque song that has not been a part of my (our) generation’s fabric. The hits just keep emerging as times goes on. Currently, I find myself singing along to a commercial on TV “we all live in a yellow submarine 🎼”. My all time favorite Beatlesque solo is Imagine by John Lennon.

    1. Thanks, Los! Yeah, If that one had peaked higher on the chart, it would have been included on this list!

  135. Okay; this is my personal opinion. Given that rap has hit its 50 year Golden anniversary, it’s clear to see that the genre has evolved and mutated, just not in the best way. I’m reminded of rapper Common’s song “I used to love her…Hip Hop”. It’s been raped and ripped off so bad that there is no return to its sensibilities. Hello 9-1-1, this is rap music, we need some help over here!

  136. […] As djrobblog.com says, Boogie Wonderland is something of a guilty pleasure, but we’ll take our pleasures where we can find them, guilty or not. Released at the peak of the band’s disco era, it’s a glossy, slick affair with a soulful strut and a dark heart (the beat might be quicksilver, but the lyrics pre-empt the end of disco in a way that’s far from happy). […]

  137. Ah, Hah! One scenario I immediately leaned toward is that the entire attack may have been set up by this Trollz come to life rapper. No career, missed court dates, excessive debts, bankruptcy, leads me to believe that there is the slightest chance this may have been a set-up publicity stunt. We’ve seen this before with Jessie, oops, my bad Jussie Smollett. A paid beat down is still a beat down. His future will forever be bleak because of hood accountability and the loyalty that follows. Real talk, this stuff goes so deep that even Taylor Swift might get a lick in, and Brittany Spears would be the receptionist at the front desk. LOL!

    1. Spoken as only you can! Lol. Yeah I pondered the setup/hoax theory as well, but that’s a heck of a beatdown to take just to save your career (and sue the gym while you’re at it).

  139. Rihanna gave a solid, fun performance … but the preceding hype was so huge that nobody could live up to those expectations. I heard it referred to as “the concert with a football game attached.”

    1. Yeah, that was a bit more hype than it deserved. It didn’t help that the football game actually lived up to and surpassed its own hype, being a close game that either team could’ve won.

  140. Brother you killed it! I knew Burt composed some of your list but others I did not! He was one of my all time favorites. Thanks for sharing.

  141. I believe Michael Jackson was a mischievous little boy with young adult brothers. Meaning, I am sure with all of the travel/touring coupled with teenaged angst and hormones, the stories of groupies/fast girls and the like would make it easy for a pre-teen Michael to learn the meaning of things quickly. Oh how I wish the Jackson Brothers would write a tell-all book of their escapades; changing the names to protect the guilty. I can only imagine how they “got it in”. Hmmmmm? Baby sister Janet even had some song titles that speak quietly to some maraudering – “I know he used to do nice stuff for you, but what has he done for you lately”? LOL, great article, and even greater artist #MJ #KingofPop

    1. Thanks, Los! Yeah I’m sure there are many stories (I thought Jermaine had written a book already and I know there are at least two unauthorized biographies of Michael). But yes, he was amazing!

  142. “Never thought that Hip Hop would take it this far”. My opinion probably holds no weight here, but I feel that after 50 years, a timeline documentary covering history, demographics, corporate influence, greed, theft, wars (beef), and collaborations would have been more appropriate. Why do we continue to lean on these organizations to validate US? My generation witnessed MTV refusing to even acknowledge or play Black music/videos period. Thank God for BET’s Video Soul. Even they were hesitant about rap music at first. In closing my statement here, I am reminded of rapper Common’s I used to love her-Hip Hop. Re-create the Source Awards/Vibe Awards where we celebrate us fully, and control the narrative!

    1. The Source was founded not by us, but by a white guy named David Mays, while Vibe was founded by another David (Salzman) in partnership with Quincy Jones. I don’t know that “we” were controlling the narrative of those awards shows and publications, in fact, the narrative may have strayed too far into negativity (especially during the 1990s) with those companies often perpetuating division and hatred within the hip-hop community.

  144. I still crack up laughing every time I hear Whitney Houston sing –
    “Friday night you and your boys went out to eat, uhhh
    Then they hung out
    But you came home around three, yes you did
    If six of y’all went out, ah
    Then four of you were really cheap, yeah
    Cause only two of you had dinner
    I found your credit card receipt” She called out that BS #Bwah-ha-ha! 🤣
    RIP Whitney

  145. EXCELLENT Breakdown as always Sir, this is a piece of real rigor and heft that helps me understand my misgivings about her music. For me, it’s the lack of rhythmic heft and push in the music of SZA and HER that disorients me as a Black music lover. Almost as if the approaches of Minnie Riperton and Roberta Flack, who I love, are more dominant than the old barn burning style. But to oppose it would be like trying to hold back rain with my hands, so thank you for translating it for us!

    1. Thank you, SIR, for reading it and commenting. For years I’ve been pining for the return of R&B and storytelling as we knew it, but those days are long gone…perhaps never to return. Thanks for your undying support!

  146. Another distraction🤦🏽‍♂️ This song and the artist are classic and timeless. I have a lot more to say, but not on any form of social media. #maturity

  147. Gorgeous writing, DJR! I’ve worshiped these guys since I was 15, and you still gave me so much I never knew. I’ve seen CSN twice (Daylight again in 82 and maybe around 1998) and Neil three times (once at Farmaid). I can never hear David and Graham blend voices without being moved. Thanks!

  148. Great article as always. I’m left with these questions. Who is music royalty in the truest sense, and what represents a musical dynasty now? For the later, I can identify Jay-Z and Beyoncé Carter. The Carters represent well. But I also would be remiss if I didn’t clearly state Barry Gordy and Motown. I also would give Quincy Jones his crown as well. Things to think on🤔

  149. This has been the best tribute to Anita I’ve seen so far. I’ve heard her say in interviews that “I’m So Excited,” was her favorite. I was saddened when she passed. She had such a sweet disposition whenever I saw her in interviews, and she was so talented. My heart goes out to the Pointer family. RIP Anita 🙏🏾 🕊💞

      1. It is. Sometimes it gets a little “dumbed down” harmonically to make it sound happier. Mariah Carey’s version is another favorite, great backing vocals arrangement.

  152. There are several soul/R&B classic Christmas tunes that define the holiday season for me. It’s not Christmas until I hear these songs on the radio which awakens the spirit of the holiday.
    Silent Night by the Temptations,
    Gee Whiz it’s Christmas by Carla Thomas
    Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto by James Brown, Santa Baby by Eartha Kitt, Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer by the Cadillacs, Christmas in Hollis by Run DMC, and of course What you want for Christmas by The Quad-City DJs and the 69 Boyz. But, it all starts with Silent Night by the Temptations. Thanks DJ Rob Merry Christmas Bro!

  153. Just wow! Growing up Black and southern, I have fond memories of long road trips in areas that only picked up rock station signals. Fleetwood Mac songs permeated the very listening fabric of my childhood; my generation. Great stuff!

  154. Great job, rob.you nailed it. She was a favorite of mine — her writing seemed so easy and a never turned off the radio when she was singing. C.

  156. Thanks for the look back! Maybe you’ve written about this before but . . . Would there have been a “Control” without “Thriller”? I have to think that Janet, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis were taking careful notes in ‘83 and ‘84!

    1. I don’t think a lot of Black albums—not just “Control”—would’ve been as big as they were without “Thriller,” although creatively speaking, I Think “Control” owes more of its inspiration to Prince and the Minneapolis sound than to the sheen and polish of MJ’s Quincy Jones-produced hits.

  157. Mariah is an incredible singer, and she deserves the UNofficial title. And before your blog, I’d never heard of Ms. Chan. Who knew that there were 1000+ songs about any one holiday!? But USPTO/TTAB got it right! Nobody should be able to trademark “Queen of Christmas” … except for Mrs. Clause. What next? Father Time?

  158. #TeamMimi. I know Mimi is HOT! But there is a silver lining here. The holidays really start with Halloween and end with New Years. Queen of the Holidays perhaps? Each holiday is a merchandising opportunity. She makes for a very sexy witch in her video. She could take on each holiday and #Slay! Question, what and who is Ms. Chan? Who are her listeners? Is she local to a specific country or region? Harpo! Who dis woman?

  161. Cancelled? Not hardly. Sensationalized? Definitely. Me as interested? NOT! If he is truly a genius, he will reinvent himself.

  162. Once again Stick, you hit the nail on the head… YOU ARE A CLOSET SWIFTIE!! LMFAO! Great write-up home!

  163. We share similar taste in music (all over the map) and apparently are out of the closet Swifties as well. I’ve been to a lot of concerts over my many trips around the sun (68 tomorrow) and the kickoff for the Red tour in Omaha was without a doubt my favorite of all time. I was a fan of the the singer, the song writer, and the artist before; but the performance was magic.An acoustic set with Ed Sheehan during the show revealed even more talent than anticipated.

    I always enjoy listening and registering to her songs. Although I am a huge fan I will have to acknowledge that I believe the greatest singer/songwriter/artist so far is Joni Mitchell. She could paint masterpieces with words. Curious to hear your thoughts on that.

    1. It’s so ironic you mentioned Joni Mitchell, as she was the songwriter I had in mind when thinking of someone from the past to whom I would compare Taylor’s style of writing today. But you’re right, few if any artists compare with Mitchell.

  165. A Male Dj’s “Guilty Pleasure” Lol. I used to always vibe to this in the crib trying to (unsuccessfully) hit those high notes. What a great song. The Brooklyn crowd didn’t understand this Gem when I played it at gigs back then so I just played it in the beginning (if at all) of parties and used it for my personal enjoyment. Its a shame she had a show booked in Westbury NY as well as some new recordings that came out in August. RIP Ms Simms

  166. Great blog! I am reminded of how at that time dances were given names like “the smurf” or “the wop”, “the dog”. Joyce Sims took us to the dance floor. She will always be in my collection. Do people still give names to dances??

  169. […] times when things are tough, but he is willing to weather the storm as long as they are together. According to Djrob Blog, this track was released in 1972 and became an instant hit. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart […]

  172. This should be the direction that music must go in order to save the pure RnB from computer form type songs, this trend will educate the non-believers or samplers…

  173. Isley Bros are the greats. I still listen to ‘Living For The Love Of You’ daily.

  181. UNFAIR! Blaming hip hop culture for an incident so violent is radical and blind. I watched the video of this crime and was shocked. I’m left with asking what motivated such an act? Yes, hip hop culture is rough, but to blame it as a cause for the violent act that occurred is ludicrous. Yes, rap lyrics are typically misogynistic and anti-gay, but I would like to think that hip hop culture has evolved to where lyrics represent an awareness and an inclusive consciousness. I’m reminded of the lyric “I Used to Love Her” by Common. The lyrics tell of hip hop’s evolving nature. Let’s pray for the families of these young men, and for the culture in general. We can do better!

  183. Excellent list, DJ Rob! I was especially pleased to see “Something Better to Do” (my personal #1 ONJ fave) and “Dancin’” included! And your assessment of “Hopelessly Devoted to You” being her “One Less Bell to Answer” was incredibly insightful. Love that!
    “Landslide” and “Not Gonna Be The One” were also excellent choices.
    My top 25 would be very similar, but with the addition of “Suspended In Time” and “The Rumour” in place of “Tied Up,” “Heart Attack” or “Soul Kiss.”

    1. Hey Scott, thanks for posting this! It’s exactly what I was hoping for, a sense of which songs floated other people’s boats. I love “Tied Up” for that total 1982 vibe that John Farrar had at the time. His “I Paralyze” for Cher from that year also had that vibe to it. I love him.

  184. Any love for “The Rumour” ? That one fell between the cracks in ’88; the album isn’t even available for streaming! Maybe the fact that Elton was riding a big hit himself at the same time meant that this -other- John/Taupin collab had to be stopped in its tracks.

  186. I feel love was so organic in its meaning, yet so sexually laced it was tantric. I love the extended 12”remix. It’s essence is as if one is having a transcendental meditation out of body experience. Thanks DJRob! I gotta break out my 70s disco hits. #MidnightattheOasis

  187. Thanks, DJ Rob. Always loved “La-La-Means I Love You.”

    Tidbit about “Didn’t I Blow Your Mind”: Thom Bell told me he was inspired by, of all things, the shofar — the ram’s horn used during the Jewish High Holy Days — for the French horn that leads off the song. Bell soaked up influences from EVERYWHERE.

    1. Wow! The fact that he “told you” that is awesome. The fact itself is amazing as well! Thanks for sharing. That intro is classic!

  189. Great tribute and recognition. This was one of my dad’s favorite R&B/Soul groups. They just make groups or music like this anymore. Makes you think 🤔

    1. There hasn’t been an R&B group this good in decades. Silk Sonic, who is largely modeled after the Delfonics and others, is the younger generation’s best chance at experiencing groups of this stature, and even they are somewhat of a novelty.

  190. There was also a three-year gap on the Billboard Top 200 Album Charts. Donna Summer’s ON THE RADIO album topped that chart for one week (Week ending January 5, 1980). The next album by an African American artist to top that same chart was Michael Jackson’s THRILLER, which went to #1 during the week ending February 26, 1983.

    1. An even more telling statistic! Thanks for pointing that out! I will add it to the article and attribute it to you.

  191. Let it whip is one of my most favorite songs. Now it is in my head and I love that. Thanks Darrell!

  192. Thanks for giving us something enjoyable to read on this dismal day, Deej! (Would’ve been nice to see “Working Day And Night”…)

    Paul McC/Stevie W’s “What’s That You’re Doing” is pretty non-soft in my estimation…

    1. Hey Scott, yeah I would imagine people will be suggesting “Working,” but remember the premise was songs that I’m raving over but other people aren’t. I could hardly call “Working” a song that other people aren’t digging as it is considered a classic.

  193. Great job!
    Millennials will not understand what a side B is, but MJ didn’t do side B’s even when they existed…he wanted ever sing to be chart topping material.
    For me BABY BE MINE and LADY IN MY LIFE have to be the most criminally unreleased singles ever. But since songs of THRILLER have been left out, my personal additions to this list will be WHY YOU WANNA TRIP ON ME from DANGEROUS, and DONT WALK AWAY from INVINCIBLE.
    Great job once again

  194. Great job!.
    Millennials will not understand what a “side B” is. But Michael didn’t do side B’s even when it existed….he wanted every song to be hit material. Foe me, “Baby be mine” and “lady in my life” from Thriller have to be the most criminally unreleased singles ever! I’ll also add “Don’t walk away” from innvinsible.
    Great job once again

  196. Come on out Drake!, and be the example of what to do and how to configure the industry when things go stale. It’s a salute to househeads and the timing is perfect…pride month. I listened and heard Chicago and Detroit flavors. Way to go Drake! Now go do a dance off with Chris Breezy…lol. Thanks DJRob!

  197. What a trip down memory lane. By the way, that male model that Janet flirted with in the Love Will Never Do video is none other than actor Djimon Hinsou. After modeling he took on acting in some pretty impressive roles including Amistad and Blood Diamonds. He also shares a son with Russell Simmons’ ex, Kimora Lee

  198. Rarely do I listen to an album first to last song, but I am quite impressed with this Kendrick Lamar album. His authentic expression and truth are a plus also. Great blog DJRob!

  207. Haven’t seen the doc yet, but I am curious if there will be any mention that this was one of the last Pre-Social-Media celebrity scandals. You wonder how reactions might have changed were we all able to opine 24/7 via Facebook, Twitter, etc.

  208. String bands: started by African Americans. Creators of the string band

  209. It was an acknowledgment of black women in the field who are not recognized. Not “not fared well”. Haven’t existed. You’re researching black country female artists is exactly what she was trying to accomplish. DjRob, not sure where these parentheses are meant to be but probably not what you meant.
    Quote marks amazing within the title. It’s an article. You don’t need to quote it. Or the amazing since we’re on the topic.

    1. Not sure which parentheses you’re referring to, but I did find a few other errors that I fixed – thanks to your comment causing me to go back and read the article. I also removed the quotes and used single ones given that it was a quote within a title, as you mentioned.

  210. I enjoyed every bit of it. For an extremely private person, I felt like she opened up alot. That couldn’t have been easy for her. And It’s not in her nature to blast Les Mooves or Justin ( pubically atleast) or anyone else. That’s part of what makes her so great. She told the story her way, and that’s all that matters at the end of the day!

  211. And speaking of Black hair, Chris Rock made a documentary on just that subject in 2009. The connections are endless …

    1. So let’s see: 2009: Chris Rock makes a hair documentary, Beyoncé gets snubbed at a major awards show by young white girl, rapper bum rushes the stage. 2022: Chris Rock makes bad hair joke at major awards show, rapper bum rushes the stage, Beyoncé gets snubbed by a young white girl. Yessir, the connections are uncanny… and you get an A+ for this contribution! Thanks for reading and commenting (as always)!

  212. Your article here is so well written, and the song in question used to be a strong favorite of mine, until I finally threw off the burden of the Lost Cause narrative (when I was five, in 1968, my father told me pointedly that in the Civil War I would have worn gray) and embraced the real Truth of true equality for every human born. Have a look at Clint Smith’s article in The Atlantic, “Why Confederate Lies Live On”. I don’t know that I can do much to help erase the deep-seated belief that Caucasians are superior to any other People of Color, but I can and will speak against this song since, intended or not, is stands as a subtle support of the Confederacy which, after all is said and done, seceded from the Union because the abolition of slavery was on Lincoln’s presidential agenda. That war WAS about slavery, and nothing else.

  213. I would like to apologize for a comment I made in response about Mr. Jasper being deceased. I misread some information regarding his life; with that said, I hope and pray Mr. Jasper will forgive me for the mistake on my part.

  214. Sheena Easton’s The Lover In Me from 1989 peaked at #2 and should have been a number one song. It was played constantly on the radio.

    1. Man, this feels like deja vu. I could’ve sworn I’ve heard this before in the past month. Lol. It is a great song, but it couldn’t compete with the juggernaut that was Debbie Gibson when it came out.

  215. Its so sad he didnt get the recognition he so greatly deserve.what a powerful voice. God bless u and family 4 the memories he left us. Bwell

    1. Indeed! Thanks for reading about this great singer. Your comment inspired me to play the song this afternoon!

    1. Yes, I think so. Although she never really explains what “this” (or these) really is (are), so there’s that, too.

  217. I like the tribute, but there are about 20 other titles that would qualify for being on this list, based on what’s already here. That’s not including tracks from the recent Motown Anthology.

    1. Thanks and yes, I’ve learned since writing this that there are several others that weren’t formal credited to her in liner notes but qualify for this list.

  221. Chic is unmortal, that’s for shure. I don’t know who introduced strings to disco, they produced a lot in Munich at that time, Donna Summer etc. But Nile Rodgers made a clever move bringing these girls on stage. I have to admit that I mostly stared at Cheryl Hong… I love Chic and SisterSledge the same as I did more than 40 years ago, it’s just timeless!

  222. The thing is, for me Chic, Sister Sledge and others are so familiar… When Disco started in the Seventies, in Germany practically all the people I knew where strictly against it. It sounds funny, but it was a political thing: for a concious post hippie left wing alternative green party activist, Disco was forbidden! I mean, I talk about a small provincial town in North West Germany at those times… It was considered as some sort of trash. Fun was forbidden! For me it was like opening the window and let the bad smell get out. Not shure who introduced strings to the disco sound, they produced a lot music in Munich at that time, Donna Summer etc., using strings. But the three girls there with Chic were a clever visual move by Nile Rodgers… Ok, I have to admit that I mostly stared at Cheryl Hong. Anyway: Chic is unmortal, that’s for shure!

  224. I have to say J5 were the greatest ever. But they were somewhat too early for me and I actually was more into The”Jacksons” …..and that only after I became an MJ diehard fan. Don’t also forget that the name NE was a suggestion that the group were the new version of J5. Need I also mention that J5 was a band in the real sense of the word, playing their own instruments and all.
    NE was however the group I grew up and connected with the most and therefore remains my all time favourite boy band. As for BoyzIIMen, need I remind you that they even stole the name from an NE song…lol. enough said. Great job as always

    1. Haha, thanks, Mukhtar. Great comments! The one thing I might take issue with is the notion that the J-5 were a “band” because they played instruments. I believe most—if not all—of the instruments on their records were played by Motown’s in-house band the Funk Brothers (at least on record). I could be mistaken though. I note that Jermaine and Tito usually had a guitar and bass strapped to their shoulders in early videos, with Randy “playing” bongos.

  225. This halftime show was long overdue given the history and influence of hip hop. Considering album sales alone, and the buying demographic of hip hop, this should’ve been a no brainer 20 years ago. Now, as a nod to Cali, this was a plus for the dynamic winning team. I’m sure Tupac, Biggie, and many others that have gone in the genre were beaming. Kudos on this blog Bro.

  226. Thanks for the song review, it was very fitting
    I’m about ready to release my own tribute to Meat Loaf and Steinman on my Facebook profile, Mark Steele. Search for Michigan.
    It also reviews the back story behind “Bat Out of Hell” based on things Meat himself said.

  233. […] Fast-forward the calendar from February to last July when North Carolina-based rapper DaBaby was caught on film during a Rolling Loud performance making homophobic and sexist comments to his fans.  As in Wallen’s case, the video went viral and the condemnation was swift (including in this space).   […]

  238. Great article! Actually Bruce Springsteen was on a number one record – as part of the ensemble for USA for Africa on “We Are The World.” (Yeah, I know that’s cheating)

  239. Some things are better left unsaid…I forget who made that quote. I feel as though she chose to tell HERstory. Her relationship with Michael was telling. I truly enjoyed the opening with brother Randy at the family home in Gary Indiana. I truly felt this documentary was a huge thank you to her dad Joseph Jackson. It was a recurring statement throughout the series. Thank you J for giving your true fans a rare peek into your world. What did I miss? Let us meet your son. C’mon!!

  240. Also, Barbara Hawkins is now the last of the Dixie Cups, and Nedra Talley is the last of the Ronettes

  241. Eric Clapton is the lone survivor from Cream, after Ginger Baker died. Also, going back a lot farther, Harold Winley is the last survivor of the Clovers, a very popular 50s group that brought us “One Mint Julep,” “Devil or Angel,” and the original hit version of “Love Potion #9.” Harold is the bass singer and he is, I believe, 90 years old.

  242. I think that only one member of the 60’s Group the Orlons is still alive – the male singer, Stephen Caldwell. They had 5 Top 20 hits including, “The Wah-Watusi,” “Don’t Hang Up” & “South Street.” The first to die was Shirley Brickley who was shot dead by an intruder in her home in Philadelphia on 10/13/1977.

  243. Loved this! The 70’s I would like to see. I know 10cc was kept out by 3 different artists.

    1. Pat, yes it was! It still may be the only No. 2 song with that distinction (that’s definitely cover art material for the article when I write it)! Thanks, by the way.

  245. I LOVE this!!! What an awesome trip down memory lane. Very informative too.

  246. Great list. Don’t understand how Taylor Dayne’s Original Sin didn’t make it. I remember it being all over the radio waves here in South Africa in the 90’s. It was the theme song for the Alec Baldwin film The Shadow. Then again, not surprising that it was big here, when Pandora’s Box – Original Sin was a top selling album in ’89 here, and unknown anywhere else.

  247. Everyone has their opinion I guess but cole waaaaaaaay too low n young thug waaaaaay too high

  248. I absolutely love this rap report card! First of all Kanye is gonna have a full on tantrum that he didn’t get an A+ (Lol). Next, I am really surprised at J-Cole’s grade, but I’m partial. I would really like to see the report card broken down into categories such female rappers. Gimme Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Lil Kim. Then I’d def wanna see west coast rappers like the Game, then east coast followed dirty south. I feel like each location tells a different story by rappers. This was excellent DJRob!

    1. Thanks, Los. Yeah, I thought J. Cole’s grade was kinda low too. I may have to revisit and reprint it. Something’s amiss in a world where Big Sean outranks J. Cole. Lol

  250. Let me preface my comment. I like AB. I think he is a gifted player and deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. Now,… that was some hood “I do what I want to do” ish. Lead – the young ones by example. There is no I in team! How do you just abandon your team and Set Owt like that? Players of the past dealt with more crap and for less pay. I hope he reads this. Get your ish together AB! Yeah, I said it.

  252. I’m a black man I hope to heaven that rap and hip-hop culture dies and soul, blues, jazz, disco and good black music comes back to prominence,

  253. […] (December 26, 2021).  When all is said and done, 2021 may go down as the year with one of the best marriages of TV ads with popular music, particularly classics from the 20th century…if such a thing were being measured (and it probably is). If it wasn’t among the best years for the collective use of old pop hits to push popular corporate products, it certainly was one of the more memorable ones.   Think about it: before this past year, when was the last time you thought about classics like Tag Team’s “Whoomp! (There It Is)” from 1993 or Pet Shop Boys’ 1986 hit “Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots Of Money)”?  This year (and, in the case of “Whoomp!” also in late 2020) you were reminded of their ubiquity on a daily basis after seeing their placements in ads for GEICO and Allstate insurance companies, respectively, particularly if you were watching sporting events (where the ads aired constantly). GEICO brought “Whoomp! (There It Is)”—a No. 2 smash in 1993–to a whole new generation of fans this year in the form of “Scoop! There It Is!,” a song about cookie dough ice cream that somehow makes sense in the insurance company’s most-aired TV commercial of 2021. The popular ad begins with a mom named “Tasha” preparing dinner and that familiar GEICO voiceover.  Soon, Tag Team’s DC the Brain Supreme and Steve Rolln appear in Tasha’s kitchen and suggest “French vanilla, rocky road, chocolate, peanut butter, cooki … “Scoop! There It Is!”: Which of these 2021 TV Ads using classic 20th century pop hits were your … […]

  254. I think your review is exactly the way I felt. Love him and his classics but my favorite stuff was from his 80’s period.

    1. Thanks Caswell. I got a lot of Flack for they review when I first wrote it, but that’s what I was expecting. I should’ve done my research beforehand.

  256. The British invasion is my second favorite music genre of the 80’s! Hey DJ Rob how about a story on the black British invasion?

  258. This is a wonderful article. Our family appreciates it. Sincerely, Sha Christa Winters

  259. I learnt a lot here. This would be like a reference material for me. I’ll certainly come to this page again and again …. and again! Thanks for the effort.

    Surprised there would be any argument Michael Jackson is the most successful musician of this generation; if not all time!

  260. This is all nonsense, because you cannot compare singles thst are streamed with actual physical recordings thst had to be purchased in stores. Billboard continues to believe that the move from physical recordings to streamed recordings was invisible, but it wasn’t. True music collectors know this, and know that feats achieved today have no comparison to whst happened in days of yore, when you heard a song on the radio and went to your local record store to purchase thst single. Two different processes, so they can say “recirds were broken,” but they really weren’t. Records, more to the point, were established for the digital era, not all time as Billboard woukd like us to believe.

    1. Good points. But realistically, they’re not going to ever separate the eras, because that doesn’t sell magazines or generate website clicks.

  261. The clip of “Leave the Door Open” I had to find was just a little instrumental bit- turns out it’s from Seals & Crofts – Summer Breeze. Just a short clip, but it made me crazy until I found it!

  262. Time dictates a lot of things as relevant. I sincerely hope they can appeal to an audience of listeners eager to hear their new recordings. Remixes as club songs perhaps??

    1. Unfortunately, I think much of it is curiosity generated by their diehard fans. But the album is not bad, just not contemporary enough for staying power.

  263. I never really listened to the lyrics of brown sugar until the controversy of this year. Hopefully there is a bigger evolution coming in music where no matter who is performing the song, we removed the dehumanizing of black women (and our history). “Art expression” “Freedom of speech”. Is it really “art” or “free speech” if you’re ignorance of history, refusal to believe in facts, or personal sense of unconscious entitlement supersedes the health & growth of individual cultures?

    Or can honest apologies, and true amends correct historical wrongs ….. (or is this waaaay over thinking)

    1. Thanks for the comment. The question of apologies? I don’t know that words alone will correct historical wrongs, but it’s a start.

  267. I loved is music! The song into the night came out when I was in my teens I wore the record out. 😁Great voice! He will be long remembered by me

  268. I had no idea. George Harrison? Carole King? And others? I thought this was leading into a discussion of Ringo’s “Your Sixteen,” problematic but catchy as hell. (Isn’t that McCartney on kazoo?)

    Lou Adler had some pull.

    1. Yeah, Adler did. I’m a bigger “Photograph” fan than “You’re Sixteen,” but yeah that might have been problematic for a man who was in his 30s at that point. Lol

    2. “You’re Sixteen” was actually a cover, which doesn’t make it any less cringeworthy. Then again, the same topic was also hit with a seventeen year old in “I Saw Her Standing There”.

      1. Yeah, I guess the Beatles wanted to make sure they cleared any statutory rape thresholds with theirs. Ringo (sans Beatles), not so much!

  269. I’d argue a dark horse (or at least a honorable mention) not included on this list is Lana Del Rey – who has shown remarkable staying power for someone not considered a singles artist or a “hit-generator” over the past decade.

    Additionally, outside of Adele & Taylor , she seems to be one of the best-selling current artists for Vinyl, which has overtaken CD sales in recent years.

    1. Great thought! Lana Del Rey and a few others probably qualify as dark horses that I didn’t mention. Thanks for the comment and for reading!

  270. Thought J. Cole would be a little higher than that. I don’t understand how Morgan Wallen is that much higher than he is.

    1. Many of these are educated guesses, but based on the continuing success of Morgan Wallen’s album, and the propensity of his fans to buy his albums despite (or maybe in spite of) cancel culture, I just expect him to do crazy first-week numbers next time out.

    1. Great musician, but he’s not superstar material. His current album has reached no higher than No. 28 and is currently at No. 72. He doesn’t pose a threat to any of the artists in this list…yet.

  272. Kanye didn’t sell even close to a million copies lol, hell not even 500k also Taylor’s “Last” album was a rerecording of a 13 year old album so claiming her sales have diminished is faulty specially when Kanye barely hit 300k after over a year of edging his fan. Also in reality as recent as 2019 and 2020 Taylor was selling 800k+ in it’s debut weeks, and Evermore only sold less than 400k cuz it was released only 3 months after folklore which is expected 100% of the time, also Taylor made Kanye move his album last year so he wouldn’t flop

    1. Your point? That’s why I had Taylor as high as No. 2 and Kanye down at No. 16. All factors are taken into account. If Taylor is releasing albums so frequently that they’re selling less, or if she’s rereleasing old albums, that all factors in to her sales expectations. If anything, her recent release strategies should have her even lower on this list.

  273. Nicki Minaj definitely belongs on that list, she still carries the highest debut for a female rapper this decade and second of all time. Even with her music blackballed from radio which counts more for billboard than any other factor, she was still able to get a top 10 debut on hot 100 while losing a whole day of tracking. She sold twice as much pure sales than drake’s Certified lover boy and Kanye’s Donda with her 2018 album Queen. She’s still the only female rapper who pulls just as much numbers are drake, Kendrick Lamar, Jcole, Kanye, Wayne, Eminem and jay z.

    1. We will see. I think she’s well past her prime; she hasn’t had a No. 1 album since 2012…so, it’s going to take a lot for her to rebound imho.

  274. I don’t get how The Weeknd is under lil baby, Morgan W cardi B and Harry styles. He has the longest raining top ten in billboard history and their sales aren’t competing with what he did last year like 480k or sum THE FIRST WEEK is ridiculous

    1. I think with The Weeknd there’s a bit of a burnout factor. Look at the performance of “Take My Breath.” It debuted at No. 6 and hasn’t been in the top ten since, hovering below the top 20. First-week sales are often driven by a hot first single. I think people are holding on to both “Blinding Lights” and “Save Your Tears,” the latter still being higher than “Take My Breath” on the Hot 100. It’s just a hunch, but if it were a year or so later, I’d have placed him higher.

      1. I think the ranking is okay.. but I don’t think Harry Styles should be that high.. and The Weeknd and Dua lipa should be higher up on the list for sure.
        Travis Scott can currently stand against some of the hip-hop artists on the list considering his last album was in 2018.
        Great list tho.

      2. Take my Breath was used to introduce a new era.. it’ll pick up once we understand exactly what he’s trying to do.. people just aren’t ready to let go of AH yet.
        I’m a big fan of his and I haven’t even gotten take my breath because I’m still not done with Starboy, not to talk of AH😂

        1. Which is why he’s ranked as low as he is. You have to take all factors into account. If he were to wait another sox months to a year, I’d definitely have him ranked higher.

          2. Hello Adeolu, he actually has 14 No. 1s. I put him down as a wildcard at the bottom. It’s been a long time since his last No. 1 (“4:44”), and his most recent album, “The Carters,” didn’t do that well (it opened with under 200k) and debuted at No. 2 in 2018.

  276. Great stats! I am especially proud of J-Cole (Fayetteville NC) one of my former students. Don’t forget Lil Brother, Phonte’, and 9th Wonder of Durham, NC.

  278. Great article! The stories and history of the original RRHOF inductees are legendary. I believe the American public fiends for movies that tell the stories of hard-nock rock-n-roll life. We are seeing the real stories of legends such as Tina Turner (Ike & Tina), Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, etc, it’s as American as apple pie.

  279. I had an argument with my dad about this. I told him that, for as long as I’ve been alive, Maroon 5 has been making consistent hits year after year. And we could never recall a band that has endured for longer than a 5-6 year peak period. Glad this article exists haha!

    1. For as long as you’ve been alive? Haha…that must mean you’re still a teenager. They didn’t start making hits until 2003, but I get your point. Thanks for reading and commenting!

  280. DJ Robb, thank you for posting your take on this as I never would have heard the original if it was not for this column. I went to youtube and saw Dolly’s video and the back story about why she wrote the song and that was truly authentic where I saw LNX as more of a gimmick, a clever gimmick, “just because he could” but a gimmick non the less. I think the haunting affect in the LNX video is helped by the natural melody of the song, and his decision to mimic the original video format. Once again, very clever! Finally, I don’t think that his voice is that special but hats off to him for staying on the Country charts tip. I wish I would have thought of that! Clever!!

    1. Hey Darren, thanks for the comment and for reading. It is indeed clever on his part and, if nothing else, it adds some depth to what has been a mostly gimmicky existence for the young artist up to this point.

    1. It’s not missing, it just never made No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The list is only those albums that reached No. 1.

  283. So what happens then, for them all to be in the chart at the same time?

    When they release an “album”, are all the tracks revealed at the same time?

    Or, do they release the tracks at different times? And this guy’s tracks are just so good that they hang around at the top of the chart for weeks and months?

    1. It’s the first answer: when an album is released all of its tracks are revealed simultaneously and they are all eligible to chart immediately if they get enough streams, downloads or airplay. It’s not that they’re so good that they hang around for weeks and months. In fact, of the 21 Drake songs that debuted in the chart this week, the majority will be gone within three weeks. As with Kanye’s album last week, 23 songs entered the chart but only 10 or 11 remain this week and even fewer will be there next week. The songs début more out of curiosity listens than they do because they’re good.

  284. Thanks for this article. I always liked Emotional Rescue as a kid, but it wasn’t until I listened to it as an adult that I started paying attention to Charlie Watts. After numerous listens, some of the beats still catch be by surprise. Love this song, primarily for the drum part.

    1. Thanks for the comment. Yes, I LOVE “Emotional Rescue” for the drumming and everything else. I’m a huge Stones fan and I’ll miss Mr. Watts tremendously.

  285. Nice article D…quite thought-provoking!! Admittedly, I am late to the Kanye party. When he hit the scene back in the day, I wasn’t the least bit interested. But then again, I wasn’t interested in too much else aside from carrying, delivering, nursing, & changing babies as a stay-at-home mom lol! Over the years, I have developed a great respect for Kanye watching his breakdown & rising up from his mom’s death. I have a deep appreciation for anyone who unashamedly can present themselves (the good, the bad, & the ugly) to the world, all while suffering a battle within themselves. THEN, turning that trauma into TRIUMPH. I was vibing to Donda yesterday WITH my kids. Nice to be able to do that as opposed to having a fear of plummeting into a lyrical abyss as many artists lead us into. Haven’t heard Drake’s yet, but I’m looking forward to it. I respect both he & Kanye & enjoy their music.

  286. Dadumbass just committed his rap
    Down and down entertainment susisid, daidiot!! ?

  287. Summed up my thoughts beautifully, as well as some interesting notes on how the track came about. I will forever play this iconic disco classic (as I am at this very moment of writing).

    1. It is indeed a beautiful piece of music that I still feel is underrated. Thanks for reading and for your comment.

    1. Well since most hip-hop after 2000 sucks ass anyway, and most of these young cats only talk about ass, pussy and shooting shit, that wasn’t a hard bar to reach.

  289. Here’s all you need to know; the Jackson 5 had fans of all races, the Osmonds didn’t.

  290. “I’ve never heard that song before,”…classic! ? DJRobb, you delivered again. What a special evening with your mom and her friends. You look great! ?

  291. An entertaining read as usual. Thanks for bringing us all to the show!

  292. I LOVE IT! I know that was one for the books. I’m sure they appreciated the realness of Bruno’s brand of R&B. I always feel a little Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, and Al Green when I listen to him and his band…very relatable. A beautiful memory. You get mad props for that one my brother??

  293. Hats off to the ladies! My mum died 13 years ago, but she was a huge Prince and Radiohead fan until the end.

  294. I just turned 50 on June 30th & with all those 1970 babies there’s gotta be quite a few from 1971 too I’d imagine ? I’d like to see that list

  295. I personally love the commercial and wish I had a singing hood ornament!

    1. I wish that commercial was still being aired, one of my fav, I will run to see it when it comes on if I am in another room. I’m over 70 and I run to see it. Wish they would air it again.

  296. David Ruffin and Eddie
    Kendricks as leads with The Temps
    At times mirrored the duo style of Bruno and Anderson with Silk Sonic background duo doing what Melivin Franklin and the Williams brothers did for Ruffin and Kendricks.

  297. How’s it supposed to stay on the chart when radio won’t touch it?

  298. The only one one hit wonder twice was Falco, who was a one hit wonder as a member of After the Fire (Der Kommisar) and a one hit wonder solo (Rock Me Amadeus)

    1. Sorry chap, but you’re wrong on both fronts: 1) Falco was not a member of After the Fire, he recorded his own solo version of “Der Kommisar” before the group After the Fire covered it; and 2) Falco was not a one-hit wonder as a solo act, he followed up “Rock Me Amadeus” with another top-40 hit, “Vienna Calling,” the same year.

    1. I love when ignorant readers like you immediately tumble to conspiracy theories because you’re too dumb to analyze and critique the bullshit you’re fed on your daily diet of Faux News and Breitfart. If Billboard really wanted to “remove” the song, then why would they let it enter the chart in the first place and, even more, why is it still on their other charts that have a much lower threshold than the Hot 100?

    2. Bro that’s not how the charts work ?? cry harder conservacuck

  301. Jennifer Hudson is beautiful, smart, and is one hell of a singer. But she can’t actor way out of a paper bag even if she did win best supporting actress Oscar. Seeing Jennifer Holiday and Broadway was unbelievable. Jennifers dream girls’ role was too pretty, not hefty enough as the kind of ugly duckling who into a swan.
    When Jennifer Holiday San THAT song,
    there wasn’t a dry eye in the house And the audience erupted on their feet. Love Jennifer’s voice, But I never feel anything when she sings. And her acting is stiff and cold

  302. The Philly sound has been resurrected by these two young talednts..mainly because it was genius then, and genius now.

    The added delight and surprise is Paak’s delicate touch drumming, he can make drums ooze sensuality, as do the perfect background vocals of their wider band.
    The base line is a killer…I kinda wish they asked Thundercat to sit in…maybe they will with other songs oh the album.
    Even more stunning are the live renditions of Leave The Door Open at the “Grammy’s”, and the version where Noah , the guy that came to the States from South Africa, introduces them…both “live cuts “as far as i can see…simply outstanding, with perfect outros to finish!! And gorgeous on the ears at the very least …bring it on brothers!!

  305. As a 14 year old attendee at Woodstock (my sister made me go) I learned a lot from the acts who represented black culture. I only wish I were able to go to to the Harlem given their astonishing talent and connection to a wider world. You have done them well, my friend, and I am grateful to you and Quest Love sharing such an important moment in our growth as a country. Well done, sir.

    1. Thanks, Curt. I only wish I had been old enough to attend either event – or even knew of the existence of this one before now.

  306. I think the hook sounds a lot like “All I Do Is Think Of You” from Troop.

  307. I so miss Soul music!!! It was a time in which would we could accept various genres under one umbrella…gospel, pop, rock, R&B. Young and old could groove together respectfully. So nostalgic and relevant given the current state of Black music. I am sick of seeing and hearing “hood pathologies”. Thank you DJ Rob, this was much needed and appreciated. STAND! Nahx10 ✊?

  308. Believe it or not I heard a little Hall and Dates…She’s Gone.

  310. I thought of The Dells. Delfonics, and Switch: I love the song because of old school melodies

    1. I’m looking forward to hearing the rest of the album. I’ve grown a little burned out from “Leave the Door Open.” Staying tuned in anticipation.

  311. Thank you this is great! Living in England and a teen during the 70’s there’s lots here I know and love and some i haven’t heard before. I have an awful lot of homework to do

    1. Yes, this list was meant to both entertain and enlighten! I’m glad it’s accomplished both! Thanks for reading and commenting. And feel free to share the article!

  312. On your list of the 100 Greatest Black Artists of All Time, you put the late, great Sam Cooke at a measly #27! I am at a loss for words at this low ranking, because he should be in the top #5 at the least. In his short 33 years of living, he took Gospel Music to its highest level, and then crossed over to Pop, breaking racial barriers, and winning over audiences of all ethnic groups worldwide. He influenced the world with his music like Michael Jackson did, but 25 years earlier. Not only was Sam an accomplished musician, song writer, and unmatched singer, he was the proverbial ‘Sacrificial Lamb’ for Blacks in the Music Industry (and others) to own their Masters and Publishing. He challenged the Industry while others stood by and shook in their boots because of fear. He owned his own record label,(SARS), had other businesses, and produced a cache of great singers like Johnny Taylor, Mel Carter, The Womack Brothers, and The Sims Twins before it was even heard of for a Black man to do such a thing. In the 1950s, he sued RCA Records, and won $500K because he learned the Business of Music. He was doing all of this while still singing and charting #1 Hits,before any other Black artist dared to attempt it, and It paved the way for Berry Gordy to do what he did at Motown! He.eventually lost his life for fighting for what was his, and we can still see some of it happening today with the mysterious deaths of Michael, Prince, and a few others who fought for their Music. Everyone after him aspired to BE him; they stole his runs and shouts (Elvis), and even cut the perm out of their hair, wearing it natural. His vocals are unparalleled, even until this day. He needs to be pushed up in the rankings because Sam Cooke was the King of Soul & Pop, simultaneously in the 50;s and early 60’s, hands down….

    1. Thanks for this thoughtful accounting of Sam Cooke’s rightful place in music history and in rankings like these, which, admittedly, are subjective at best. I have often thought about this list in the six years since I first published it and where I’d rank certain artists today – or which ones I’d include now that I omitted the first time. I’ve also thought about which artists have come along (or improved their standings in the past six years) who would now appear on the list were I to do it again. Sam Cooke – much like Nina Simone – is an artists whose contributions to music are being better understood with the passage of time and with more revelation. He is likely to be higher when I redo the list (whenever that’ll be).

      Thanks again for your thorough response. One thing was false about your reply, though. You definitely were NOT at a loss for words. Lol

      DJRob

  313. Thanks, this is a great list! I’ll listen to the playlist as soon as I can.

  314. Actually, in the case of Yellow Submarine, it was the Beatles who kept it from going to number one. The flip side of Yellow Submarine was Eleanor Rigby which went to number 11 on Billboard, and siphoned off ranking points from Submarine. In those days, Billboard ranked both sides of a 45, and essentially put them in competition with each other. A few years later, they would add the two sides together, and give the 45 just one ranking. Had they done this in 1966, Yellow Submarine/Eleanor Rigby would have been number one.

    1. Great insight, thanks. I guess Billboard giveth and Billboard taketh away. That change you mentioned, btw, is how “Come Together”/“Something” made it to No. 1 in 1969.

  315. […] For six of “Shadow Dancing’s” seven-week run, “Baker Road” sat inside putting distance. In a single weeks, chart tabulators advised America’s High 40’s producers “Baker Road” lastly broke by way of. Billboard chart director Invoice Wardlow protested. Gibb’s managers threatened to take away him from a Billboard present if “Baker Road” knocked off “Shadow Dancing.” Host Casey Kasem re-recorded after Wardlow known as. Even outdoors of the lyrics, “Baker Road” couldn’t win.[10] […]

  316. There has always been the big debate if “One Bad Apple” was written for The Jackson Five or The Osmonds. I am the host of THE OSMOND HOUR a monthly radio show on the WBNR.DB Radio Network and heard Online at myBNR.com. I spoke with Rodney Hall (son of producer Rick Hall) who was a guest on THE OSMOND HOUR. Rodney said in 1970 Mike Curb (President of MGM Records at the time told Rick Hall to fly from Muscle Shoals, Alabama to check out a new act (Mike wouldn’t tell Rick who they were as to not prejudge). Rodney said his dad was “Blown away” after seeing The Osmonds in concert and immediately called his head writer at FAME RECORDING STUDIOS, George Jackson and told him to write a song that sounded like The Jackson Five’s song, “ABC”. I also spoke with FAME RECORDING STUDIO bass player who has played on over 100 Number One Hits. His very first Number One song is “One Bad Apple”. Bob said that he knew George Jackson very well. George worked exclusively for Rick Hall FAME RECORDING STUDIOS and knew for a fact that “George did write “One Bad Apple” for THE OSMONDS.

    I also had the opportunity to meet up with Mike Curb and Donny Osmond about 10 years ago in Nashville. During the visit, “THE QUESTION” was asked by Donny. “Was One Bad Apple” written for The Jackson Five or THE OSMONDS?” Mike Curb said, “”One Bad Apple” was written for THE OSMONDS to have a Jackson Five like sound because The Jackson’s were so Hot at the time, he and Rick Hall needed a song that would break THE OSMONDS image as barbershop singers from the Andy Williams days and if it meant copying someone else’s sound to help break away from their old image, get a chart hit and then THE OSMONDS would be able to begin recording their own music.

    I would be happy to send you a copy of Rodney Hall’s statement plus he has basically the same comments in a Song Facts article. Since hearing with my own two ears Mike Curb say “One Bad Apple was written for THE OSMONDS” I have seen a couple interviews with Mike Curb saying the same thing.

    Rodney King – Son of Producer Rick Hall
    Mike Curb – MGM President in 1970, now owner of CURB RECORDS empire
    Bob Wray – Bass player on One Bad Apple, friends of song writer George Jackson and member of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.

    All exceptional men who were there.

    Regardless, great article. Note: Jay Osmond was voted as one of the TOP Drummers in the industry in the 70’s and played percussions along side John Bonham during a Led Zeppelin concert at Earls Court in London, England in 1975. Also, very notable: THE OSMONDS song “Crazy Horses” is listed as no. 66 in Music Critic Chuck Eddy’s “Stairway to Hell: the 500 Best Heavy Metal Albums in the Universe”.

    Have a Great Rockn’ Day!!

    1. Thanks, Mr. Roach, for your very informative and interesting response. Your accounting of the facts is about as good as hearing directly from the Osmonds themselves, and I appreciate it – as I hope my readers will as well.

      Thanks again!
      DJRob

  318. The information here is not updated. DMX is dead and he’s name still on the list??

  319. Can anyone imagine just how dull this song would have been if Bob Dylan has recorded it? He couldn’t carry a tune half the time.

  320. Agree with the Philly soul sound and a sprinkling of Prince thrown in for good measure!! Leave the door open is an absolute triumph! ❤️

  321. How about Ms knight and the Pips singing ” Neither one of us wants to be the first to say Good Bye, the part where she extends the words , Farewell myy Loveee Goodbye.

  322. Whatever the influences,some fine bands mentioned by the way,Let’s be thankful for a fantastic song a real soul tune and for me something we’ve been crying out for,for years,and I’m talking as a soul funk disco boogie dj.i played this during my set last Saturday and it certainly didn’t get lost in the set…thank you guys for an amazing song,let it be the start of many more,as there’s so much underground talent out there.

    1. Thanks for the comment, Martin! I’m looking forward to hearing their whole album when it’s released.

        1. the Jackson’s slow song game was excellent and I hear them as well. it’s just an excellent song that captures the entire feel from 60s 70s and early 80s.

  325. Courtney Jenaé is the singer and hood ornament. Not Lesley McKinnell!! Not sure why there was ever a mix up!

  326. FYI everyone, Courtney Jeané is the singer in this commercial. Not Lesley McKinnell!! Not sure why there ever was a mix up.

  332. J. COLE IS STILL MY FAVORITE RAPPER AND I AM HAPPY TO KNOW THAT HE IS LIVING HIS BEST LIFE. WE HAVE A LOT TO LEARN FROM HIM. DON’T LET AGE LIMIT FULFILLING YOUR DREAMS.
    THANK YOU, DJROBB! ANOTHER GREAT ARTICLE.

    1. Indeed, Twana. What a fitting way to mark my 600th article! J. Cole showing that age ain’t nothing but a number.

      1. What a fitting response, DJRobb. Aaliyah’s your next topic? ? Also, congratulations for your 600th article! Wow!

        1. Haha. You know she wasn’t gonna be, but she’ll be in a few months…20 year anniversary of her passing.

  333. I never knew that Little Susie was so scary! I thought it was just about Michael singing about a little girl. Wow!

    1. Yeah, Michael apparently had this unusual fascination with little girls as victims in his music, from “Little Suzie” to the “Smooth Criminal” video.

    1. S W V for me .Patti song and after. .S W V got in together during half time Second half S W V , tennis shoes, combat boots The dance moves. The togetherness. The rapping . Getting the people pumped up S W V is in the house.. S W V and Escape both did a wonderful job. S W V have more of a genuine chemistry with each other. S W B.. Sisters With Voices ❣️

  336. Xscape won the verzuz..
    Swv was good by sorry Xscape was t hff e winner

  337. That was well written, and Ms Wilson deserves all that and more. She was a Real Soul Survivor to the end
    RiP Beautiful lady♥️?

  338. This tune and the commercial are some of the most vomit-inducing I’ve heard/seen in a long while.

    1. If a scene involving a guy driving down the street singing an ‘80s tune causes that kind of reaction, then it’s not the commercial you should be worried about.

    3. Who cares, this is my fav next to Scoop commercial. You are in the minority on this one.

  342. Reminds me of Cameo – I never knew. Leave the door open, a great track, that hints at so many songs of the era. Love it

  345. What an awesome trip down memory lane! No surprises for me. I think that’s because musically we were at such a different place in those days. It seemed that popular music was embraced by most people thanks to the age of MTV and visuals/personas to help boost music sales. I will say the 2 things that surprised me then is that when I first heard them, I didn’t realize that Madonna or Boy George (Lead vocalist in Culture Club) were white. In her case, the first music video of hers clued me in. In his/their case, the cassette cover did. Great article!!

    2. Yeah, I didn’t know anything about Madonna from her first hit “Holiday.” It peaked at Number 16. I thought she was going to be a one-hit artist! There have been many examples of a dance artist having only one hit or one big hit in the ’80s. Her second hit, “Borderline,”debuted low and made a slow climb to the Top 10, but it was the video that caught people’s eyes.. Her third single, “Lucky Star,” debuted high. By the time her second album, “Like A Virgin,” was released, and the title track went to Number 1, she had arrived at super
      stardom.

  348. I’d say the Chi-Lites. It has the production quality their songs were known for. Listen to “Have you Seen Her?”; you’ll find the same smooth sound.

    Also, I know this isn’t 70’s, but lots of jazzy chords structure can be found used heavily in early New Edition and NKOTB ballads, believe it or not.

  349. I have many musical “heroes” and Prince is my first and biggest: your articles about him are interesting and refreshing. Please keep them coming, stay sure the music will keep on coming.

  350. They sound a lot like the main ingredient. Listen to “I’m leaving this time” or “you aint got it no way”…..very similar style

    1. The list is based on Billboard charts data from 2010-2019, Lil Durk was hardly even thought about until after that.

  352. He was a Musical Genius, and Innovator as well. R.I.P Kashif, you will never be forgotten. Your Book is a National Music Treasure…

    1. I agree. It’s hard to believe he’s been gone for nearly five years. Thanks for checking out the blog.

  353. Wow…I was just reminiscing a few of my old favs by the Isleys, and thought about Chris, I always heard he was a Cousin, but I knew he was Family. I always saw him crushing that Synthesizer and knew he was the real deal behind those Ballads. Not surprised at all about his wisdom and perspective about the Music Industry, and I know his faith in the Lord kept him grounded and on top of his game. That industry is very demonic, and so many have been destroyed by it, but thank God for you Brother Chris! I will definitely check out your website-I too am a Gospel Singer, and Sam Cooke is my favorite of all time…Bless you Sir! Great interview Rob!

    1. Thank you, Sir. And thanks for the support of the blog. I agree, Mr. Jasper is indeed a talented and gifted musician. I was happy the Isleys (Ron) gave him a shout-out on their Verzuz episode a couple weeks ago.

      1. Great interview and very knowledgeable. Mr. Jasper was a musical genius in my book. I was very impressed by this interview and learned a lot of history, not only about the Isley’s but the creativity of music and the industry. I agree with him in the response to the music today; I’ve always made that comment as well about today’s music having the same basic sound and not enough originality; and about music being promoted today only for profit (some). When they took away R&B (Jazz), they took away the heart and soul of music. This is why I tend to listen to “Old School” music, only. Music from the sixties, seventies, eighties, and early nineties we’re the best composed, passionate, heartfelt, and soulful music that was ever created, and as far as I’m concerned, it will and forever be. I respect Mr. Jasper’s love for real music and his creativity in it. I’ve truly enjoyed his sins written for the Isley Brothers and Isley, Jasper, and Isley; I still listen to these songs. I also can understand why he was inspired by Sam Cooke, Jackie Wilson, etc, they were creative musical geniuses as well, and I love their music. There were so many great singers, songwriters that knew how to bring the true essence of music to a song, which is heart and soul. Thank you, DJ Rob, for publishing this warm and inspirational interview. Mr. Jasper is gone but not forgotten, and I pray God has blessed his soul with rest and peace; by listening to his responses in this interview, I’m sure the Lord has blessed his soul. I thank God for letting us have the experience and the pleasure of presenting to us with one of the most creative talents and musical geniuses, Mr. Jasper, and others like him. This is one of the best interviews I’ve read, thank you!

  354. Bands are rare these days…that’s why I love listening to live bands play in restaurants and clubs, The last band that was on the R&B charts was probably Mint Condition. The fact that AP and Bruno came together as a band and got a #1 hit is a sign that there is a whole demographic out there that still loves real instrumentalists.

  355. Tony Toni Tonè is a band…didn’t their hit Whatever You Want also go to #1 in 1991?

    1. Good question, and yes, Tony Toni Toné went to No. 1 with “Whatever You Want” – but on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. This article was about the more mainstream Hot 100 chart, which is considered an all-genre list and the one generally regarded as Billboard’s marquee singles chart.

      1. Ohhh…yes, I was thinking about the R&B chart. Thanks for clarifying…

        1. No problem…your observation was a good one. Even when you consider the R&B chart, the occurrences of bands hitting No. 1 are rare in the past 30 years. Tony! Toni! Toné! had five in their career dating back to “Little Walter” in 1988, which is more than probably any other band in the past 40 years. The Gap Band has had four or five, with the first being in 1981.

  356. Could this signal a rebirth of classic R&B and soul? What is unique about Black music culture, is that we continue to reinvent or morph into something new with each generation. Consider blues and jazz with its many variations. Hip hop rap music has definitely transitioned. I am reminded of how 90s groups such as A Tribe Called Quest sampled many R&B artists and sounds. I feel as though Bruno and Paak are onto something much needed – a revival. More to come? I’ll be watching and listening. “Imma leave the door open”

    1. You may have hit the nail on the head. But, I feel that this is more a result of their names than any signaling of a rebirth. Few others could’ve put out a song like this – as good as it may have been – and achieved what these two extremely popular, Grammy-winning artists have.

  358. The Osmonds were talented, but the J5 has it all over them. Part of it is the material — the Jacksons made the most of their 1969-71 run, which was genuinely exciting, while the Osmonds always sounded like they were one step removed from the variety shows they appeared on. (Those horns! Berry Gordy and the Corporation would never let such limp-sounding horns on a Motown single.)

    I like “Lazy River,” and there’s a song on the “Crazy Horses” LP called “Hey Mr. Taxi” that has some guts. But in general they just didn’t have that rock ‘n’ roll soul, Muscle Shoals notwithstanding. I will say the J5’s material took a drop by 1971 and only occasionally got close to the level of those first four singles. But oh, what singles …

    1. As always, Scott, your reviews are totally on point! We should’ve just made this a “Three Old Guys” effort in classic style. By the way, we need to resume that! I’m still LOL at the “limp-sounding horns” comment.

  363. Wayne Cooper hands down #1 Bobby Debarge #2, Phillip Bailey #3 EJ of enchantment…with Gloria and #4 would be dude from lakeside with say yes…

  364. I’m with Brenda Halbin. After the ahh part I’d like to know what they’re saying.

  366. Bravo, DJRob! Excellent recap and thank you for the video links. Both groups, especially EWF, brought back some great memories. They just don’t make music like this anymore. Love ya ❤?

    1. Thanks, Twana! It was definitely a labor of love listening to and writing the review. Love you, too! ?❤️

  367. Superior R&B!! Somebody was on their A-Game when they put this one together. Yes, this was an instant classic! More, more, more please!!!

  368. Absolutely GREAT Read. Thanks for keeping the score for us and educating us as usual.

  370. What are the words after the ahhhhhh part? It’s driving me crazy because I cannot figure it out. So annoying.

    1. The song goes: “ohhhh, there’s a lot of opportunities; if you know when to take them…” before the commercial ends.

  371. Forgot to mention that it arose from Gordy’s reluctance to release Live at the Palladium because Live in Oakland had recently been released! While Marvin was Pouting Art Stewart went in and Strung it Together. Thereby breaking another Gordy/Gaye stalemate(What’s Going On was the first).

  372. Leave the door open….the harmonies remind me so much of the incredible Dells

  373. Leslie McKinnell is the singer, but I’m not sure who
    the ornament is. If its one and the same.

      1. The hood ornament is a silver-plated animated steel object.

        The singer happens to be white.

  375. From another post I find: “Lesley McKinnell … Hood Ornament Singing Voice”

  376. Early 70s Jackson 5 when they switched from teeny bop t o more adult material like “Never Can Say Goodbye” “Be There In the Morning” “Maybe Tomorrow.”

  381. It was ten years after this song charted number one (January 2001) that finally recognized Janet and loved her right away. It was because of this music video.

    1. Thanks for sharing. The video was considered iconic in 1990 when it was released, and the song clearly benefited from it when it topped the charts in January 1991.

  382. AWESOME at its BEST! I’m so proud of my sweet niece and the other ladies in the crew. Thanks Dj Rob for all you do in the “music” world!

  383. AWESOME!!! If it’s featured on djrobblog, it’s gotta be lit & legit! Thanks so much for taking time to interview & feature my lovely niece, Halie & her crew. HERstory in the making!!!?

    1. But of course, Cam! It was the least I could do for such a great family who has supported the blog for years!

  385. Great list, my friend! You’ve captured a wide range of music — must have taken you a long time to put this together. Well done.

    1. Thanks, Curt! I started putting it together months ago (and worked on it on and off). Hope all is well with you!

  386. The first time I heard it, I instantly thought of the Delfonics & Philly Soul in general. Something else that stood out was at the end of the the pre-chorus, “so if you tryna lay in these arms” reminds me a lot of the end of the pre-chorus for Rock With You, “share the beat of love”. These guys are well versed in the classics. No doubt about that.

      1. Listen to old June Millington of “Fanny” and the song almost sounds like one she could have written. Don’t know who she is? Check her out. Great talent, great songs, great slice of “Herstory”. (which should not be only considered under the heading of ‘women’s music”) which of course has never been appreciated fully in it’s own right…same “Old Soul” roots. Thanks for your blog.☮

  390. Is there anyway to locate the white jacket with the dragon on it that was worn by the one gang leader?

    1. Try contacting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, if you’ve already Googled it to no success.

  391. The information you share is broad knowledge and should be read by people to open their eyes. I am very grateful for that.

  392. Barry is definitely No.1 in falsetto vocals. A closer ear will tell you his falsetto technique and register is the most difficult style to emulate. Proof: majority of the aforementioned songers uses the easier technique which is the breathy, more open-air sound, whereas Barry uses the super-tight / non-airy sound wirh accompanying tremolo. The only other singer who has the same technique is Phil Bailey.
    All those who try to imitate Barry’s singing… even the tribute bands, fail miserably and most of the time.sounded goofy or comical, simply because the real technique is difiicult and I’ve proven isca special distinct talent. Anybody can attempt to try the falsetto, but that special.sound from Barry is very unique that even the tribute bands fails.
    He actually made the falsetto sound, which was in the early days stigmatized as soft (that’s why early falsetto songs were limited to ballads only), feminine, and for comedy, into something MUSCULAR and kick-ass songs that he took the art of falsetto singing & sound into a breakthrough uppermost level enough to become a worldwide sounf-phenomena.

  395. My apologies for coming late to the party. I just found out about the Top 500 hiphop songs last weekend. I agree with nearly every point you made, and if I may, these are my takeaways:

    Not to pile on, but So. Much. Drake. I counted and he’s featured 37 times on the Top 500.
    Nothing from Zaggin4Efil or 100 Miles by NWA. That just seems wrong to me.
    Maybe it’s my personal bias speaking, but Run DMC, Public Enemy, and Eric B and Rakim shouldn’t be anywhere near the bottom 400. Pioneers of the genre should be shown more respect than that.
    Finally, this list has zero Kool G Rap, KRS-One/BDP, or Gang Starr and only one Pete Rock & CL Smooth is just a damn crime.

    Thanks for allowing me the time. Keep up the great work!

    1. Thank you, sir, for reading and for the comment. It’s probably the worst list any of the SiriusXM channels has put together.

  396. We’re losing our icons, sadly. But, the music remains. “All you can eat” was my favorite jam. I met the Fat Boys during the Fresh Fest in the early 80s. Such good times.

  397. One of the greatest grooves ever recorded. I wore out two 45s of this song when it first came out. I couldn’t get enough, and 40 years later, I still can’t. Despite the ridiculous hairpulling that went on over it, in the end, the funk prevailed. Thanks for sharing the back story. Oww, we need the funk, we gotta have the funk!

  398. And there is just waaaaaaayyyyyyy not enough Tribe on here – I mean come on they have 3 back-to-back-to-back Hall of Fame albums and we get Bonita Applebuam? … No Scenario? No Scenario Remix? No Electric Relaxation? No Check the Rhime??? But we get 30 Drakes – come on does that dude even really care about hip-hop?

    1. Short answer, he cares…about Drake’s hip-hop. But your reaction is similar to that of many heads, who cringe when so-called authorities get together and try to assess its history.

  399. so much to unpack but… most importantly this list is absolutely ridiculous. it is apples and oranges. how you can have a Cardi B track a few slots down from PE Fight the Power and Eric & Ra Paid in Full. it does not compute. to try to quantify where today’s artists stand in relation to these classic artists is an exercise in futility at this point, and completely random – with very few exceptions (one being Lil Wayne who has made it to classic status)..

    First of all, i am a huge beastie boys fan (as are all white guys) and tupac was kinda after my golden years, but how can you sit there with a straight face and put fight for your right to party ahead of Pac classics like dear mama and changes? (Plus – it’s one of those not really rap jams you were referring to…) I could go on…

    Also need to say – too much west coast at the top – I LOVE all of those jams and am actually not super mad at G Thang at #1 but come on – you need to put the KRS-One, PE, Rakim, Kool G Rap, Big Pun type cats up top, and then those West Coast guys after.

    More to come…

    2. OK I mean really? Mad props to Yo but I mean which of these doesn’t belong here?

      “Baby Got Back” – Sir Mix-A-Lot
      “Down In The DM” – Yo Gotti
      “Deep Cover” – Snoop Dogg

      1. Lol. Hmmm, I’ll take a shot in the dark and guess you mean A. But, admittedly, the song did wonders for rap commercially. And I’ll always believe that even the gains of bubblegum misogynistic rap like this opened doors for other more credible hip-hop artists to be more widely accepted (and better able to put food on their tables).

        1. NO! The one that does not belong is Yo Gotti. i mean, i liked my hitters and all but forgive me i never even really heard of this jam which is sandwiched in between two HUMONGOUS ICONIC HH CLASSICS… granny smith apples & oranges.

        2. That’s like if a list of the best movies of all time was like:

          …
          Trading Places
          40 Year Old Virgin
          Coming to America
          …

    2. Mary Wilson never received the respect she deserved. Why not promote all the Supremes. Music from jean terrell to susaye green. Thank you Mary Wilson and the new Supremes.

  404. I think the lady who played her in the Lifetime Whitney movie should get it. SHE was on point with Whitney’s energy. I can’t understand why she is being left out. The lady that played Whitney in the Bobby Brown story did Not have that type of energy. Please give the lifetime Whitney actress another look!!!

    1. Now, we know they have chosen Naomi. I wish her well. However, Gabrielle Dennis who portrayed her in Bobby Brown Story is my only choice. She captured Whitney’s essence. She portrayed Nippy. She wasn’t asked to perform like Ya Ya. Had she been asked, she would have killed it! She’s so very talented!

  405. Yes it’s a double standard. Yes, White people should truly never say it at all. But Black people, and Asians, and Latinx, and all the other beautiful people of our world shouldn’t say it either. The discussion about how and who and when the N-word can be said detracts from the more important point …. it should NEVER be uttered. Period. And any use of it, by any artists or people in any genre (spoken, written, electronic), just perpetuates its further use.

  406. This is sad, but it makes me wonder how many other majority artists have this conduct disorder – comfort with using the N-word? Our Black artists, namely rappers need to address this as a community. A closer examination of who buys what artists put out needs to be conducted. I believe the current consumer doesn’t look like me buying a Tupac or Biggie cd in 1992. Things have evolved.

  408. DJ ROB:
    Thanks for the beautiful words regarding both your Dad and Charley Pride. I have been a Charley Pride fan since hearing his very first release by RCA on a Memphis radio station on a Saturday afternoon back in the Spring of 1966. It is really wonderful that the passing of Charley has finally brought to the World’s attention his impact on Civil Rights. His beautiful voice along with his wonderful personality brought him Love and Admiration from all corners of our Globe. Sounds like your Dad and Charley have something verry important in common—-they both left this Earth a better place than they found it.
    THANKS AGAIN,
    GEORGE VANCE
    ARKANSAS

    1. Thank you, Mr. Vance, for your extreme kindness. It’s people like you who make this world such a better place! We need more like you! Arkansas is one lucky place to have you.

  409. I am so filled with admiration of Ms. Cicely Tyson. She was not only an iconic actress, but also a groundbreaking style maven as a model at a time when women of color had to have a more Anglo aesthetic to be considered for contracts, print, or runway work. She did it with a Black cultural aesthetic-a natural, cornrows and all. In her later years she made many stylish turns on the red carpet and served as a muse for designer B. Michael, who accompanied her regularly. What a legend! I do hope that when a biopic is made of her life, that it will be truthful with mass appeal. I last saw Ms. Tyson in the Ava DuVernay series Cherish The Day. She was given her props as real Hollywood Queen. I love the fact that so many Black women in Hollywood have had her career to model. The list is long but my fav Regina King is here on the strength of Marla Gibbs and Ms. Cicely Tyson. RIP Hollywood Royalty ?

  412. Gloria is actually a cover of an Italian song with the same title, written and sung by Umberto Tozzi. Tozzi himself was enraged by Trump’s use of the song and made an official statement about it a few days ago.

  413. It’s a very difficult question, should we keep on celebrating the music of people who had a “shady” (to say the least) life? I actually think we should, I think great music is much bigger than the people who make it. People are small and weak and can be unbelievably mean or downright evil. But art is far above them. So I think we should continue appreciating the songs for their value. Forget about the men, but remember their art.

  415. Thank you for this, DJ Rob! I don’t read a lot of blogs, but yours almost always has something to capture my interest. I guess I’m a hard-core music fan, though many would say my taste is pretty mainstream, with Prince and Todd Rundgren at the top of the list.

    Here are the first picks that come to mind for getting the dopamine firing – I know I’m missing a whole whack of them. Isn’t music the gift that keeps on giving!

    Everlasting Now – Prince (Live version from One Night Alone It Ain’t Over – Live)
    Housequake – Prince
    Espresso – Todd Rundgren
    Sweet – Todd Rundgren
    More Than a Feeling – Boston
    Flashlight – Parliament
    Like Sugar – Chaka Khan
    Give It to Me Baby – Rick James
    Be Thankful for What You’ve Got – William DeVaughn (but often attributed to Curtis Mayfield)
    Move on Up – *actually* Curtis Mayfield
    Like I Love You – Justin Timberlake
    Berzerk – Eminem

    Also, bit o’ trivia: The song “Magic” by Pilot is now being used for a pharmaceutical commercial. You could swear it’s the same vocalist!

    Saddened to hear about the year you’ve been through. I can relate to how music is often the unique salve for a wound that nothing else will heal. And, I agree that there’s a whole other category of songs that are to be strictly avoided when we’re already feeling down.

    Thank you for your continued labour of love on behalf of us music devourers,
    M

    1. Thanks so much for reading, commenting, and, mostly, for sharing your selections. And, yes, I’m aware of the Ozempic commercial jingle. I find myself substituting the original song’s lyrics with the drug company’s words more often than not these days. Wonder what that’s telling me? I guess it’s that the power of advertising and jingles (and a great familiar old tune) can be amazing and addictive!

      Thanks again, and take care! DJR

  416. “Eye No” (Prince, Lovesexy), my absolute first stop as a feel-good song
    “My baby just cares for me” (Nina Simone)
    “Sir Duke” (Stevie Wonder, Songs in the key of life)
    “Happy feet” (Paolo Conte, a great italian artist)
    “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da” (The Beatles, White Album)
    “Eat That Chicken” (Charles Mingus, Oh Yeah)
    “Three little birds” (Bob Marley, Exodus)

    And many more which I’m forgetting because of old age.

  417. What a beautiful piece you created and shared with all of us. No doubt you helped give hope to many, and your choices for self-soothing are awesome! I’m sorry to hear what all you’ve been through in the last year — it was a lot! I miss our friendship in the pool hall and wish you all the best with the rearranged life you now have. I ‘ll keep reading your most excellent posts. My feel better songs include Bruce’s Thunder Road, pretty much anything by Ray Wylie Hubbard, Ragged as the Road by Reckless Kelly, anything by the Ramones — I could go on but won’t. Take care my friend, and stay safe. Sorry about your Steelers last night!

    2. Thanks, Curt! Believe me, I miss our times together at the pool hall as well. And I really do appreciate all the support you’ve given me and the blog these many years. And thanks for sharing your feel-better songs as well. As for the Steelers, that was an embarrassment of monumental proportions that should go down as the worst ending to an 11-0 season ever! Lol

  418. A perfect commentary and I couldn’t agree more. Also, the gap of not having live music this year (streaming doesnt count) has been like an open wound. Music restores everything. So sorry for your multiple losses..that truly is a heavy load to bear in a NORMAL year. I have too many songs all in my head at a given moment, but a few that resonate right now are “not dark yet” written by Dylan, performed by alison moorer and sister Shelby, anything at all sung by Ryan Bingham, Grace Potter, or turnpike troubadours, and for nostalgia I love hall and Oates too, but the older stuff. (She’s gone). For the record, I also take a perverse pleasure in knowing I’m not the only one who bawled at the bee gees doc. I LOVE them and it was so well done. But then again, music does that to me in a millisecond. Who doesnt need a good cry right now??

    1. Thanks so much for the read and the comments, Ellen. The Bee Gees will always remain one of my favorite groups of all time, and I’m so glad their music soundtracked multiple eras of my life! Stay safe!

  419. This is right up my alley – literally!! I am an avid lover of great music & I just so happen to be a Social Worker so I merge those two worlds daily to keep me at peace! Tears for Fears’ “Everybody Wants…” always takes me to a happy place where I’m riding in that car soaking in the sunshine & fresh air! A few more staples for me: “Don’t Disturb This Groove” The System; “Optimistic” Sounds of Blackness; “Human Nature” MJ; “Fantasy” EWF; “Spread My Wings” Troop; “When I Think of You” Janet Jackson; “Never Too Much” Luther Vandross; “Alone Together” Daley ft. Marsha Ambrosius; & pretty much anything by Fred Hammond, Glenn Jones, Israel Houghton, New Edition, & Chuckii Booker! LOVE that you spoke on the topic of this article & appreciate you sharing your heart.♥️

        1. Alright, Anita…I mean, Cam! Oh, and Luther’s “Never Too Much” and Sounds of Blackness’ “Optimistic” are immediate pick-me-ups for me!!

  420. Music is great to set the mood, and it brings back so many memories. Thanks for a “memorable” blog!

  421. Okay if rap artists and Whitney Houston and Janet Jackson are in, there’s no reason why influential female artists of the pop rock era shouldn’t be:

    Par Benatar
    Carly Simon
    Patsy Cline
    Caren Kaye
    Helen Reddy
    Bette Midler
    Dionne Warwick
    Joan Armatrading
    Olivia Newton-John
    Tina Turner
    Dolly Parton
    Emmylou Harris
    Carole King
    Kim Carnes
    The Runaways
    The B-52s
    The Go-Gos
    The Eurythmics
    The Bangles
    Cyndi Lauper
    Sheryl Crow
    Hole

  422. Female artists of the Pop and Rock era who haven’t even been nominated (with the exception of Par Benatar who didn’t get in) and should be before any rap artist:

    Par Benatar
    Carly Simon
    Patsy Cline
    Cher
    Carole King
    Tina Turner
    Olivia Newton-John
    Helen Reddy
    Diana Ross
    Bette Midler
    Dolly Parton
    Emmylou Harris
    Joan Armatrading
    Caren Kaye
    Kim Carnes
    The Runaways
    The Go-Gos
    The Eurythmics
    The Bangles
    Cyndi Lauper
    Sheryl Crow
    Hole

      1. Tina Turner is in for her work with her ex-husband. She us not in as a solo artist. Nor is Diana Ross. Carole King is in for songwriting but not for her career as a performer.

      1. Diana Ross was one of the most successful female solo artists in the 1970s.

        She was up there with Linda Ronstadt, Olivia Newton-John, Donna Summer, and Barbra Streisand.

        She is not in the RRHOF as a solo performer snd she deserves to be.

  423. Wait, I just read the article again (yes, I like it very much). You never saw Prince live, did I get that right or am I misunderstanding (I’m from Italy)?

      1. I saw him more than 20 times, once in New York at the Madison too (I must come around to counting them). I’m sorry you never got to see him, I attended lots of concerts in my time across a plethora of different genres, but his shows and aftershows are at the top for me. He was at his best on a stage.

        1. Yes, I’ve attended many concerts – about 100 in the past six years – and have reviewed them here in the blog (you can search them), but not seeing Prince is one of my biggest regrets.

          1. Yes I’ve read some of your reviews, I read your blog anytime I can, it’s informative and interesting. I read tons of content in English, don’t ask me exactly how I discovered your blog a few years ago but I’m glad I did.

      2. Off topic: I’m from a small town in Liguria, Albenga. Can you believe there were a couple of summers with huge artists playing concerts here in our soccer stadium? I actually don’t know how they did it but they got Tina Turner and Miles Davis to play here. Miles is another hero of mine.

  425. I have caught this countdown numerous times and I’m glad I got to at least see this part of the list. Totally agree that there is waaaaay too much Drake. I get that he’s popular but most of his stuff is borderline hip hop and his rhymes mostly sound like he’s bored. Also, I’ve heard Redman exactly once, with Method Man on Da Rockwilder and no Gang Starr as of yet. It’s so disappointing to hear so much mumble rap and get basically nothing from these legends. Also no Kool G Rap yet either, other than The Symphony which was far too low on the list for possibly the greatest posse cut in hip hop history. Not sure how this list got made up, but you were pretty spot on with your observations.

  429. Wow; this one hit me hard. Like yourself, this was my era. A great time to be a Black teenager. A pioneering success – Whodini. I am reminded of going to my first concert ever – The Fresh Fest Tour which came to a jam packed Dorton Arena in Raleigh NC. Whodini, The Fat Boys, Salt and Peppa, LL Cool J. It was a magical time in that they were stars in the pages of Word- Up magazine, and WDUR-FM 1490. That was my world, and my brother had the posters and autographs from when we got backstage like groupies lol. RIP Ecstacy! You are a legend.

  432. I am of the original extreme metal generation at 59 and was vocalist for many bands and roadie of Slayer and Anthrax in the 1980s. My ( and our) passion and desire in creative endeavors was to express ourselves ,first, musically,in the always increasingly difficult and technically peerless levels of instrumental virtuosity. In hand with this was a level of sophisticated and sublimely eloquent lyrical content. This passion was then articulated quite aptly in the sonic blast and eviscerating action via verbal razors. To be subjected to the deragations of sub par,zero intellect critics and pop culture followers for decades was painful and sans reason. I wish to express ( and I do speak for thousands like me) immense pleasure, gratitude and respect sincerely to you sir Dj and bequeath into you honorary membership into the ephemeral knighthood of our kind. SKOL! All Hailsa! Loki

  437. Great article Darrell. Brought back the memory of my dad having a Pride album just because of his story telling. Pops shared this album with me to explain that Pride was a first and how we, as outsiders in a country we built, had to celebrate all of our “firsts” and continued history.

    Pride, Calvin Peet, Arthur Ashe, Althea Gibson, Jim Brown dad was big into celebrating all of the firsts, intertwined with Cannonball, Dizzy, Miles, Lady Blue, Gladys, and Lou Rawls. Our house was full with music.

    Thanks for bring back memories.

  440. After reading your article, I am amazed at how much my generation and millennials have missed out on. I am also reminded of my abiding love for certain country songs. I have always been a fan of Kiss an Angel Good Morning, and The Learning Tree, and Little Green Apples by O.C. Smith. I am reminded of radio in small towns with no range that could only pick up country music stations. I can relate to your dad finding fanship with someone who shared similar experiences and finding success through hard work and dedication; traits that seem absent by present day artists. I give a pass on that to Darius Rucker though. His music comes across as genuine for me, and I can relate to that.

  441. I don’t agree with the top 10. Hypnotize might be up there but not top ten. I like No Role Modelz at 16. And Gold digger at 19, they might be higher though. I also like how Ms. Jackson is up there in the 20’s although I might put it near 15. Also where is Doo Wop and Award Tour. They would be far up there for me. Also. At 114, I wouldn’t count Brass Monkey as rap hip hop. I would call it a bit more rock. I’m also really surprised Runaways Kanye West isn’t top 20. For me. There might even be some A$AP ROCKY up there. Like Everyday. I also didn’t really see any Nas. I also just realized that “Changes“ 2 PAC is at 129. And I also think “UltraLight Beam” Kanye should be up there. I know he’s not that popular. But Cordae, his album Lost Boy, is really good. And then there is JID and he has a really good album called The Never Story. As well as Wesleys Theory would be up there from To P**p A Butterfly. And Kid acudí Man on The moon 1 & 2. And Man on the moon 3 is coming out this week. Then there is Don Toliver, Frank Ocean, Tyler The Creater, and Childih Gambino. They’re pretty big artists and they didn’t really get recognized in this. And I don’t really like her music but It was surprising how there was no Ariana Grande on this.

  443. Wow, 30 years. This iconic is still very fresh. It speaks to a mature but youthful sex appeal. I believe that was the first time Janet showed her body. This video was a struggle and an achievement physically as she revealed in her book regarding body image. This was not only helpful for women, but men also. Switching gears, I miss remixes! Remixes truly helped record sales by allowing artists to appeal to multiple demographics. Janet was the queen of remixes. With her radio edits transformed into house mixes by notable DJs, she appealed to the UK club kids, the rapidly growing LGBTQ (at that time) community, so on. I credit her work with Missy Elliott, Shep Pettibone and others for unique appeals to various audiences. I still own a UK edition of the JANET CD completely remixes. It’s as hot today as it was then, even the slow jams…”Anytime baby ?”
    Luv this blog DJROB!

    2. Wow, 30 years. This iconic video is still very fresh. It speaks to a mature but youthful sex appeal. I believe that was the first time Janet showed her body. This video was a struggle and an achievement physically as she revealed in her book regarding body image. This was not only helpful for women, but men also. Switching gears, I miss remixes! Remixes truly helped record sales by allowing artists to appeal to multiple demographics. Janet was the queen of remixes. With her radio edits transformed into house mixes by notable DJs, she appealed to the UK club kids, the rapidly growing LGBTQ (at that time) community, and so on. I credit her work with Missy Elliott, Shep Pettibone and others for unique appeals to various audiences. I still own a UK edition of the JANET CD completely remixed. It’s as hot today as it was then, even the slow jams…”Anytime baby”?
      Luv this blog DJROB!
      As Janet would say…Edit!

  444. Glad to see the lads still pounding out the power chords even if Malcolm — imho the best rhythm guitarist of all time — is no longer with them. You have to wonder if Brian’s voice can handle any touring they have in mind as he was limited in what he could do last tour. Nice work on this post, sir!

  446. I just learnt about it. Thanks for your post.
    I’m a bassi player and I’m really fascinated by My forbidden lover, so I’ve seen videos many times where she appeared, specially the one of Musikladen (Germany) in Oct 79.
    It’s a real pity.
    She was very pretty and smiling at that time.
    RIP

    1. Thanks, Eloy, for reading and commenting! Yes, that song captures the Chic strings perfectly. They were more prominent in the chords during the choruses, in my opinion. Valerie is surely missed!

  449. Who is the male who is kind of “answering back” in the Supremes’ “Someday We’ll Be Together?” Is it Johnny Bristol?

  450. […] This is the only song on the list for which the proposed “featured” artist is contributing only instrumentation, as the late Eddie Van Halen provided a searing guitar solo during this No. 1 song’s bridge.  But it was a memorable solo indeed, one that no doubt helped “Beat It” reach its peak in April 1983 and helped propel Thriller to becoming the biggest-selling album of all time.  Van Halen died just a few weeks ago, prompting this djrobblog tribute. […]

  451. WOW!!! Awesome Interview. I’ve had this article up for over a year, on my phone, because I knew it was going to be worth the read, and it far exceeded my expectations. Nice work man!!!

  452. Is it scary does have some really bizarre lyrics reflective of the singers troubed/troubling state of mind at the time. Thriller on the other hand despite all the ghouls and zombies is likea scary-fun park ride which is also reflective of the free-spirited singer of the 80s. Its the fun side of tbriller that makes it an obvious holiday special.
    Ps:thanks for not joining the #MuteMJ movement

  453. I came to this review three years late! I always enjoy your reviews and take on Chic, especially your breakdown of, I Want Your Love–simply stellar! With that said, I have not had the opportunity to see the current Chic line-up in concert, however I was fortunate to see Chic back in its hey-day and I admit that the videos of the current band sound much stronger than the past Chic. Yes, I know that is Sacrilegious! Please allow me to give my take.

    What connected me to Chic back in 1977 and clinched it for me was their full sophisticated R&B sound. Yes they were more than a disco band!

    Imagine my excitement when Chic was the top bill of the Kool Jazz Festival of 1980 at Busch Stadium where the St Louis Cardinals played their games. The stadium held more than 50 thousand. There were some amazing groups in the lineup including Cameo, Kool & the Hang, and Sister Sledge. The Festival was over two nights. Sister Sledge was up on Friday night and hit at out the ball park, and turned it out! They owned the night. They came out on Lost in Music and continued with “Home” from the Wiz. The minor hit, “Reach Your Peak” had the audience going crazy. By the time they ended with, We Are Family,” they had mopped the floor with the other artists that night. You can only imagine my anticipation for Saturday night for Chic. This anticipation only intensified on the jumbotron screen when they showed clips on the artists for Saturday and when Chic came on the crowd roared.

    On Saturday it was a different story. Maybe because Chic was the headliner and they were last meaning coming on well past 10 pm; the audience just died. The full sound I expected from the album was not there. I cannot even recall the song list (though I snuck a cassette tape in and taped the performances, still have it somewhere). By the time they got to Good Times people were leaving in droves. I think what did it for me was the mashup of Good Times and Rapper Delight, a hit the previous fall. I believe Bernard was doing the rapping. I was stunned and done.

    I had not seen them live ever since and of course the hits quickly stopped. I don’t believe they even toured after 1980. At least in the states. I always wondered what was missing that night, maybe it was the cavernous stadium–though Sister Sledge and other acts did well or perhaps the placement as a headliner. I am grateful that I was able to witness my favorite and iconic group live. I have since read reviews of Chic at the Kool Jazz Festival and they are quite favorable. I am not sure What occurred that night of June 1980.

    1. Thanks so much for sharing this memory, even if it wasn’t so flattering to our favorite band. I might have been disappointed too had I been so fortunate to see them then. Although I wasn’t thrilled with their 2017 show, I still consider myself fortunate to have seen a version of them that included the legendary Nile Rodgers.

  454. As usual, I learned something. I was only familiar with Heartbreak Hotel. Thanks for the lesson!!!!

  456. There is really extreme death grind band called Venom Prison with a female vocalist. You should check it out. And there are lot of black guys in extreme metal too. I am a brown guy talking. Older Suffocation albums( they are from new york) like Effigy of the Forgotten(a classic) and Blasphemy (black/death hybrid band) have black members

  458. Taylor Swift did have hit albums, but so did Drake — If you’re reading this, NWTS, Views, Scorpion all debuted at number one and sold nearly 800,000 or more the first week with Views over 1 million the first week. So shortly after the albums went platinum. HIs other albums Take Care, More Life. Thank Me Later have gone platinum over time. And the album he had with Future — WATTBA. Not to mention he’s have over 220 top 100 singles, and six number ones. The biggest hip hop tour of all time and other huge tours. Broken many, many records. So I see Drake being number one. They get points for number one albums and he’s had more and points for singles and he’s a lot more. Just a few of his accomplishments. Drake is definitely the Billboard Aritst of the Decade.

  459. This is a list doomed to be challenged. I think youve done well for the most part. I think Sylvester shouldve been on it or at least mentioned, and for me the shrill tone, the wobbly vibrato and the grating nasal base of the Gibb Brothers voices make them, for me, the worst falsetto voices ever, their hits most of which I DO like, notwithstanding. Great songwriters, terrible singers. Just my two cents.

  460. […] For six of “Shadow Dancing’s” seven-week run, “Baker Street” sat within striking distance. In one weeks, chart tabulators told America’s Top 40’s producers “Baker Street” finally broke through. Billboard chart director Bill Wardlow protested. Gibb’s managers threatened to remove him from a Billboard show if “Baker Street” knocked off “Shadow Dancing.” Host Casey Kasem re-recorded after Wardlow called. Even outside of the lyrics, “Baker Street” could not win.[10] […]

  461. Great, great review. It does justice to this gigantic masterpiece. There was never a single man capable of this much music-wise. This is like a temple built with notes, it’s a testament which I hope in 50, 100 years will keep the memory of this genius alive and kicking.

  462. Nicely done, sir. A fitting tribute to a rock legend. Best to the misfits if y’all are playing these days.

  465. Wow, great article. I appreciate all the research that went into this piece. I’d heard about Helen Reddy passing a bit before I heard about Mac Davis. I loved them both, but Helen Reddy was HUGE for me. I followed her music, saw her in concert many times, and just downright loved her singing voice. Mac Davis was also a favorite and I got to see him in concert too. I miss those days in music.

  467. I am so intrigued by this blog, that I must purchase a copy of this NYT’s best seller. I love the connection and dualism of hip hop and justice as eloquently stated.

  468. Patti didn’t really even sing, she just came in once in a while, meanwhile Gladys was full out singing the entire time.

  470. I was thinking that maybe Gladys’ songs were held up in court somewhere. Motown? Buddha? Or maybe it was just Patti being Patti. Who knows? But for everybody who posted that Patti was just gonna run over Gladys, they got a lesson that night!

  471. I COULDN’T have loved it MORE! But I’m curious why we got such an overload of Patti towards the end. She did back-to-back-to-back songs. Did Gladys run out of material? Is that even possible?

    1. Not sure – but it was definitely a curious thing. About Gladys running out…never. There are so many hits she didn’t play: “If I Were Your Woman,” “The Makings of You,” “Save the Overtime For Me,” “Landlord,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” She would’ve blown Patti out of the water had she played those. I think she was being sensitive to the fact that she has so many more hits than Patti does.

  472. Great Blow by Blow! You know, I never thought that Patti and Gladys would give us another visual to add up to the Soul Trains, Solid Gold performances, American Bandtands, Soul Train Awards, American Music Awards, countless videos, TV specials etc that they have done over the years but lo and behold in the year of our Lord 2020 they’ve given us another musical/visual feast to add to those, in their late ’70s smh. A landmark night and thank you for being the first man on the scene with the musical insight to break it down!!

  473. None of these folks are # 1 falsetto singer’s in my opinion. Very talented her good singer’s but not the best. Where’s Donnie Elbert? Where’s Eddie Holman? Where’s the lead singers from the Stylistic, The Temprees, Blue Magic, and Chi Lites…Heat Wave? Let’s get real…. None of these cats though good can go head up with any of these guys named in head up Falsetto face off.

  475. I distinctly remember these 70s hits. Right after Roe vs. Wade, the disco era provided women insurance via these huge hits. Don’t discount “I will survive”’ “we are family”, and my fav “Bad Girls”. In hindsight, the 70s was a decade of women’s liberation, self examination, and growth. #Toot Toot ahh Beep Beep!

    1. Agreed. That would be nice. It’s unfortunate that so much of today’s good R&B (yes, there is some out there) is relegated to the “Adult R&B” radio format, while mainstream stations mostly play hip-hop.

  480. This make me so sad. If you read the lyrics it is about the destruction of the South.

  481. I am deeply saddened by the loss of actor Chadwick Boseman. It is rare to have his kind of talent and presence. His portrayal of T’Challa in Black Panther brought a new dignity and respect to the existence of Black men all over the world. His passing from colon cancer reminded me of my own struggles with cancer. I am tearful to relate. His talents will be missed but also greatly heralded. He gave us “Wakanda Forever”, and so “for one brief shining moment, there was Camelot”. Thank you Chadwick Boseman; a real Black Prince ?

  483. Fitting tribute to a class act gone too soon. Loved Black Panther, but he also brought dignity to his portrayal of Thurgood Marshall. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Wakanda Forever!!!

  484. What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful life. I took my kids to see Black Panther when it hit theaters and to say that time was special is an understatement. My ringtone remains “All the Stars” since that time. Love the Chinese proverb you quoted…speaks volumes. I’m still misty-eyed since my son told me the news last night. Chadwick is by far, one of the greatest ever and will be missed. Wakanda Forever!?

    1. Indeed, I, too, first thought of “All the Stars” when I thought about the musical aspect of his legacy. May his star burn bright in heaven always.

  486. No Limit founded by Master P should be much higher. His business acumen is exceptional. His years of success are unlike nobody in history.

  487. I’m a big fan of The Band, including this song. I really appreciated the article and I have a couple of thoughts to share.

    I think some of the previous comments correctly answer the question of why these progressive-minded musicians wrote and performed this spirited anthem that seemed to glorify the Confederacy: acknowledging the suffering of the defeated southerners is a humane act, very much in line with progressive values. I’ve read that by making the protagonist (Virgil Caine) a farmer from Tennessee, a state where slaveholding was not common, Robertson made a conscious effort to separate the sentiment of allegiance to the South from the cause of slavery.

    The Band’s Big Pink period, the time they spent making music with Bob Dylan in rural Woodstock, was their defining formative experience. Robertson has described what they were doing at the time as “rebelling against the rebellion.” A good illustration of this is Tears of Rage, the opening song on Music from Big Pink, which is sung from the perspective of a parent who feels betrayed by their child’s abandonment of the patriotism that was part of their upbringing. (“We carried you in our arms on Independence Day, and now you throw us all aside and put us all away”). The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down can be understood in the same way. The youth movements of the 1960’s were right about civil rights, opposition to the Vietnam War, etc., but Dylan and The Band seemed to be challenging the orthodoxies of the counterculture. This is sort of analogous to present day voices, like Dave Chappelle, who are progressive-minded but see a need to challenge certain progressive dogma.

    1. Thank you so much for reading and, mostly, for commenting. Very insightful thoughts indeed. I appreciate The Band more now than I did when I wrote the article, not just because of your comment, but because I’ve researched them more since and have listened to their catalogue. Thanks again!

  488. I watched the video for WAP, and, well, I believe lyrically it ranks up there with Lil Kim – who used to be scared of the D$&k. But, visually it was over the top. Better yet, why not bring back BET Uncut who Meagan Thee Stallion credits for her intro into a rap career. Maybe I’m just an old man ??.

  490. Nice post. You can’t argue with Q topping this list. One name that rarely gets mentioned on amongst best R&B producer lists that was hugely successful – and influential – through the 80s and 90s is NICK MARTINELLI.
    Never fronted any projects like a lot of the names here maybe that’s why he’s slightly under the radar in people’s memory?

    1. Thanks, Spooky! Yes, Martinelli does fly under the radar and is very much in the mix. Honestly, I didn’t even consider him for the list as I was honoring black producers of music, but should have because he is a great producer of music that black musicians made, including Loose Ends, Stephanie Mills, Gladys Knight, Teddy P., Phyllis Hyman and so many others! Thanks for the contribution, you’ve opened the aperture just a little wider for the next time I update this list.

      DJRob

      1. Cool. The other names I thought of worth throwing into the mix are James Mtume & Reggie Lucas – they had a great run together and then apart through 70s and 80s in the group Mtume of course but also with Stephanie Mills, Phyllis Hyman and more. 🙂

        1. Indeed they did. Also Denzil Foster and Thomas McElroy would be considered. I’d likely have to expand the list to include the names you mentioned as well as more current folks like MikeWillMadeIt and Rodney Jerkins, both of whom have had major success since the ‘90s.

  491. This is the only significant article I’ve seen that nails the importance and quality of this monumental single, which is truly one of the most important pieces of popular music/art ever produced and a key foundation stone of an entirely new musical genre. It’s also the definitive Chic track, and somehow manages to be simultaneously lush yet minimal, ecstatic yet cool. That’s the Chic effect distilled. Every element matters, every element is in its place, and the 12″ mix lays it all out there piece by piece. Fantastic!

    1. Thanks, David. It’s tough to do this song any true justice. But I’m thankful you found some merit in this one. Chic forever!

  492. I was surprised you took this one on, but major props for handling it so well. I’ve said, I admire the musicianship of Daniels even if I disagree on the politics.

    I had thought of CD just last week after hearing Eric Church’s new song “Stick That in Your Country Song” criticizing modern country music for not including the everyday stories of struggling Americans. Remembering Charlie Daniels of 70s and early 80s with Still in Saigon, In America and Uneasy Rider that you mention that dealt with those everyday life of the struggle. Even Simple Man with it’s myopic view for curing society’s ills was an approach to addressing it, even if I didn’t identify with it or it’s solutions.

    Nicely done!

  493. You’ve articulated some good thoughts, DJ. A complicated figure indeed. (I disagree, however, with the “better musicians” comment of Anonymous. Charlie Daniels was a remarkably talented musician.)

    1. Thank you CrabAbby. Not suggesting CD was a bad musician. Far from it. Just that there were some in his genre who were better. Thanks for the feedback!

  494. Nicely done, sir. Didn’t know about your family’s connection to his music. An interesting read. I never enjoyed his music much as there were many other bands in that space who I thought were better musicians but I understand why others liked his work.

    1. Thank you! Yeah there are definitely better musicians in the southern rock genre, but he clearly touched a nerve.

  495. Rob,

    Excellent and comprehensive post. You mention ‘ten markets’. While WPGC in DC was easily heard in Baltimore, what are the other two ‘markets’ you refer to?

    1. Hi Lee, and thanks! The ten markets reference is from Billboard’s feature article on AT40 in the July 11, 1970, issue. It didn’t list the ten markets but states that the show aired in “ten key markets” over the July 3, 4 and 5 weekend.

    2. Hi Lee, and thanks! The ten markets reference is from Billboard’s feature article on AT40 in the July 11, 1970, issue. It listed the ten markets as Boston, Philly, Detroit, St. Louis, San Antonio, San Diego, Minneapolis, San Bernardino (CA), Albany (NY), and Honolulu. DC and Baltimore were not included. I don’t know that WPGC was among the first seven stations to air AT40.

  496. Nicely done! One point I saw on the Steve Hoffman boards (which I’ve never been able to confirm — perhaps they talked about it during the Zoom call?): At the time AT40 was launching, Cashbox was considered the better music chart … but Billboard happened to have an office around the corner from AT40’s LA studios. So they became the go-to chart for the show. Probably gave them additional cred in the long run.

    I worked for Westwood One in the late ’80s, and it was a big coup when we drew Casey away from ABC Radio, which syndicated AT40. But that meant Casey had to use Radio & Records, the magazine Westwood owned, for its charts, and I get the feeling people never took “Casey’s Top 40” as seriously as AT40. Eventually Casey went back and Top 40/CHR radio fell from popularity, leaving the ’70s and early-’80s shows as the most indicative of the range radio used to have.

    1. Thanks for the feedback, Todd. So we have you to thank for taking Casey away from AT40?! Just kidding…intriguing story and thanks for sharing. Yes Top 40/CHR radio took a big hit in popularity in the late ‘80s and throughout the ‘90s. The silver lining was that Billboard’s charts started to reflect more accurately the popularity of black artists, which, under the pre-Soundscan era, wasn’t always the case. I’d love to hear more stories of your days with Westwood One. Thanks again and take care!

  498. WHY DO Y’ALL HAVE CARDI B BEFORE JAY Z THAT JUST SHOWS THAT YOUR LIST IS UNEDUCATED. DO YOUR RESEARCH CANT BE A RAPPER TOP 10 IF YOU DONT WRITE YOUR OWN LYRICS MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.

    1. This list is based on chart success over the past ten years, NOT lifetime. Of COURSE, Jay-Z ranks higher than Cardi in a career list, but this was a DECADE list for 2010-2019.

  499. Okay, so what’s the dill pickles? I’ve had side eye on Ice for while. He is independently wealthy from owning a contracting company that rehabs foreclosed mansions in Texas and Florida. Great! But a concert though?! I guess if I spent 30 minutes in the park with some members of Alpha Phi Alpha as a 6th grader that would be “So Hot”! My sarcasm…. Could this be a fundraiser for a political candidate? Oh, by the way you forgot Ren & Stimpy, and Pauly Shore all shaded by the movie Clueless “Whatever!”

  500. DJRob, you have done it again. When I think it can’t get any better you pull out Luther. A true musical icon whose music will live forever. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

    1. You obviously know nothing about Benny Mardones or the song Into The Night. This was a song about a young girl who was abandoned by her father. Read the interview before you make a judgment. And Benny Mardones worked tirelessly for multiple charities. He was a wonderful husband, father and friend to many. He left behind a huge catalog of superb songs with a voice that is probably the best of his generation. That is quite a legacy to leave behind.

  502. Thanks for this breakdown. Wondering if you can tell us what the songs are that SiriusXM is using in the commercial for Black Music Month and if they are in the countdown. The samples are so short, it’s hard to know what they all are.

    1. Sorry, I’m not sure. I’d have to hear it again to figure it out. Also, I believe they’re using different promos throughout the month. Unfortunately, it’ll be over in a couple days.

  503. It’s the end of June, 2020, and I’m writing to say thanks for such a thoughtful, educational, and fascinating article. As a conflict resolution professional who teaches the subject at Harvard Law School (where like all American institutions, we have our share of racism and racial strife), I deeply appreciate the nuance and humanity of your perspective. I also appreciate your thoughtful responses to all the comments. Comments sections are so often forums for unmediated anger and hate, so it’s refreshing to see people actually listening to, and respecting, each other. (I’ll also mention that I’m a big fan of The Band, music, and music criticism.).

    1. Thanks, Mr. Stone. I really appreciate the feedback and I realize that the article has garnered more interest during today’s new racial reckoning in America and elsewhere. I always appreciate different perspectives and realize that this issue sparks debate more than any. Thank you, again!

      DJRob

  504. I am impressed! Sounds like your nephew has a great future ahead of him. I wish him the very best. I see that his uncle still has a great voice. So happy to see you DJ Rob.

    My condolences for the passing of your nephew, Demetris Fowler. Prayers for you and your family.

    1. Thanks, T! Yeah I sound like an old man now! But yes, he’s very talented! And thanks for the condolences.

  505. I am thoroughly impressed. This interview revealed a true artist and businessman. Because of this interview I have a new respect for millennial artist and their integrity. No longer are artist seeking the big contract. They get right to the nitty gritty (mechanics) of how it’s done. I am also impressed by Kngdom’s tracks #Powerful.

  506. A few errors… Maurice was from Memphis, graduated from Booker T Washington High School which is near Stax where he had several gigs as a drummer. Also, the band was called the Salty Peppers first.

  507. Great list. Here are a few songs that should have been in there (unless I missed them). My Cherie Amor and As by Stevie; That’s the Way of the World, Lover’s Holiday, and Fantasy by EWF; A Love of Your Own by AWB. Also My Girl gotta be top 50

    1. I agree with you about “My Girl” and the others. I think “That’s the Way of The World” by EWF was there. Thanks for commenting!

  509. Wow, I’m so impressed by this list and even more impressed by the young culture. These songs demonstrate a consciousness in the minds of young people. They like myself are the benefactors of the civil rights movement now being re-examined. I’m def down wit JCole and Dave East. Shout out to the late Nipsey Hustle. #BLM!

  510. DJROB you have outdone yourself. This blog brought tears to my eyes, especially listening to J Cole and Noname. Makes me proud of the social consciousness of this Generation. I have shared this with my son.

    Happy Birthday My Brother ❤ -T

  512. I enjoyed listening to it but none of my top 10 favorites are even in the top 100. There are some top 100 songs that I don’t even think should have been in the top 1000. They really got this wrong.

  515. I found this last week due to recent events and am currently on Smoky Robinson after listening from 100 and really liking this list so far, great curation!

    I did skip R. Kelly in light of recent developments and think some of the track titles are creepy in hindsight; Your Body Callin’, I Can’t Sleep Baby (If I), and Down Low (Nobody Has To Know).

  516. An American friend sent me this post with regard to American culture and its relationship with the racial turmoil the US is embroiled in once again. Thank you for an interesting piece. As a non-American my thoughts on this have little value, but I would like to point out the value of personal experience in a national memory. Here in Israel, for example, there still is a significant disagreement around playing Richard Wagner’s music, because of his toxic antisemitism and the vast association with the Nazi regime (which came to power decades after Wagner’s death). This, despite the fact that he’s a classic composer and the number of people who are actually disturbed my his music is very small. On the other hand, works by Richard Strauss, who, for a time, was actually active in the Nazi regime, have been played for the last decades without a problem. This brought about an Israeli discussion of the connection between the artists, their works and their historic context. Wagner was a terrible antisemite, but “Ride of the Valkyries” is a brilliant work of music regardless. In the American case it is even more significant- the artist of The Band obviously did not express any radical views, they only wrote a song about a very difficult and traumatic event in American history.

    I think that in many cases it is valuable to look beyond the immediate association: the fact that many people associate “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” with modern day political causes of the far right does not actually mean that it is associated with it. As you’ve said, it is a song dealing much more with a personal experience, as expressed in the words of a Canadian who is of half Jewish and half Native American origin, who was interested in the American South. We can’t discard works of art only based on people who interpret them, because this way we lose the ability to discuss both history and art. It is very much possible to feel the pain of the poor, suffering southerner following a disastrous war without thinking that “The Lost Cause of the Confederacy” is a positive political phenomenon. You can value the work of Wagner while pointing out that he held abhorrent views and his music was used by criminals. Removing books and films from libraries does not actually change history, it only makes each side more entrenched in their position as an expression of the only “right truth”. In order to be able to discuss political wrongs of the past we need to know and discuss the complex history, which you have demonstrated in a great way by describing the story behind “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” and the way it presents the “Alt-Right” ideologues in a ridiculous light.

    1. What a brilliant piece of insight from you Jenia. I am glad you appreciated the piece and, quite frankly, I appreciate the song more now than I did three years ago when I wrote it. The current issues we’re facing in the U.S. have only illustrated what you pointed out – that, no matter how many people appear to be awakening to the issues of racism here, there are still many people who are entrenched in their own truths, whether or not it acknowledges the existence of systemic racism in this country. Thank you so much!

  517. I would like to know who put this list together to understand their thought process. And I wish there was a way to get the entire list so I could listen to the songs that I missed. I felt like I would always join the show at the same time. I totally missed the 800s and the 600s. But I was good to hear the variety and combo of old school and new school.

      1. Thanks for putting this together. I did notice Come and Talk to Me was on there twice (425 and 65).

  519. how did James Brown’s Say it loud I’m black and I’m proud not make even the top 100? It’s a cultural iconic song that has stood the test of time. Maybe because it makes some people uncomfortable? with all that’s going on today I think it’s a shame it is no where in site

    1. Hey there. It’s on the list, just not in the Top 100. It was at No. 694, right behind Tevin Campbell’s “Round and Round” at No. 693. Don’t laugh too hard!

  520. I always thought her hit record was a Christmas song because of its percussion chimes lol silly kid ?. I miss the 70s, 80s, and 90s defining decades for music. RIP Bonnie Pointer. Happy Black Music Month!

  521. I believe the A side of the 45 was the disco version and the B side was the Motown version. I think Casey mentioned that once during the song’s appearance in the top 40.

  522. Thanks a lot for the list. I definitely was one of those frustrated listeners.
    I don’t think they got it right at all. I can’t believe so many songs were left off the list, and the top 10 is definitely questionable. But I did enjoy listening to the songs while debating why they were in the position they were.

  523. What about Smokey Robinson, Johnny Bristol, William Micky Stevenson, Curtis Mayfield, Lionel Richie, R.Kelly. Dallas Austin, Rick Jamss, Sly Stone. Billy Preston, Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire, Marvin Gaye, Joyce Irby from Klymaxx and Bernard Jackson & David Pick Conley from Surface?

    1. You didn’t read the disclaimer I had for people who primarily recorded. The article’s main focus was on people whose careers were more known for their work on other’s hits than for singing their own.

    2. And sorry, but Joyce Fenderella Irby and David from Surface – don’t even belong in a top 50 of all time, much less a top 20. I’ll give you that the other names are worthy, if you leave out the ground rule I stated earlier.

  524. I returned from Vietnam in 1969 and my sister I had sent home a real real and my sister had Botton a guess who tape I played the tape and became one of my best enjoyment since returning the voice of Burton is just unbelievable and I have enjoyed it ever cents and I’m so thankful that he still performing thank you Burton

  527. The song played in my head as soon as I read the title ?. Thanks for the happy memories.

  529. I loved the article. You can see that there was a lot of research going on there. Thanks! I was curious to know why they’re no one’s favourite band and still have a lot of success.

  530. Who made this list and left out Rick James and Teena Marie/Fire and Desire? Wack

    1. If you had kept reading you would have seen that they are on the list in a VERY high position. Read on!

  532. Great list. Prince is my favourite, but Stevie’s up there with the greatest. There’s one song which I love and didn’t make the list: All in love is fair.
    “As” is a great, bold choice for the first spot.

    1. Thanks, Daniele! Yeah, I considered “All In Love Is Fair” and agonized over it and several others.

  534. “And everything thereafter was an image of him” The Architect of Rock-n-Roll. Rest in Rock Little Richard!

  535. And I guess Charlie Parker and Robert Johnson, most influential from the mid century were withe or something…

  536. When did you stop loving me, when did I stop loving you? Yes, this album is a definite classic. This whole album is on my top 20 playlist along with What’s Going On.

  539. Keke Palmer. Amanda Sternberg is my second choice. Both have proven acting credentials and the ability to be sensitive, vulnerable, yet strong when needed.

      1. I really hope that Demetria McKinney gets it or the other girl who played Whitney I can’t think of her name but she played on the game and she’s in a couple of old spice comercials

  540. 2nd note: Imani Hakim is one to watch. Not as widely known. I would love to Lil Sister Tonya all grown up from Everybody Hates Chris. I sense she could demonstrate a good acting range. Let’s watch and see ?

  541. In examining each candidate I find the real actress with the best range and likeness is Keke Palmer. Whitney had multiple looks from her Newport cigarette ad, to her 1st album cover, to her final days. Plus Whitney could be good girl or street chick given her circumstances. I see Keke as a good fit. Now additionally I would want to know who could pull off Bobbi Kristina, Robin Crawford, and Cissy Houston?????

    1. True, I didn’t want to explore the other characters or I’d have been writing all day. Thanks for contributing.

  543. So this Ad gone Leave Out R Kelly… that alone makes it a joke and to not even put him in ur Honorable mentions makes it even more a Joke

    1. If you read the list, R. Kelly was included as an honorable mention with the following explanation as to why he and others of his caliber were not included in the list: “ But the list comes with a caveat. Namely, it is limited to those who were more known for their behind-the-scenes work than for their own recordings. So people like Smokey Robinson, Prince, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Rick James, Kanye West, R. Kelly, Lionel Richie, Curtis Mayfield and George Clinton are not included on this list because they made names for themselves as singers or rappers, and their accomplishments as songwriters/producers – while certainly legendary and able to stand alone – were factored into their rankings on the overall 100 Greatest Artists list.”

      Thanks for reading.

    1. And so are your reading skills, because he is on the list. You have to read all four parts to see the whole list.

      1. If i didn’t have to read all four parts to see Biggie, then your list is fucked if i have to do that to see Pac. And oh, your excuse is officially fucked too.

        1. It means that Tupac is higher on the list than Biggie. Man, you are struggling. Just move on to Sesame Street.

      2. I guess you dont know how users think do you, this aint no reading class. If i dont find what am looking for in <= a minute, am clicking the close button. So i think you need to get this list rearranged, cos i dont think any reason why he aint in the part one is worth it.

  545. Race got nothing to do with it, idiots are idiots. Contempt shown towards this virus and the rules we need to follow to defeat it, is contempt towards human beings as a whole. I’m writing from Italy, the country where most patients have died as of april 10th. There’s tons of people trying to defy the rules here, as in the US. Less blatantly, on average, but tons of them anyway. The rules are made to help us protect ourselves and, most of all, to help us protect others. There are way too many people who couldn’t care less for human life, other than their own. Sad stuff, indeed.

  548. RIP Mr. Withers ??

    DJROB, thank you for the tribute. As always, you delivered. His songs brought back fond memories of parents playing his music ‘back in the day’. They don’t make musicians like this anymore.

    1. Thanks, Twana! Yeah I had him on repeat all day yesterday and this morning as I was compiling and writing it.

  549. His music is what I consider real. You can hear and feel it. His music surpasses time. RIP Brother Withers.

  550. On target as usual but I must make a case for I Want To Spend The Night With You. Romantic, sensual music and lyrics. One of Bill’s best in y book.

  552. The 80s were an amazing time in music. I was a huge Kenny Rogers fan attending his collab concert with Dolly Parton. He definitely led the way for country to crossover to pop. RIP Kenny Rogers.

  556. This list is incredible!! I enjoyed the commentary and little tidbits about each duet/song just as much as the scroll down memory lane.

    2. A real true soul music lover would find this list appalling with all the commercial pop hit on this list. George Michael? Michael Jackson and Siedah Garrett? I guess the creators of this list never listened to Johnnie “Guitar” Watson’s jam titled “Love Jones”. That song destroys any song on the list. Also check out *Happy” by Rick and Teena.

  561. Great write up, my friend. Those two women really know how to bring it. I hope the powers that be now understand what a terrific half time show looks like after so many missteps in the past.

  562. I remember his venture into the music industry as a rapper. He was pretty decent from my perspective. Speaking as an old head hip hopper. I do believe that if he had really wanted to, he could have achieved that rap career on a deeper level in the likeness of a Drake, or J Cole but with more smoothness and sophistication like a Montell Jordan, C.L. Smooth. Who knows…. Dedication and practice, that is the dream…his words. He will be missed.

  565. Though they’re missing but their music keeps inspiring new artists
    #happy birthday late mozey radio /goodlyf music

    1. Yeah, because the CIA had nothing better to do than to eliminate two rappers who posed no threat to the government and who hung around a bunch of people who were bound to kill them anyway.

  567. I think cardi should be waaaaaaaay lower on that list she’s had one good album n

  568. Last year it was Lil Nas X, this year it’s Lizzo. Who will be exploited next? Young gay black boys, or fat black women? Either way the stereotypes are coming back to life in a big way. Mammy, coon, buck, and sapphire have all been played up close and out front. What’s worse is millennials don’t seem to care. The cultural connection to Jim Crow, minstrels, and the aftermath of slavery has all but disappeared. The schools and text books barely educate a generation, and even worse, some of us (parents, teachers, aka Black People) have acquired selective amnesia. So, we are reactionary when someone is beaten or killed publicly. We are numb to the constant humiliation of our race. Yes!, I am Black af. Heaven help us all. The agendas are real. I’m waiting for Jim Crow to exhale…?. Lizzo, is a marginalized large black woman, but aren’t we all? I’m 100% that bitch ?too. ?‍♂️ Smh

    1. Los, they were BOTH last year. They’re both up for Grammys for what they did in 2019. The article speaks of how women have evolved from Mammy caricatures – NOT how Lizzo is being treated as one.

  573. I saw the movie and surge had promised pac half of death row I still don’t see the logic

  580. Not all days are Sundays and all of us will die on our own days like pac and biggie and suge gat his own and like PAC Say’s only God will judge him now

  581. Why you do Jay like that…rae & thugga should be there….Florida mmmh nah.no complains about the top spot…rozay should be there but most of his action came in the first half of the decade…and why ain’t French Montana in the Convo, he’s had more hits that likes of fetty WAP and BoB

    1. Haha. I didn’t “do” anyone like that. This is straight from Billboard’s list of the top artists of the decade. I just screened the hip-hop artists from the magazine’s rankings.

  582. Serves him right, the hip-hop world lost Two great musicians, Rip, Biggie Small & Amaru Shakur

  583. I all of a sudden wanted to order a cheeseburger and milkshake at the local diner. Why? I felt like i was transposed back in time watching early American Bandstand or on a date with Patty Duke (Yeah, right Lol). I must say their music had class and big pop appeal. My favorite artist was Leslie Gore – Downtown or Its my party written by I think ? Quincy Jones. Thanks for the memories – a-la-Bob Hope

  584. Well I, for one, am happy to hear that DJRob will still be blogging in 6 years. That in itself must set some kind of record.

  589. Love the sheer effort, knowledge and objectivity that you’ve applied to your assessments and rankings! As much as I’d personally have Stevie at #1 and Earth Wind & Fire in the top 10, I totally appreciate the vast majority of your rationale and justification. One specific miss from your top 100 for me is the absence of Al Jarreau as a Grammy winner across three different genres which makes him unique! All that said, a really enjoyable and educational read!

    1. Thanks, Alan! I really appreciate the feedback! Personally, EWF has been my favorite group for eons, but I tried to balance my personal opinion with objective data to come up with the rankings. I am considering revising the rankings in 2020 (it will have been five years since the last one), and I will strongly consider the late Al Jarreau – along with a few other omissions – for the next one. Hopefully, you’ve seen my tribute to Mr. Jarreau in the blog.

    1. In terms of influence I can understand this list. But I’m terms of best albums, it’s near criminal to not have Danny Brown, Run the Jewels, Earl Sweatshirt or schoolboy q on here

  596. I feel like the result will not end in Taylor Swift as first as the AMA’s have already done that,even if success wise,I think Taylor wouldn’t win,she has lots of successbut she has less no. 1 hits than everyone on the list,or at least less than the majority,I know thatss si not everything,but still. I mean,Rihanna features 3 hits at least each album,Ed Sheeran’s songs are always big,(also,marriage song king),Justin Bieber might have a bad public view,but he is stupendous on the charts,Katy Perry literally tied Michael Jackson’s record at the very start of the decade,and along with many other successes,like most watched superbowl half time show and 2nd most no. 1 hits after Rihanna. so,really,its a tough competition.

    1. Indeed, but Taylor’s albums and touring will be factored in as well – and she dominated when it came to that.

  597. T. I has also being an Instrumental Artist…..He deserves a spot on that list too.

  598. Wia is Eminem,Ludachrish,marry J Blige,chris brown, neyon, birdman, dmx? The list is not complete without diz niggaz… .boom!!

    1. It’s a list for THIS decade (2010-19), not LAST decade. Half of those names you mentioned haven’t had big hits in ten years!

  606. I don’t know why this asshole suge still breathes he should be long gone buried in the dirt.may his punk soul rot in jail because he killed PAC.

  607. I worked for Lonnie back in the early 80’s. DJ’d at Total Experience. Just happens I was listening to some Gap band 12″ promos from the club. So sad to hear he passed. RIP brother.

    1. I’d love to hear more of your perspective from having worked with him. There have been some disputes as to his legacy in terms of the creation of Gap Band’s and others’ hits.

  608. Great article on one of my all-time favorite songs. How Cheryl Lynn doesn’t have a record deal in 2019 is beyond me.

    1. Thanks for the comment and feedback. I can see her not having a contract in 2019 as few artists her age – fair or not – do. But for her not to have one in the ‘90s or ‘00s – or at least have some hit records then – is a little more perplexing.

  609. Great summary of this list, thanks.
    I don’t know, it looks like this is based more on sales and charts than on actual artistic merits. Guess it makes sense, being a Billboard list.
    There are artists in the top 15 who are not even remotely in the same league as Prince, Bruce Springsteen, Aretha, Dylan, Pink Floyd, James Brown himself. But I could go on and on (I mean, Tom Waits, Marvin Gaye, Nina Simone, Public Enemy, Beck…), without even quoting artists from outside popular music, (I don’t think they were considered for this).

    1. You’re absolutely right, this list is based on chart success – it’s a Billboard list after all – not artistic merit. Thanks for reading and the comment!

  611. 1.Taylor Swift
    2.Drake
    3.Adele
    4.Rihanna
    5.Bruno Mars
    6.Lady Gaga
    7.Kendrick Lamar
    8.Katy Perry
    9.Ed Sheeran
    10.Beyonce

  612. Hip-hop,rap and R&B after about 1975 BLOW !!!!!! I’m a black Canadian lad with cover boy good looks at age 66,and I’m HUGE Country music fan !!!

  615. I feel Lil Wayne & Kanye were supposed to be in the top 5. I mean, they changed the game. From start (IANAHB & Yeezus), mid-decade (The Life Of Pablo & Rebirth) and finish (Tha Carter V & Jesus Is King). Also Rozay & The Weeknd need a spot on that list ?
    #word

    2. I was surprised Kanye was so low, but Billboard cut off the eligibility period in September, so Jesus is King didn’t count. And Lil Wayne had too long of a gap during the decade without charting, so that explains his low rank.

    3. How can people like Chris brown ,usher ,Justine bieber and young thug etc be missing from the list when some of these others on the list jusy just recently started topping and havn’t been there all this while?

  616. STELLAR SHOW but The Jimmy Jam/Terry Lewis tribute was the icing on the cake, the cherry on top and the party of all parties. I literally had tears in my eyes as I listened to just a fraction of the soundtrack of my (and many of our) life. Those tears were joined by smiles, shouts at the TV, dancing and overall joy. It was so great and humbling to see so many successful black people (young and old) joined in unison for a moment in time by undeniably GREAT MUSIC!!!! It was truly a beautiful thing. I for one am grateful that they missed their flight so many years ago leading to Prince releasing them; for if it weren’t for those events who knows how long we would’ve waited to experience their genius.

    Thank you DJ! Their music holds a special place in my heart.

  617. I would replace Dremo with YCee, however others worthy to mention would be Khali Abdul, Emtee, A-Reece, Shane Eagle & Payper Corleone. My opinion though. Well done.

    2. I think Dremo shouldnt have made the list of top 10 in Africa, not until Khaligraph Jones is mentioned… I’m Nigerian and I say Khaligraph Jones is one of the best in Africa!! Top6 IMO

  618. I think the list is bogus
    Rappers like NF have made great leaps in the past 6 to 10 years
    Why aren’t they there
    Lil Wayne is a legend but y’all gotta admit in the past 5 years he hasn’t been on top of his game

    1. Not sure why NF isn’t there. He only recently started having chart-topping albums, so maybe it was too late to catch up to the others who’ve been charting longer.

    2. Honestly this is not fair for Rick Ross Rozay had made so much contributions in the mid decade his album God forgives was a hit, his rap style is quite unique and only typical to him but you out listed him, I think you consider the early rappers more than those who were making hits during the start of the decade

      1. I agree that Rozay should have been higher, and you should know that I didn’t create this ranking…I’m basing it on where Billboard has them ranked in their overall artist of the decade list.

    3. Y’all gotta admit that NF and the Rae Shremmurds do deserve to be at least in the top twenty they have done so much

  619. I agree with that list expect post malone shouldn’t be there and they’re missing Nikki minaj

    2. Sorry ….nicki who?? Please she hasn’t done anything worth putting on that list…no number 1 songs or albums ….it’s just. a no no

      1. Huh? I’m not a fan but she had two No. 1 albums, and over 100 singles on the charts…what are you talking about? Numbers speak for themselves.

        1. Yes, Nikki Minaj did well, but not any number one singles. She just didn’t make the top 10.

  620. Nice write up! As an old fogey and woodstock veteran I am glad to see my peers keeping the rock and roll fire burning!

  628. This list is crazy…a good crazy though lol! I was listening to your Spotify playlist and for the most part, it’s pretty awesome. Some songs I hadn’t heard before and some were very familiar. Now I realize Paul Davis originally performed “I Go Crazy”, but is it possible make mention of the CRAZY flavor sprinkled on this masterpiece by Will Downing?! That was actually the first song that came to my mind when I started reading your post! Overall, great list with the purple crown perfectly placed at the very top! HOW you come up with these things is beyond me!

    1. Thanks, Cam! And welcome back! As for Will Downing, I tried to make sure I only included one version of each song on this list, and the original won out (part of my childhood). ?

      1. Okay, okay…I’ll give you that! Speaking of which…did you post a blog on “covers” of popular songs at some point?

          1. You’re welcome! There are a few covers that (in my humble opinion) were better than the original. By the way, I’m not sure why I’m “anonymous” lol!

          2. That’s okay, I know who you are – and both comments went through. And yes, I know several remakes that are better than the originals. And that would be the article’s premise. ?

          3. You’re welcome! There are a few covers that (in my humble opinion) are better than the original. By the way, I’m not sure why I’m “anonymous” on my last response lol! I clicked “save my email, name, etc. for the next time I comment” under my first comment.

    1. Yes, it was supposed to be on the list. Somehow it got deleted from my database. I knew something was missing. I will add it. Thanks, Curt!

      1. I have been a long time listener (Chic), top 5 band for me. I loved the details and complexity that Chic contained, yet the average person could not detect that a lot of times, so they categorized all their music as one genre. They had Disco, Rock, R& B, Jazz. The strings set Chic apart in many ways, even on a song like Good Times as well as the Sugar Hill version.
        Has anyone seen the other 2 violinist?

        1. I haven’t “seen” the other two, but I connected with one (Karen Milne) on Facebook last summer and had intended to travel to NYC to visit with all three for an interview (they periodically met there to keep their friendship going). The plans changed with Valerie’s untimely passing and now with COVID-19. But Cheryl Hong and Karen Milne are both still alive and well.

          1. I was always amazed by this strings set. Wonder who did the arrangements… what are Mrs. Hong and Mrs. Milne doing? Are they still musicians as Valerie was?

          2. There are accounts that Nile Rodgers did some of the string arrangements, and that famed concertmaster Gene Orloff conducted the strings.

  633. Congratulations Kanye, I’ve been following your progress in Christ Jesus. More grace.

  637. I totally agree with every single word you wrote. I want your love is my favourite song of all times and it’s a total masterpiece!

  639. Strange how I’m just reading this but drifting away from the usual arguments for or against the rankings, you should be applauded for the effort and research put together in order to berth this list. And the top 5 is the top 5 regardless of position.

  642. I love Kanye and i pray Jesus walks with him all the way. God bless you bro and this is naturally God given talent indeed. Gospel on another level..

      1. Praise God,for even heaven rejoices when one siner repents and consider Jesus Christ as ones person and Savior

  644. It time for the whole wide world to know that time it is. Jesus is King.
    As a Jesusist.
    Many may say we’re crazy but we know what we believe in.
    When Paul met Jesus on his way to Damascus (yhandi) even followers of Christ still feared his presence when he stood to testify.
    That’s how powerful King Jesus is.
    He says my sheep hear my voice…

  645. Man, this is actually really dope that you wrote this. He gets so much hate; even for a positive project like this.
    You, sir…are a level headed individual.
    Stay up.
    (I’m in Africa btw. Nairobi.)
    Your FB ads really work.
    1.

  647. DJROB, you nailed it in this blog. Michel’le, in my opinion, is one of the most underrated female artists from the 80’s/90’s, and it’s unfortunate she was unable to reach the heights she was so capable of. Thank you for introducing her to today’s music fans who may be unaware of her contributions to music.

  649. Hi there, I just searched my name online and it shows that I’ve got a profile on your site. I do not recall making this profile. Could you please delete my name/profile? Thanks. Fiona Thorson

  650. Whitney’s voice was incomparable. My vote is a yes. Any vote of no would be a slap in the face of the entire music industry.

  651. I reaaaalllyyy hope that they give the win to Taylor alison Swift. She has worked SOO hard compared to one of the headliners in this decade.

  652. Captain Sensible “Wot” and Firefly “Love Is Gonna Be On Your SIde” are others

  653. Rubbish, 2pacs murder has been solved for almost a decade now. Ever heard of the Orlando Anderson story?

  655. The songs just aren’t “hit” worthy. She went from club bangers Look What You Made Me Do and Ready For It to boring (non dance songs) Me! and You Need To Calm Down. Swift knows this album is a bust. That’s why here label isn’t paying for a tour this time around. She’s only doing four shows on each side of the country. 1989 Taylor needs to come back quickly.

  656. What a legendary legacy. She was epitome of class, dignity, and grace. So many Black women of that era aspired to be like Ms. Carroll. Although she is lauded for her acting roles; her voice was angelic. I wonder who will continue her legacy personae of the elegant Black woman? I definitely see Lynn Whitfield and Kerry Washington in her likeness. Who could forget Marion Gilbert, the domineering socialite mother of our favorite southern belle – Whitley Gilbert. Ms. Carroll took risks as evidenced by her role as Claudine. She was believable while maintaining her standard of beauty. She will be missed.

  658. Great article forgot about KingTim III. Thanks for the reviving of great memories.

  663. Sarkodie from Ghana deserves the first position on this blog. The fact that he raps in his local dialect, shouldn’t be the reason to omit him. He is the best rapper in Africa for crying out loud.
    What is your criteria for choosing best rappers by the way? You should consider flow, timing, lyrics, style bro. Sarkodie is the name. You can research on him.

    1. Sarkodie is included in the series and the rappers are not ranked in any order. It is left to the reader to decide what the order is. Thanks for reading and commenting.

  664. Nicely done, sir. I always loved their sound. It might be an urban legend, but supposedly they lined the recording studio with plywood to get a harder edge on their tone. And yes, that was a banner year for quality albums!

  666. It’s an absolutely wonderful song. But it’s not that “easy” to listen to, it’s too clever for the average public I think. Its wow-factor is too subtle to make this a huge hit, because it requires a more than superficial knowledge of music. Big hits may or may not be of deep musical interest, but they mostly have a less subtle way of capturing the average listener’s attention.

    1. I agree with your assessment. And while I couldn’t tell you what the actual chord progressions were or which key the song was primarily sung in, even my casual, musically untrained ear can appreciate the song’s beauty. Thanks for reading and the comment!

  667. I absolutely love Brenda Russell’s work! There are songwriters and then there are superior songwriters. I have always wondered who those lyrics were written for. I had always heard Luther Vandross’ version of If Only for One Night, but Brenda’s version just wows me. Having recently read your post on Donna Summer, I cant help but mention Brenda’s Dinner With Gershwin. Thank you for recognizing the talents of Brenda Russell. Way back when I saw magic…??

  668. I have always been amazed by song lyrics, their meanings, and more importantly the writers. I especially have been intrigued by female artist who sing very feminine lyrics written by men. Case in point – Queen of the night – written by L.A. Reid, Babyface, and Daryl Simmons, but sung by Whitney Houston (I love the bass line in that song). My point being, we should consider the songwriters, how they envision the artist performing the song, and what they want to convey. Prince was out of the box and up front with sex dripping lyrics. My favorite cut – Head. It got right to the point. I also still love to hear Nasty Girl by Vanity Six.

  669. Is she the female rapper to retire? Hmmm? The game is is different for females…I think she’s ready to marry and start a family. It will be interesting to see how this plays out. She’ll be back as soon as Cardi-B makes a comment on the gram. #HipHopBeefs. #AntonioBrown

    1. Good point. The issue may be different for women. But there’s no reason to suggest that a woman can’t have both a family and a career. To do so would be engaging in 1970s (and before) thinking.

  673. I’ll leave my top10 prediction here, to check back in December:

    1. Drake
    2. Taylor Swift*
    3. Adele*
    4. Bruno Mars
    5. Rihanna*
    6. Justin Bieber
    7. Ed Sheeran
    8. Lady Gaga*
    9. Katy Perry
    10. Eminem

    *close to a higher placement/could still place higher

    1. Great list! If I had to pick an order, mine would be almost exactly like this, except Katy Perry would be higher than Bieber, Sheeran and Gaga. She had eight No. 1 singles this decade, including some very long-running ones.

  674. Tempted is a classic! Erykah did a beautiful job! Absolutely love, love, love it!

  676. Amount of research carried out before this publication= 0000000.0 useless !!

    1. Still way more than the amount of thought or intelligence put into your comment. (Decimal point goes after the first zero.)

      1. DJ Rob the savage, nice response man… And honestly you’re doing a good job. You did what you knew was best.

  677. Visually stunning! The graphics and aesthetics were by far superior to anything I’ve ever seen. I’ve never considered her a great lyricist however, her creativity can’t be denied.

  678. All of you here are mad. No rapper in Africa that’s why they don’t get international recognition. If i may ask, is Olamide a rapper? funny African brodas

  679. Uh..Morten Harket Singer from A-ha? Remember Take on me?? should hear him live…He has a number of songs that shows a lot of vocal prowess when he is on the money!

    1. Thank you for your comment! I was just going to post how could you not include Morten Harket of aha. Have you not heard the song Living a boy’s Adventure Tale? He has an amazing voice. 5 octaves. Incredible falsetto. He sounds the same live as he does on his records which is a testament to his true voice.

        1. It’s true. If you listen to the music of a-ha you will realise just how great he is. I adore Barry Gibb without a doubt but Marten Harket should be high up on this list without a doubt.

  680. I’m on the fence here. On the one hand it’s hip hop and on the other it’s hip hop. Same as R&B, hip hop hasn’t been authentically Black since before Jerry Heller and NWA. I’m not sure if Jay-Z and Kanye are sell outs or if their moves are strategic in support of civil rights. I remember how Eartha Kitt was blackballed same as Kaepernick. Decades later she is recognized as a SHero for civil rights. Then there is Sammy Davis Jr, whom Jay-Z and Kanye remind me so much of. Could they really be doing some good for the betterment of Civil rights or just being selfish for their personal benefit? It’s pre- campaign season and 45’s ratings are lower than Nixon’s. Let us not forget these parallels and players…Steve Harvey, Jim Brown, Ray Lewis. “Auntie Em and Toto too, and all the party people that’s in your crew. We’re leaving here in a cloud of smoke and th-th-that’s all folks” Fantastic Voyage-Lakeside ?

  681. Very Interesting indeed. I think you hit every aspect of interest. Brought back so many memories. My kids states all the time that “My mom listens to more rap music than we do”. What they fail to realize is that I was coming out of high school at the beginning of rap. Loved it then and still love it now. Use to have so many mixed tapes. Lost them all but moved on to CDs. Thank you so much for the positive update.

  685. In my lifetime I can say i’ve experienced the best. I often wonder who in the new generations to come will be that voice, writer, intellectual, cultural contributor, etc…? Toni Morrison was one of a kind.

    1. Where do people get this nonsense from? Of course his body was found. It was in a hospital when he died. People kill me with this conspiracy stuff. You act like you have to actually see his dead body to believe he died 23 years ago, when you have not seen the bodies of millions of other dead people but you have no trouble believing they’re deceased. When have you seen him alive since September 1996?

      1. I believe 2Pac is not dead, I was shot truly and taken to hospital, but in the hospital he left without traces. 2Pac is somewhere in the Caribbeans country, even Surge Knight knows about this, that is why he was interrogated after the realise of Makavelli. 2Pac is alive either you like it or not.

          1. Everyone who believes 2Pac is still alive are just conspiracy theorists who believe in witches and warlocks, and believe they themselves need proof – as if someone would literally give them access to a celebrity’s dead body. They’ve never seen 2Pac – dead or alive – yet they’ve formed these stupid myths that he’s still here.

  689. First thing, Taylor has 2 diamond certified albums just like adele, but fearless is in 2008 so I don’t think that counts, still I wanted to mention that.

    If they count touring (which I think they will), then 10000% Taylor Swift.
    If they don’t count touring(which I DON’T believe will happen), then…. probably also Taylor Swift… cuz I mean… she’s Taylor Swift… like duh.

    1. Maybe all of that’s true, but they won’t count anything before January 2010, so don’t let that or your Swiftie status cloud your view. Besides, Drake just released another album that will only pay his total – and could be enough to take him over the top.

      1. Taylor is also releasing an album this month. It’s predicted it won’t do as great as her previous contenders, but Lover might be enough for her to be at the top and recieve the most prestigious award in music this decade.

          1. Taylor is the most successful bb200 artist this decade
            And the best album seller
            The best singles seller
            The best touring artist
            And the best artist100 record
            She also has sufficient hot 100 success

            Drake only has his streaming as an ace along with his hot 100 success. So, how will he win? In one condition, if streaming was responsible for 50% of the formula and also if touring was excluded. Even then, it’s not so clear but that’s the only possible way.
            WHICH IS UNFAIR! It would be way too convenient for him, it’s like they (billboard) would be playing with the formula intentionally to give it to drake cuz they want him to win. If that happens, it would be bs and cheating.
            It’s frustrating…

  690. It’s the same beat. Didn’t know about the Uptown Funk ruling but it doesn’t surprise me. I always thought it sounded reminiscent of an R&B song I’d heard before

  692. I don’t like what this blog is doing, you are talking about African Rappers please where is khaligraph Jones

  693. You nailed it! If I had not been there, your review made it real. A great under appreciated talent!

  694. Thanks for sharing your wonderful weekend with us. Glad you had a good time!

  696. Good morning my brother.
    Well written, looks like I miss another great affair, the only one I attended was the ten year. Have to step up my game. Be blessed my brother and keep blogging.

  697. Looks like you and your classmates had a blast! Congratulations on this milestone?. I wonder if PHS is the same high school Trey Songz attended? ?. I know he is a Petersburg native.

  698. BEAUTIFUL TRIBUTE!!! Felt like I was there lol! Love that you shared such a special part of your journey with the world. My favorite part…the three amigos, of course!!!?

  699. “More!, more!, more!, how do you like it? ?” . As a confirmed Motown baby, I’ve seen it all possibly. But disco’s beatdown didn’t kill it. It reconstituted itself into house music and other genres. Even artist such as Michael Jackson gave proof of its survival. “I will survive, hey hey?“ Disco reminds me of the movie The Wiz where Diana Ross, Micheal Jackson, Nipsey Russell and Ted Ross arrive in Emerald City and witness Quincy Jones deliver one of the hottest tracks. “How quickly fashion goes down the drain. Last week when you all was wearin’ pink Already for me red was old. The ultimate brick is gold. That’s the new color, children! Hit it!”

    source: https://www.lyricsondemand.com/soundtracks/w/thewizlyrics/emeraldcitysequencelyrics.html

  700. Agreed — and I say that as one of those white kids who was weary of disco. (In New Orleans, where I grew up, an FM station became “Disco 97” and started beating the pants off the AM Top 40 monoliths — another sign of change.) I remember being thrilled when the Knack’s “Get the Knack” hit No. 1 — rock and roll, baby!

    In retrospect, the rock was mediocre — it was the beginning of the rise of the tight-playlisted AOR monoliths. The best stuff was probably a hybrid — the New Wave of Blondie or the Talking Heads, which used elements of disco, or the changing focus of Donna Summer, whose “Hot Stuff” was a damned good rock record. But it’s hard to see that when you’re a 14-year-old white boy and feeling weird for actually liking that stuff.

    1. Great comment, Todd! I was just 13 and not old enough to fully enjoy disco the way it was intended. But the music was right up my alley as it was the first genre I could say I grew up with. Ironically, I became more of a classic rock guy when I got older. Go figure!

  701. JHud did the song some justice. Diana is a pro Diva. She didn’t share her mic, she gave JHud her own. #takingNotes. I would love to know more about Rhonda Ross Kendrick. I bet she’s quite interesting.

    1. As you noted, a diva NEVER shared her mic with another diva, but Diana did share hers with the audience who were invited to ask her questions.

  702. Nice list, but I would have put Jody Watley, LaVern Baker & Billy Preston on the list.

    1. Thanks! I am redoing the list next year (5th anniversary of the last one). There are several artists who will be included that weren’t the last time.

      1. You aint got no excuse for not putting 2Pac on that list…thats intentional hommie!

  703. DJROBB, you have outdone yourself. Thank you for this blog ❤ Can’t say I am in total agreement with your rankings, but the biggest change for me would be to move #20 closer to top 10.

    1. Thanks, Twana! I actually had that 45 (besides “There’ll Never Be” it’s the only single I ever bought by a DeBarge).

  704. Interesting read. In an update, Taylor Swift is the #6 Billboard 200 artist of all time, Drake and Adele fail to go into the top 25 on the list. Drake comes out first on the Billboard hot 100 decade end chart, Taylor has the upper hand on Adele. But ultimately, i heard Billboard will include touring. And thats were Taylor (910 Million $) breaks the necks of Drake (300 Million $) and Adele (180 Million $).

    1. Very interesting. The all-time ranking includes Taylor’s pre-2010 stuff, too, so that skews that particular list in her favor. I agree Drake has the Hot 100 sewn up, and his album numbers, which includes streaming, will be respectable (he’s had eight No. 1s in this decade alone with another release this year potentially). I’d say Adele is a respectable third, but the sheer monstrosity of her last two albums – plus whatever residual sales her first one registered this decade – could make her an interesting contender. But we will see. Thanks for your insights!

  705. I think Brian McKnight has a very good falsetto too. Case in point; Whenever you call (with Mariah Carey)

  706. I’m like WHOA! Mary J Blige’s performance to me was not only superb, but also a lesson taught on performance 101. She gave millennials an unfiltered lesson on how to perform and be in the music industry. As the camera panned the audience I could read the faces “all hail the queen!” Faces that read aspiration and seemed to study Mary’s every move. I especially loved her duets that looked like 30 years of success (Lil Kim and Meth). I loved how P Diddy channeled that extra Barry Gordy with his intro. I wonder who among the millennials will be able to perform this way 30 years from now. I loved every minute of Mary’s performance.

  708. This article was AWESOME!!! There were artist I didn’t recognize which was a fun surprise, but one of the largest was DeBarge singing backup for Kenny Rogers! Time for a pilgrimage to paisley…

  709. Interesting review. Let’s not forget most of these were actually demos, not finished songs. Prince would have blown most other versions off the planet if he polished the songs to use them himself. I don’t agree on Nothing Compares 2 U though, I like Prince’s version way more than the Family’s.

    One bit of info on Jungle Love: the musical background was actually written by Jesse Johnson, as you can read here on PrinceVault (a bonafide Prince bible):
    http://princevault.com/index.php?title=Jungle_Love

    You can find the actual 1982 instrumental demo of the song by Jesse on the web I think, maybe Youtube even. The rhythm track is all there.

    Prince wrote the melody and lyrics. There is still some bitterness by Jesse about this song and how he wasn’t credited for it after leaving the band.

    1. Thanks, Daniel. Great insights you’ve provided. And yes, princevault.com is a great resource. I used it myself.

  711. Hmmmm? Artist (no plural). I’m putting my money on Bruno Mars. Out of all of the contenders I feel he’s been the most influential because his music reaches across all genres, genders, ages, and so on. If I had to pick second, I would go with a tie between Lady Gaga and Beyoncé (Before I Let Go ? does not impress me one bit. It only proves she got coins). Let’s see how this turns out.

  713. Glad you had a good show! I first saw the Who on one of my first dates in High School at the Westchester County Civic Center. I couldn’t hear anything for a few days after — but the show was so full of energy I did not mind being temporarily deaf. Saw them again at Woodstock as well — will never forget their playing as the sun rose – I remember it as if it happened yesterday. And was also in NY City when they first played Who’s Next in the US. Love those guys and wore out all their records several times over, especially Live at Leeds, one of the great live records in rock history. Too bad their set list did not include Summertime Blues!

    1. Thanks, Curt. I’m a big fan, but you’re clearly a bigger fan. I’d heard their earlier concerts were extremely loud (and they affected Townshend’s hearing). It’s funny you mentioned Woodstock, I had no idea you went. I wonder if they’re on the 50th-anniversary lineup.

  714. I love reading this stuff! What’s amazing to me is realizing how close Roy Head, the Toys, the Cyrkle and Mercy — all of whose songs don’t sound like “Number One material” (whatever that is, I know) — came to claming the top spot.

    Great job, DJ Rob!

    1. You’re absolutely right about those four songs! I had no idea “A Lover’s Concerto” was a No. 2 song – and had never even heard “Treat Her Right” before I researched this! Oh, but for those damn Beatles! Lol. Thanks, Todd!

  715. Great post! Never realized how close they came to total chart domination and what songs kept them from the top at times.

  716. In Kenya we gotta best rappers than Nigeria BT I heard you’re from 9ja that’s why you’re advertising Nigerians rappers(khaligraph, octopizzo, STL, j. A and many others are from kenya, BT you man always rank Nigerians more than the rest of Africa… Nkt! ! Do your research well stop boring

  717. Its some how convincing, he sparked the war of east vs west, when tupac visited bad boy records n was shot 5times, then Pac thought it was a game by biggie, so PAC n biggie are collaterals

  720. This was wonderful to read as I too an a fan of this artist. You hit every venue and made me feel as though I were there. THANK YOU

  723. If you didn’t know about Khaligraph Jones then you know no Jack about African Hip Hop. Get something else to do at your free time.

    1. You’re right, before I did this series I didn’t know anything about African hip-hop, which is why I did the research – to learn about them and educate fellow American hip-hop fans so they may also learn. Thankfully, you don’t get to decide what I do in my free time, but I do get to decide which troll’s comments I want to include and respond to and which ones I don’t. Guess what, you win! Have a good day and thanks for reading.

  724. Kaligraph Jonnes is missing in your list, I dont know how. You should listen to his Supper man track

  725. I wonder how Kaligraph jonnes AKA Omollo is not in your list. You should listen to his supper man track.

  726. We should also
    remember the fact that he was a gang star…(negro)

  727. You can’t talk about African rap without including Khaligraph Jones from Kenya

  729. You now I love you, man, but Supertramp was a way more annoying version of Nickelback before Nickelback existed. Please, please, put them back in the box never to be spoken of again.

    1. Haha. I love you, too. But we’ll have to disagree. I am a huge fan. I saw Rodger Hodgson in concert two years ago and my only regret was that it wasn’t the whole band. Lol

      1. Well, only because it’s you, I guess I will have to learn to live with the opinion. Spent the last few days in Acadiana and heard some great local groups. Any thoughts in zydeco music and how it’s surviving?

        1. Thanks, buddy! I haven’t given zydeco much thought. When I’m down that way is the only time I really hear it – and I haven’t been to Cajun country in awhile.

  730. Check khaligraph jones work, he is the real hiphop bully in Africa alongside sarkodie

  731. I skipped the articles from part 1 to part 5 looking for khaligraph jones. One thing i can tell u, if all these rappers get into a rap battle with khaligraph, none will come out alive.

    1. I think not. KhaliGraph was not known to most Africans until M.I Abaga introduced him (Black Billgates, M.I still bodied him on the track). He may body some,but certainly not all. That’s two things u should tell us.

    2. You mentioned Kenya as a country with good rappers, sadly you only talked about rappers from South Africa and west Africa

      1. True. And that will be rectified in a follow-up article. It was not intentional, and I hope that readers will forgive my oversight.

    3. When dogs race for speed, the cheater just seat back and watch that’s why MI is not here.

  733. Thats a horribly biased review, no female rappers and only features rappers from two countries? Africa is way richer than that.

    1. I’ll accept that criticism because I consciously thought about female rappers AND the fact that the rappers I featured came from three (not two) countries. I may do an additional series that broadens the scope both nationally and gender-wise.

    2. Name one female rapper who is better than any of the mentioned. This blog is trying to push African hip hop,not gender equality. Tell me if there’s one female rapper in Africa who has been consistent for over 5years,with more than a single album n a break through single,continental breakthrough I mean.

  737. I agree it should have been left on the country billboards chart. Who know where it could have ended up. Perhaps there was fear of breaking a record of some sort, or maybe they were afraid of having to many certain people coming over to country music and they didn’t want anyone dominating those awards. Who knows what hidden fears were lurking in their decision making. So sad IJS.

  738. M. I should be included in this race, I think he got what it takes to be added as one of the best rappers in Africa ..

  751. You should check out Ain Mosni…mind blowing
    https://www.google.com/search?source=hp&ei=TmakXMSZFZL4wAKv9o7wDg&q=ain+mosni+music+&oq=ain+mosni+music+&gs_l=mobile-gws-wiz-hp.3.93.7670.8580.0.0.0.547.5850.2-3j4j7j1.0.1.0i131j0j46j0i70i249j46i275j0i10j0i22i10i30j0i22i30j0i13i5i30j0i8i13i30j33i160j33i21.5LC7aRW_3VA#mie=mt,Songs,ain%20mosni%20music,H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgVuLVT9c3NEw3LMiuqrQsf8QYzi3w8sc9YSm_SWtOXmP04BLLTrbSzy0tzkzWTywqySwusSrOz0svFtLjYnPNK8ksqRRS4RKUQjVFg0GKnwtViGcRK39iZp5Cbn5xXqYC2DwAVwTgkX0AAAA

  752. Great article. Love both artists. Have always respected Watley’s avant-garde style (which made her the perfect match for Andrè Cymone musically and romantically.) Also respect Rakim for not only being one the coldest lyricist ever, but to be one of the few to not use cursing and objectification of women to sell his talent. Thanks for the read.

    2. I suppose that chaka khan, i feel for you would be included. Featuring melle mel from 1984.

      1. Yes she should be. It was somewhat of an oversight on my part. However, I would add that the main point of the article was that “Friends” by Jody Watley & Rakim sparked a movement where R&B and rap artists combined forces from that point on (hence the “marriage” analogy), whereas Chaka Khan and Melle Mel, who were admittedly way ahead of their time, didn’t put those type of collabos in full effect mode. But you’re right – they were arguably first. I may do a special 35th anniversary tribute to them later this year.

  754. New Edition has been rapping singing in their songs for decades..

    1. True. And I would argue that they were the exception, not the rule…and they certainly weren’t considered hip-hop artists like Eric B. & Rakim. Still, to your point, they did predate “Friends.” Thanks for the reminder!

  759. I am so impressed on such an incredible review that I wished I could have been there! I had seen Billy Idol in Manitoba, Canada in 1985 and was so elated with his performance, that he quickly became my favourite rock’n’roller. His voice is strong and enebriating. He is lively and exciting, causing the entire crowd to sing along with him. Once the concert was over, as we exited the building, I kept thinking how both Billy Idol and his guitarist, Steve Stevens will be here to stay because of such an electric performance, one I have never forgotten over 32 years later. I still pull out his cd’s and listen to rare vinyls remembering all of those years ago…and guess what? Billy Idol and his buddy, Steve Stevens are still Rock’n’Rolling all of these years later to a whole new generation of fans as well as the ones that stuck with him all of those years way back when…

    1. I couldn’t have expressed the sentiment any better than you did. I’m glad the review brought back such positive memories for you. Thanks for reading and for the compliment on the review!

  760. Excellent write up on these two acts. They tend to be overlooked because most of their music is primarily in their local tongue. Thanks for pointing out their top songs.

  761. Fascinating writeup! I knew there were alleged shenanigans with the Billboard Hot 100 chart, but I didn’t realize “Baker Street” was a victim. Jeez … you’d think RSO would be happy that Gibb had a No. 1 for so many weeks already!

    1. Thanks! And you’re right, you would think that. But at least “Shadow Dancing” was a legit No. 1 (even if it had more weeks than it was supposed to). Imagine the following year when RSO managed to get three No. 1 Bee Gees songs from their “Spirits Having Flown” album…all of which briefly interrupted the No. 1 runs of other songs that returned to the top (“Le Freak,” “I Will Survive” and “Hot Stuff”), suggesting that maybe The Bee Gees’ songs (“Too Much Heaven,” “Tragedy” and “Love You Inside Out”) were never legit No. 1s to begin with.

  765. This is nice. The Mama land finally made it to the blog?. M.I is originally from Taraba state of Nigeria tho. Just grew up in Jos..
    Rappers I believe should also make this list are Mode9, that guy is a beast. There’s even a controversial story about Jigga ripping off one of his songs, we also have Manifest from Ghana, Casper Nyovest from south Africa, Nasty C from south Africa, Jesse Jagz from Nigeria, etc

      1. Jesse jagz is dope
        Just listen to his albums like jagz nation vol. 1 and thy nation come.
        You will probably say he’s better than mi or the closer one

  767. Try listening to Jinjer. Another female metal vocalist leading the pack currently.

  768. Love the side by side comparison of these three greats. Always appreciated their music but when you look at them side by side it’s sad to think how little Grammy recognition they received…didn’t know that and thanks for enlightening a brother.

  770. Great article. When I lived in Ghana, they were on the up and coming. Now they are hot like ?!

      2. I hope ur findings on the godMc is ready.
        There’s none like M.anifest in Ghana lyrically

  771. LOVE IT!!! Thanks for broadening my horizon. I listened to clips from both artist. I can definitely listen to the music of either but I especially like M.I. Abaga’s

  772. This song is an anthem for anyone who’s gone through the emotions of departing from a bad relationship. Although I’m not a fan of current hip hop, I have to give Cardi B some sap on her song Be Careful. Her song/rap definitely takes a page from I will Survive. Long live I Will Survive!

  774. Beautifully written, sir. You’ve captured the nuances of the art vs artist dilemma with thought and care. It’s just all so sad for everyone.

  775. it’s good for anyone that has a hand in Tupac Shakur death to rot in jail.

  777. Djrob, this is one of your all time greatest blogs!! Thank you for the great music and memories. Keep it coming!

  779. My God ! What a Legacy! Such blessing packed in one family. God help me to discover the talent of my children for their onward development and growth to be effective

  780. The fucking nigga who was gunned down in los Angeles has no memory lane or history to live on than Tupac in the music industry today.

  781. Maroon 5 was behind the 8-Ball the moment they said, “Sure, we’ll do the Super Bowl.”

    They weren’t the first choice to perform, and everybody knew that. Add to that the reasons why some of the other artists weren’t appearing, and that becomes a problem for half the country immediately. The Super Bowl certainly isn’t the gig it used to be. Go on, and you’re betraying Kaepernick. Turn them down and you’re an elite libtard. So you’ve already got the thumbs-down from a huge percentage of viewers before you’ve sung a single note.

    The performance itself was problematic for all the reasons you stated above, and Levine’s voice was kind of weak as well, further complicating matters. I thought the church choir was probably the strongest part of the entire show.

  782. Omg you give Lonnie too much credit! He wasn’t Funky!!! Robert n Charlie was Funky!!! He took all their money and credit for songs!! Do your research!! Smh

    1. I always think it’s funny when people lay out baseless claims without providing any credible evidence and then accuse someone else of not doing the research. Back up your claim with facts and then we can talk, Burt.

      1. well CHARLIE WILSON often said his producer was bankrolling him and his brothers during his solo career and said Charlie was nothing without him .and drove him poor. well it may be true but after 1974/1977 Lonnie brought my IDOL FAVORITE PERSON CHARLIE WILSON and THE GAP BAND from 1977-1988 and I applaud and respect Lonnie for that .When they went to capitol they lost their FUNK roots . after they did IM GONNA GIT YOU SUCKA SDK in 1988 it wasn’t the same so yeah DJ Rob I agree with to have more evidence for backup but in my opinion CHARLIE WILSON was TOTAL EXPERIENCE’S ultimate star and breadwinner and Lonnie Simmons CREATED THE GAP BAND into the FUNKIEST R&B Stars of the 80s HUMPIN is what got me into the The Gap band at 8 years old with Lonnie taking producing credit partially . so Lonnie may have his bad points but his GOOD points was his company growthed The Gap Band im grateful because I like Charlie BETTER with his brothers be cool BRAH!!!! forever GAPPER 1974-1988

        1. I hear ya! I dare say that without Lonnie’s influence, whatever that may be, we wouldn’t have heard of the Gap Band. Thanks for reading and providing comments.

    2. You are absolutely right Burt Reed….Lonnie Simmons “Dogged” them…Big Time ….he was a gangsta

      1. Yes, he took advantage of the GAP Band especially Charlie. I saw with my OWN eyes what he did to him and how he manipulated Charlie when Charlie was fighting for his life and career. I pray Lonnie got himself straight with God before he died.

    3. Yesssss he did still the Wilson bro’s royalties but I think Charlie sued and got with they were old later when Charlie got sober thank God Charlie sobered up

    4. They were a back up band before Lonnie simmons produced them.. what does that tell you.. don’t worry I’ll wait

  783. I was very surprised to read about the handclap being generated from a Roland Drum Machine… I would bet my chips on the CR-8000 CompuRhythm used since the CR78 would have not achieved the fullness and punch… but I still have a problem with the sequence… Its very human like and mistakes can easily be detected in the timing. The Drum Machine would have played those claps in a very tight sequence…. I’m looking forward to researching more into this …. GREAT ARTICLE!!!

    1. You’re right, there are mistakes in the timings for each clap, or maybe several sets of claps. I initially thought they were created, as legend had it, by someone knocking two pieces of wood together and putting a reverb on it. That’s what I’d heard years ago. Then I found the source citing the Roland drum machine.

      We’d probably have to interview Nile and have him tell us directly what was used. I’ve always noticed that the handclaps in “Good Times” are much more pronounced than in their other songs.

  784. I didn’t watch the show, looked around for a good write up and this was actually the best I found so far. Thanks for sharing.

  785. It must be ESP. I’ve been jammin to the best of Chic all weekend long. Looking at image of billboard, I see they outranked the Village people and Rod Stewart two wildly popular songs. Thanks DJRob!

    1. No problem. But as a footnote, Chic would fall to No. 3 the following week, behind Rod Stewart at No. 1 and the Village People at No. 2. Everything had its time.

  786. I was listening to this album again. Who is Tall John? I swear at one point I found out the lyric was “Everybody fucks till dawn” which makes eminently more sense.

    1. I’d have to listen again, but given the song’s title and context, it seems that the quirkier lyric (“Tall John”) would fit.

  788. DJ Rob, thanks for another moving tribute. I forgot how many songs James was involved with directly or indirectly. My favorite of his is “Just Once”

  790. Man, I’m truly gonna miss this voice. James Ingram has always been one of my all-time favorite vocalists. Ain’t no mistaking his voice with anyone else’s! His gift is unparalleled and in my humble opinion, THE greatest part of Secret Garden and We Are The World! His signature whooo-oooo will never die…often imitated, but never duplicated. Beautiful tribute D!!

  795. The most important point I draw from this article is a point of thanks, and I am very glad with that. Why because all I have always or mostly heard is a criticism of the father. He abused the children, he was a bad father and all that.but I have always given the glory to him since I first watched the biography of the family, how he started the kids and was always propelling them toward success with that iron hand and in the end it all worked out and paid off. He gave to the world what the world did not reject and still could not have rejected. The man should be thanked.

  796. Well! This is definitely a great articles and very factual. I’m almost speechless on the R. Kelly debacle. His music has always given indications of sexual deviant behavior. Sex sells. But isn’t that what most entertainers do – write from their experiences? I tend to place the guilt on those persons who served as accomplices knowing inappropriate activities were going on and never spoke up. A double standard expressed by hypocrisy very much like homosexuality in the black church. People turn a blind eye and let money and status run the show. R. Kelly is as much a victim too, as expressed by his younger brother. Hell, we (the public/fans) didn’t want to believe that Whitney Houston was molested as a child. Yes, I have joined the #MuteRKelley movement, but I see that it is riding on the heels of #MeToo. We need further examination before we can confirm a side unlike Democrats and Republicans. Can Iyanla fix his life? I would like to see what she can do; cause this is a mess. In closing, Sam Cooke is someone I would love to know more about. I’ve always been puzzled by his death. Could he have been with a minor at the time of murder? Hmmmm?

  798. We are a society full of hypocrisy!! Great article D. I had no idea about some of the celeb facts you highlighted. And what’s sad is that the list goes on and on. What I am so sick of is the #FakeOutrage on social media by these artists who have in some way, shape, or form capitalized off of Kelz’s success. NONE of what we’ve seen on the docuseries is new information. We’ve known for years and now all of a sudden, some celebs are outraged because it’s popular to hashtag #MeToo and #MuteRKelly. Wasn’t nobody muting the checks they received from incorporating Kelz’s musical genius into their music though! Not to mention, the huge payoffs all those money hungry parents received to settle matters out of court for their daughters who were allegedly violated by R Kelly.

    Make no mistake about it, Kelz is disturbed and should have paid for any crimes these people are saying he committed. But if he’s gonna be prosecuted by way of a docuseries, then Lifetime’s got a whole lot more work to do!

    One of many questions I have is how can an artist (like Tank, for example) crown R Kelly as King of RnB one week and the next week he’s muting the man? I just think people need to stop dragging one man through the mud when countless others have done the same or maybe even worse. What about some of those parents who knowingly allowed their daughters to venture off with a man suspected of sex crimes against minors? What about Kelz’s entourage who sought the girls for him knowing what he was gonna do? What about the school staff and mall security officers who were right there witnessing girls being taken to Kelly?

    I’m so glad God is the ultimate judge and not people. Clearly, we as a culture will sing praises to a person and tear that same person down all in one day, especially on social media. I’m not here to dismiss the allegations, but I’m also not gonna act like I didn’t know years ago what the man was said to have done and now all of a sudden be against him and stop “stepping in the name of love”. Every human being has a dark side. Some are just in the spotlight and can’t hide theirs as well as another. Selective memory is definitely in full effect.

    1. May want to read the article again. I’m 35. This was going on when I was a teen, and way before that. 2 Live Crew, 2 $hort and Ice T come to mind a lot in this. He even stated that this is a long standing issue.

  801. Feel like u still in the past DJ rob n I feel like since the new generation has no idea of the past music is sad coz songs like I got a story to tell by Biggie got even worse lyrics than 21 Savage’s ASMR I could bring out so many ugly songs from the past that u always miss to mention so let’s cut the bullshit of old school n new school comparisons n mark u am a fan of both jus saying its not right to disregard change n not all is abt fuck ho bitch nigga bla bla bla for instance Meeks championships is a motivation if u ask me

    1. Man you really missed the point of this article if you think it’s an old school-vs-new school discussion. Nowhere in this article did I say the problem started in the 2010s, nor did I limit it to 21 Savage or Lil Pump. I appreciate your point and I feel like my articles in general give new school hip-hop a lot of press and a lot of hype for being the leading genre out there. But the issues I described in this article did NOT start in 2018. I used current rappers because they are the ones who were targeted in the recent events, not because they created the double-standard issue, which they didn’t.

  803. I think you are on the right path and tracks, however, let’s be real here. The Jews, and the majority in this nation offend Blacks and other minorities every way possible, using their vast propaganda machinery.

    Notwithstanding, I object to your context of using Rappers as victims.

    The truth is many of them have no damn respect for themselves or our culture and history.

    Hell in many ways our young people are doing exactly what our oppressors want them to do, disrespect yourself and your kind!

    Regardless, how you summarized this issue it all comes down to what are we going to do about it?

    Are we going to continue to PURCHASE ENTERTAINMENT from our young people that clearly OFFENDS THEIR OWN PEOPLE. So, that they can pursue a LIFE OF MATERIALISTIC VALUES?

    There are other ways to provide messaging. Rappers have the microphone in their hands. They can RAP about our struggles without disrespecting themselves or their people.

    Who gives a damn if they offend a bunch of people who have been offending our kind for hundreds of centuries?

    1. Thanks, Mo. We all have our own perspectives on this. I appreciate yours and agree. I certainly don’t think rappers are victims, I could write a whole separate article on that issue. But the issue I chose to tackle is akin to the uneven issue of law enforcement in black communities. Our people don’t usually have a problem with the laws, just the enforcement of it. The same applies here… rappers are held responsible for things their bosses endorse until there’s a public outcry.

      1. I totally agree!

        Moreover, allow me to correct myself.

        I do support your context, somehow on my IPAD I missed very vital comments you wrote.

        You are right on the money!

        Our people have allowed our young people to accept IGNORANCE, DISRESPECT AND OUTRIGHT DISOBEDIENCE AS A PRODUCTS TO BE SOLD.

        What really disturbs me is that we are now experiencing the resolves of the destrction of the Black family. Meaning, it is so bad our young men would rather prey on each other instead of assisting their own kind against our true enemies.

  805. This is without a doubt one of the most poignant topics I’ve read on your blog and as always EXCELLENTLY WRITTEN. I will be sharing this in a few group pages I’m in.

  807. The Joseph Jackson family is the acme of musical entertainment in the world. There can never be any other.

  808. Honestly, the crimes committed by XXX are much worse than Eminem’s homophobia. XXX certainly didn’t deserve to die, and seemed to be changing his life for the better, but to defend actual criminal action and denounce the use of words, and, apparently, insults based on a pretty terrible hairstyle is not a great display of proper priorities. I would put MGK’s comments about an underage girl into the same category as Eminem’s uses of the word “fag”. Homophobic slang is harmful, and Eminem has no excuses, but to suggest that it is petty to attack pedophilia and defend family is weak. This is all only in my opinion obviously.

    1. Nowhere in that article does it suggest that pedophilia is acceptable. And in no way are the two issues (Em’s statements and X’s crimes) even slightly compared. The article simply laments that a life was lost. By your standard, I could read into your comment that you’re defending the actions of the murderers who took a human life by your dismay with my statement.

      1. You may not have directly compared or condoned those actions, but it’s quite telling that you spend all your negative criticism on Eminem, claiming he instigated a beef that started from MGK making passes at Em’s underage daughter and continued with Kelly dissing Em on Tech N9nes album. And then you appease Post Malone of all people, who had multiple ignorant and/or prejudice comments about Hip Hop as a genre. He is a genre bending Musician, but he does not get to make insulting comments about hip hop, distance himself from being called a rapper while stealing all of the attributes of rappers, and still pass as Hip Hop. Your Eminem bias is laughable. Being owner by Interscope does not make someone Labelmates. Tupac and BIG were both both labels distributed by Interscope that doesn’t mean the beef is made up, you clearly did mo research

        1. What’s clear is you have a lot of emotion wrapped up in this, because you’ve made some pretty extreme and unsupported statements, like I’ve expended “all” my negative comments on Em, or that I “appeased” Post Malone for disavowing hip-hop – as if he’s actually reading this. I’m not “appeasing” anyone, and Em wasn’t the only one who got negative comments in that or any of my other articles.

          As for the label comments, Tupac and B.I.G. were NOT both on labels distributed by Interscope. Biggie was on Bad Boy, which was distributed by Arista – itself was a major distributor back then (not under Interscope). So it appears you did NO research to try and prove a made-up point. If I’m guilty of anything, it’s holding Eminem to a higher standard than most of these other rappers out here, because he’s certainly put out better shit in the past and had a much bigger legacy than they do. I just thought it was beneath him to carry out that beef with MGK, especially for some shit that went down years ago. But that’s just me, and you can disagree. And I thank you for reading and appreciate your comments.

  810. DeeJ Rob this is an awesome piece. You shared some amazing facts and rare information making this a great tribute to these long beloved and memorable performers.

  812. One reason I follow you is your diverse tastes. You understand better than I do that if a musician is famous enough that everyone knows the name, there’s a good reason for it. Years ago I got free tickets to see Barry Manilow who at that point in my life seemed too “poppy” for my tastes. Of course I discovered that he was an incredibly talented musician and showman…loved it all! I’ve relearned that lesson over the years with other acts including the Village People who I saw as Cher’s warm-up act.
    I probably wouldn’t have been drawn to this since before reading your post I could only think of two T.O. and D. songs (I forgot about “knock 3 times”), but I know if I had gone I would have loved it. Thanks for sharing!

  813. I don’t particularly give a toss about dates of this song, and wrong date for that….. It is a FANTASTIC movie and brilliant acted by all actors, but particularly rami malek….. Oscar’s all round ??????

  814. For a song to chart three times is also pretty unusual…but Prince managed to to it four times, with his track “1999.”

    1. That’s true. And it’s still the record for non-holiday songs. Although his total doesn’t quite add up to 44 weeks.

  815. Great article and I understand that feeling totally. The first time I saw Stevie perform was in 2007, and I got to see him with my Mom and Dad. My Dad was basically sick and he ended up dying in 2009. But that particular concert was the last time I saw him get the oppurtunity to dance as well and my mom still talks about it to this day! It really is a specail thing to enjoy an artist through your parents and then on your own for your lifetime, and then experience that artist with them! Great blog and I’m glad you got to see taht with mom!

    1. Thanks, Enrique! Your story is touching as well. And thanks for the continued support. I haven’t seen your articles pop up recently. Are you still blogging?

  816. Amazing article lovely i think you meant tatum oneal and brooke shiels Lisa Marie was more mid 90’s I loved them both they fought the good fight wish they were still here enjoying the fruits of their labour sigh…

    1. Thanks for reading and the compliment. It’s been almost three years since I wrote it so I’ll have to check it again to see the references you addressed. Great to see there is still interest, and yes, they should still be with us.

  817. Wow…this is simply MAGNIFICENT!!! D, you are the sweetest! To share this amazing experience with your readers and adding the picture of you and your lovely Mom…by far, your BEST article yet!!!

    1. Wow! Cameo, that’s saying a lot! I’m 320 articles in. I appreciate you and your undying support so much! Thank you!

  822. My take on the industry has always been one of looks over talent. Some of the most talented people never get a shot. Beautiful dummies are dime a dozen. Its called Artist & Repertoire.

  825. May his soul rest in peace…. Miss you Michael and thanks to Mr Joe Jackson Rip Joe and Michael……..

  831. Lisa is my girl…classy, sassy, crisp, clear vocals!!! Excellent picture you painted of the venue…made me feel like I was right there! So were you participating in the singalong for “World” cause I had a visual lol!

  832. Let me take this chance to pour out my most heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Joe Jackson.May you remain strong as ever.You made the world a happy place to live in by the talents you brought to the world.From Kenya I condole with you.Rest in peace papa!Rest in peace.

  833. I’m pretty sure he was THE first Caucasian artist to appear on Soul Train. He beat David Bowie by a couple of months.

    How did he address the falsettos in songs like “Tiny Dancer” or “Bennie and the Jets”? Most artists who are getting up in age can’t really do those anymore and find an alternative way of singing them (which usually works as a cool variation).

    1. Hi Claude, and you’re right, he beat David Bowie (“Fame” and “Golden Years”) by a few months. But they both were beaten by Dennis Coffey, who appeared on the show in 1972, and Gino Vanelli who appeared in February 1975 (Elton’s was in May 1975).

      As for the falsettos, he didn’t do any of them, unfortunately. But, as you indicated, that’s understandable given his 71 years.

  834. “How dare you criticise me for supporting a president who is against my interest and the interest of my people and my countru, as I myself have previously admitted? Black people are not a monolith! Oh, you’re criticising all enablers of Trump regardless of their race? My bad, I just don’t want to be held accountable so I’ll keep saying it’s okay I support him because I’m black. And if you don’t let me off the hook, you’re racist! As a black person, I should be able to support Trump without being held accountable even though everyone supporting Trump is being held accountable. Even though Trump himself is being held accountable. So don’t be racist.”

  835. I think Kanye is an idiotic sycophant. That thinks he knows it all, but it’s damn obvious of his cheap political popularity moves. A major deucebag, if I may say.

  838. Like Joe Jackson, I push my kids hard to success through lots of counsel, not abuse. I am a success at my field, but would’ve been far better with a father-figure leading my way. I want my kids to do better than me. I laugh, joke, play with my kids. They are my best friends. Today, all 7 are successful in school. I am still strong at 58. I want to see them do more, do better. I know how Pa Jack on felt during apartheid America. His children would’ve been nonentities and beggars by now. He needed them to stand on their feet, which they did. Like someone said here, there will never be another Jackson family like Pa Joe’s. They came, saw and conquered. What’s life all about? Isn’t it all about living righteous life and being successful? Haven’t the Jackson’s garnered both? Pa Jackson was the most successful father in the entire world. Thank you Katheryn for never leaving your husband. You were indeed greatest wife and mother on earth. I truly love you all.

  840. I am a bit disturbed by Kanye and his goings on. I remember being a student in really challenging classes with super bright and exceptional students who at times appeared to be too smart for their own good, and often coming off as delusional. Organic Chemistry came easy to them, but the real world was out of reach socially. In the case of Kanye, and in the field of Psychology, a superiority complex is a defense mechanism for an inferior sense of self. I tend to think of “how do I maintain fame when I’m no longer famous, which equates to my finances. The rant about his publishing rights sounds a lil familiar like his rant about his failed clothing line ($53 million I think it was). Lest we forget his equally intelligent wife who was robbed, went without her jewels for a while and is now back on social media wearing diamonds again; who got her notariety by having sex (to be polite) on camera. And how about her asking Trump for prison pardons? What’s disturbing to me is nobody has whooped dat trick for those slavery and 13th amendment comments. Yes we (Black ppl) are monolithic.. we came on that ship together, and we should kick his ass for setting us back 100 years.

    “Kanye, your IQ don’t mean shit if you don’t know your history. You are a prime example of Post Traumatic Slave Disorder PTSD!”

  841. Great article! I think people don’t realize that there would be no Pop,RocknRoll, Jazz, country, Hip Hop, etc..without R&B or better yet Blues. Everything is derived from the mother. I think we as listeners have made the divide by what our ears want to hear and that becomes Black and White. It’s clearly the difference between Big Momma Thornton and Elvis Presley and a doggish personality. #Woof

  846. Earl, I have two advanced degrees around history and Wilkie is indeed correct. Slavery was not THE reason for the Civil War; if that were the sole reason the war was fought there would have been a few Confederate and Union states that would have been on the other side. States’ rights and western expansion were the actual reasons that war happened, and slavery was one of the issue argued around states’ rights.

    It’s dangerous to try and rewrite the history books to forward political agendas (I’m not accusing you of that; it’s something that those in political power have tried to do for many years, changing one small detail at a time until we end up with the fiction discussed in the link you posted). In fact, it’s something we would expect to see in communist countries and/or dictatorships.

    I always encourage anyone wanting to learn about the Civil War to read literary works penned pre-1950 because many newer works were written based on the false and overly simplistic notion that the Confederate states seceded over slavery.

    Not only is that patently false, but it leads people to believe that without slavery there never would have been a Civil War, which anyone who has studied it know is not true.

    1. Congratulations on your degrees, but they really don’t mean that you are THE authority on the subject. Claiming that reading the past through something other than the racist lens of pre-1950 is the “true” way is absurd at best and blatantly racist at worst. What you so pompously claim is that you, because of your “advanced” degrees, have the true opinion while the multitude of historians, the vast majority of whom also have multiple advanced degrees as well as years of research into this specific issue, who say, with plenty of facts to support them, that the state’s rights aspect was still centered on slavery and not some abstract idea of state’s rights,

      You can continue to live in your fantasy world, I really don’t care. But you sure do sound like the current crop of “fake news” whiners who make that claim when their claims to entitlement and superiority are opposed by facts and far less biased assessment. I may only have an undergrad in history but my advanced degrees included work in this topic because I did several area studies, so your advanced degrees and a couple dollars can get you a nice cup of coffee some place. Enjoy your narrow view and please, do not refer to me again with your junk pseudo-history. Buh-bye.

      1. Let it go. The Civil War was fought primarily over slavery. Since you consider yourself to be in a story and I’m surprised you don’t know this. Are you have to do is read “The Declaration of Causes of Seceding States” which is the state’s account of why they’re leaving the Union.
        For example Mississippi wrote:
        “ Our position is thoroughly identified with the institution of slavery– the greatest material interest of the world”. There were other reasons why the States wanted to leave the union, but this is the primary one so please stop spreading false history.
        By the way, I‘d like to say that as a child and as an adult I’ve always thought this song is the (fictitious) re-counting of the effects of the Civil War from one person who happens to be on the Confederate side. I never felt that the song was proslavery or pro ”The South will rise again“ just a moving and sometimes haunting retelling of what one person went through during that war. We don’t always think of the people Who were not fighting and how they suffered too.

        https://www.battlefields.org/learn/primary-sources/declaration-causes-seceding-states

        1. I think you just need to agree to disagree. The war was about states’ rights, and slavery happened to be the biggest issue at the time. But that does not mean the way was about slavery. You can believe what you want and it’s no skin off my back; people are going to say whatever suits their agenda whether it’s right or wrong.

    2. Your “pre-1950 literary works” were fraught with the lies of the Lost Cause. The war was about slavery, the states seceded because they were going to lose their ideology and identity.

  848. I don’t know how I became a regular on this wonderful blog but I sure know it had something to do with Hip Hop. Africans and Nigeria (Naija) that I know follow Hip Hop keenly with the likes of Nas, Eminem, Jay Z, Kendrick, J. Cole, Drake and a lot more taking the front row with truckloads of fans. And just like y’all in the US, Biggie and Pac are worshiped, they’re like gods. A lot of heads are here in this motherland too only shinning in our caves. And you’ll have to dig deep to get a glimpse for some might never make it to the surface. Thankfully though, we have you and through you we see the world and how music still brings us close regardless of race. Thank you too #DJRob… Naija dey hail:
    (Nigeria sends her regards)

  849. Love you DJROB. You have loved music for the over 30+ years that I have known you. I remember in 1984 your ability to name the Number 1 Billboard artist at any point in time. I am so happy that you are able to share your love of music with the world. ?✌?

  850. This is an excellent blog/review. It’s amazing that real HipHop, R&B, and Classic Soul is valued so greatly in the African countries, and so dismissed or watered down in the U.S. During the time I lived in Ghana, I traveled to Nigeria to see the artist Joe, and was amazed at his popularity. I now see that American artist are revered, and respected in the African countries. Thank you for this blog which creates an epiphany for those of us wanting to connect with the Motherland. Kudos to you my bruhdah!

  857. You’ve done a great job, as usual, trying to explain this. But it remains a travesty to me. I’m sorry, but i ve never caught the beyonce bug. personal preferences aside, it simply doesn’t add up that she trumps all those legends in Grammys. Zit for Diana Rosa! Just confirms what i always believed: the number of trophies artiste acquire is not totally representative of just how talented they are.

  860. I have never see this kind legend in my life.
    he is so Great in everything, so no one like this best musician
    R I P

  861. I agree with your list for the most part, to the extent that it is hard to replicate someone such as Aretha who represented so much more than just wonderful music at a very specific moment in history. I also agree with the comment above about Dylan as a possibility. While I am not a fan of country music I tried to think of someone from that genre who might qualify and I thought of Dolly Parton. She is certainly big within country but she has written music that has crossed genres and been very open and giving of her time and abilities to other artists. I don’t really know where she stands politically, I tend to not want to know about many country artists. Anyway, nice list.

    1. Thanks, Earl. And I agree, Dolly Parton should definitely be considered. I’m sure her sendoff in Tennessee would be tremendous. One, she has maintained her roots there – just as Aretha did in Detroit – and has a huge hometown following to go along with her national superstardom.

  862. #EXACTLY. After the Queen, who? In terms of worthiness I can only think of Nancy Wilson. She is an iconic jazz vocalist. I guess 30 or 40 + years from now it Will be Beyoncé. We have to admit, the great ones have transitioned. Also, the music industry has completely changed. I could be the next best thang outchere #werkinit

  863. What about Bob Dylan? But you’re probably referring to the grandeur of Aretha’s goodbye. Bob would probably want a closed doors funeral or something. Something private, like Prince’s funeral.

    1. Good candidate. Given his stance on social issues and his poignancy, he definitely should be considered for the list.

  864. Rest in peace adieu father, you are a great man in Africa, in fact I do enjoy ur legend son’s music, rip once again

  865. Great job. Opinions will differ, but great job all the same. No 43 is a personal treasure. I alway s wondered why that beautiful ballad didnt have a second verse. Its my run away favour MJ Song.

  866. Thank you for your intelligent and inspired words about the mighty EW&F. Words fail me to describe how much I love this band. Maurice White’s book is a must read. That man was DRIVEN and we all enjoy the fruits of his and the other member’s efforts to this day, and I suspect LONG into the future.

    1. You’re welcome! And thank YOU for reading and commenting. We share our love and respect for this icon of music!

  868. What i don’t understand is why so many black people in the south stand behind the confederate flag? Last time in florida, i witnessed many black people wearing confederate shirts, hats, bandanas, and had flag emblems on their cars. Why isn’t it concidered racist to those black people?

    1. Because, believe it or not, not all black people think alike. Just like not all white people think Trump is a good president.

  869. Thanks for the musical buffet. There will never be another like her. (To me) her voice is indescribable but if I had to (describe it), I would say it encompasses every gospel voice there has ever been. RIP Queen ?

  871. I think the greatest falsetto of all time was Larry Henley (bread and butter). He went on to cowrite Wind Beneath My Wings.

    1. Interesting entry. He had a great singular performance on that one, but I considered those who had larger bodies of work. Thanks for the tidbit on “Wind.”

  873. I’ve been debating over how I would respond to this post. Immediately my childhood comes to mind when I think of Aretha Franklin. The music of Aretha, Otis Redding, Donnie Hathaway, James Brown, And many many others would fill our home while my mother would clean, cook; or during the holidays. There was something spiritual about that. It was at that time, I became keenly aware of Aretha’s status as the Queen of Soul. Like most kids my age Saturday’s were taken when artists appeared on Soul Train. I so vividly remember Aretha’s performance with the natural hair. Thank you Aretha for a royal legacy. Rest In Peace Queen.

  874. Enjoyed reading your article! She will never be forgotten! RIP Queen of Soul.

  877. Regarding Number 2, what I found extra-amazing is that the same week, in addition to the Top Five you’ve already listed, the Beatles also held #31 (I Saw Her Standing There), #40 (From Me To You), #46 (Do You Want To Know A Secret), #58 (All My Loving), #65 (You Can’t Do That), #68 (Roll OVer Beethoven), and #79 (Thank You Girl), for a total of 12 songs on the Hot 100 that week. Oddly, it doesn’t appear that they had anything “bubbling under” that week.

    Also, “Tequila” by The Champs beat out Dave Cortez by over a year. If you wanna nitpick, then “Tequila” becomes the #1 song with the fewest unique lyrics, with 1. Runner up (or the winner, if you don’t wanna nitpick) would probably be “Fly Robin Fly” by Silver Convention, with 6.

  878. This list is impressive in a major way. I still have to scratch my temple on rap artists. WOW!

  880. I had never heard the Steve Marcus tune until now and it seems pretty evident to me the Rafferty stole the head of “Half a Heart” for the sax break and main hook in “Baker Street”. While Baker Street is a great tune in its own right this seems to be a case of a lesser known jazz musician having an original idea stolen by a more well know pop musician, and the pop musician ultimately reaping more of the benefits than the original composers. Of course I could be wrong about that…..

    1. Interesting assessment. I don’t know that any borrowing, if that was indeed the case, was intentional. It could have been a case of Rafferty or someone else having heard that riff subconsciously – not realizing from where it came. Great tune, nonetheless. Thanks for the comment.

  883. I think it’s interesting that PEABO BRYSON.is on the list only 2 times, given he is the king of duets.

    1. Peabo? King of duets? I think Marvin Gaye (or his estate) would have something to say about that.

  884. Thanks for this. The major papers totally ignored these performances. I am angry at myself for believing the haters and not attending!

  886. Great read!! I’ve always respected Blige’s Hustle (that’s Work Ethic for those not savvy enough to interpret street jargon).

  888. Great article. I’m a fan. Wished I could’ve been there to see her perform Electric Lady from her last album.

  889. WOW… As an avid follower of The Billboard charts and being very versed with the ‘traditional’ ranking of “Baker Street” at #2 for several weeks during summer of 1978, your article has completely revised my perspective on the matter – as well as the ‘integrity’ behind the rankings of songs on Billboard. I am a huge fan of Gerry Rafferty as well, including his association with Stealers Wheel and The Humblebums. Thanks for the enlightening revelation!

  891. The bad news, of course, is that all of the acts noted at the end of the post, except Chic, likely benefited from Polygram having a shady relationship with Bill Wardlow, the chart manager at Billboard. Maybe WEA did, too.

    1. Agreed. You should see my article commemorating the 40th Anniversary of “Baker Street” for more on the Billboard (Wardlow)/Polygram controversy.

  892. G.O.A.T proclamations are always subjective.
    I was a wide eyed 11 year old when thriller dropped and got me forever hooked on M.J musically. The thriller and beat it videos were spectacles that have never been matched in iconic value, not even by better MJ videos ( like leave me alone, remember the time, scream or earthsong) for the simple fact that they were groundbreaking at the time they were released. So thriller would always be the most iconic MJ ALBUM , both for the gazillion sales and all the firsts it achieved.
    But my personal favourite has to be DANGEROUS….the adult MJ doing his thing without Quincy meets The Amazing Teddy Riley trying to out-do himself. It was a match made in musical heaven. But that was even just half the album. The other non-newjack swing half ( give in to me, will you be there and who is it) blew away all the competition if there was any.
    The “what if” for me was the trajectory his career could have taken without the child molestation scandals. Its such a shame that the rest of his career basically focused on exorcising real and imagined ghosts, and that clearly blunted his creativity.

    1. I agree, especially with the last points you make regarding the trajectory his career could’ve taken.

      1. Off The Wall….greatest album of all time. “Rock With You” will stop you in your tracks every time to sing along and dance. True music nostalgia. Can’t say the same for songs off of his other albums….except for “Butterfly”.

        1. It’s safe to say everyone has their fave when it comes to MJ’s albums, and there’s likely not a consensus.

  893. Great era of music (70’s) and it’s refreshing to know that the artists and their music are still relevant today.

  895. I feel a sense of loss from Joe’s passing. I love that man and I love the Jackson family. God created something that can never be copied again by any other beings. There will never be another Jackson family…that’s just how God designed it. Adieus Jooe!

  896. Hey dear. Sorry to inform you but Beyonce’s number one streak will be not be touched by this. Due to this being a joint project under the name “The Carters” her streak for solo albums will not be touched. Destiny’s Child was a group a they did not always debut at 1.

    1. Okay, I’ll give you that, but I guarantee you if the album had hit No. 1, they would’ve taken credit for it and added it to their streaks (other artists have done this as well). I’m not discrediting all that they’ve accomplished, as I’m a big fan of both, just stating the chart facts. But you do raise a good point. Thanks for reading and commenting.

  897. Josephine was my great-aunt whom I never met, unfortunately. I have Jean-Claude’s book and talked to him by phone. My plan to meet him at the restaurant never materialized, due to his untimely death by suicide. Thank you for recognizing her.

    1. Thank you, sir. The article was done with the utmost respect for Ms. Baker and all the other artists.

  898. Excellent article. A few surprises for me (Baker, Holiday and Mathis). I didn’t know much about Ma Rainey or Bess. Although I’ve heard the names, I now have a new found respect for their bravery during those times. Lastly, not sure how Young M.A. could’ve disguised her sexuality from anyone but then again maybe she donned a different persona before embracing herself. Thanks for the read.

  899. Rhianna is not more influential than Pink liked I have nothing but love for Ri but Pink is an OG who inspires so many people and what about Demi Lovato

    1. Demi Lovato? Really? If this was a list of just the 2000s or 2010s, then maybe yes. But time didn’t start in 2000. This list covers six decades of history and Lovato’s body of work is far less than women who came before her.

  901. What a legacy…. Many believed Joe Jackson was mean and abusive. What I believe is that he was a man determined to give his children a better life then he had; not just by any means. His determination led to the greatest entertainer and icon of all times. How great a legacy is that to achieve? I do believe in the end he was loved and admired by his children. RIP Joe.

  902. Great article. I will be the first to admit that I’m not familiar with his music or any of these young artists (6ix 9ine, Young Uzi or lil Uzi, or any of them really). I’m listening to his music now and so far like the 3 tracks I’ve heard: Sad, Look at me, and Moonlight. Thanks DJ Rob for all that you do. Your hard work and sacrifice does not go unnoticed.

    1. Thanks, Dean! I don’t know if it’s much of a sacrifice, since it’s a labor of love, but I definitely love that it touches others as well.

  903. Deke it sounds as though he might have been battling with mental health issues. It’s sad it had to end this way.

    1. Wow, only one person calls me Deke! Thanks to my No. 1 person in the whole world for reading and commenting.

  905. Great article on a great upbeat song. Thanks for sharing. Prince’s music is never far from the sound system of our home.
    And what a demo, that layering of voice at 17 very impressive.

    1. Good point. And it was likely held back based on reduced airplay due to its controversial lyrics. Whereas, “Baker Street” was getting the airplay, but was the victim of chart manipulation.

  909. I was at Paisley Park on 05/26/18. It was great to be in that space and feel the vibe of creative energy. It also put me at an interesting junction of emotion – melancholy and happy. Melancholy because he is gone and the visit makes that solidly tangible, happy that my life arc intersected Prince’s life arc. The tour also made clear that to Prince life was work and work was life – there was no boundary between him existing and creating. The brother will always be missed. #PurpleMusic4Ever
    Btw, you did a great job capturing details from memory. So many times I wish could document things I was seeing and hearing.

  910. Nice! Now I have the tune in my head. My older brother had the album and we used to listen to it all of the time in our household. Thanks for the article.

  911. The demo makes me think he didn’t come up with the sugarcane line. It’s a great demo too! I like it at least as much as the released version. What a brain. Was he even 18 when he created this?

    1. I think he was still 17 (it was 1976 and he would’ve turned 18 that June). Reportedly, it was the demo of “Soft and Wet” that got him signed to WB Records.

  912. It’s a great song we all know slavery was wrong and the south lost the war!!!just enjoy great music

    1. But if I just enjoyed the music and didn’t write about it, then there would be no blog and people wouldn’t be able to comment.

  913. Good list, for me Barry Gibb would be number 1. Dude has a sick falsettos and still sounds great in his 70s.

  915. As usual, you provide a perspective I had not considered. Totally agree with you and your assessment. Love the video but don’t know if the music stands up without the visual. Will have to listen to the song and see how it moves me. Thanks.

  916. This was a fun read…thanks for the research Rob! (I love Sister Golden Hair)
    I’ve always had a different take on “American Woman.” Thought of it as a protest song against “Lady Liberty” with references to her war machine and ghetto scenes. Quite possibly it was dual purpose.

    1. I think you’re interpretation is right on about “American Woman,” and I may need to correct the record.

  917. I thought Prince’s America reached top 40, instead it peaked at 46.

      1. Do you dislike the song? Not Prince at his top, but I love it anyway.

  918. The Philly Soul Sound was so influential to my childhood. Thank you. This brings back memories of The Soul Train theme song and the Spinners duet with Dionne Warwick. It was a true soul music movement. Correct me if I’m wrong on this.

  919. I can’t argue with most of your inclusions although I would have put Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis higher than 6th. And I would have included DJ Premier ahead of any of the other hip hop producers you included.

    1. Thanks, Kevin. I took a lot into consideration when I did this three years ago. If it was solely based on personal preference, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis would have been Number One.

  921. Your missing Aftermath Entertainment (Dr. Dre) and I’m assuming this is old so I’ll say that Tech N9ne owns Strange Music, which is one of (If not the most) successful independent labels in at least Hip-Hop. And Hopsin and Damien “Dame” Ritter owned Funk Volume (until it was dissolved) and now Hopsin is starting up his own proper independent (I think independent) label called Undercover Prodigy, and Damien has started his own label about a year ago called Still Movin (Which has Dizzy Wright, who was in Funk Volume long before it dissolved) also, I may be wrong and I’m not sure. But i think 50 Cent started his own label.

    1. Thanks for those suggestions. One day I will expand the list (to more than twelve) and update the rankings. Thanks also for reading and taking the time to comment! DJRob

  922. How about Broome & Black Swan? Black ownership didn’t start in the 70’s, Check out the 1910’s and twenties!!!

    1. You didn’t read Part II and the rest of the rankings. Black Swan, Vee-Jay and others are mentioned.

  923. Wonderful. I was gonna write something on the divergent dominace of JCOLE but this is enough. Keep doing the good work DJRobb

  924. Loved your J Cole review. J Cole will always be my number 1 rapper of all time.

    DJRobb, keep doing what you do!

  926. Interesting article. Prince was the first to experiment with unusual album sale methods, I think. And he, too, was a walking demonstration that record sales and relevancy don’t go hand in hand.

  927. I’m sorry but Teena Marie should’ve been #1. Yet, she wasn’t on your list at all.

  928. Overall I thought they did a great job, especially in the second half. Early on, the camera work was a little too fast and swoopy, and the audience was pretty distracting. I get that they were expected to be very “on” for some parts of the show (e.g. “Hosanna”), but they didn’t have to lose their minds because someone entered the scene, or hit the high note that they were SUPPOSED to hit. But they managed to settle down and that wasn’t the issue that it was in the first half.

    John Legend did well in many, many places, but in others I think he forgot to act while he was singing. A lot of people liked his performance in “Gesthemane (I Only Want to Say)”, but I think both Ian Gillen and Ted Neely did a much better job of conveying the doubt, and then the resignation/acceptance of Jesus’ fate.

    All that said, however, I think they really raised the bar for these events.

    1. Very good assessment. Thanks, I agree… especially about the audience. Although, I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a TelePrompTer telling them to hype it up for the actors for support and encouragement.

  929. I just read the blog and the comments, but there still seems to be no real answer as to how/why these progressive singers and songwriters wrote & sang this song. I used to wonder if the song was somehow meant to be sarcastic, but after listening to it many times, I think the song is sincere. Then I found Robbie Robertson’s explanation (below), and I realized that he had a real love of the South and had accepted and internalized the Southern view of the war as if he was a true child of the old South.

    Robbie Robertson: “Tennessee Williams just appealed to me, the flavour of writing, the titles of the things, Sweet Bird of Youth, Cat On A Hot Tin Roof – this catches my attention, partially because I had gone to the South from Canada, really ying and yang, really a big extreme, so it hit me much harder than somebody who had gone from Washington, DC down to South Carolina – I went from Toronto to the Mississippi Delta, and … I liked the way people talked, I liked the way they moved. I liked being in a place that had rhythm in the air. I thought ‘No wonder they invented rock ‘n’ roll here. Everything sounds like music. … and I got to come into this world, a cold outsider – cold literally from Canada … and because I didn’t take it for granted, it made me write something like The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down .These old men would say , ‘Yeah, but never mind Robbie. One of these days the South is going to rise again.’ I didn’t take it as a joke. I thought it was really touching, that these people lived this world from the standpoint of a rocking chair.’ “

  930. I love it! She made it so everybody can pop they pussy. Right now she’s top shelf. I do hope her sophomore album will bring it also. Her collabos with Chance, 21, and Sza to name a few makes me get into this album. Perhaps a duet with Beyoncé next go round…maybe?

  932. Jackson lives on even in my local town,Jackson is loved for ever live Jackson

  934. Wow! So, I’d like to know how an artist generates his/her revenue/income. Has the music industry become e-commerce? Do artist still have contracts? Are artist still given monies up front? Are artist still being duped out of royalties like Little Richard and Frankie Lymon? DAMN,Great article.

    1. Carlous, they’ve adjusted contracts to include better streaming royalties for artists than in the past. Many acts argue that it’s still not enough, however.

  935. Ahh. America. Where people can chose their gender and sexuality but everyone is so tense when it comes to racism. As a black person myself, let me just say that the black community is as guilty of racism as any White supremacist if they keep picking on other races for appreciating their culture. I think for someone to want to talk, dress and sing black music regardless of their culture is because they admire it and that is a good thing.

    2. You read my mind, thanks. Blacks can scream racism against them but quietly they do same against other race

  936. No Bo Diddley discredited this list. Also don’t remember seeing the drifters, the shirelles, howlin wolf or the four tops.

  938. I wanna be famous! I relay the message, and the receiver gets the numbers up. Unique discussion to be had…

  939. You are very mistaken if you believe the Civil War was fought over slavery. The only people who spread that falsehood are people who haven’t studied that part of history very thoroughly. The main driver of that war was states rights, and one of the issues with individual states happened to be slavery. The south wasn’t singularly guilty of slavery and the north wasn’t completely innocent. And no Abraham Lincoln was not a huge advocate of ending slavery (in fact I’m shocked that people haven’t studied this particular falsehood that gets oft repeated.).

    It’s dangerous to try and change history. Slavery was a terrible part of our country’s history and something that took way too long to abolish. But trying to change history to force the issue as being the key issue in the civil war is reckless, as is the bad habit of trying to frame people who tell history truthfully as being racist.

    1. Actually, the only thing that’s reckless is your framing slavery as a mere footnote in a war that had it gone the other way, blacks might still have been slaves. But since you’re an expert on this part of history, by what other means would slavery have ended were it not for the Civil War and it’s appropriate outcome?

    2. I have studied the subject, and without a predisposition to justifying things. The war was indeed over slavery, disguised as states rights. The issue was whether future states would be admitted as slave states. It was not one of many equal factors in the states rights battle, it was the primary driver. So before you keep advocating for a long disproven explanation of the war try reading contemporary scholarship on the topic. The explanation you blindly offer was promoted as a way to make things seem less disgusting for the Confederacy. Much like the mass production of Confederate monuments when Jim Crow was underway.

  940. This is like wishing the Stones didn’t play “Brown Sugar” and “Gimme Shelter” because you just know “Start Me Up” from the 80’s. I mean no disrespect but the shallowness of that would be stunning and this piece is too. You seem a respectful and decent soul but a music blogger can’t discount the canon of music that you dismiss in favor of Winwood’s late career pop fodder that he pushed out there just to pay some bills. That set represents his very consequential footprint. I know you think that is the view of some arcane dusty super fans but that’s really out of touch. You just don’t seem to understand how huge those songs were to fans, other musicians and their influence on the direction of music—none of which was true with “Higher Love”—a very well crafted also-ran pop song of zero distinction or significance other than charting. Another big song of 1986 was “Danger Zone”—please don’t tell me you love that too and don’t know Loggins and Messina’s “Danny’s Song”. Respectfully intended.

    1. I understand your point of view, except I think you’ve missed my point. It’s not that he SHOULDN’T have performed the older hits, but that it would have been nice for him to play the newer ones in ADDITION to the older ones. To play the obligatory Number One hits (“Higher Love” and “Roll With It”) and ignore the far superior other ‘80s songs, like “Arc Of A Diver,” “While You See A Chance,” “Don’t You Know What The Night Can Do,” “Valerie,” etc., and limit it to a 13-song set was what disappointed me. But I hear your point, and at least you didn’t resort to more pointed insults like some of your less respectful and dare I say crotchety peers. Thanks for reading and commenting.

      1. No I hope I wasn’t rude. You are a good writer and a blog should sew controversy and make engagement.

        1. You weren’t the least bit rude. You spoke your opinion (about my opinion) and you were very polite – albeit direct – about it. I welcome your kind of commentary, even if it disagrees. I appreciate it and invite you to read others of my articles. Btw, I’m a big Steve Winwood fan, and it was not meant to slight him in any way.

  941. Stevie Winwood and the audience that gave him those ovations love the music not the pop pyrotechnics that detract from rather than enhance the power of his soul-stirring songs. Music industry gatekeepers have always tried to pigeon-hole artists into their money obsessed vision of music. Frank Sinatra, the greatest pop artist of the 40s and 50s was dropped from his record label and blackballed from the industry for years because he refused to record an inane novelty tune that his label tried to force upon him. After several years he landed another label and was more successful than ever.
    Sinatra and the subsequent rise of fm radio paved the way for the diverse artistry in popular music that we have since enjoyed. Now that the radio industry has been bought and controlled by huge corporations the music on those airwaves has been suffocated by bean counters who analyze shazam #s and want artists to give them the next Ed Sheeran sound alike record. As a result that industry is dying.
    Fortunately, the opportunities for indie artists have been steadily growing. These artists make their own business decisions and pop music is much better for it. Especially, for those who truly value the music not what’s trendy.

    1. Thanks for your very insightful comments. I know my article has been viewed by some as condescending or as meaning to detract from Winwood’s considerable talent and accomplishments in music. They’re not. They were simply meant to convey my own experience and impressions based on my having come up during the ‘80s and having built most of my appreciation of Winwood through those years’ music. I think there’s room for both sets quite frankly: his ‘60s/‘70s followers and those of his ‘80s and beyond. I appreciate those who’ve come to love both. I just wish that he had found more room for the latter part of his career during what turned out to be just a 13-song set with only two from the ‘80s. It was clear he chose those two – The No.1 hits – to placate the younger group, and even we would argue that those aren’t his best, falling more into the “trendy” category you described than some of those he omitted.

  942. His ’80’s material pales in comparison to his work beforehand. Pop junk. I was embarrassed by it when it was released and have no need to hear it today.

    1. I understand a lot of people feel that way, including many who’ve commented on my Facebook page and many who were in attendance at the show.

  943. Sorry…but quite disappointed you didn’t include Brian McKnight on the list. He has an amazing range to begin with…but he’s particularly admired for his strong falsetto. If not already familiar, check out “Back at One”…a very popular hit, and a personal favorite – the note he belts out @3:26 (approx)…wow.

    I agree with others…Frankie Valli, Philip Bailey and Barry Gibb…come ON! Yes, yes, yes, Yes, YES…to all three!

    Other noteworthy “exclusions”… Matt Bellamy (MUSE) – particularly “Supermassive Black Hole”…and Charles Pettigrew of Charles & Eddie (“Would I Lie To You”)…a lovely, lovely voice.

    I also agree that a true master of falsetto is if he can (successfully) perform live…no “magic studio stuff.”

    I do believe those mentioned above apply. 😀

    1. Thanks for those suggestions, Cassi. I agree they’re all good. I’d have to create a list of 40 to accommodate all the greats!

      1. Scheesh…I’m thinking Top 152 (just kidding…well, not really ;P)…Oh…and I tremendously apologize…how could I forget to include the amazing Sam Smith…? Musta been watching TV…knitting…or something…

  944. Although I haven’t seen this movie (at the present date and time of this discourse), I feel the pride of Blackness. The part of your blog that echoes the loudest for me is when you stated how nice it would be to have that same pride extend beyond a movie showing. Thank you for that. WAKANDA!

  945. Amen my brother! Watched the video today and it put a smile on my face. Appreciate your perspective.

  946. I view his plan as brilliant! This is a great to avoid tax issues by making charitable contributions. I also applaud him doing what non- secular does not; and that is being Christian by actions. I’ll save further comment for another blog, AMEN!

  947. DJRob,

    Great site and great insight. It’s great to be part of and witness firsthand such commitment to one’s true passion. Very few if any truly understand the true time and commitment devoted that has established the foundation of your work. Peace and Love.

  949. DJ, I am much impressed by your social analysis and commentary. And not at all surprised by it. Love you!

  950. See? This is why I read you Rob. I read the whole interview confused and conflicted, but you gave me some great perspective. Thanks.
    I did see his Beatles shot as a cheap and unnecessary slight at the late George Martin. There is no reason to even have a discussion about “who’s the greatest producer” as if the world doesn’t have room for the work of both Jones and Martin, but in discounting the Beatles he attempted to elevate his own star. For me, that diminished him instead.

    1. Thanks, James. I appreciate the support. Jones definitely has been harboring some issues that age and perhaps a little sip-sip helped remove (selectively, I might add) many filters a younger version of him would have applied in such an interview.

  952. I am in complete shock over the statements made by the legendary Quincy Jones. But, lest he forget the proposition of Tupac when the rapper was dating Q’s daughter. Anywho, so what! You like what you like…close the door.

  953. He’s an incredible musician, but I just don’t like people dissing other people publicly, with such vehemence to boot. It’s vulgar and bad behaviour, unless your target is Hitler or Jack the Ripper. He’s one of the producers that I know of with the best taste in musical choices: apparently he doesn’t have the same good taste when it comes to human behaviour. I hope it’s his age doing most of the talking.

  956. I am still taken by a Diva performance. Diana Ross 1996 “Take Me Higher”. It was reminicent of her iconic 1983 concert in Central Park NY. Only by helicopter. I may be off on the dates, but the memory is good.

  957. Well written expose on one of the most disturbing trends in black/African self-degradation world wide. We are carrying this sily Afrophilia too far. What’s the point of being black when you turn vulgarities and obscenities into badges of Afrocentric self assertion ? Some one calls this cunning of impotence

  959. As always, love the article. Whats weird is that currently it seems that anything goes. I mean, look at Bruno Mars with a 90s vibe song and video featuring the reigning Hip Hop “It Girl” Cardi-B. I think, I feel there will at least be an audience of 50 and over that can comprehend the “boogie” Young cats got Lean, old heads got Nozitol. #AARP my dude!

  960. You’re right…I missed most of the 17 lol!! Would love to see Ledisi receive the acknowledgment she deserves at the Grammy’s. We all know that the way the Grammy’s are set up though, that probably won’t happen so I won’t hold my breath! Brings to mind something Ledisi posted not long ago…a quote from her mom, “One day they will truly appreciate your greatness. For now…just keep doing what you’re doing. They’ll catch up.” This inspires me on soooo many levels. I hope you know this is true for YOU too!!!

      1. I’ve missed visiting djrobblog! Well thanks to yet another snow day, I actually had a peaceful moment to actually read again lol!

  961. This list is good but it is laughable without Prince , Sly , Marley and Michael on it. Don’t even think I saw Marvin that’s just out right ridiculous. But good list though . Certainly a lot of deserving people made it.

    1. You read Part III of the list, which was Numbers 50-26. You have to read Part IV (Numbers 25 – 1) to find the names you mentioned. Also check out Part I (No. 100 – 76) and Part II (No. 75 – 51) while you’re at it. The links to the other parts are in each article. Enjoy!

  962. Personally, I’ve never been a huge Petula Clark fan. The only song I really liked from her was “Down Town.” Actually there was another song I’ve liked, but I can’t recall. I think it was “Every Little Bit Hurts.” She’s a very talented woman, I just couldn’t get in to her songs. I’m amazed on how different she looks now. She’s a completely different woman! She looks more like Shirley McClain now… LOLOLOL

  963. Dang you make me wish I had been there, and I don’t even know most of those songs.
    So how old was McCartney when you saw him?

    1. Paul had just turned 75 when I saw him this past July. But Dionne Warwick was nearing her 76th birthday when I saw her in late 2016. She had the record before Neil Diamond in May.

  964. Thanks for writing about this. I was recently back in Australia for my father’s funeral. He loved this song and mum thought we should play it. I’ve been living in the US for 18 years now and I just cringed at the thought… I don’t think I could listen to it without thinking of the resurgence of publicly visible (it’s always been there… but now it’s loud) white supremacism in the last few years. But when I was growing up and Dad would play the Band all the time, I couldn’t reliably have told you which side of the civil war it was about.

  965. She’s more than entitled to take her place there – more so than most of the second raters anyway there. You’re wrong about Lou Reed, though – you might not like him but he was a man way ahead of his time.

  966. This article is spot on, the mainstream hip hop industry is wack and its been like that for years. But one positive thing that happened throughout the years was the development of technology and the social networks. Thanks to them, you don’t have to simply join the wave and listen to the mainstream music that everyones hearing. Now you can actually find trully talented artists that are not part of the system, artists that are purely good. I got so irritated that I created a blog called Groove Detector. This blogs main emphasis is to give credit to the non mainstream good quality rap and hip hop. So check it out because hip hop is not dead!
    You can simply google—-> Groove Detector

  967. Simply well articulated. Thanks for addressing this problem just as much as I want it to. Listening to hip hop over the years, I seem quite happy the violent pictures/scenes aren’t of worry anymore but, the use of the degrading and damning words in hip hop/RNB songs coupled with the fact that access to these music is so much like a free roller coaster ride is worse than imagined. Like you said, the black community are been fed through these music that these words are an atom of POWER, so rather than reject them cuz they are demeaning, we should accept them cuz they are empowering. Big problem for black folks. Morals are refuted, black culture is being neglected, what made us blacks an epitome of hope for other races is been trampled by our new generations. How can we really solve this if the artists in question, don’t come to this self awareness?!

  968. I miss Jay Siegel from the Tokens and their hit ” the Lion sleeps tonight”

  969. Hmmmm??? My thoughts after reading this leads me to believe that 50 years from now the album will be in somebody’s flea market crate for .50 cent, or worse; featured on a remake of the antiques roadshow. #theHipHopMadoff. Great article DJRob. I guess Russell Simons will now have time to read this too. ?

  971. Wow! This has got to be the best article I’ve read all year. Many at times long write-ups lose barely halfway while reading for sheer length than content but you were able to keep me reading all through. I’m African, more specifically Nigerian, and I must tell you that what you have outlined here represents the pitfalls of today’s hiphop music and black music in general, which will include afropop music from my home country that has grown popular with the rest of the world over last few years highlighted by the recent MOBO award in the best international act category given to Wizkid. While I’m excited about the level of acceptance black music has attained in the last two decades, I still lament that what we are giving out is no longer black music, rather we have discredited ourselves in the most disparaging and derogatory ways possible through the ceaseless and senseless use and reference to sexual and racial obscenities. This has lingered in my mind for so long but you’ve finally given expression to my frustrations. It’s already bad enough that real hiphop has been sidetracked by the meaningless and wordless crap that has taken center stage on the music scene in the name of mumble rap/trapmusic, they had to go as far as misrepresenting black culture and portraying the black man in negative light. I can’t say Nigerians artists back home are better on moral grounds because they too taking after their African-americat brothers. It is a general black problem and I’m glad that a there is forum such as this to address these issues. My only annoyance with this article is that I didn’t get to write it first. Lol. But I must admit that I couldn’t have done it any better than this especially with regards to the level of research and work you put into it. Please I’d love to read more of your articles. I’m now a fan and I’m super excited that someone shares the same thoughts with me. Thanks!

    1. You are most welcome, my brother! Your words are just as astounding and articulate, even more so, than what you’ve credited me for. I could have easily replaced the last four or so paragraphs of my article with your more succinct messages and gotten the points across. Thank you again for reading and for contributing! I am most humbled!

      Your brother!

      2. I love this article so much, I really do… I am an upcoming or should I say aspiring artist(Instagram:skppr_lexie, facebook Alexander Lawrence, twitter :alexande Lawrence… Please follow and add up, thanks) , I was born into a Christian family and environment, so it’s already hard enough going into the music industry, talk more of going “secular” because of the insanity and immorality depicted in the lyrics and the visual contents of the songs. I am having some serious problem with support from my family and church acquaintances, but that’s not even my point… Now, I have always tried to justify some of these words considered as dirty by concluding that they are just ordinary words in the dictionary, but of course, how they are used comes into play, right? I feel that music is an art form and some of these musicians are just exercising “poetic justice” . Now, basically, my question is; is it possible to not view these words on their own as vulgar words thereby vindicating it’s usage in some contexts??? And particularly, I’ve always wanted to ask, is “nigga” a vulgar word??? I mean, yes it was used by the whites back in the day to ridicule us blacks but from my point of view I see the usage of the word as “turning an ugly situation to one’s advantage”, by accepting it and even turning it’s negative identity to a positive one identifying a race that was once defamed but stood strong and United and rose up successful.
        Please I need answers to these questions to help me take a firmer decision and resolution…

        By the way, I’m Nigerian too pro_vibes and our music is making me proud sha o

  972. Hello Dj Rob,

    After years of searching (off and on) on the web, I finally found a fellow blogger of color, who is just as musically diverse as I am. I was really, really becoming depressed. We have a serious problem on the web, with not having enough Black bloggers, male Black bloggers in particular. You have no idea how incredibly difficult it was for me to find one person like you. It’s mind boggling!! I just want to say, keep up the good work!! Brothers like you NEED to be acknowledge, ’cause there are too few of use doing what we do (especially in regards to old school music (with diversity)). Thank you, thank you, and thank you.

    Peace.

    Sincerely,

    VintageNewscast.com

        1. Thanks again, man. Actually, I’m planning to revise and update that list (using the list.ly feature with videos) next year. It’ll be three years since I first published it (June 2015).

  974. I dont think this song is meant to romanticize anything about the civil war. I think its meant to show that every single person involved in a war, directly (such as Virgil’s brother who was laid in his grave by a Yankee) or indirectly (Virgil dealing with having his job taken from him and having his brother taken from him) is harmed immensely. People on winning sides of wars tend to dehumanize their opposition, reducing them to “the other.” This song reminds me that they are human beings, just like you and me.

    Think about this. If you were born as a poor white guy in 1855, you would have been 10 years old by the time of this song’s setting. Just an innocent child born into a life of war and destruction. Also think about this.. you would have been exactly the same as the people who were a part of the confederacy. It always sobers my mind to remember this difficult truth. It lends aid to understanding that not everyone who was born into a life of ignorance and hate is personally responsible for how they think. They were raised that way from the day they were born.

    I know Im commenting way too late for you to realistically see this, but i hope that it finds you, and anyone else who reads this.

    1. Believe it or not, I am notified of, and see, every comment on my articles. Yours is very thoughtful, and it simply reinforces a notion that I’ve always believed about hate – that is indeed a learned emotion when it is directed at a people based solely on traits that they are born with and not on their actions.

  975. Excellent article! The news media has not done a good job of informing people of his legacy. Thank you for the respect!

  976. What a dumb article. You can go listen to kindergarten-censored lyrics. No one’s forcing you to listen to GOOD music

    1. Hahaha. It’s funny, I was actually more offended by you calling it “GOOD” music (in all caps even), than I was you calling the article dumb. Your assessment lost all credibility when you labeled this trash GOOD.

  977. Good article! I personally think she should perform at the halftime show because she’s known to make a political statement without being too OTT about it. There’s been no better time in our recent history for a rousing rendition of “Rhythm Nation” than right now.

  978. Great article! I love the fact that I was ready for it to be solely about the NFL’s trash ass decision to tap over hyped, overrated JT. When you flipped it and pointed out that Ms. Jackson has more of a reason than most to boycott The unoriginal, innovation thirsty halftime show I was elated. I personally feel that the only way she should ever grace their stage again is if she plans to bend over and have someone rip a strategically place patch off her backside exposing her ass for everyone to kiss.

  979. Given the current climate of the NFL and its race relations, I believe that this would be an excellent time to strike a pose so to speak. Fourteen years later would be a good look for Justin’s career also and make him the gentleman act he claims to be. For Ms. Jackson, the opportunity would be another jewel in her crown. In the words of her late brother Michael “C’mon!”

  980. The problem with being top on the charts is that it means nothing when it’s not coming from / resulting in sales or radio plays. Yeah, it might be nice to have your single or album in the charts because of streaming numbers, but what good is it if still means no significant $$$ ? Super stars like E might generate enough streams that what Spotify pays them might be considered “substantial” (although i doubt it), but acts below that level can’t make a living from streams. No saying there aren’t alternative routes you can go, just that being on the charts doesn’t necessarily mean much if it can’t put food on the table.

    1. True, but streaming figures are so large – a big hit (the kind that Eminem is capable of making) can generate numbers in the tens of billions of streams – can amount to a big payout. But my point in the article, which may have been poorly made, was not so much about artist’s revenues as it was about their relevancy and acceptance after their political statements. Thanks, Frank, for reading and commenting!

  981. Excellent, excellent summation of the situation! And you’re absolutely right, I am happy that the violent strain of Hip Hop and Black music has calmed down, but the usage of sexual and racial obscenities in every song shows how much this has become normalized in our conversation and our music especially. Also, the thing that gets me, is as you say, this music is more popular currently than any music in black history. Even arguably, the great music of Motown, just due to the easy access to music nowadays and the ubiquity of it. This music no longer has to be worked for to be heard either, no longer does a kid have to go to a record store, buy an explicit piece with a “tipper sticker” on it and hide it from their parents. This is the highest and easiest time of musical access in history and these artists are representing Black people in the lowest of ways, while broadcasting to the ENTIRE WORLD. But I don’t think the music will change until we can change the conversation within the community to a degree, but its hard to do so when art is influencing the community in the way it is!

  982. Interesting insights as always. You reminded me of my own conspiracy theory about country music. Give it some thought and maybe there’s a future blog there for you:
    Country music in my day (yes I’m old) seemed to me to be themed about the challenges of life. Good song topics were alcoholism, divorce, or prison. I wasn’t a fan, but I understood the effort to reflect the struggles of a segment of society. Somehow that changed to where every other song is about the joy of having nothing. All you really need to be happy (it seems) is a pickup truck, an old t-shirt and cold beer. And if your gal can find a pair of cut off jeans, then you’re all set. I’m not sure how that narrative came into play and why so many country performers endorse it, but the accompanying themes of blind patriotism and how things were in “the good old days” has always bothered me, especially as I see how it seems to resonate with Trump’s base . The day that Maine tried to take those blinders off, she crossed Mather’s line in reverse…but why? Why the connection to country music and republicanism?

    1. Thanks, James, for your thoughts and insights. I’ve often thought about the direction that country music has taken the past decade or so. It’s been referred to as “bro-country,” with all the themes you mentioned being prevalent. You may or may not follow hip-hop music, but there are some parallels. I just posted an article minutes ago about how bad it’s gotten lyrically and topically. I may take you up on the suggestion about a future country blog. There’s certainly enough fodder. Thanks again, James!

  983. Thoroughly enjoyed your commentary!! I didn’t know about the details of the Dixie Chicks case from 2003. I agree, Eminem surely won’t be another one of them! The invention of social media since that time would be reason enough. THESE FANS AIN’T LOYAL! A once diehard fan can transform in seconds into a “I’ll never support that joker again” fan with a #BoyBye, #GirlBye, or #ByeFelicia to top it all off…and literally never make a download purchase ever again! Because his fan base is so widespread, it would be interesting to see fans who may have done this to Eminem. I do believe his move is strategic and he has much to gain…largely because we, as a society, love controversy. Not to mention, we all want to feel as though we are being heard and in turn, we will get behind anyone we feel gives us a voice.

  984. Your line about rock and country artists dissing Obama shocked me. I didn’t know that and I haven’t had the strength to make that search on Spotify yet.

    1. You can also Google “anti-Obama songs” and find some. It shouldn’t surprise you that those exist. It’s largely the reaction to Obama that led to the current POTUS being elected.

  985. In my mind I hear a remix of Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors turned backward lyrically “I see your true colors, and that’s why I hate you” performed live by Kanye West and Taylor Swift titled Impeach! Mad Props to Eminem; his timing is spot on. Now is the time to strike! Where are these artists that say they’re about something? Now is the time!!! Do something! Say something!

  987. On the wall of my classroom I have three sketches of people holding guitars that I drew way the hell back in high school. My students ask me about them from time to time. I tell them that Bob Dylan and Neil Young may be not only the greatest song writers of their century, but perhaps poets who will be remembered well into the future. When they ask about my likeness of Tom Petty I am sometimes dismissive and say that I just liked the “Damn the Torpedoes” cover and drew it for fun one night.
    As always, your insights make me see him in a new light. I always liked his sound, and now I’m genuinely sad that I never saw him perform. I’ll give him another listen and check out the “new” album that I confess I’ve overlooked.

    1. You and me both are sad about that. I would have seen him this year when he came to Chicago, but I was out of town on business. I actually teared up when I learned of his passing Monday.

  988. Wow! I just stumbled across this website, and I remember the song well. The Joan Baez version that is, it was a juke box favourite in the ice cream parlour I worked in as a 15 year old.
    My take on it was as a reflection on a proud but ignorant (uneducated, not stupid) people who couldn’t see – or didn’t want to see – their way of life disappear.
    In the current political climate they might even succeed for a while. But if it does it will collapse, any authority that suppresses knowledge and education will never prevail.

    Roger.

    1. May I use your quote (the last sentence) on a Facebook post? I can’t think of a more profound statement that I’ve read in the past year. Thank you so much!

  993. Dave Barry, guitarist and musical director for The Voice, toured with Cher’s never ending farewell tour a number of years ago. I have known him for years and went to see him, and Cher, when she played Duluth (my hometown). I had the same experience of explaining to my friends who questioned me about it before I went…sort of an apologetic, “well, I’m really going to see Dave…”
    Of course, as we both learned, no apology was needed. She was and is the consummate entertainer. A year or so later my wife and I flew to Vegas to see the show again at Caesars Palace. The lesson I learned then is that if someone is famous enough that you can recognize them and name a handful of their songs, it is undoubtedly because they are great entertainers and well worth a watch.
    I’m kind of a Jackson Browne, Neil Young, or even Greatful Dead kind of guy, but when I stumbled on to free tickets to Barry Manilow I went and I loved it. When I saw Cher in Duluth her warm up band was actually the Village People! They sang and danced to canned music with their middle aged guts protruding through goofy outfits, but they proved to be accomplished and talented showmen who worked their audience, drew us in and had me singing YMCA along with everyone else.
    Thanks for Cher-ing. Well thought out and written as always.

  994. Shock and dismay? Im sure he knows full lyrics to I will survive, unbeknownst to his wife. ?

  995. Darrell, you are the best, my friend!!!! And EWF is one of the very best ever, and when they perform together with Chicago, the world rocks! Love the Class of 1977!!!!

  996. Not trying to be rude but this is all wrong. Bobby Debarge and El in my opinion should be #1 and 2 and some of these shouldn’t be on hear at all. I clearly don’t understand how some of these people even made the list.

  997. I loved singing this when I was little in just the way you explain it, though I am a white northerner. As I grew up and learned to play guitar I became a huge fan of The Band and of Baez and often covered “The Night…” I guess I always thought the redemption of the song was to see the human side of conflict and to personalize what we all lose in war, a musical version of All Quiet on the Western Front.
    Your article is well timed since I have actually debated about whether I will ever sing this song again(I haven’t) since the events in Charlottesville. I may not, but I think it can be done if it is done Baez style, just after Joe Hill, and right before We Shall Overcome. All of us need to strive to better understand the whole human experience and that includes understanding that a poor working man who lost his brother in war is bitter in defeat. At my best I get that while knowing the cause was unjust. I think Robertson and Helm wanted us to see the humanity in everyone, a good message that is lost on many including the marchers in Charlottesville. Sadly though, now I feel like I would need to do a five minute explanatory discussion of the lyrics before I walked up to that first E minor. Too bad. It’s a great song.
    Thanks for a well written and thought provoking piece.

    1. And thank you, Jim, for an even more thought provoking and well written response. Your comments – as well as similar thoughts by others – have certainly made me see the song’s lyrics from a better perspective. With the benefit of hindsight, If I were writing the article today, I’d include your perspectives about the human side of conflict and draw a finer distinction between that and what the song’s symbols represented. I agree Robertson and Helm (and maybe Baez’s cover) did it with those thoughts in mind – I never questioned their motives. The ironies associated with the creation of the song are what I found most striking…and still do. Thank you very much!!

  998. If you like “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” (and can savor both the tune and recognize the ironies) you’ll love “Tomorrow Belongs to Me” — the (exquisitely chilling) Nazi anthem from Cabaret, written by a couple of gay Jews — and now a favorite of Richard Spencer.

    1. If Richard Spencer holds up vanilla ice cream as a symbol of white supremacy because it happens to be the best-selling flavor, am I supposed to stop “liking” that also?

      1. Not at all. I wasn’t trying to be critical or sarcastic, just offering an example of a similar phenomenon regarding another song.

        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29Mg6Gfh9Co

        (Note the bucolic sweetness at the beginning — then, the old Jewish guy — and finally the remark toward the end, “You still think you can control them?” Brilliantly effective!)

        As for The Band? One of my favorite songs (and musical groups)… I love Americana! Interestingly, I stumbled onto this blog by Googling the name of that tune, along with the word “Charlottesville” — curious to see what would come up. I found your perspective very insightful (though personally, I think Baez [uncharacteristically] butchers her version).

        Keep up the good work!

        1. Thanks, Mitchell. I misunderstood your point, and am glad you took the time to explain. I appreciate your perspective and the dialogue – makes blogging all the more worthwhile. And thanks also for explaining how you stumbled on the article. As for Baez, you’re right about how she butchers it, although I didn’t realize that until I researched the song and discovered how different it was from the original.

  999. I have also always had a mixed relationship with this song, for many of the reasons you mention. I was familiar with The Band before the Baez version so was familiar with much of the background. What I have found over the years, especially when remembering songs from my younger days (I was born in 1958 so it sounds like our youth overlaps a bit), is that many songs I liked have become problematic for me. I don’t mind problematic, it means I am at least somewhat aware of context and circumstance, but it does cause me to come to a more nuanced appreciation of a song. Whether the problematic part deals with race, gender, violence, whatever, being problematic means I have to listen more actively than I did when I was young. That is, of course, a good thing. We tend to take way too much stuff in passively and it influences us without us even knowing quite often, so an active engagement is always welcome. Thank you for your interesting take on this song.

    1. Earl, thanks for your thoughtful comments. Your assessment on how our views on music and particular songs change as we age is right on. Those changes can be related to more actively listening to a song’s lyrics than we first did, or by things related directly to aging – like maturity and wisdom. For instance, I dislike “Rock Me Amadeus” much more now at 51 than I did when they were popular (and when I was 19). Thanks also for reading the blog.

  1000. Swift, Beiber, and many others = fabricated pop. I’m waiting on a new REAL voice to emerge. A Whitney type with mega voice and true pop appeal. Where are you girl? Can you hear me? We’re starving with this radio? Has R&B flatlined? Well, country is sounding pretty good right about now ?

  1001. There are many changed lyrics in the Baez version even where the original lyrics sung by Levon Helm are perfectly clear e.g. “By May 10 Richmond had fell” becomes “I took the train to Richmond that fell” and “Like my father before me, I will work the land” becomes “Like my father before me, I’m a working man” and so on. It seems a very disrespectful and unprofessional misappropriation of the work of fellow musicians – I truly wonder what Robbie and Levon thought of this. That’s before we even get to contrasting the soul and emotion in the original version with the complete absence of it in the Baez version which she slaughters, reducing it to, as you say, pop candy. DJ Rob, as you can probably tell, I love the original and look forward to other artists being able to do justice to it. Best regards from England.

    1. Grahame, I understand and respect your view on Baez’s version. I tend to agree with it from a historical perspective. I’ve read where members of the Band didn’t like her take. I’m glad you took the time to read the article and comment. Cheers to you from America!

  1002. I was sent a link to this by an American friend as this — since Charlottesville — has been exercising me mightily. Like George III ‘I glory in the name of Briton’ and so even having spent a year in Virginia many years ago get very confused by US attitudes to race and the Recent Unpleasantness…..

    1. Surely America doesn’t have the market cornered on racist attitudes, but I, too, am perplexed given the decade in which we now live.

    1. Yep, I thought it was THE Robert E. Lee, and I had that in the article before editing it out when I saw a lyric sheet that didn’t print it that way. I will correct it (after listening to the songs again). Thanks, Kurt!

      1. Someone else mentioned in your thread that he was sure the reference was to the man and not the boat. So I had to do a little research.

        My first question was “Would anyone in Tennessee have seen Robert E. Lee riding by with his troops?” Virtually every battle that Lee fought in was in Northern Virginia during the last few years of the War. Virginia does border Tennessee but it seems highly unlikely that Lee would have been riding by anywhere in Tennessee. Case solved, right?

        Nop. If the song does refer to the famous steamboat, then it does so about a year before the ship was ever launched. The waning days of the Civil War could be anywhere between November of 1864 and Spring of ’65. The Robert E. Lee was launched sometime in 1866 and became famous four years later when it beat another steamboat, the Natchez, in race on the Mississippi River.

        So who knows. Mr. Robertson may have made a small mistake when writing the song a century later.

        1. Thanks, Kurt! Your dedication to this topic is indisputable. As for the historical accuracy, is it possible that the song is written from the perspective of someone a year or so after the war had ended? After all, he is recalling “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” implying that he’s doing so after the fact. How far after the fact is quite possibly the question at hand here, but who’s to say it couldn’t have been a year or more afterward the war had ended?

      2. Please read the lyrics. It is about the suffering of the South not the glory. Virgil Caine is my name and I drove on the Danville train
        ‘Til Stoneman’s cavalry came and tore up the tracks again
        In the winter of ’65, we were hungry, just barely alive
        I took the train to Richmond that fell
        It was a time I remember, oh, so well

  1004. I’m so happy that she appears to be doing well. Although we’ll never know exactly what she is going through, a healthy and positive attitude can go a long way to help fight the good fight. Excellent article.

  1005. It’s a good chart with great descriptions for each artist, but it’s too heavily based on commercial success. Michael was a great entertainer, but he was a bit like a black Elvis. Many of his songs weren’t written by him, I would never have thought of him for number 1. If you look exclusively at artistry, Stevie Wonder, Prince, James Brown, Jimi have way more depth. Prince’s music has had a much bigger impact on today’s popular music than any other musician’s. These guys weren’t as successful as Michael, but I don’t think that should be the point. Also, many black jazz musicians who didn’t even make the list were far greater artists than Whitney or Mariah. And Louis Armstrong I think was the single most important musical artist in human history. But aside from my personal views, thanks for the interesting read.

    1. Daniele, I agree with some of your views and will be updating the list next year during black music month – the third anniversary of this list. Some artists that were inadvertently omitted as well as changes reflecting the last three years of “evolution” for music will be reflected. Plus, it will be updated using the Listly feature that I’ve been using since 2016, which will make it a much easier (and shorter) read and easier to navigate. Thanks for reading and for the constructive feedback!

    2. Michael Earned that number 1 spot through hard work blood sweat and tears.I get sick of people always trying to put down his talent.

      2. I’m not putting down his talent in any way, but I really don’t think he’s the greatest musician on this list by a long shot. He’s the greatest musical entertainer probably. Of course these are just my opinions, I didn’t think they’d get anyone sick.

  1006. Great article. It’s unfortunate that Ms. Carey, who has been revered as one of the greatest voices in music, is steadily heading down the path of destruction. She has become a cartoon charachature of her former self with her diva antics, public faux pas, and her refusal to embrace the fact that she is aging. I think her best is clearly behind her however she has forever etched a name for herself in music. I just hope she doesn’t dismantle it. By the way, I agree with you that Da Brat is a relic from the past but she has managed to keep herself current as a DJ on The Ricky Smiley Morning show.

  1008. Was always surprised that the follow-up Top 40 hit Holding Out for a Hero didn’t chart higher than it did and how she was not able to have more hits afterwards. Might have been because the Footloose soundtrack was selling like hotcakes.

    1. Yeah, I think it was just a matter of lightning striking (twice) for her. I never viewed her as being that marketable, especially as the ’80s became more dance-oriented (ironically, right around the time Footloose was popular). But at least she gets increased royalties every time there’s an eclipse.

  1010. Wow, that was packed chock-a-block full! I will probably still watch a few games this season, but support what Chuck D is saying, It would also be hypocritical to turn the other way on some of the other social evils ands pick an choose the ones we protest about.

    As I watch horrified at the images on the screen from Virginia this weekend, I am reminded of the greatest form of protest that people died to deliver to us…the power to vote. And when so many of the people on the streets protesting did not exercise that right, it put us right where we are today. So I support the causes and the right to protest, but hopefully when the next opportunity comes to use the tools that will make a difference…VOTE!

    P.S. They don’t count the number of protesters to determine the outcome of elections; at least not yet!

    1. Thanks, Zakia! Did you read my other Prince articles? You can sign up for free notifications on the home page – Prince gets lots of love here.

  1013. I have to first admit to you that growing up I was no Prince fan. Sure I liked some of his music and who can deny how infectious some of his Monster hits were especially around the Purple Rain era. With that being said, I heard the version of Computer Blue as well as several other unreleased tracks including one called Wonderful Ass. I must say that I was blown away and I still can’t understand why these tracks have been vaulted all of these years. Every song I heard had the word HIT written all over it. Thank you for your descriptive details of this unreleased version of Computer Blue. Your passion for the song and Prince’s art is palpable and makes me want to listen to the unreleased tracks all over again.

    1. Thanks, Dean! You’re right. They should’ve released it and some of the others – at least as B-sides or on 12″.

  1014. Great chart! Of course, it would have been completely different if I wrote it, but I guess nobody’s chart would be the same as anybody’s. If you can, try to get hold of 1985’s version of Old Friends 4 Sale, without the orchestra. It’s unreleased, so it couldn’t make this chart, but to me that’s top Prince, his best song ever. The released version pales in comparison.

    1. Thanks, Daniele! I will definitely look for it! And feel free to sign up for future article notifications via email – it’s free!

  1015. I’m not sure how I came across it, but I’ve had a copy of the hallway version of Computer Blue for over 20 years. I was glad it made it on the re-release and glad everyone else now has it in their collection as well.

  1016. This was a really good article. Computer Blue for me wasn’t the worst track on the album. In fact, Take Me With U, always came off as the ultimate filler song on that album because the movie was part love story and it felt as if it was thrown in there to give Apollonia a chance to add her voice to the film. Like you I turned it up anyway because it’s such a classic album and the song brings you back to the scenes of the movie. To be honest this version of computer blue has been circling around for quite some time especially if you were part of the whole Napster craze at the very beginning. There are a number of songs that I pirated … yes I know pirating is wrong but when you’re poor but the collectors taste hey what can you do… in those early days of Napster. I was not concerned with what was new or hot at the moment I was trying to fill empty holes in collections that I had, namely the Prince collection/catalog. On Napster this was simply labeled “Segue scene do you have a girlfriend.”

    1. Thanks for the enlightenment! I figured it was probably out there before in bootleg circles. Still, I’m just discovering it (late) by virtue of a legitimate release (lol). I’m a long-version slut when it comes to certain jams, so this was just right up my alley! Thanks for reading, Mark! Feel free to sign up for free email notifications of other articles when they’re posted.

  1017. fabulous review. i ordered the cd (didnt know it would be in stores) and only watched the concert dvd and played the unreleased/b-sides disc in the car on the way to work one day. Computer Blue flat out blew me away!!! always loved the lp version, thought it was a great driving song through the canyons were i grew up. this version is unbelievable. would have completely destroyed everything else on purple rain lp had it been including as recorded. thanks for writing this!

    1. You’re absolutely right, gdub520! Clearly now the best song on “Purple Rain,” and a great example of how sometimes labels make poor decisions regarding which songs and which versions to include and/or release. Thanks for the feedback and feel free to register for notifications of more articles.

  1018. I’m so glad I stumbled upon your website DJRob (via Prince Facebook group). I “thought” I was a writer (lol). Thank you so much for this outstanding article on Prince. You’ve pretty much summed things. Today is not a good day for me, however, I am healing through your prolific words.

    1. Thanks, Jeanne! I hope you read more articles and sign up for free notifications of new articles as they’re posted!

  1019. Great write up Rob, and thanks for the mention. Great to meet you. James and Mark from the U.K.

    1. James, thank you for reading and for helping make my experience even greater!! I loved it! (Great meeting you and Mark as well… hopefully our paths will cross again!)

  1020. THIS article, as well as the links to the unheard music is like a BONUS birthday gift! I am IN LOVE with the ” Hallway Version” of Computer Blue…man!! Whew!!!
    SUPERB job here, DJ ROB!!

  1021. I struggle with embracing Mr. Kelly’s music ever since the video came out of him engaging in sex and water sports with an underage girl. For the longest time I avoided getting anywhere near the video because I didn’t want to see a child being taken advantage of. It took my nephew coming to live with me and him having the video to finally take a look and I lost respect with him (R. Kelly) immediately. I say that I struggle with embracing his music because I was a fan long before the video appeared so it became hard for me to reconcile (in my mind) liking music from someone who is a predator of children. I vowed never to purchase anymore music of his, which I haven’t. I was equally disgusted with the NAACP for granting him an image award in the midst of this scandal. Although I know we’re innocent until proven guilty, in my heart of hearts I’m convinced that he has a sexual perversion for young girls. He hasn’t, to my knowledge, sought help and has not been held accountable for it.

    1. I agree. The NAACP award was over the top. Give him his accolades musically, which have more to do with sales and chart accomplishments, but an “image” award? Really?

  1022. Hey rob how can I be a featured artist here on this blog?

  1023. Ok, you can officially 86 that college degree in business with a minor in music…. ?

  1024. I remember my first encounter with the wondrous music of EWF. 1975(76?) driving south 101 just past LA city hall(when the traffic actually moved) and the old Brew 102 bottling plant. Bumpin’ the sounds and on comes That’s the Way…!

    I was blown away and instantly knew these guys were destined. They became one of the few acts(Jackson, Wonder, Chicago, Elton) who’d i’d put my hard earned money down for(sounds unheard)
    when their albums dropped. Got to see them at the Fab Forum a year or two later. The live shot rates right up there with Michael.

    Wish i still had those platform shoes and leisure suit!

  1025. In the words of Sophia (The Color Purple)
    HELL NO lol. I actually like the remakes especially Miles Davis’ version of Human Nature. But what are people thinking? I’m sure Michael would approve, but I just can’t.

    1. Hmmm…Michael would approve, but you can’t. There are so many places I could go with that one…but I’ll let others feast on it for a minute.

  1026. I think you missed the greatest of them all…..Scotsman Frankie Miller. You must check him out. His songs are some of the most emotionally rendered soul songs ever recorded. Unfortunately, a massive brain hemorrhage almost killed him and rendered him speechless.

  1027. I knew even before i looked -that ‘Live and Let Die’ was gonna be #1….Good choice! ! And i’m glad that ‘For Your Eyes Only’ made top 10,.Along with Chris Cornell (RIP)…’You Know My Name’…Great List!!?

  1028. Great list mate! There’s more to being the greatest artist than sales, so I tho k the top three is spot on! Madonna can’t compare to those three ?

  1029. M’kay… lol. Actually, I’m kind of a fan, you know the kind that knows the words to most his catalog. I grew up listening to FM stations on road trips in the country. I have a love hate for the song America. More hate given the current state of affairs in our country as it relates to H1b visa abuses which impact MY career progression. Don’t let me get on my soapbox (go there) (role my eyes ?)

    1. Haha…well thanks for reading the article. I don’t have a problem with “America,” but I know that others do. But then, many people who have a problem with immigration don’t want to do the jobs that immigrants do.

  1031. Nigga u talking some really good shit. Tpab was a very good album, but a slow digest for many people, cause of all the spoken word and jazz experimentations. This is an easier pickup. If all this criticisms (hating) are for this album,i pity for poor Lil yatchy and uzi vert

    1. The fact that I even spent time reviewing this album means Kendrick is in a league of his own (and held to a high standard). Lil Yatchy, Lil Uzi Vert and Migos (and others like them) wouldn’t even get a paragraph for that BS they put out.

  1032. What we gon do? Now that rap is main stream, it’s development can’t be reversed (Common – I used to love her), she’s already been raped. Question? Has Chance ever used the N-word? Now that he makin money (for the man), will that change? Toss a quarter at a coon and he will buck dance for us. I like that he promotes education though. We’ve seen erythang from butts out, to jail terms, to hoein, to high as fuck (af) and can’t remember shit. But! That one word won’t stop the hurt until we turn it on it’s creator. Maybe Bill Maher is a house n***a. Jus sayin

  1033. I feel you. The jams you rated are the real dope shot. That Fear would be my no.1 at first pick though.

  1034. I LOVE IT! As a kid I would have never imagined that society would be starved for quality soul music. It’s essence always seemed to be ever present even across genres. Reminds me of Common’s cut I Used to Love Her….The bottom line is ears are thirsty among other things ?. I hope to catch these guys while they tour – Thanks DJRob!

  1037. Chukwudumaga, thank you for your comment. But I hardly think you can call a set of “outtakes” (untitled, unmastered) from an album (TPAB) a “continuation” of that album. Those cuts didn’t make TPAB for a reason. Also, I don’t typically check with other folks’ opinions before I express my own, so if Pitchfork and others think the album is dope, that’s fine. But I respect your opinion. I have given DAMN. several listens since I wrote this article and do respect his work and what he’s trying to do with this album.

    Thanks for reading the blog.

  1038. Fantastic compilation of information on the great “Got to Give it Up.” This song has always been a big one in my appreciation of music, I heard it off the vi yo album during the early ’80s when my Dad would still spin it during his music listening sessions. At that exact time, I didn’t hear it on the radio as,hch as I heard “Sexual Healing.” As the years progressed I’ve seen it come to be considered THE soulful dance record of its era. What always got me was the laid back bassline, Gaye’s electric piano accents, the great sax solo, and John T McGhee of LTD’s super funky guitar solo on the long version! In fact, it was the super uniqueness of “Got to Give it Up” that ultimately gave the Gaye family the verdict in the “Blurred Lines” case. This song has a pattern that has ever fully been repeated in its era, there is no other “disco” song that sounds like a long funky jam session in the manner of this one. I believe Marvin laid the bass down on his electric piano instead of using a bass player, Jack Ashford plays the percussion parts on a juice bottle, instead of a horn section, Marvin uses one soulful tenor man playing bluesy licks, there are no strings and the groove doesn’t change. It’s almost underproduced, in total contrast to the slick disco productions of the era, the record sounds like the ultimate house party and it brought that vibe to the radios and nightclubs. You put this on next to “Everybody Dance” by Chic and u have two totally different funky approaches! Also big props for mentioning that “Shake Your Body” down connection, that always caught my attention! Man, incredible work you’re doing, I didn’t think 40 things could be said of one song but you handled it masterfully!

    1. Thanks, Enrique! And thanks for sharing that knowledge on “Got To Give It Up” and what it meant to you. I didn’t think I could come up with 40 things either. Some of them were a stretch, but it worked. I’m sure there’s more out there I could’ve included. Thanks again for the loyal support, man!

  1040. One thing tho. Be humble bitch and sit down. Kendrick the man. All these analysis.. That ain’t why we listen to music blood. We listen to it for it. So take all yo lame ass analysis and stick it where the sun don’t shine.. Not ur ass tho, that be gay.. Ur thoughts bro. Bless up?

  1041. A once in a lifetime experience I’m sure. I had the privilege and pleasure of visiting Neverland Ranch on the very day The King of Pop was memorialized (I was out there on vacation). I didn’t get to see as much as you as no one was allowed beyond the gate yet it was a really surreal moment for me. I can only imagine how you felt at Paisley Park. Thanks for sharing with us.

  1043. WOW! All I can say is “take me with you ?” This is officially on my bucket list. Thank you.

  1044. I don’t know if it’s because I have listened to the Album several times so your initial assessment seems bland to me. I honestly feel u need to take a second listen or perhaps I just have a different opinion of good music from yours but i feel ur review is misleading… FEEL. LOVE. GOD

    1. I listened to it several times before writing it. Not everyone is going to agree about this or any album. That’s why we have opinions (and blogs). Thanks for reading. I have new respect for DNA.

      1. I think over time CLASSICS have been reviewed or critiqued without a second listen because when you just listen,without it even appealing to you,you clearly figure without having to dig deep. The reason we have a second and repeated listens most times is because of who the artists in view is. The level Kendrick is right now,does he need to wanna “sell a record” to make it? Spoken word poets and other literatis listen to h for content first before anything else. DAMN, no matter how die-hard fanatics of Kendrick wanna look at it is just an okay album. If this were to be some other artists, we’d say it’s overrated. Let’s call a spade a spade. I’m a Kendrick fan,but damn,i ain’t feeling DAMN even after almost a week’s listen. Forgive me.

        1. Thanks for your comment, Leonell. I’ve been called all kinds of names for my review of this album, but I appreciate balance – as opposed to blind praise – when it comes to reviewing art.

    2. Thank you. He didn’t mention any of these tracks and they really stood out in the album. I don’t think he’s trying to beat himself he does what he does how they come to him

  1046. It’s articles like this one that really makes your blog one that I’m glad to read. I love the trivia and all of the nuances that go beyond the superficial and really teaches me more than I never knew that I didn’t know. Thanks! P.S. I love the picture of Shannon. Thanks for sharing.

  1047. I totally and 100% agree that Sheila E’s (and guests) performance should have ranked at the # 1 spot as it was amazing to watch. I feel that Jennifer Hudson should’ve ranked higher and alone as her performance was amazing as well. Great list!

  1048. It’s funny, when I was a kid riding in the car on long trips I would always know the words to these songs but never knew who the artist was. Thanks for this. Right now “midnight at the oasis” keeps playing in my mind. Sorry for the digress ?

  1049. Contrary to what is written here. If you can ignore the instrumentation, and follow the lyrics and delivery through. You’d realize this is probably his deepest album so far. Even the so called radio-friendly loyalty and Humble are very deep work of arts on the album. Just because they were shaped in a radio friendly manner doesn’t make them bad. When you have the chance to make yourself sellable, take it. Sellable song doesn’t always mean bad song. And maybe he rapped about what others have always rapped about for years, his terrain is relatively different because in any field of art, you have to make your art relatable, else, its no different from an encryption. I by far, prefer this to TPAB, which sounded like a different genre entirely.

    1. I understand your viewpoint. Thanks for commenting. My assessment was done within 24 hours of the album’s release and after repeated listens. My perspective on some of the tracks has changed since, and there will likely be as many different opinions about this album as there are people listening to it – even more given those whose views will likely mature with the album.

    2. I still haven’t been able to figure out how reviews of a work of this magnitude can be done within 24 hours of it’s release. I’m not exactly over the moon, neither am I scathing in my judgement yet. Kendrick’s work in my experience, is one that requires one to live through it. It’s an experience that cannot be flipped through. Its art, its poetry. I don’t get how anyone can ascribe “classic” status or damning criticism without the benefit of time. And this is not just about Kendrick. Reviews are generated within hours these days and it just doesn’t sit with me

      1. I did use several qualifiers in my discussion, like “yet” when stating that the album didn’t move me. I also gave praise to several of the album’s tracks. I don’t know that “scathing” is an accurate description when it come to this piece. But I appreciate your viewpoint.

        1. Djrob, beautiful review… I felt the same way you did after listening to damn didn’t actually move me in an instant like To Pimp A Butterfly did. In my opinion, this is nothing close to the former, both in terms of lyrics, energy and depth. I still think To Pimp A Butterfly is Kendrick’s deepest still yet cos a lot of songs you couldn’t handpick were and I still bump ’em till date while they remain fresh in my head like it’s the first time I’m listening, “How much a dollar cost” is epluribus unum. He either rushed the album or he did it on purpose, try something new? I really don’t know but what I do know is, Kendrick is gonna know that this didn’t measure and he’s gonna come back hard, so the next album is gonna be something else, that I’m optimistic about for sure!

          1. Snowballangelo, thanks for the feedback! If you’ve seen my site’s Facebook page, you’ve probably seen all of the reactions to this article. I knew it would generate mixed reactions and generate conversation. Nonetheless, “HUMBLE.” just made it to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, while “DNA.” enters at No. 4. This will easily be his biggest commercial success yet, judging by early returns. But, as I’m sure you know, commercial and critical success do not always go hand in hand.

  1050. To be fair, DAMN doesn’t have a clear cut theme as GKMC or TPAB, it’s more of a state of his mind currently kinda album which I think was the goal he had. He clearly says it in Element that in his last album he tried to lift the Black Artist. He’s been heralded as a Rap Saviour but he’s just trying to tell people that he’s just a human being… Not a prophet, not a leader, just a human being with issues.

    1. Understood. As with any album, an initial assessment such as mine can be changed with repeated listens and further understanding gained.

  1052. DAMN…don’t y’all forget that I’m an artist and I’m sensitive about my shit lol – E. Badu. Great read, let’s see how this goes for Mr. Duckworth.

  1053. Great review. So far I’m not super impressed by this album as I was “To Pimp a Butterfly”, and I think basically Kendrick was running away from getting trapped in that “Arrested Development”, “alternative Hip Hop” bag. But even if he wanted to do the style everybody else is doing, he’d still have had to do it uniquely if he’s truly going to be a great artist. As it is he’s more of an artist with flashes of greatness right now, which is okay too. But again, every rap artist with content is like water in the desert to longtime Hip Hop fans.

    1. I agree, Enrique. On the one hand, you’d like artists of his pedigree to grow with each album, but on the other, you’re almost happy that he has any substance at all in this day and age – and considering most of his generational peers.

  1055. Not sure how I missed this one, but reading it now takes me back to the night in the fall of 2012 when I was fortunate enough to see Ms. Streisand perform at the UC. As I have loved her since I first saw her in “Funny Gir”l (not to mention that “The Way We Were” is my favorite film of all time), the opportunity to experience her live was absolutely a dream come true. I’m not really much for crying, but gosh did the tears flow *that* night! This was on the eve of President Obama’s re-election, and she had some lovely things to say about our POTUS, about the city of Chicago, and about her friend Marvin Hamlisch who had just passed. And the songs. Oh, the SONGS!

    It was a magical, memorable night — one I will never forget. So glad you got to experience the magic of “Babs” as well!

    Thanks for the great post!

  1056. You had me going until you said thousands of fans. I was thinking Aretha all along but even she doesn’t sell out to arenas that big now and days. Thanks for the laugh.

    1. Actually, she filled a 3600 capacity Chicago Theater last night, so – in this case – thousands would’ve been technically correct.

    2. She did well at Oracle Arena in Oakland last year, home of the Golden State Warriors, but she hadn’t been in Oakland since the ’80s so maybe that explains part of it.

      1. It’s easier for these older artists to play bigger venues when they don’t tour as often. But Aretha’s best-selling tour days are clearly behind her.

        1. I always enjoyed seeing the Soul stars on the theater circuit anyway, it reminded me more of the days of The Apollo and the Howard and The Regal. When I saw James Brown in 2000 it was at that type of theater out here in the Bay Area.

  1058. LOL! Great piece man, in the beginning you had me! I really thought it was a strange Aretha concert until she said “what’s your darkest fantasy”! Lol. Man when you talked about that rotisserie chicken smoking I really believed the Queen had her chicken going during the show!! Lol. Like it was a part of her rider, lol. That’s a great funny piece that was very believable because of your blog content.

  1059. Wonderful tribute to my first childhood crush. I met her a few years ago and she was just as beautiful inside as she was outside. That bright star will truly be missed

  1060. ??????Great read! Full of little tidbits that I did not know. Thanks for this tribute

  1061. The answer to the question is YES. However, citizens were never called on the mat when an effigy of former President Obama was shown hung and burning, or when his image was configured to look like the Joker face of the Batman movie gunman. In regards to Snoop Dogg’s failing career; it’s not failing. Hip hop changes rap faces like dirty sheets. Snoop has had his day chart wise, and maintains an iconic status for various ages and sub cultures. Yay Snoop career wise, boo Snoop for for the Trump display. We can go higher than that, no pun intended lol.

  1062. I feel that had the majestic Lost in Music been released as the album’s second single as opposed to the third, it would have secured a healthy US Top 100 chart position if not Top 10. Unfortunately, We Are Family (the single) was such a monster hit in the US that Lost In Music fell by the wayside as a result. Shame as it is an enduring favorite here in the UK, played just as often on the radio as the two preceding singles. Great article, DJRob.

    1. Thanks, CJ. “Lost In Music” has been on repeat in my playlist for the entire week. You’re description is perfect: “majestic.” I wish I had thought of it when writing the article. The song did enjoy a bit of a renaissance in the 1980s thanks to a Chic remix that landed it on the U.S. Dance/Disco charts that year.

  1063. Dj Rob, some valid points and I appreciate you being able to express yourself so freely.
    So, I have to say, art as well as journalism should never be censored. We need, and more so in the future, colorful, bold and eye catching ways to shock the masses out of complacency and in to ACTION! If this music video get one young person to do 10 minutes of political research, I call it a win. If this video gets people angry, good! Violence is a form of expression, never the answer, very rarely does it bring about change. But depictions of violence have been used for centuries to express the discontent of the people. When that discontent or violent expression is censored how will you know when the revolution has begun, how will you know when to stand up and join in? How will the oppressor know when they have gone too far? Perhaps the infamous saying “the revolution will not be televised” comes from your school of “he went too far” thought.

    1. Kasey, thanks for the feedback and the perspectives. My opinion is strictly from the perspective of the danger that such a video presents, the same danger that similar depictions of Obama created. I am okay with protest, and I don’t believe my viewpoint is diametrically opposed to that of the late Gil Scott Heron. I just don’t see the value of alluding to the assassination of 45. A depiction of his impeachment, for example, would seem to be more educational and more motivating. However, you raise some very good points and I hope you continue to weigh in on the blog.

  1064. Thank you for this. I had no idea which sister Joni was and initially had no desire to read about her but after reading your article I empathize for her lost moment and find myself wishing I’d known more about her sooner. Thanks for making that possible with your gift of taking us beyond the music.

  1065. I love this article! I feel as though I’ve lost a family member, a close big sister. Be at peace Sister Joni.

  1068. So basically, they moved the three point line in…to be a free throw…even a lay-up. Got it. Thanks for explaining. And she’s BRAGGING about that?

  1069. My thoughts are here twenty years later and what has happened to rap? A few catchy tunes thrown in, but a whole genre and its levels exist without clarity or definition. #WhoShotYa?

  1070. There’s a simple rule that determines whether or not you will be played. The rule :you get played if people can relate to your music. Along that line you are not likely to get played if your music sounds old-fashioned. That’s all.

  1071. LOVE IT!!! I just shared this song two days ago on my fb page & I will say once again, the song AND video are both FIYA!!! Bruno Mars brings such a refreshing flavor to the music industry. I’ll give “That’s What I Like” Song & Video of the year…easily. There’s not another video like it…& it contains no half-naked video vixens trying to “sell” the song. That’s what quality music does…speaks for itself without any gimmicks. Thanks for covering this topic in your blog!

    1. Thanks, Cam! The video could easily have the impact of a “Single Ladies” – one that goes viral and that people will be talking about for years to come.

  1072. One of the few times you and I are not on the same page DJ Rob! – So far the singles from this album are very repetitive, simplistic and just make me want to go back and listen to my favorite funk albums from the 70s – I’m hoping a future single brings me back in his camp, but for now, I’m not on the same planet as Mr. Mars! I think the Weeknd is incorporating lite Funk in his current music a la Michael Jackson Off the Wall era and I’ve enjoyed his new songs more. I just got the Best of Bootsy Collins on CD so I’ll go back to listening to that! Thanks!

    1. Haha… thanks, Tony! Nothing wrong with a little disagreement every now and then. You’re right, Mars’ latest is very repetitive – but it’s the hook that grabs most folks. I like The Weeknd’s latest album, but don’t really classify it as funk – maybe alternative funk?

  1073. I’m glad he’s keeping funk alive. For the kids that missed James Brown, its enough of a taste that maybe they’ll be curious enough to appreciate the real thing. I appreciate Mark Ronson’s love of the music too. Uptown Funk was a good compilation of the good stuff.

      1. I was referring to the album, but I like the song too. Songs like Feel Right and I Can’t Lose reminded me of club music in good ole days.

  1075. Another great list, DJR! I agree — “We Found Love” is RiRi’s best song. So many good ones.

  1077. Where is R&B? It seems record labels don’t even have an R&B division anymore. Even hip hop is on life support. How do we get it back? I know my ears are ready. Until then I will just keep sweating to the oldies.

    1. I disagree that hip-hop is on life support. This past year’s biggest album (besides Adele’s) was Drake’s Views. And it continues to sell well each year as a genre. We may not like the hip-hop that’s out there, but it’s one of the few genres that has made gains in recent years.

  1078. DJ Rob… can’t believe that you never saw him live! I saw hm in 83 during his commercial peak…I was 19. Freakin great show

  1079. Didn’t watch but love your review. I’ve seen clips of most of the major performances and got to say I loved the Tribe performance. Grammy’s should be taken with a grain of salt IMO. Haven’t taken the show seriously in years. Great article!

  1080. Great summation! Adele is a great singer of course, one of the great voices of our time, but I don’t think by any means she represents as much of a total artist as Beyonce and I don’t think Adele believes she does either. Adele is a diva who will have a long and successful career but end up being very middle of the road, Beyonce though is something other, a pop star with a true social edge.

    But it reminds me of what Spike Lee said about the year “Do the Right Thing” got beat out by “Driving Miss Daisy.” While “Driving Miss Daisy” was a hit, nobody talks about it in serious terms today, while “Do the Right Thing” is taught in film AND sociological classes. The Grammy’s are usually not the place to ultimately award innovation. Yet I enjoyed your review and also the first Grammy awards ceremony I’ve watched in several years!!!

  1081. Well written – I like the comparison to the other greatest seller of the 70s, Saturday Night Fever. Still have both vinyls and Rumours in every format imaginable! From what I know myself – very accurate information. I dig the little insert about Thriller too, a vinyl which I also have. My three favorite albums all time…

    1. Thanks, Larry. Appreciate the feedback. You can bet I’ll be doing a Saturday Night Fever 40th-anniversary tribute later this year. Did you get to see the Bee Gees tribute at last night’s Grammys?

  1082. Such beautiful music from such a signature voice!!! I felt that same eerie feeling too when I saw he was hospitalized for exhaustion last week. I never get tired of listening to this legendary musical gift God graced us to enjoy for so many years.

  1083. Morning is my Cheerios
    Morning is my radio
    Everything here is just fine
    Here in my mind…

    RIP A True Legend

  1085. I enjoyed your article. Something I noticed is that the Generation Xers and Millennials were not and are not exposed to music to the same degree that previous generations were. For example I’m a “Baby Boomer” and we were introduced to music at and early age. Because we didn’t have the technology the young people grew up with today a singer or musician had to be talented and good. The elegant singers of today don’t get the airplay and publicity that the raw hip-hop and r&b artist experience. I believe that if schools put music, art, and other cultural subjects back into their curriculum the classy artists would have a greater impact on the music scene.

    1. Thanks, Mr. Moore. I appreciate your comments and the compliment on the blog. I agree that putting music back in schools is important, and I also think there are some real generational (and hence cultural) differences at play when it comes to the issue of elegance and class. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy other articles as well.

  1086. Another awesome insightful review. I feel like you have become a guide to the hidden stories of great albums. I will be purchasing an original copy of “Rumors” for my collection.

  1087. Great list combining two of my absolute favorite things, music and football, or in general, music and sports! That’s a very creative idea you had because it doubles down on the music/nostalgia memory aspect of both music and sports, for instance man I remember the year 2006 very well and I remember not liking Beyonce’s “Check up On It” at the time very much (although I dig Beyonce always) and also I can recall Big Ben winning the Superbowl and Mike Holmgren’s time with Seattle but I had so much going on in my life the Super Bowl and Football season seemed like a blur at that time. Plus my local teams, The Raiders and 49ers weren’t doing well! I remember the song “Check Up On It” much better than I do the Super Bowl that year! As an aside, though it wasn’t a #1 that week, there is a story Joe Montana tells of him playing Kenny Loggins “This is It” on the bus on the way to the Pontiac Silverdome for the Niners first Bowl, and Bill Walsh dug it so much he made him loop it all the way there. But in any event, this was a great Creative idea you had and something to be revisited for future Super Bowls I think!!!!

    1. Thanks, Enrique! I actually did a similar article two years ago for SB49 and ran it again last year during SB50. I decided to update it this year and will probably do it again each year.

  1088. The usual great writing with another fun trip down memory lane. You framed the message in a thoughtful way and watching those videos shows how far we haven’t reall come and how much farther we have to go. Hopefully, the next generation will look back at the times when immigrants weren’t welcome as the dark ages and wonder how people could’ve been so callous and ignorant.

    I can’t remember the last time I saw the Love Boat, but it was progressive for its time in showing people in non-stereotypical roles. In any case., I always enjoy your articles and musical selections. Don’t know how you find the time, but keep doing it.

    1. Thanks, Ron! I enjoyed writing this one especially. It took me over a week as I started as soon as the Executive Order was issued. Glad it resonated with you.

  1089. It seems to me that there was always a competition between all six members. They all dropped recordings at or about the same time. Where is Stacy Lattisaw these days???

  1090. This countdown is ?????!!!! I loved the biopic because it did everything it needed to do. It entertained us, made us laugh, made us cry, and made us root for our boys all while taking a trip down memory lane. You list is very comprehensive and diverse and it made me realize that New Edition and its members have been a costant in my life from my first year in High School through my years in college. Thank you for the soundtrack. Never knew they had so many hits (even those not released as a single). Shout out to some of their outher songs like: Delicious, Is this the end, I’m leaving you again and I’m coming home.

  1091. Is it by chance that as I am responding BBD’s “When Will I See You Smile Again” begins to play on Pandora?!! Well, not sure if it means anything lol…overall, pretty good lineup!! I totally agree with #1 and the top 25-30 hits. For me, “You’re Not My Kind of Girl” would’ve been in the top 20 somehow though! Love the article!!!

  1092. I have to say Jackson 5 hands down. They had the cartoons, the variety show. No one did it like they did. This article is a reach.

    1. I appreciate the comment. Thanks for reading the article as well. Stay tuned for my special New Edition countdown…maybe it’ll convince you.

  1093. Well technically the Jackson five are the only ones who were a band. They actually play instruments and sing. No extra backup players were necessary for them to put it down on stage.

  1094. I would say that New Edition is the best boy band simply because of their longevity and their unique template of separating into solo acts and subgroups successfully then being able to come back together as one band and sell out arenas. These guys have been doing their thing for over 3 decades now and show no sign of slowing down. The very fact that you can have that many members and still co-exist as business partners is amazing to me as most groups, them included, go through their own issues and drama that can be crippling to their survival. Thanks for the article. Its right on time.

  1095. I am definitely from the NE generation and I would have to say that they are indeed one of the best R&B boy band of all time. They have been unrecognized and underrated for decades but I am so glad to see them finally get the shine they deserve.

  1096. Amazing article…right on time as always!!! I am a proud “NE4Lifer” so as I read about all of their unprecedented accomplishments coupled with the anticipation of seeing their movie for the next three nights…I am ECSTATIC! New Edition IS the best…hands down!!!

      1. No argument here!! The way I see it, if a song from NE and J5 comes on radio at the same time, my choice will always be NE (including Bobby B, BBD, Johnny G, or Ralph)!!!

  1097. YES! I would say they are the greatest being that they are the most successful and basically still together. I don’t think I would consider the Jackson 5 a boy band, but more of a family act. BoyzIIMen for me was a revival of the Temptations 5 part harmony. All three legacies are tremendous. However, it is my opinion that The Teenagers (later Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers) is the greatest boy band group, and here’s why. The Teenagers created the mold that has become “boy band”. Hit records aside, I feel they are the model by which the boy band phenomena was created…young boys able to harmonize add choreography and in steps management and contracts to pimp their youth. No royalties, no pay, no Vaseline, forced to perform against laws that protect child entertainers. I’m looking at your blog as a historian lol. With that said, yes, absolutely New Edition is the greatest group. They have survived the music industry.

    Do other groups fit the boy band category?
    Hi Five
    Troop
    ABC (family act)
    Also that group PDiddy produced ” Candy Rain”?

    1. Yes, Hi-Five, Soul 4 Real (“Candy Rain”), ABC, Troop, and others you mention all fall in the category. I agree Frankie Lymon is the first and deserves credit for the obstacles you mentioned, but a better case exists (in the article, at least) for why N.E. is greater! Thanks for your insights…on point as always!

  1098. What?! No Pink?? I can’t of which song of hers deserves to be on the list but I also can’t think of any recent female artist that deserves to be on this list more.

  1099. I love this list, but I missed Tina Turner, What’s Love Got to Do With It, and Pat Benetar, Love is a Battlefield. I guess also because I’m listening to her as I write this missive, Amy Winehouse. I’m sure these anthems defined women’s empowerment along with many others. Oh yeah let’s not forget Tammy Terrell in duet with Marvin Gaye, Ain’t No Moutain, later given credence by Diana Ross. I love this list DJRob ❤️

  1100. Excellent, excellent breakdown of Gil Scott Heron’s classic in light of the coming moment! Let’s hope the “Trump Error” does inspire more engagement both from citizens and the creative class! I have an “Inauguration Day” music special coming up on my own blog where I use Heron’s “B Movie” in a similar way, as an incredible prophecy about how fame and notoriety in America, based in “American values” can contribute to way out political events like Trump’s election. Can’t wait to keep reading your work as you use music to explain society in this troubled time as well!

    1. Thanks, Enrique! Let’s just say that there’s enough inspiration out there for this and much more to be written.

  1101. Damned if you do, and damage if you don’t. It comes down to who’s putting a check in your hand…at least from my point of view. We have seen this scenario play out times before with Sammy Davis Jr, Eartha Kitt, and James Brown during the Nixon administration. Although they got black listed, they somehow made strong career comebacks. I see other entertainers pimp gay culture (GaGa, Madonna) for the come up, then change their focus. The bottom line is it’s called Show Business for a reason. It’s a business…Jenny get your coins! In the words of Nene Leakes (RHOA) it’s a “Trump Check”. I doubt it would bounce.

    1. Hmmm…good points Carlous. And, personally, I don’t know that her decision to perform would have affected her bottom line anyway, it wasn’t like her fans – gay or otherwise – were buying her records in droves before all this happened.

  1102. Yep….you are right. Beginning organ solo of Faith is the organ chorus of Wham’s Freedom. Good ear!

  1103. Awesome article on Mr. Michael. Very poignant. Now I’m off to compare Faith and Wham’s Freedom.

    1. I’m not aware of how much he contributed to their success. I remember when he passed in the mid-70s, but not familiar with his vocal solos.

    2. Howard Hewett was the best to ease into the falsetto seemingly without any effort. One of the best, if not the best.

  1105. As usual, thank you very much for your insightful article! Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” really illustrates how music can galvanize people and play a pivotal role in advancing social change. Though I don’t consider myself a pessimist, I’m not sure that music today (and the artists too) have the same influence as they did in earlier periods. Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” is very inspirational and a very good song as well.

  1106. I’m just getting a moment to read your latest on George Michael and Wow just…WOW!!
    You have a gift for presenting information in your articles that is akin to unveiling the most delicious gourmet dish on guests who just stopped by to speak. Although the guests may not be hungry when they arrive, they soon find themselves devouring every morsel of a perfect recipe, savoring each bite and wishing for more. I thoroughly enjoyed the information in this article. It was food for thought and I’m still licking my plate (in my mind) from this perfect recipe.

    1. Believe me, it was close…like at #26 for me. I just played it today during a long road trip…good song in retrospect.

  1108. Was the song “I want your Sex” was used in a movie? “Beverly Hill Cop was the Movie but what # I can’t remember?

    George Michael was hitting the music scene when our Class was Graduating from HS in 1984 and some thought this British Duo was a 1 hit wonder, but that was proving wrong big time with the next song “Careless Whisper”.

    A few songs from 1984 also had some staying power to finished high on 2 Top 100 Songs of the year Countdown 1984 & 1985. 1 was “Wake me up before you Go-Go”.

    Born in June like Prince, Mr. Music Man (Mr. Roberts) & myself. Great talent from the Month of June.

    1. Haha, thanks Carl. Your assessment about the June talent is dead-on. I remember the connection of “I Want Your Sex” to a movie, but I’d have to research it.

  1110. DJrobblog thank you for your tireless dedication to your readers as 2016 has kept you busy honoring some of the most musically talented beings who’ve ever walked the earth, this one being no exception. I’m truly saddened by the news of losing George Michael not only for his gift that he shared with us but also because of the sacrifices he made in order to share that gift. He, like many artists before him, was tortured in his own way. It’s seems to be life’s paradox to seemingly have it all but to feel like you’re the only one in a room with no one to talk to. When you go behind the music, this is how I think George Michael must’ve felt. Although we don’t know the cause of his untimely demise, he certainly had his demons and left tell-tell signs but personally and professionally that he wasn’t totally happy. With that said, thanks for honoring him and thanks for your countdown.

    On a lighter note, you have all of my favorites in your countdown including two that are my guilty pleasures. I’ve never shared this with anyone but I will now; You ever go on a long road trip and there is that one song that not only makes you turn the volume up but also makes you rock out as if you’re onstage giving the performance of your life? I’m talking nailing every lyric, guitar riffs, head thrashing and all, even if you’re tone deaf? Well two songs that have always made a front seat rock star are MONKEY and FREEDOM 90. I drove home 4-5 hours during this Thanksgiving Season and listened to his compilation CD- Ladies and Gentlemen, The Best of George Michael the entire time. Such a talent! He will truly be missed.

    P.S. Thanks for including Dion Estus’s- Heaven Help Me. I absolutely love that song.

  1111. MARVELOUS!!! You have done such an outstanding job connecting to your readers and offering a blog that is fresh, creative, and informative. Appreciate being a part of your journey!

  1112. Also, Vicki Sue Robinson(RIP) wouldn’t be considered blue eyed soul, she was biracial.

  1113. Never heard of Chi Coltrane..but definitely know the others. Amy and Teena are two of my favorite artists of all time..

  1114. Thanks for the Supertramp memories. Still on my list of all time albums is Breakfast in America.

  1116. Very sad. Bernard Edwards is one of my favorite bass players and as u mention his sound was more influential than many people in the Hall. In the early ’80s what Chic laid down was basically the template for anybody wanting to rap or do any kind of a street sound, from The Clash, to the Sugarhill House Band, to Blondie, to Blowfly’s “Rapp Dirty.” Maybe Chic needs a documentary or showcase along the lines of “Standing in the Shadows of Motown” to rehab their image as that film did for the Funk Brothers. Nile always said the rock establishment never appreciated him or his band.

  1118. She is definitely Rock Royalty. Walk into any pizza parlor or beer joint and you’re guaranteed to sing along to her classic songs. For me, she tops my lists along side Steely Dan, The Doobie Brothers, and many others. Thanks for posting!

  1119. Thanks for this. I remember the release of this album so well. It was as innovative with its production as it was provocative with its lyrics.

  1120. So sad to hear of his financial and health issues before his passing. I still jam to TRAPPED to this day.

  1122. I was having the same thoughts when he started endorsing Trump. When Kanye first started going on these tangents back when he spoke about GWB and interrupted Taylor Swift, I chalked it all up to just attention whoring and narcissim. Which are traits many artists have in one degree or another. Then I thought he just had a big mouth with a need for attention which many people have. But since the anguish of his rant on Ellen and the recent concert antics I finally said to a friend, “Kanye must have some chemical Inbalance or some real mental issues. The thing about that is he could have been dealing with these issues for years but individuals have a right to privacy with health issues, though we can see the effects of them. I’m sure his wife’s kidnapping, who he adores so ,icy has bee a huge stress on him as well, just like his mother passing, which tips something out of balance in the other direction. But with Yeezy it’s so hard to see because as its been pointed out, his narcissim and attention seeking are merely an extreme reflection of the culture at large! But it seem he’s finally fell over the edge too far into the unhealthy side of it. Hope he gets help! Once again a great insightful write up!

  1124. Good article. I watched the breakdown on You Tube from someone’s phone video of the concert. Radio also seemed to be one of his targets. He complained about radio playing the same songs over and over again. At one point the fans were shouting back at him to sing. He was performing on some moving platform. Some of the “fans” were telling him to jump. I can understand the frustration of spending a good chunk of money to see him perform and have to sit through the tirades but after a period of time, they had to realize that this was not normal even for him.

  1125. Whatever happened to the Barbara Walters Specials?? It is my guesstimation that Mr. West is an undiagnosed bipolar disorder with a super ego narcissistic personality. Harsh?, I know, but nobody has ever addressed mental illness or the manifestations of stress on the behaviors of celebrities. Mr. West is not the first entertainer to have meltdowns; the list is way too long (Brittany Spears, Brandy, Lil Wayne, DMX, Rick James, Judy Garland, Joan Crawford, Billy Holiday). Although he has addressed Jay-Z publically, we have not heard Mr. Carter’s response for a long time, which tells me that he and his wife (Bey) are well aware something has been wrong for a while. At once, I thought it was laughable but now I am saddened by his histrionics. The fact that he checked himself in is a good sign. I hope he is able to mend things before it’s too late. Rather than kick this man when he is down, I will support his efforts to get help where needed.

    1. Good insights, Carlous. Except, I’d be surprised if “nobody” has ever studied the impact of stress on celebrities. I’m sure by now someone has (and is probably very highly paid to diagnose it in them).

      1. Haha!! Thanks…yeah I’ve been off the radar for a bit, but I’m back running my mouth again now lol!

  1128. This list is too damn funky….it got all the known funk cuts..but lack the crackhead dopefein cuts like…Mr.wiggles…smokey…thumpasourus people..sizzleanmean….ITS TOO MANY TO NAME…IF ANY ONE LIKE ME LOVES THE FUNK YA DONT NEED NO DRUGS JUST THROW ON SUM P FUNK &GET BURNT

  1129. Thanks For bringing us this funk at this crucial time. George Clinton is a person I will dig for as long as I’m around, both for the pure groove uncut plush funk and the funky philosophies that go with it

      1. Man, I love everything on the list but I have to say “(Not Just) Knee Deep” is the one that makes me drop my jaw in amazement every time. Avant garde, funky, jazz, love the melodies and the groove, and I think George recorded over 90 people for the total sound of that record!

  1130. I have been saying this for so long now. Saying that Beyoncé is beautiful and talented and doesn’t need to pop her pussy on stage to sell her music, which she was doing long before she started singing about taking her man to Red Lobster when he “f#cks her good”. I also have been baffled that Michelle O praised Beyoncé as a role model for her girls given Bey’s transition with each new album into sexually explicit lyrics, scantily clad stage outfits and profanity laced shows. I hate to give any credit to Donald Dump but in this case, he has a point.

  1131. The one thing that bothers me the most about this particular election cycle was the deep negativity from both candidates. I found it very difficult to make a final decision and had to divorce myself from the personalities. This was without doubt one of the most unsatisfying results I have encountered and you know I’ve seen more than a few. I very much wish to respect my commander in chief but it may take some time. God Bless the USA, we need His blessing.

    1. Thanks, Dave. I just hope the result doesn’t continue to deepen the divide that I perceive is widening in this country.

  1132. Excellent write up mixing music and politics! As a black person, music fan and commentator I was happy to see the Carters support the Obama’s. But also in 2008 and even the beginning of 2012 Beyonce’s lyrics in particular were not as sexually suggestive as they were beginning with the release of her “Beyoncé” album. Beyoncé had already been getting heavy backlash from Bill O’Reilly, which I always assumed to be based on her and Jay Z’s strong support for the Obama’s and the Democratic Party in general. The Clintons also have been heavily associated with entertainment figures throughout their careers, I remember Barbara Streisand in particular being their #1 back during Bill’s run. But I can certainly see the controversy over Beyoncé for both her sexual presentation as well as, possibly more substantially, her anti police brutality stance in “Formation.” Now I love it all, -and I think most of Hillarys supporters are either supportive of them or neutral, and Hillary did take the popular vote, but this is an issue when u look at some of the undecideds and independents. You hit the nail on the head when u talked about Hip Hop having a “general anti establishment vibe.” One parallel I’m reminded of is JFK’s relationship with Frank Sinatra. Sinatra ended up going Republican after JFK spurned him reportedly due to his mob ties. But a great write up and a great angle onto the election and I can see how in a polarized election like this, the Carters represent what’s wrong with america in more conservative eyes.

    1. All very well said! You’re right about Clinton’s previous celebrity connections. But this election showed that celebrity endorsements are increasingly being viewed as biased and liberal, and linking up with social castaways like Chachi and Ted Nugent is no more detrimental to one’s campaign as having the backing of icons like Bey and Babs.

  1134. Love it! Reading this makes me feel as if I were there. Thanks for the laughs and for your commentary.

  1135. ROTFL ??? LMBAO!!! All of the “old” singers do that (Patty Diana Gladys), but Miss Dionne is the Queen B of audience discipline. I wonder if and when Janet Jackson will begin doing that when I request “Oops Now, sorry I can’t go” 20 years from now LMBAO ???. All in all, it’s worth the price of admission lol. Readings included.

    1. Lol…glad you enjoyed! I was scared I was too close to the stage to escape her wrath if I’d made one wrong move, like singing along while she belted out “I’ll Never Fall In Love This Way Again.” Lol

  1136. Great review!! You really put us right where you where for Ms. Warwick’s show. I take the chance to see any legend that I can of her stature as well, and I love to see artists like her still serving as musical ambassadors here in Century 21!

  1137. I LOVED Howard Hewett of Shalimar. Maxwell’s “This Women’s Work” gave me chills!

  1138. First let me say that I am a HUGE Common fan. However. With ICONS like Chandler, Hathaway and Hancock available I don’t see him being in. Also without Ramsey Lewis there probably wouldn’t be a Earth Wind & Fire. Maurice White got his start as a drummer for Ramsey.

    1. I agree. Common was a stretch, but I gave him the slight edge over those artists. Had I expanded the list to 30 or 40, they would definitely have been included.

      1. The late Phil Perry (especially on “Can I”) had one of the best falsetto voices ever. His almost seemed natural vs. the “false” voice that others use to achieve it.

        1. Phil Perry isn’t dead. Eddie Kendricks, the 1st tenor of the Temptations recorded the song , Can I ( Google the live version on Soul Train ). Eddie has passed. Phil was formally the lead singer of the Montclairs before going solo and singing with Quincy Jones and George Duke before recording a number 1 hit, Call Me. Phil still is performing although he has to be at least 71 years old.

          1. You’re absolutely right. For some reason when I wrote that, I was thinking David Peaston, who covered “Can I” in 1989. I have Eddie Kendrick’s version (and I’ve seen the Soul Train clip you’re referring to). Thanks for the correction, duly noted!

  1141. Great read! This is not Solange’s first time working with Mr. Saadique. He collaborated with her on Sol-Angel and Hadley St. Dreams too.

  1142. Wow! I had no idea that all of these hits, all of which I love, were penned by Rod Temperton. I learned a lot here. I do want to thank you for several things:
    1. The nod to Mica Paris because I’ve always loved her vocals and have the CD of hers with You Put A Move on My Heart.
    2. Explaining what Yah Mo Be There means. Love the song but never understood the lyrics
    3. For having me remember (and sing in my head) Make It Better with a Little Razzamatazz!

    This is and awesome list and I’m sharing! Keep up the great work.

    1. Thanks, Dean! He was an amazing talent. It’s getting tough having to write so many tributes this year. So many legends lost.

  1143. Darrell, I flew to NYC for his first performance this year. It was such a treat for an old fan!

  1144. I’m saddened to hear of his passing. Kashif defined my teen life. I so loved the song he produced “So Fine”. That song played as I got my first kiss. His music lives on!

  1145. I literally couldn’t wait to read your blog on the legendary Kashif…& as always, you never disappoint!!! Thoroughly enjoyed your article & the countdown was totally on point. And yes, Meli’sa was rockin that hair…all 34 inches lol! Their voices together were magical…one of my top 10 favorites of all-time. The episode of Unsung featuring Kashif was one of the BEST. Hearing how he mastered those timeless hits was simply awesome! Once again, you have blessed your audience with a heartfelt tribute to one of music’s finest…FABULOUS JOB!!

    1. Thanks Cam! You’ve been there throughout. I write these with you guys in mind. And Kashif was a true artist. He deserves nothing but the best in tribute.

  1146. Bravo! Once again you’ve proven to be informative and entertaining seemingly effortlessly. You have a gift. Thanks for sharing it with fellow music lovers.

  1148. Wow! This is an absolutely wonderful interview! As an Isley Brothers fan in the 70’s and 80’s, and one who knew a lot of music, I could kind of see, even back then, who the main influence of the group was. Chris, being a man of God was very gracious in this piece, while still being truthful. Also, his explanation about the current state of the music industry is spot on! I’m going to look into what Chris is currently doing! This was tremendous!

    1. I’ve did several tributes to Prince upon his death in April. Please check them out by visiting my April archives from the home page. Thanks!

  1152. Great interview! A testament to how good the songs are is the fact that Caravan of Love was covered by the Housemartins in the UK and was a huge success.

    1. Thanks, John! It was very enlightening to do. I feel like I know much more about music and the science of it having talked with him.

    1. This article was written in August 2015 before either of those two died. See my later tributes to both artists – written at the times of their deaths – in the In Memoriam section.

  1154. Great insights and behind the curtain glimpse into the reality of who was behind the creative innovation of the Isley Brothers. Great learnings and this was the music of my time!

  1155. Loved this!!! Wow…Mr. Jasper is full of wisdom. Clearly, he is s teacher at heart…great insight. Excellent interview!!!

  1156. And I forget to mention Little Anthony and Steve Perry. They definitely belong at the top. Steve Perry is one of the greatest vocalists that has ever lived.

  1157. Why is Russell Thompkins Jr. not #1? He is in my opinion the greatest of everyone on your list. (I can sing just like him btw, but of course no one knows who I am) And where is Eddie Holman?(Lonely girl, and If I don’t have you) and William Hart fromThe Delfonics? (Hey! Love, Didn’t I blow your mind this time, and La la la means I love you)

  1158. I can’t push myself to listen to the whole album. His first one made me a believer. But this one? Not so much so.

  1159. This is very insulting not to mention disrespectful to the legendary Sam Cooke. No where is he mentioned in your findings. The is unacceptable and you need to go back and make revision to your findings. Completely unacceptable. Sam Cooke was Barry Gordy, even before Barry Gordy was Barry Gordy. Truly disrespectful.

  1160. You did not mention one of second oldest recording studios, Peacock/Duke Records, 1949, in Houston Texas. This studio was founded by Don Robey and produced many stars and hits like Bobby “Blue” Bland, Johnny Ace, and some of Little Richard’s songs after his departure from ABC.

  1161. Darrell, I saw this show in Philadelphia in July. You’re right, great, fun show!

  1162. Terrific write up brother. I almost don’t need to go to the show now:) So I attended happy together in 2013 & 2014 and my boys Flo & Eddie did the same shtick with PSY-‘s Gangnam Style (2012) so I skipped 2015 and I see after my fb complaint they have moved on to Adele’s Hello (2015). jrobblog.com Did Gary Puckett do his “Christian preaching” and bad solo cut?

    1. Billy, I would hate it if my article would actually prevent you from going to the show. I intended to have the opposite effect. As for Puckett, he didn’t do any solo cuts. And I don’t recall any preaching. But do check out the show when/if it comes to your area.

  1163. 1. Motown, is a brainer, given its long history of true talent and culture. I’d expect LaFace to place much higher at 2. because of their length in the industry and the quality of talent. 3. Def Jam. With Bad Boy and Cash Money ranking 4th and 5th. I’ve never heard of the other labels.

    2. Your ranking suggests that everything began with Motown. And I haven’t even included earlier black labels, like John Dolphin’s Recorded In Hollywood label, as another reader pointed out earlier.

  1164. At one point in the 70s, Three Dog Night and Grand Funk were the two hottest groups on the planet. I saw Three Dog Night in the early 80s in Brownwood, TX. They had just reformed after several years hiatus and this was their first gig. It was the complete original lineup minus Joe Schermie the bassist. They sounded better than ever. Sometime after that reunion tour, Chucky was fired from the group for his heroin addiction. It was never the same again since Chucky contributed so much to their sound. I always referred to them as Two Dog Night after that. Now they’re down to one and I don’t see how they could continue but there are bands out there with only one original member left that still perform but to me, they’re just cover bands. Someday I plan to get a copy of Chuck’s book Three Dog Nightmare. It should be an interesting read.

    2. I never got to see the 3. But I got to see 2 dog night. I also referred them to that. Now that it’s just 1, it’s over for me. I had read it was Danny who wanted Chuck out & now still won’t ask him back. So be it. I’ll go see Chuck if I ever get a chance. He’s done a lot to get his talent back. I’ve seen a bit on videos & he does alright. Sad/weird over losing Cory so suddenly. He was the sober 1 all this time. Go figure.

  1165. Totally agree with “WHAT TOOK SO LONG”.
    I guess era I grew up in. I listened to GOOD MUSIC. BEFORE it was labeled. Also ALL the people they’ve worked with were different styles of music. So, shouldn’t be put in a box.
    Can’t say music was misunderstood because THEY were sampled. Hopefully, they were just slept on or OVERLOOKED but very well deserved TALENTED GROUP.

  1166. Simply Red is one of my favorite artists and I’m in my early 20’s.. Not many people my age know who he is but I thank my parents for introducing me to his music at a young age. I’m going to his concert in Glasgow on 16 Nov. If you love him too, go with me. Tickets here https://ticketselect.co.uk/simply-red

  1168. WOW!!! I wish I could’ve been there. To hear her perform Evergreen, would have been the price of admission for me. In an industry where longevity is not common, she, in my eyes is a phenom. I am now motivated to see this show hurriedly as I am sure tickets will sell out. My bucket list of performers would not be complete without seeing Barbara Streisand live. Thank you for this!

  1170. What about the falsetto on some of Jan and Dean’s songs, especially Drag City and Surf City. Dean did some falsetto but I believe it was someone else on most of the records.

    1. Serial, they’re just one of several artists who didn’t make the cut but have falsetto somewhere in their repertoire of hits. Thanks for the comment.

    2. It was Brian Wilson. Brian and Jan and Dean often sang on the others’ recordings even though the label–Capital Records–frowned on it.

  1171. Thanks, Dean! They’re a commendable #3, but you’re right…I kinda wanted them to be at the top myself. Love the Pointer Sisters.

  1172. As usual, a GREAT READ! Very informative however I was one of those who didn’t see The Andrews Sisters taking the top spot. Thought it would be The Pointer Sisters. Thanks for all that you do.

  1175. They are my #1 Musical act of all-time. Maybe they didn’t win a lot of Grammys and American Music Awards, but their Music is here with us today. Its a well earned #1 Duo of All-Time in the Pop Music History books.

  1176. Lots of dtuff missing. How about Free or The Continental amongst others.

    1. That’s easy: there wasn’t room for ALL his songs on a list of 57. And “Free” and the others you mentioned didn’t make the cut.

  1177. You did not mention Prince he did write a song for Freddie gray. His song sign of the times was definitely about life problems.He has plenty of songs on some of his albums that deal with the human condition. Jj

    1. Thanks, JJ. You mentioned him for me. Again, though, he’s an artist from an earlier generation. I challenge readers to bring me examples of artists from the current generation.

  1178. You’ve not mentioned Janet Jackson, who first tackled world issues on the still-relevant Rhythm Nation 1814 album, and currently has a song on her latest album, Unbreakable, called “Should’ve Known Better” that was used in a fanmade video about the Orlando tragedy and speaks to so many other societal ills happening in our world today.

    1. Thanks, SH…I think you just did it for me! And you’re right, she’s worthy of mention with both products. I hope you got a chance to read my review of Unbreakable and each track, including “Shoud’ve Known Better.”

  1179. Immediately before reading your commentary I thought of both Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé as modern day contributors to political protest. My local R&B station has been playing a lot of Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On and Mercy Mercy. With the current state of national unrest moving to a greater fever pitch, I’m sure we will have artists such as Kanye West, John Legend, Common, Alicia Keys, and India Arie to step up to the plate and provide something politically charged. I wonder the same thing…who will step up? Is the concern the same as in the 1960s? But most importantly, do they care? It’s a game of wait and see. Thanks for the intellectual stimulation provided by this article.

  1181. Earth Wind & Fire, Greatest Hits…… why? Start to finish an AMAZING Album that never gets old

  1182. Being a lifelong Prince fan my immediate choice would’ve been Sign ‘O’ The Times, but thinking about it for a while I have decided to pick The Rainbow Children, simply for the fact that there it is such a departure from his usual sound and there is something new to hear on it with every listen. I wasn’t a fan on first listen but now I couldn’t imagine my life without it.

    1. Nice, Simon. I appreciate the departure from the traditional Prince albums that people typically cite – myself included.

      1. Yes, I see on the Facebook comments plenty of people saying “Purple Rain!”, it’s an important album but it’s not his best (it’s up there though ?)

  1184. By far, this has been the most challenging question/topic since the beginning of djrobblog!!! I have pondered this & tossed a few albums back & forth. First and foremost, I knew if I were on a deserted island, I would need a constant source of inspiration, encouragement, & motivation. So I began to shuffle through my favorite gospel CDs of all time. While many came to mind, only ONE artist stood out from all the rest…Fred Hammond. With that being said, I then had to narrow my 3 choices (Inner Court, Spirit of David, & Pages of Life -chapters 1 &2) down to only one.

    As difficult as it was to choose, I decided to go with “The Spirit of David”. Fred Hammond is to gospel music what Babyface is to R&B. He is a phenomenal writer, producer, singer, instrumentalist, you name it!!! His musical genius has stood the test of time for over three decades. Spirit of David embodies a total worship experience from beginning to end & I never skip a song! This CD has helped me through some of the most painful times of my life. To top it all off, it is an hour and 30 minutes long which gave it the edge over Pages of Life chapters1 & 2. On that island, I’m gonna need all the Jesus I can get lol! Excellent topic!!!

    1. I should’ve thought about gospel or Christian music as one of the options, especially for the situation I’ve created. Good choice, Cam!

  1186. Wow! This is a tough decision. While early 1970s Stevie Wonder is perfection (Innervisions), I think I’d have on me something even more sentimental. Vocally I’d want to hear O.C. Wilson or maybe even some Charlie Pride, Joe Williams, or Ray Charles. I’d be on an island, so I would think back my boyhood/scout survival mode. My favorite O.C. Wilson song is The Learning Tree which was the soundtrack to the movie The Learning Tree by Gordon Parks. This song is virtually impossible to locate or download. With that said, I’d have to have at least 3 choices to be stranded with. I’m deserted, so here goes:
    Sketches of Spain by Miles Davis (all 5 movements)
    A Love Supreme by John Coltrane
    The Best of Mahalia Jackson
    Strange? I know but, I will be thinking and praying my ass gets rescued lol.

  1187. Sade’s LOVE DELUX. There is something soothing and other worldly about the entire album. The song Kiss of Life sounds as if an angel is singing you a lullaby. I would need to be calm if stranded on an island. I cant think of a better album to keep me that way.

    1. I would agree about the calming factor – especially of that song, “Kiss of Life.” Can never hear it too much!

  1190. Excellent article as usual DjRob but I would have to disagree with you on 1 major point mon frère. Before I do so, first let me mention that it was Laila Ali that spoke on the tribute to the late boxer. I agree with you totally that other fallen music industry artists were a complete footnote with just a picture of them behind Jamie Foxx as he spoke and that was only briefly before the sole picture of Mohammed Ali replaced them. My point of disagreement with you (and others that I’ve been seeing on Social Media) is that the BET awards were good/great this year as if to say that this is a departure from past years. I don’t normally do awards shows because of all the pageantry and poor flow however, I’ve been watching the BET awards for years and they have been GREAT for years now. I think that this award show gets lumped in with the poor quality (other) shows that the network produces/airs and people don’t tend to watch but I have been saying for at least the past 8 years (if not more) that this is where BET shines. The tributes throughout the years for Black artists, activists, actors and the like have been stellar. The performances have all been above par. I think that a lot of people watched and were pleasantly surprised this year because of the Prince tributes but I challenge you to go back and watch shows from the past several years. I think you will be pleasantly surprised. Of course no live show goes off without a hitch and this one is no exception. The two notable ones for me was issues segueing; especially with Fantasia honoring someone who has done great things in the community and Jamie Foxx discussing fallen music industry alums.
    I absolutely loved all of the Prince tributes but Sheila E and the gang DID IT for me. Little fact that you may not know: The dancer hugging Sheila E at the end of the performance was Prince’s wife (Ex wife), Mayte Garcia. My other favorite performance of the night came from a relatively unknown that was spotlighted and introduced by Jussie Smollett. His name is Anderson.Paak, and the song he performed was “Come Down”. His performance gave me all the energy of a reincarnated James Brown. I have been listening to the song ever since.

    Thanks again for your perspective and as far as the BET awards go I think its fitting that Jessie Williams are appealing to people to “Stay Woke” because the same should be done when the BET awards show comes on again next year.

    1. Good suggestion. And for those who don’t know, he was the lead singer and principle member of the Delfonics (“La La Means I Love You” and “Didn’t I Blow Your Mind”). He deserves honorable mention at the least. Thanks!

      2. I know this is an old post but I just stumbled upon your list of best falsetto singers. It was an interesting list. I see someone asked about William Hart so… What about Eban Brown that took over for Russel Thompkins of the Stylistics, he was seamless and flawless as he did so? Not even an honorable mention.? Not many could step in like that and then carry the group for 18 years!

          1. Nice list but you gotta find a way to add Johnnie Wilder Jr. of Heatwave, William Hart of the Delfonics and Emanuel “EJ” Johnson of Enchantment.

            Glenn Leonard of the Temptations was also a hidden gem that song on the classic “Silent Night”.

  1192. I wholeheartedly agree with you in that the love and support of friends and family can catapult you to new highs. We’re only here on borrowed time and nothing is more precious while we’re here than being loved and showing love. I’m glad that your milestone and that you were celebrated in a major way. Thanks for sharing the thing that you love with all of us. Oh and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

  1193. This was an excellent list and very nostalgic. This list took me back to my childhood riding in the car listening to FM stations that played soft rock or top 40. You can never go wrong with Carole King or Sir Elton John. I especially love that Clarence Carter and the E Street Band made the list…good times during my high school years. Thanks?

  1194. Thank you for this commentary. As I start my day with coffee, no tv, no paper, no phone calls, I wonder the same things. Being of a certain generation, I’ve seen these scenarios play out continuously. Globally, we have always had music to calm our souls. May I offer a song and singer that heals and calms me…Sylvester – You are my friend. Something about the words always moves me spiritually, Thank you again

  1195. What an amazingly beautiful tribute…tailor made for the greatest of all time!! Definitely unlike any other tribute I’ve read thus far. The parallels between the music & Ali’s life are astounding. Excellent article!!

  1196. Singers like Anthony Hamilton and DeAnelo I have never seen you mention but I love reading all of your articles.

  1197. Simply amazing!!! And to think…the BEST is still yet to come for djrobblog!!!

  1199. The first major Black owned record company in America, was founded in Los Angeles, in1950 by John Dolphin.
    Known as the John Dolphin record labels; Recorded In Hollywood Records, Lucky Records, Dolphins of Hollywood Records, Cash Records, and Money Records.
    John Dolphin was the most popular Blackman in Los Angeles in the 1950’s and legendary record producer.
    Released records on over 120 of the finest artist and groups in Los Angeles;
    Charles Brown, Jesse Belvin, Hollywood Flames, Charles Mingus, Buddy Collette, Red Calendar, Rudy Ray Moore, Scathman Cruthets, Joe Houston, Erroll Garner.
    He changed the record business forever.
    ,

    1. Thanks for that education. I’ve researched it and agree, Dolphin’s legacy should be preserved and honored in history and in blog posts like this. I will be revising this list to include him and Recorded in Hollywood soon.

        1. According to my research, Cooke’s label, S&R Records, was founded in 1959 or 1961. It disbanded in 1964, after his death. I will be updating the list soon, and will consider his label in the rankings then.

  1200. That’s so great. I’m walking around the house with headphones on, singing my fool head off! Ha! Tormenting the family, I’m sure. Thank YOU!!

  1201. Congrats on getting your first interview request and nailing the interview. I was thoroughly intrigued by this article and impressed with the flow these two have (especially in Treble Trouble). These guys are incredibly talented and I’m glad they as well as your blog is getting the much deserved exposure it needs. Keep shining Djrob!

    1. Thanks for that feedback and for always being there, Dean. As you know, it’s a labor of love. Those guys were incredible, which made it easy.

  1202. Djrob:

    I was inspired to read your blog after we talked about the passing of Prince. Certainly a musical figure that is a big part of my life and that he, as well as Michael Jackson, were two musicians with whom I grew up and came of age following and listening to.

    As I reviewed your list of Prince’s top 57 songs, it brought back lots of memories. I thought about a lot of the songs which were either so in sync with the times or so cleverly penned that they would deserve recognition on such a list. It’s difficult to get agreement across a broad spectrum of people on what truly were the best 57 songs by Prince. There might be some debate about what his classic period might have been but the years of demarcation (1978 -1996) make sense. For fun, I thought I would politely, respectfully and slightly tongue-in-cheek submit this retort for general consideration.

    “Alphabet St” did well for Prince but was probably not even in the top four tracks on that LP. “Positivity” and “Anna Stesia” are certainly more of interesting rhythmically and vocally but depart from Prince’s inclusion of crossover tracks for popular consumption on an LP.

    I would nominate “Forever In My Life” for a spot in the top 57. It’s a practical example of the clever things that Prince loved to do with vocals. Instead of using the classic “call and response” from the backing vocals, he put the backing vocal in front of the verse which he then sung, again pointing to the creativity and playfulness of Prince’s composing.

    There is without question a glaring omission from this 57 last and that is “I’m Yours” from the first LP “For You.” Not only did Prince compose, perform and arrange all the tunes on his first two LPs, but “I’m yours” is probably one of the most simple, yet interesting tunes he ever wrote, with a pop vocal and a rock platform featuring trading 4s between Prince on electric guitar and electric bass in a way in which we very rarely heard in any type of pop, funk or R&B tune of the time or since. You might have to go back to Graham Central Station, Mother’s Finest or Betty (Mabry) Davis to hear something similar. Other notable mentions from that album would, of course, include “Soft and Wet” and Crazy You” but “I’m Yours is a definite nominee for this list.

    I noticed that “Emancipation” really didn’t get very much love on this list and are so many tunes from that album which I think deserve recognition. It makes the cut for his “classic years” and is a three-disc set so there is a lot of material from which to choose. “In This Bed I Scream” and “The Holy River” are probably the two which, besides the covers, are notables from the set.

    Omitted from the list is the “Batman” soundtrack which I think was one of the most creative soundtracks of its time. Others soundtracks that come to mind are Herbie Hancock’s soundtrack to the original “Death Wish” starring Charles Bronson and Stanley Clarke’s “Passenger 57” soundtrack starring Wesley Snipes. Absolutely phenomenal soundtracks that you can listen to from beginning to end and easily “Batman” is one of those soundtracks that fits that bill. Curtis Mayfield’s Superfly and Isaac Hayes’ Shaft fit the bill as well. My nominee from this recording would be “Electric chair.” In the chorus, Prince offers:

    “If a man is considered guilty
    For what goes on in his mind
    Then give me the electric chair
    For all my future crimes…”

    Once again never to be outdone by a clever vocal.

    When I think about prolific vocalists and singer-songwriters, the three that come to mind are Prince, Stevie Wonder and Joni Mitchell: Stevie Wonder because of being a multi-instrumentalist, a strong composer and ability to provide diverse messages whether they be about love, politics or religion all at the same time if need be (i.e. “Songs in the Key of Life” and “Conversation Peace”) and Joni Mitchell for many of the same reasons except her not being a mufti-instrumentalist but a sophisticated composer (i.e. “Mingus,” “Turbulent Indigo” and “Chalk Mark in a Rain Storm”). Prince absolutely stands with these three for this musical idiom.

    Glad to see “Anotherloverholenyohead” on this list; “Girls and Boys” deserves an honorable mention. Since “Rave Un2 The Joy Fantastic,” “Musicology” and “3121” fall outside the defined period, those tracks will have to wait for another list.

    I do think however that there is another glaring omission and that is “The Black Album,” one of the classics of its time because of its underground release. “Bob George” and “Movie Star” are two of the most entertaining songs that you might never listen to by Prince but certainly deserve honorable mention (check them out!)

    No love for “Chaos and Disorder?” It makes the classic years cut and features a series of tracks in successions that should be listened to in order:

    3. “Dinner with Delores”
    4. “The Same December”
    5. “Right the Wrong”
    6. “Zannalee”

    My favorite and a top 57 nominee is track 10 “Dig U Better Dead,” another display of his ability to integrate sexuality, spirituality and politics.

    In an interview with Arsenio Hall, Miles Davis referred to Prince as “a genius.” Davis said, “he can do anything [musically].” And I would consider Prince one of the all-time great rock guitarist of his time. The creativity, virtuosity and risks he took deserve mention here. There were several great rock/blues style guitarists of the latter 20th century but six stand out to me for their contributions to musicians and performance art as a whole: they include the too-soon departed Jimi Hendrix, the eclectic Eric Clapton and George Benson, the versatile Mahavishnu John McLaughlin, the scintillating clarity of Eddie Van Halen and the late Hendrix disciple Pete Cosey. This list certainly takes a pretty diverse view of the instrument and its virtuosos. My point is that Prince was a guitarist of significant note.

    One of the things that prompted me to even response the blog was my going through it and having it bring back so many great memories about this musician which whom I came of age and also a conversation with DJRob about a Prince tune we were listening to, “Strollin’,” that I remarked is a favorite of mine but would not crack my top 16 Prince songs. So to go through this list of 57, I guess I proved to myself that it is not even in my top 57. It’s a memorable track because back in the day when I would trade mix tapes with a good friend of mine (whom I will call B, the biggest Prince fan I’ve ever met or known), I would for some reason begin half a dozen of them with “Strollin’.” B would pop in the cassette (see Wikipedia for a definition if you must), turn to me and say, Really??, Strollin’?” Each time, I would be surprised by not remembering that I’d recorded it for him before. The bottom line is that it didn’t crack my “top 16” and it appears I doesn’t crack my top 57 either but if you’re not familiar with it, maybe throw it on and just listen to it. There’s nothing particularly special about it but a walking baseline with a very simple vocal setting and a very simple sentiment about a couple enjoying being together.

    I hope this was fun and contributory to the blog. There many things about which I am passionate: music is one of them. Farewell, Prince; gone but never to be forgotten.

    ddw

    1. Wow! Thanks, Daryl, for this contribution! I also noted your comments under the individual entries on the list. I would have to create a Top 100 (or more) list to truly do Prince justice. I chose 57 to keep it manageable and to represent his number of full years with us. You’ve certainly provided some food for thought as I rebook at the list, but in the interest of time, I’ll just comment on The Black Album. I personally did not think it reflected his best work, certainly didn’t live up to its cult classic status, nor do I think its tracks withstood the test of time over the years. Several of the other songs you mentioned were considered as I was putting this together. But, as you can imagine, keeping it at 57 meant there would be some casualties – as many others have also pointed out.

      Thanks again, and hopefully you’ll keep reading (and maybe even contribute some of your impressive musical knowledge) down the road.

  1204. Double Tripple WOW! What an excellent article and perfect early birthday gift??

  1205. They said it best…djrobblog is dope!!! I’ve said it since the beginning…& it just gets better with time. What an awesome opportunity to conduct your first artist interview…EXCELLENT JOB!!!

    1. Thanks, Cam! I’m loving what I’m doing, which – as they said – makes it not seem like work at all.

  1206. Classic tunes are missing, although I know it’s a matter of personal taste. When You Were Mine and 17 Days would be in my choices as well as Bambi, Le Grind and Condition of the Heart

    1. Thanks and I agree. I had “17 Days” on the list until about a week ago, when I added “Housequake” by popular demand. The bottom line is, one cannot do Prince justice with a list of just 57 songs.

  1208. Prince had so many song! And honestly I love them all. This man had God given talent that we probably won’t see again .So we must enjoy the music.one of his CD where he is wearing those cool sunglasses those tracks are sweet bumping I was damn! For those real Prince fans y’all know what it is peace.

  1209. Outstanding!! This was a subperb read. Keep giving us quality information about all things music. You’re definitely my favorite music blog and articles like this is the reason. Love the Purple Lemonade analogy too.

  1210. Maurice Gibb provided the falsetto on “nights on broadway”. Very fine work indeed on Maurice’s part. Why would you disparage him?
    Check out Bee Gees, “Nights On Broadway,” midnight special video. Maurice provides the highest octave on the song.

    1. You’re right, Maurice did the “Blamin’ it all” background parts in falsetto, as well as some falsetto harmonizing. But big brother Barry took it home at the end with those primal falsetto screams as the song fades. It was this single that introduced the public to Barry’s falsetto,…and the rest, as the say, is history.

  1211. Computer blue should be lower on this list, other great list!

    1. How ironic is it that I’m listening to Computer Blue as I read this comment? I was just thinking that I should’ve placed it higher. Thanks for commenting.

  1213. U can’t compare MJ to anyone as his is the one& only Angel ever.

  1214. The CD Musicology & Prince’s Greatest hits stand out to me! He was a true Funk Soldier that can do it all Pop,Rock that man was gifted!

  1215. This is awesome! Thank you.

    And there is so much more they had in common – fantastic generosity, huge fashion impact, support for up and coming artists, and massive time and energy (and money) spent making the world a better place. They both inspired us to love ourselves and love each other. After MLK died, their leadership was extraordinarily effective at changing attitudes and opening doors for people of color, queers, trans, women and other “different” people like me. Michael got the brunt of the backlash I think, but what courage they must have had to face such hate and continue spreading love.

  1216. DJ Rob thanks for taking down a musical memory lane. This list is awesome and although it represents only a fraction of Prince’s work, it shows just how creative and prolific he was as an artist. I do have one correction however. In that awkward Dick Clark interview that you mentioned in your 21st selection Prince held up 4 fingers to indicate how many years he’d been trying to get a recording deal. He was 19 y/o at the time of the interview. When asked how many instruments he played he gave a coy, bashful look and a long awkward pause before saying “thousands”.

    Keep up the great work. I love this blog!

    1. Thanks, Dean. I’ll make that correction. I knew there was a four finger response to something, and I was going on my memory (I still remember when it first aired). But he was actually 21 in January 1980, not nineteen. Thanks for the feedback!

  1217. Prince always provided a sexual gate with his music. A listener could decide if they wanted to expose or express their sexual subconscious. Prince made it okay to do so. Erotic City, Sexy Motherfucker, Darling Nikki, Irresistible Bitch, and my favorite Head allowed me to vicariously explore a sexual consciousness. These are thoughts most of us have, but repress because of what society says is appropriate. Think about it, Prince paved the way for rappers to do the same within his career time span. Thanks Prince! Thanks DjRob!

  1218. One of the things that stands out about Prince and his sexuality, is that He was a Gemini. He was truly modal – definitely two people existing in one body. He made it clear in his music. “Am I straight or gay, black or white” he was naturally both a boy and a girl although his physicality was as a man. He exuded this characteristic perfectly. What most people are unaware of is that we all have a duality trait. This is expressed more in some and can be identified in their astrological chart. This existed for Michael Jackson also. I feel as though this made their fame that more appealing – the unknown

  1219. Legendary! I wonder if the universe had their lives perfectly timed? Thanks for this recognition DJRob.

  1220. I can believe my self that Prince he die . Now every time see him the TV and telling him the he die not know what make cause him . Am still not believe my self . His strong man anyway am going to miss him . I love every one of his music album and I love you Prince . ❤️❤️❤️ RIP ??????

  1221. After the passing of Whitney Houston, I wondered who was left vocally? Now I am wondering who is left musically? Prince was and will always be music royalty. They all have seemed to leave at once, a musical dynasty, if you will. Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Natalie Cole, Merle Haggard, David Bowie, Luther Vandross, James Brown, many others, and now Prince. True contributors. I am proud to say that my ears have been truly blessed in this lifetime. Maybe I am just getting older, but I hope to be able to witness the next superstar vocally, musically, with pure talent, that catches the masses. RIP Prince Rogers Nelson. Thanks DJRob for this acknowledgement of true greatness.

    2. How could I forget Pfife Dawg of Tribe Called Quest. He was a pioneer. TCQ was a member of native tongues, a rebirth of consciousness in the hip hop movement strongly influenced by Prince and Michael Jackson both lyrically and beat wise.

  1223. I believe you’ve made Prince very proud…excellent article!! Still seems so unreal. So many musical geniuses gone at such an early age over the past decade…definitely causes us to begin putting things into proper perspective.

  1224. Verrrry interesting facts here!! Informative & entertaining, as always. Album cover? Well, that’s a whole other topic of discussion lol…in a word, disturbing!! But I do respect Kanyé’s gift & artistry. Gotta check out that one he collaborated with Kendrick.

    1. You know he’s now being sued by people who recently subscribed to TIDAL for misrepresenting that TIDAL would be the only service carrying his album.

    1. I agree. I play the air drums to that every time I hear it. Pure drumming perfection. I’m planning to do a Best Drumming performance post one of these days.

    1. I’m not sure where he is right now. But he’s not on this list because he’s not known for having an exceptional falsetto voice. His tenor is wide-ranging, and he dabbles in falsetto, but it doesn’t regularly (at least that I’m aware of) go into high falsetto register. There’s a fine line. Muse is great though!

  1230. The top 3 barely ever wrote or produced any of their own music. I’d take Marian Carey and Madonna on the top two positions over these top three.

    1. Not true about Aretha, but you’re correct regarding #2 and #3. I gave them more credit for having come earlier and – especially in Aretha’s and Diana’s cases – not having come up during the video era and having that as an additional marketing tool during their peaks (when sales in general were lower…especially for women).

  1232. Donna Summer sits too low. She was the first female artist to dominate the pop charts. She scored 6 top 4 singles from Nov 25, 1978 to Nov 24, 1979 with 4 #1s, 1 #2, 1 #4. She took 3 double albums to the top of the charts in 14 months. She was the first female (and only the second ever- singing nun in December 1963) to have the #1 single and #1 album at the same time in the modern pop era (3 times in 8 months). Had 9 consecutive top 5 singles, and was Billboard’s top music act from 1976 to 82 with 12 top 10 singles (pre MTV era). She was the first black female played in heavy rotation on MTV, the first to have her videos played in consistent heavy rotation on MTV (followed by the Pointer Sisters and Tina Turner). The first to be nominated for an MTV Awards. The first artist to build a career on dance music. Only artist to win Grammys in 4 different genres, Rock, R & B, Dance & Gospel. Named the Diva de Tutte Dive – the first true diva of the modern rock era – by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

    1. Hmmm…you’ve made a very good case for the late great Donna Summer. But I have one correction…she was not the FIRST female artist to dominate the pop charts. Many women (Connie Francis, Diana Ross, Cher, Barbra Streisand, Roberta Flack, Olivia Newton-John, Helen Reddy) all achieved at least three #1s before Donna even had her first (“MacArthur Park”). And Ross had four before then, not to mention the twelve she had with the Supremes in the ’60s. Nonetheless, I’d say she’s in some pretty good company to be ranked where she is. But I don’t disagree with any of the accolades you mention, for she is a true legend.

    1. Yes, I know all those artists. I addressed Kate Bush in a previous comment. As for Harry, easy correction re: still fronting Blondie, but it won’t change her ranking. As for the others, especially Siouxsie (of the Banshees), I don’t believe they warrant Top 100 ranking here in America.

  1234. I’d suggest Tim Buckley’s ‘Gypsy Woman’ from “Live at the Troubadour 1969”. Definitely deserves consideration for this list.

  1235. Where is Bonnie Tyler??? She knocked Michael Jacson`s Billie Jean off the nr one spot in USA and she was the first female to go stright to nr one in the UK album charts in history acording to the Guiness Book, and she had 2 top selling singles of all time

    1. I considered Bonnie Tyler, but having just two or three hits here in America – the basis for this list – just didn’t qualify her. And for the record, the song that knocked “Billie Jean” out of #1 here in the U.S. was “Come On Eileen” by Dexy’s Midnight Runners, which was in turn displaced by “Beat It” (all in April 1983). Tyler’s “Total Eclipse” didn’t hit #1 until October ’83.

    1. She is big in Europe, and big in dance music circles here in the U.S., but she didn’t quite make the list.

  1237. Madonna should be number 1. She is the most successful female artist in history acording to the Guiness Book and Billboard. She has 42 number 1 songs on the billboard club/dance chart the 42nd is Bitch I’m Madonna from 2015. Not to mention that she is the only women on the list of the most profitable Tours is history and recognized by the industry as the Queen of Pop.

    1. Uhh…maybe I should’ve clarified that this is based on success in America. That said, of the two you named, only Kate Bush might warrant consideration. PJ Harvey, while notable, is hardly one of the greatest artists in this country for the past 50 years.

  1241. This list was unbiased, inclusive and largely true. For me it is definitive and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to know the top black artists of all time. I can’t think of anyone more deserving to here. Top five could be turned upside down and I’d still agree with it. I love the fact that stevie is there and that MJ is number one. They often get downgraded because of their largely pop output but there is no doubt that you’ve placed them rightly in their place. No black artist can stand next to MJ in terms of success and influence. Music today is basically all him. Thank you for this

    2. Absolutely not. You can’t say that there aren’t other icons who haven’t helped shape. I love Michael Jackson but he certainly is not the greatest black musician of all time.

      1. I didn’t say “there aren’t other icons who haven’t helped shape,” in fact I named 100 of them…hence the list of “100 Greatest Black Musicians.” No one said the other 99 didn’t help shape music…just the opposite.

  1242. Very well written! Thanks for profiling this genre of music for its one that I am not as familiar with. One of my favorite performances of all time is the Live Performance of Jesus Is Love by Yolanda Adams performed on the BET Awards several years ago. That performance speaks to my soul and gets to me in a place that few can. I know what you mean by a song/performance evoking an emotional element. Your post inspired me to watch that performance on YouTube and I’ve had it on repeat this morning. Thanks for blessing me and us.

    2. Wow…appreciate you sharing that Dean! I remember Yolanda’s performance of “Jesus is Love” like it was yesterday…she put her personal stamp on it & made it her own! Thank you for your feedback!

  1243. Even though I didn’t graduate in 1986, this was one of my absolute favorite years musically. LOVED the countdown…took me all the way back to middle school lol! Fantastic article!!!

  1245. Hi Rob, I searched your blog and found no mention of Grammy-winning Pauline Wilson of Seawind. If you don’t know her/them, you just have to check them out. She may not technically be “blue-eyed” (she’s a GORGEOUS Filipino-Chinese-Puerto Rican-Spanish-American Indian from Hawaii!) Try Angel of Mercy first: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2xUYVb-Xj0 then maybe proceed to The Devil Is a Liar or What Cha Doin. A strong Gospel thread runs through their very funky music. Their trumpeter is Jerry Hey, who wrote and writes more great horn riffs than anyone ever, including many you would instantly recognize from EW&F. But you probably know all that! ;->

  1246. Really enjoyed this, Rob, thanks! I’d love to see an extended “near miss” list with many of the suggestions given above, plus others of the soulish-jazz-rock BS&T/AWB persuasion like Chase (Get It On), Ides of March (Vehicle), Lighthouse (One Fine Morning), Climax Blues Band (Couldn’t Get It Right) and of course (early) Chicago (Beginnings) and others that your readers will remember and/or enjoy discovering. As a white youngster hearing these bands on the radio for the first time, I assumed from their sound that they were all black artists, though as you point out their style is not squarely in the soul/R&B vein. Cheers!

    1. Don, thanks for reading and especially for your comments. I am definitely considering updating the blue-eyed soul article and will be expanding it to include the suggestions that you and others have made. As time goes on, newer artists (like Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith) will continue to make their marks, and older artists (like BS&T, Ides of March) will be even more appreciated. Cheers, my friend!

  1247. Djrob words cannot express how much this article means to me. Having graduated high school in 1986 this article represents a bit of nostalgia that will forever be with me. I found myself traveling in time (in my mind) to those magical moments. The one thing music achieves that man things can not is its ability to associate itself with a unique moment in time to the listener and stamp said moment in that persons head to forever be associated with that moment, that memomy, that life event. THANK YOU for your blog and musical savvy. It means more than you’ll ever know.

    P.S. I’m posting this on my High School’s group page

  1248. 100% agree…… and number 13 is my all time favorite! awesome article

  1250. Fabulous list!!! Thank you for compiling a list that truly reflects your readers’ views, along with your own musical expertise. Seeing “Waiting to Exhale” ranked so high on the list made me SMILE!

  1251. You had me at Tears For Fears!! Yes, I still say they got soul lol! Wow…your vivid description of the flow of the evening made me feel like I was there! I could even picture in my mind the group of “rhythmically challenged” attendees lol…and I definitely would’ve felt cheated to not see Billy Idol perform my favorite, “Eyes Without a Face”. Overall, sounds like it was fun. To me, the 80’s were the BEST! Be nice if they’ll bring it to the east coast next time. Great review!!

    1. Thanks, Cameo! Yeah it was definitely a good show. If it comes to the east coast, it would be better if they replace Missing Persons with someone like Human League, Thompson Twins, Duran Duran or Wang Chung.

  1252. The Grammy Awards have been dying a lonnngggg, sloowwwww, painful death for many years now. I hate to sound so cliché, but it just ain’t what it used to be! Even now as a proud member of the 40 & over club, I can remember those magical moments as a child that were captured on the Grammy stage. Now that I’m a mother of four small children, I wouldn’t dare let them watch most of these “award” shows for fear of being bombarded by so many adult themes communicated through language, inappropriate attire, etc. I haven’t watched the entire show (& from the sounds of it, I won’t!), but I have seen video clips. The looks on the faces of the audience members during the monumental performance by my personal fave, Kendrick Lamar, spoke volumes! But I digress lol!

    You said it best, the Grammys were NUTS this year! And apparently, that has become a compliment as I’ve watched the show get weirder every year. I placed quotation marks around the word “awards” because many of the winners simply shouldn’t have won. For example, anyone who loves Gospel music knows that Kirk Franklin’s win (“Just Wanna Be Happy”) should’ve gone to Anthony Brown (“Worth”) for Best Gospel Song Performance/Writer. Even Kirk knew that which is probably why he invited all the nominees up on stage with him when he won lol! Kendrick’s losses as you mentioned, were a huge disappointment…& again spoke volumes as to how far we have actually come as a nation to fully embrace the phenomenal contributions of African-Americans to the music industry. Clearly, the so-called tributes speak to that as well. The Maurice White “tribute” was not a part of the original plan for the show & was just added in after complaints by fans & artists who exposed the gross oversight on the part of the Grammys. Sadly, the legendary Maurice White was a mere afterthought while David Bowie’s was well thought out & not rushed.

    To me, the Grammys need to go back to the drawing board…back to the basics of spotlighting musical excellence.

      1. Thanks a bunch! Appreciate you for consistently welcoming your readers’ thoughts & opinions on the content of your blog, as well as your responsiveness. This everchanging music industry that we all love ALWAYS gives us something to talk about!

  1253. Great article and discussion; your points are spot on! Hats off to Beyoncé for having the guts to make a bold statement during the Super Bowl half time show! Not crazy about the song but love the conversations her performance sparked. Giuliani and others definitely didn’t like the nod to the Black Panther party but it proves they don’t know the real history of the group; why it was started, their accomplishments (one being the Free Breakfast for Children Program) and the need for the group.

  1254. I would flip #1 and #2. If you grew up in the 70’s, nothing came close to the live version of Reasons.

  1255. Most ppl don’t even know they have an album called LAST DAYS & TIMES, to me that was the best album they made. The whole album was full of hit songs, of course that was in 1973/1974. So alot of ppl won’t even born yet ,also alot of ppl have no idea that there was a female in the group also. Her name was Jessic Cleaves, Maurice White fired her after the 3rd album because of drug problems. She sung with impeccable ranges, before Phillip Bailey had to take over that job totally.If you get a chance go to youtube and check out the song WHERE HAVE ALL THE FLOWERS GONE!!! It will blow your mind…

    1. Thanks, Johnny. I’m well aware of their early stuff. Jessica Cleaves was a member of the Friends of Distinction before she joined EWF. I have Last Days and Time – along with all their other stuff.

  1256. I had to laugh as I read through this list, two of the absolute worst songs they ever recorded, Boogie Wonderland and After the Love is Gone making the top ten, maybe if all you ever listened to is pop music but true EWF fans cringe when they hear those songs… Just my .02.

    1. Understand. That’s a common reaction to “Boogie Wonderland.” And I personally hate “After the Love Has Gone.” But remember, my criteria was a combination of quality, commercial success, and the opinions of people. I’m one of EWF’s biggest fans, purchased or owned all of their albums and appreciated their commercial and non-commercial songs. This list reflects the way I saw it, considering all the above.

  1257. BRAVO! BRAVO!! And BRAVO!!!
    You made very valid points in this article that should be read by all. This article and its content is a testament to how powerful music can be and how artists can use it to reach millions around the globe. Thank you for always giving thought provoking commentary to the musical tapestry of our time.

  1258. Love Music – “Don’t play no more songs, ’bout who did who wrong. Just play the music, my kind of music.”

  1260. I just thoroughly enjoyed your work! The time and research you place in your blogs are just phenomenal!
    Thank you
    Jay R

  1261. To many good songs they did, Never,Miracle,Serpentine fire ,etc its very difficult to choose one,because they were an incredible and amazing band maybe won’t see a great group like this anymore

    1. Thanks, Vern! It is a good song, which made me include it in the honorable mentions. But as you can probably tell, the ’70s stuff resonated with me more. That was from their 1983 album, Powerlight.

    2. Oops, my bad. Thought I had included “Side By Side” as an honorable mention, but just saw that I hadn’t. It’s there now.

  1263. Those outfits though…I love it! They made it worth the price of admission. It’s called show business for a reason. I wish younger artist would put that kind of effort into their presentation. Thanks again DJ Rob!

  1264. Thank you so much DJ Rob. This iconic and spiritual group truly defines the music industry at its best. As we celebrate Black History Month and the life of member Maurice White, I can’t help but share a little known Black historical fact. Did you know that in 1969 when film maker and director Melvin Van Peebles was creating his movie Sweet Sweetback’s Badass Revenge he needed a soundtrack to exemplify his message. His secretary had been dating a musician named Maurice White who was in a band in need of work. She introduced Maurice White to Melvin Van Peebles and the rest as they say is history. Earth Wind and Fire was born. As we can see when preparation meets opportunity, the end result can stir the elements.

  1265. Thank you so much DJ Rob. This iconic and spiritual group truly defines the music industry at its best. As we celebrate Black History Month and the life of member Maurice White, I can’t help but share a little known Black historical fact. Did you know that in 1969 when film maker and director Melvin Van Peebles was creating his movie Sweet Sweetback’s Badass Revenge he needed a soundtrack to exemplify his message. His secretary had been dating a musician named Maurice White who was in a band in need of work. She introduced Maurice White to Melvin Van Peebles and the rest as they say is history. Earth Wind and Fire was born. As we can see when preparation meets opportunity, the end result can stir the elements.

  1266. Your faithful fans appreciate you always thinking of us!! Wow…not even the top 25 lol?! BLASPHEMY!!!

  1267. Can’t argue with this list! BUT, I must say I almost fainted when you said “After the Love Has Gone” is one of your LEAST favorites lol…that one is in my top 3! What a list…great job!

    1. Lol, I had to be honest. In my personal list, it wouldn’t even make the top 25, and Boogie Wonderland would be in the top three. But I took y’all into account.

  1268. Masterfully written!! Your heart & soul shine through every word. EWF fans across the globe can all connect to so many beautiful thoughts you’ve shared on our favorite group & it’s founder. I’m sure brother Maurice is offering a heavenly nod as well! May God richly bless the legacy of the incomparable, Maurice White!

    1. Thanks, Cameo. But he was the inspiration for all those words. When they’re genuinely inspired, words can only be heartfelt. He’s a huge musical loss for me.

  1269. Excellent intro to this article. In a time when some question the need for Black History Month, I’m glad that you took the time to inform your readers about the historical relevance of BHM. It’s unfortunate that we live in a world in which our culture history along with those of other cultures either aren’t included in American history in school curriculums or are glossed over as a footnote. Also thanks for another great article. I love the list and learned a lot.

  1270. Happy Black History month! Informative and well written article as usual. Can’t argue with your selections. I definitely agree with your number one choice. The Jacksons, hands down, the best family group of all time! You were right to include the gospel genre since that is an area that African Americans have had significant influence (we basically developed it). One gene not represented and that has family acts is Jazz; groups like the Heath brothers, Montgomery brothers, Marsalis family to name a few. Maybe that didn’t meet your inclusion criteria but maybe should be included on the honorable mentions list.

    1. Thanks, Karen, for the feedback. As for the Jazz acts, I didn’t get the sense that the Marsalis brothers, for example, performed together as an act. They each had individual successes and occasionally did things together, but not as an integral act. It would be like including Beyoncé and Jay Z, who are married and have recorded duets together, but are not considered a single recording act like Ashford & Simpson or Ike & Tina Turner. I’d have to research the Montgomery and Heath families to see if they qualify. Good question!

  1271. FANTASTIC!!! I love how you pulled all the different families together & explained to readers how the group members are related. Excellent flow of the historical relevance at the beginning, as well as the little tidbits of information for each artist. A fabulous way to kick off Black History Month!!!

    Now, as you suggested at the end of the article, I MUST let you have it lol!!! All I’m gonna say is: “Oh Happy Day”, “Going Up Yonder”, “Be Grateful “, & “Thank You (Lord, for all You’ve Done For Me)”. All of these song titles of course, have endured decades & continue to shape the gospel music industry, not to mention the secular world has even adopted “Oh Happy Day” as its own on many occasions. The late Bishop Walter Hawkins, his former wife Tramaine, sister Annette Hawkins-Stephens, & brother Edwin Hawkins, are all LEGENDARY. They literally paved the way for The Clark Sisters, The Winans, Mary Mary, & all Contemporary Gospel Artists to follow. My suggestion…give the Jones Girls honorable mention & give The Hawkins Family their spot on the list!

    Again…superb work!!!

    1. Outstanding feedback about the Edwin Hawkins Singers! I may have goofed in leaving them out! Should I go back and change it? Thanks, Cam!!

      1. Most definitely a change is in order!! Appreciate your feedback as well. This is one reason why you’re the best…you genuinely listen to your readers & consistently offer us quality material every time. Blessings!!

  1272. Happy first anniversary! I wish you continued success with your two passions, music and writing.

  1273. Wow…simply AMAZING! Djrobblog is truly a breath of fresh air that continues to inform and inspire music lovers like me upon each article published. Congratulations on such monumental success on this, your first year…Happy Anniversary!!!

    1. Cameo, thanks to you for being my most loyal supporter for the entire first year. Your impact has been immeasurable and I only hope it continues. Thanks again (and keep giving me feedback – good or bad)!

      1. I most certainly will! You keep up the excellent work. In the words of gospel icon, Donald Lawrence, “your gift looks good on you!” Keep working your gift!

  1274. So I’m finally getting a chance to listen to the playlist that accompanied this article and though I’m not finished listening I’m pleasantly surprised. So far of the songs I’ve listened to the stand outs for me are:
    Good Loving- Ludacris and Miguel: Mostly because of Miguel’s vocals but didn’t mind Ludacris either

    Getting High by the Beach- Lana del Ray: Love the vibe of this song. Transported me to another place.

    Cheyenne-Jason Derulo: Not understanding why this wasn’t a hit by him.

    Adore-Cashmere Cat (Arianna Grande) Vocals were impeccable.

    Not for long- B.O.B feat. Trey Songz: Again why wasn’t this a hit song?

    Coffee- Miguel feat. Wale: Somebody hit the snooze button and slept on this song because it has hit written all over it. I hope it’s re-released at some point and finds an audience.

    Great job and ear for putting these together. I’ll finish the playlist and give more feedback.

    1. Thanks, Dean. These songs should’ve been bigger hits and I enjoyed listening to and writing about them.

  1276. I always say, some of the greatest songs & greatest artists go unplayed (in some cases, underplayed) or unnoticed. Some of these I’ve never heard of, but there are quite a few that I absolutely love! The titles alone are winners…”Coffee”, “Good Lovin”, “Liquor”, etc. lol. Love that you featured this topic…great article!!

  1278. I believe class is mainly a thing of the pass unfortunately. Just as real singing talent seems to be a thing of the past. Most of today’s entertainers are just that. They parade their bodies they jump around and dance and it seems the more vulgar the more popular. I still admire Jill Scott, Janel, and Jennifer Hudson who needs someone to write some serious music for her and India Arie. Alicia Keys is talented and beautiful but she doesn’t get as much airtime because she doesn’t parade her body. I’m not against beautiful bodies but I am against that being a total package when a voice, class and elegance should be exhibited most of the time. Artist like Nancy Wilson Lena Horne Diane Carol, Ella Fitzgerald all talented beautiful women who never ever showed all of their body. Wake up today’s young women and bring back real talent, class and style.

  1279. What a beautiful tribute…heartfelt and informative. Thank you djrobblog for always being on top of your game & keeping your readers inspired by the powerful gift of music!

  1280. Thank you DJRob. David Bowie was the epitome of classic rock. I must say it is sad to hear of his passing, but also to learn that a generation has been lost to the knowledge of his body of work and contributions. As I drove to work listening to urban stations, I only heard references to a sample of his work by rap artist/businessman JayZ, where the word Fame was changed to Lame in a battle with rap artist Nas. I thought to myself, what a shame that a whole generation has no reference point with the music they listen to. For if it were not for David Bowie, we would not have the incomparable Luther Vandross, or the influence of Grace Jones, or Sting and the Police. David Bowie was the first to lead the androgynous movement, blurring the lines of gender. I wonder who influenced Marilyn Manson, Terrance Trent D’arby, even Prince. I smile to myself and think David Bowie, of course. Who could forget his classic acting role in the movie Labyrinth. You know what? I would also say he influenced the whole musicians hooking up with supermodels thing too. Thank you David Bowie for giving me great music to dance to in my teen years. Rest in peace David Bowie.

    1. What a great tribute, Carlous. You’re absolutely right about him. 2016 not off to a good start for our music legends.

  1281. Well stated. I could not help but think of male artist as well who embodied class, style, sophistication, and yes a man can be elegant but mostly regal. Those artist include Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, and Ben E. King to name a few. I must praise artist such as Jidena, Joe, and Maxwell for maintaining a level of class in an industry that now promotes uber masculine images with tattoos, sneakers, and sagging pants. From my point of view, a man who maintains his class and style through his outward appearance is real swagger. Let’s hope that in the rebirth of R&B, the element of dressing with class and style is reborn also. On another note, these young contemporary inelegant artist have the power to make that change happen if only they would recognize it…it seems A&R is a thing of the past.

  1283. Djr this is a great tribute to a fallen star gone too soon. I saw her in Raleigh back in the day at the amphitheater. I will never forget it she was awesome. She performed her unforgettable album

  1285. I loved your Tribute ! i was a huge fan since day one ! a lot of my friends in the music business met her and just said how nice and encouraging she was ! your top 12 hit it on the mark with me ! my heart is sad but she will never be forgotten !

  1286. Another song I liked by her which really didn’t do well on the charts was “A Little Bit of Heaven.” Kind of a sadly appropriate song with the news of her passing.

    1. I just listened to it. Not bad. I like the semi-reggae vibe of the music. That song was from her “Dangerous” album.

  1287. Great tribute. Your reference to comparisons to Aretha Franklin reminded me that she covered Aretha’s Daydreaming. Check it out. I like Natalie’s version equally as much as I like the Queen’s. Perhaps it can be added to your remakes list? Best!

    1. Thanks, Sidney! Yes, I researched her cover of “Day Dreaming” when I wrote the article. She was nominated for a Grammy for that performance, which is an irony I should’ve included in the write-up. I may have to update it. I will definitely consider it for the remakes list!

  1288. I had her Everlasting CD and to this day don’t know what happened to it but I loved it and miss it. My favorite on that CD is When I Fall in Love. I love her arrangement of the song and I like it a lot better than the duet with her Dad’s vocals. I also discovered La Costa some 10 years ago or more through a friend and it is absolutely one of my favorite songs (not just of hers). It’s so light and breezy its reminiscent of The Girl from Ipanema. I even put it on a playlist of songs that I feel are similar and I’ve worn it out. Thanks for the article, it’s well done as usual.

  1289. By the way the group name for the other song I mentioned is Quad City DJ’s featuring K-knock (What you gonna get for Christmas). Although this song is the furthest thing from refined (so I’m sure it will never make the list), it certainly is entertaining….at least to me.

    1. I’ll have to give it a listen. If it’s anything like their big hit “C’mon, Ride the Train,” your assessment about its chances are dead on. Lol

  1290. Great list!!! Thanks for all of the research put into this. It’s hard not to think of Christmas standards without putting thinking of some of your own personal classics. Although you have quite a few of mine I want to mention a few of my others: Sleigh Ride by TLC, What Child is This by Vanessa Williams, What You Gonna Get for Christmas by …..somebody and K-Knock. Just to name a few.

    1. Thanks Dean! You’re the second person to mention “What Child Is This?” By Vanessa Williams. I’ll definitely consider that in the update (next year). Merry Christmas!

  1291. Been waiting for this one! I can only imagine how difficult it was to compile such a list…wow! Saw some of my favorites and can’t argue with #1, but of course I have a couple to consider as an honorable mention. “Kirk Franklin & the Family Christmas”, released in 1995. It’s most popular contribution to the world of music is played alllll year round entitled, “Now Behold the Lamb”. You won’t see a Christmas musical production at any church without this one! Not to mention, one of the lead singers has now become a musical giant in the gospel & secular arena, Tamela Mann. The entire album is pretty amazing & never gets old!

    Another honorable mention, “Soul Holiday” by Sounds of Blackness released in 1993. To me, it captures an experience of Christmas not often represented in pop culture. Always lifts the spirit!

    Ok last thing lol, Whitney Houston’s version of “Do You Hear What I Hear”. I know Mr. Goulet is well respected, but Whitney’s voice on this classic takes it to another level & just stirs ya’ up!

    Sorry to write a book, but this is what great blogging is all about, right lol! Awesome job, as always!!!

    1. Cameo, good comments all! I’ll add that I actually had Whitney’s version of “Do You Hear…?” queued up for the list, but decided to replace it with Goulet’s version after reading that the song’s author loved it best (he may not have heard Whitney’s). Lol

      1. Ha!! No he didn’t lol! Just thought about Boyz 2 Men’s “Silent Night”. Talk about warm & fuzzy! When they bring that harmony in, I MELT! Of course there are a bazillion versions of this beautiful song, but theirs is unlike any other given their signature instrumental acrobatics. Just a thought!

  1292. I like these artists truly, especially Kendrick Lamar, but if all a talented (supposedly) artist can sing about is his drug addiction, her morbid hello from the other side, or her sexual conquest over multiple menz, then the Millie Jackson Orchestra is what I need to hear. I hope 2016 will yield the rebirth of R&B, Pop that makes everyone Happy again, and Country with a true feeling of down home rather than flashy pop related tunes. Congratulations to the 2015 Robbie winners. In 2016 step up your A Game like Carolina Panther! …just sayin

  1293. Alice in Wonderland provides very good side eye regarding the music industry. Psychology 101

    Alice:How long is forever?
    White Rabbit:Sometimes, just one second.

    Theft is a crime that happens in an instant; and the whole world thinks she’s all new and hot. Not!

  1294. Annnnndddd the People’s Choice Award for “Best Music Blog” goes to (insert drumroll here)…Djrobblog!!! Great job as always. Interesting award categories…I must say, that feminine hygiene one was pretty hilarious lol! Kudos to you for such a phenomenal first year!!!

  1295. Kudos on another interesting article. Your analysis is spot on, with the exception of your description of Rachel Platten song, you get a “nipper” for that one!! Peace and Joy in the Holiday Season.

  1296. Great Read and congratulations on your upcoming milestone. I can tell that you know your stuff when it comes to music and I always appreciate that I’m not only entertained when I read your blog, I’m also informed.

  1297. The new production of The Wiz was highly superior! I noticed a commercial for Wicked during a break. The beauty of what was aired last evening sits well with Black actors being in positions of power to not only negotiate a contract with NBC, but also with creating work and recognition for Black entertainers in a continual difficult industry.

  1298. Hold up, wait a minute…where, oh where is THE “Thank You” anthem of all-time entitled “Thank You” by the late, great Bishop Walter Hawkins?!!! Not to mention his second “Thank You” anthem entitled “Be Grateful”. BOTH of those songs have stood the test of time and are STILL being belted out in churches every Sunday just as much as they were almost 30 years ago. Should be in the lineup…I demand a recount lol!!! Oh, and don’t forget the incomparable Richard Smallwood’s “Thank You”…deserves at least an honorable mention!

      1. Bahaaa!! Well while I’m adding…I’d like to add Mary Mary’s platinum, Grammy award-winning debut album entitled “Thankful” as an honorable mention. The song by that title was never played on radio, but it’s one of my favorites! Okay, I think I’m done now lol…still your #1 fan!

        1. I played the Mary, Mary song in my research, but just didn’t think it made the cut from a quality perspective. Maybe I’ll have to give it multiple listens for additional consideration. Lol…and “Thank YOU,” Cameo, for all the support you’ve given in 2015!

  1300. Thank You for this list, the videos, the music and an education. I can tell that you put a lot of time and thought into your blog and it does not go unnoticed. You are appreciated.

  1302. This is the Spinners 3rd nomination, not first. Inductees are announced in December, not next March. Best source for Rock Hall is a site called Future RockLegends ( not run by me) futurerocklegends.com

    1. Thanks Tom Lane. I stand corrected and have corrected the two pieces of info you raised. As the Spinners are one of my favorite groups of all time, how dare I short-change them!

  1303. Chaka is lonnnngggg overdue…would love to see her receive such a well-deserved honor!! I think Chic will get the green light this time around too. We shall soon see!

  1305. This album is fabulous. We seem to agree on a lot of songs. Unbreakable is my favorite, then Broken hearts Heel, then Well Traveled, but I must say, you surprised me with your review of Burn it up. It is super hot, I love it. Also some other favorites are The Great Forever, Shoulda Known Better, Dream Maker, Love you for Life, 2B loved, Promise and but of course, No Sleep.

  1306. Wow…your descriptive word flow made me feel like I was there!! Simply amazing from start to finish. Now that black eagle & birds flying is a little creepy for me lol, but I would have loved to hear that set list!

    1. I was mesmerized by the birds. It took me back to Alfred Hitchcock’s cheesy but classic “The Birds” from the 1960s. In fact, I even think Janet channeled Sissy Spacek’s “Carrie” during her opening pose, but I didn’t dare put that in the article. LOL

  1307. Interesting list here! I’m not at all shocked that Adele was #8…while I recognize her masterful vocal abilities & delivery, she depresses me everytime I hear her! Sorry, had to get that out! Now I can always appreciate great artistry in any music genre, but Lionel is #1 in my book…HANDS DOWN! You’re on point, as always. And my favorite part of your commentary…”that’s fine, but, hello!” Lol

  1309. I think 1984 could give 1985 a run for its money, with the Movies Soundtrack on the Music scene.

  1311. Very well done. It’s hard to argue something as subjective as great music but there is no disagreement that this year brought out some of the most memorable music. I had to scroll to the bottom to find the spotify link for background music while I read it. Thanks Darrell

  1312. BRAVO!!! I absolutely enjoyed this trip down memory lane and indulged in each entry as if I were savoring sweet ambrosia. This has got to be my favorite article by you yet. I will be sharing with others. EXCELLENT! ?????

  1313. You nailed it! Such great memories and music. I graduated high school that year (1985). Thank you for reminding me of how spoiled my ears were. Love it!!!

  1314. Absolutely LOVE this!! I totally agree…1985 was indeed one of the greatest years in music history. You left no stone unturned! And you KNOW my face lit up when I saw my boys Tears For Fears listed…I still say they got soul! Lol

      1. Will there be a part two to this? For some reason I keep thinking about the group Cameo – Attck me with your love, and Spandau Ballet – true. Hmmm?

        1. You’re right about Cameo’s “Attack Me With Your Love,” but this was mainly an argument for pop music. Cameo’s single didn’t crossover to pop that year. Their next album, Word Up, was a different story (in 1986). As for “True,” that was 1983.

      2. I’m sure!! This is probably my favorite article you’ve written…hard to say because all of your work is so amazing! Part 2 please & thank you!

  1316. I’m happy that Janet didn’t fade into oblivion. Given that she is a billionairess and has already left an impressive legacy in music it would be easy for her to walk away from the music scene. I certainly hopes she gets inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame but if it doesn’t happen now I’m sure it will happen eventually. I can believe someone had the misjudgment of mentioning Tamar Braxton in the same sentence as Miss Jackson for comparison sake. Janet has worked her ass off for decades and deserves better than that type of disrespect.

  1317. Excellent review!! I haven’t heard the whole project yet, but you make me want to get it today! No 10’s though…you’re a tough cookie lol!

  1318. Drake does not get a pass for using the N-word and neither should anyone else. I would love to see a blog on J Cole…love him! A socially conscious young man who unfortunately us the N-word as well. Trivia bit – MJ dropped the F-bomb on his collaboration with Janet (Scream).

    1. Thanks, DSTMA87…hmmm, wonder where that name came from ;-). You’re right about MJ’s f-bomb in “Scream.” I consider the f-bomb to be an equal opportunity offender to everyone, not any particular group. I will get J. Cole into an article soon!

      OPPMA87

  1319. Good list. However, your points on Mariah are unfounded. Yes, she had a few singles that were discounted, but that was later in her career (ie “Loverboy,” which was released by Virgin). “One Sweet Day” was never discounted for .49 cents so please check your sources. Your second negative was having too many commercially available singles. ..I’m sorry but that’s a dumb argument. Janet released more commercial singles off an album than Mariah did. Also, songs such as “Forever,” “Underneath the Stars,” “Butterfly,” “Breakdown,” and “The Roof” among others were never released commercially. You call her out for releasing 3-4 commercial singles off an album when both Janet and Whitney have released 6 singles off a record.
    As a side, Mariah also changed the game when she incorporated hip-hop into her music. A now musical staple that others have since followed (ie Whitney, Janet, Beyonce, Rihanna). Also, she has five octaves, not four. She’s also the most successful female songwriter and producer (something a lot of these ladies on this list can’t claim to be).
    If you don’t care for her then be honest. However, don’t try to diminish her achievements with these misleading points.

    1. Your points about “Breakdown” and the others not being released would be valid if I didn’t happen to have a copy of the CD single in my possession right now. It is one of my all-time favorite Mariah songs, which brings me to your next point. I highly respect Mariah for her accomplishments and you’re probably even correct about the five vs. four-octave range, but the fact remains that Mariah, more than other artists at the time, had deeply discounted sale-priced singles that enhanced her chart run before the field was neutralized by Billboard’s change in policy to allow non-commercial singles to chart and labels, including hers, began to forego releasing them before the digital age came along. But I respect your opinions and welcome your view on where you think she should rank.

  1320. She has nothing else to prove, especially since today’s music is complete and utter trash! There is no more creativity in the music industry! The new artist’s today lack everything from creativity, innovation, charisma and talent! It’s embarrassing what we call music today! Janet set the tone for females in music and does not need charts or critics or even monster sales to drive her musical brand anymore!

  1321. I’m Buying it. Janet has nothing to prove. She’s been there done that. She’s doing what’s she’s doing for her loyal devoted fans including me. We are loyal like no other. Artists Now release music if u call it that about nothing. Janet releases quality, music that makes an impact on people, people’s lives, and the world. New artists only wish to acquire half of what she has accomplished. Trust and believe Janet is on Top, is in Control and will always be. And Unbreakable is a perfect title because Janet is and her fans love is Unbreakable for her!!!

    1. You’re absolutely right! I had him on my draft list but somehow mistakenly omitted him from the final cut AND the honorable mention list. Unacceptable given his immense contributions! I will rectify this.

  1323. One member of the group “Loverboy” had a love song from “Footloose” with Nancy Wilson of “Heart”. Bryan Adams did some backup vocals for a 1 hit wonder group that was from Canada. Dan Hill had another top 10 song with a female “Can’t we Try”.

    1. You’re right on all counts, Carl. I included “Can’t We Try” (w/ Vonda Shepherd) in the Spotify playlist. Based on your observation, I just added it to the list. Mike Reno is the Loverboy lead-singer you’re thinking of.

  1324. Love how you pulled this together & made it…work (pun intended)!! Definitely took me back. I thought of a few to consider at least as an honorable mention…tell me what you think: Gladys Knight – “Save the Overtime For Me”; Tina Turner – “Private Dancer”; Big Daddy Kane – “I Get The Job Done (I Work)”; Eric B & Rakim – “Paid in Full”. Excellent topic!!

    1. Cameo…good choices all! I can’t believe I didn’t think of “Private Dancer,” which is certainly a legit profession for some.

  1325. Thanks DJRob! I really love your mention of Sam Cooke’s Chain Gang. It’s a song very sentimental to me. Might I add one of my favorites? Janet Jackson – Whoops Now (sorry I can’t go) popped up when I accessed the other vids. Thanks. http://youtu.be/EHgphUWPSOc

  1326. I LOVE IT! I love the diversity of music in this article and I love some of these classics. Some of these songs took me back to a time (in mind) in which things and people were carefree. This is what I love about music. A good song will take you back to a point in time in your life making you reminisce not only about the music but the era in which you were exposed to it. Thank you for your blog because music is truly universal and timeless. How many other things in life can we say that about?

    KUTGW!

    1. Thanks, Dean! Took me a sec to figure out what KUTGW meant. Thanks for the inspiration! I couldn’t agree with you more about music and the topic.

  1327. Reading your Labor Day article at lunch while working in cold and rainy Finland. Didn’t realize how much I missed the traditional end of summer day. Great topic!

  1328. Being a proud member of the 35 & older club, I can remember eagerly awaiting video releases back in the day. In 2015, that is no longer the case. Technology has progressed to the point now that our visual appetites are overstimulated ALL THE TIME…so who cares about a video?! Reality TV has taken over…maybe “Reality TV Awards” will come next. I haven’t watched the VMAs in forever & probably never will…but from the commentaries I have read (djrobblog being the best of course!), it is headed for self-destruction. Maybe you should feature your own list of the greatest music videos by decade. Just a thought…;-)

  1329. There was once a time when MTV would not show any videos of Black artists. Fast forward. There is a lot to be desired by this network and its peers BET and VH1. This is only a microcosm of what is happening in American society with youth, politics, law enforcement; culture in general. But the funniest schtick of all was Kanye West running for President in 2020. Money can’t buy you a decent awards show, but it can buy you a political office…smh.

  1331. Lovely trip down memory lane. What a treasure all of these artists have been & continue to be to the world through their music. Oh, and I caught that SHADE at the end of M Gaye’s tribute lol…and I totally agree!

  1333. Track listing is on the Best Buy website. 14 tracks including Earned It as well as two other songs- one featuring Ed Sheeran and one featuring Lana Del Rey. It will definitely be interesting to see what the sales numbers are on this one.

  1334. Hats off to these artists. My only concern is whether these artists will be around long term and stably recognized in the industry. The year that The Weekend was born (1990) there were a lot of trendy artists out with great chart successes; I wonder where they are now. I remember great R&B bands such as Portrait, AzYet, Brownstone, and Mokenstef who had really great songs and chart successes but are now long forgotten. I would love to see this guy have longevity. His peers leave a lot on the table, unfortunately listeners are still thirsty and hungry. Question? Will Nicki Minajor or Chris Brown be relevant 10 years from now? I think it all boils down to marketing and knowing the targeted audiences.

  1335. Love how you weave your personal experience into the context of this article. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it…especially that shout out to the Hokie Nation (Va Tech c/o ’97) !! I didn’t share NWA’s experiences either, but ever since I heard them in my 9th grade year of high school, I have had a great respect for their boldness to share their life stories. So much I was ignorant to then, I realize now is a harsh reality of many of our Black brothas & sistas. Looking forward to seeing the movie. Job well-done yet again!!

  1337. Thank you for the retrospective regarding N.W.A. The movie was excellent! One aspect that I missed was the parallel of East Coast West Coast gangsta rap. There was however a recognition of the Dallas and Houston TX movement with rapper D.O.C. NWA were definitely pioneers of the gangsta rap movement. Gangsta Rap started out as a more clearly defined response to law enforcement corruption and economics. It later became watered down hardcore party music to affiliate thuggery. Surprising also was the lack of mention of C. Delores Tucker who testified before a senate committee to have gangsta rap banned. Her voice sparked outrage by lovers of the genre leading to bans on NWA and The 2Live Crew, just to name two. Fast forward to now “wtf” are we listening to? Stripper music…

    1. Thanks, Los. I started to mention C. Delores Tucker in my article, but felt it was getting too long as it was. Interesting how N.W.A. and the music sub-genre it essentially created has outlasted her relevance (is she even still alive?).

  1338. I cannot argue the rankings, hairs are too fine to split. I’ll just rewind and listen to my favorites a few more times! Thanks for the good works…again!??

  1339. I agree with Darryl Outing that live performance is what tells the truth of a singer’s abilities. I’m also a believer that even the greatest singers have days where they are just “off”. Queen Aretha is a great example, by the way. However, experiencing Trey, as well Chris Brown (hey, couldn’t Breezy get an honorable mention though?! Especially for “Fine China” & “New Flame”) I digress lol…but really Trey was on point vocally when they were here in DC back in February. Just my 2 cents…

  1340. Great list but I have a problem with Trey Songz, Justin Timberlake and Robin Thicke. While these guys sound great on CD I’ve heard them sing live which is how I judge if they truly have vocals we can call above average and can be considered gifted. I call them studio vocals, because live they were pitchy and couldn’t hold notes with crystal clarity. Here’s the real kicker, a gifted falsetto can transition in and out of falsetto to regular vocal seamlessly. They sing the notes with crystal clarity. Live performance is really big for me, because the studio can make anybody sound good.

    1. Big Cuz, thanks for the comments. I agree with the premise that a singer’s real abilities are best judged with live performances. Unfortunately, the only one of these performers that I’ve actually seen live in concert is Philip Bailey (three times), and yes he hit the same high notes 30 years after his EWF heyday. I’ve seen some of the others sing on TV, but not in concert. I’m also a believer that singers can have “bad days” too when it comes to singing live. For example, I wouldn’t judge Aretha’s abilities by any of her recent live performances (that I’ve seen on TV). However, in a more relaxed studio environment, she may still be able to belt out a tune or two much closer to her standards.

  1341. A lot of great memories here! Can’t get “Betcha by golly” out of my head now!

  1342. Your work is always great, but this is one of your GREATEST! I agree with most of the list, but I am partial to Trey, Ron Isley, & El…they all should be higher on the list! I would put Trey in the teens at least, Ron around 5 or 6, & El is an easy #2 or 3. Robin Thicke is way too high for me…I like some of his music, but his falsetto wearies me lol! What about John Legend as an honorable mention? “Tonight (best you ever had)” & “All of Me”…I know he’s not a huge falsetto singer, but how he glides into his falsetto on the word “all” makes the song. What ya think?

    1. John Legend’s baritone irritates me, so I never even gave his falsetto a second thought. Too many greats on the list to add him. As for the others, I’m beginning to think El might be too low, but there’s only so much room at the top with all these legends up there. Moving up those people you mentioned would mean moving people like Russell Thompkins, Jr. down…and that would be blasphemy! Lol. Thanks for the compliments Cameo!

      1. Too funny…poor lil John Legend ain’t stand a chance with you lol! Glad El is getting so much positive feedback. Not too many can do what he STILL does after over 25 years of smoking crack, etc. – unheard of! I feel you concerning Russell Thompkins, Jr though. Awesome list!

  1343. I agree with #1 of course! Robin Thick is way too high. price should be #3 (remember “International Lover”?).

    1. LOL…Yeah, I definitely remember “International Lover.” That was the shiznit back in our PHS days. I also just discovered that Prince’s NPG folks removed his video from YouTube, which means we can’t see it. Interestingly enough, it was the only Prince video I could still find yesterday when I was researching this, meaning the increase in views from the blog may have prompted its removal. I’m tempted to move him down the list now (just kidding).

  1344. Impressive list! I probably would put El DeBarge and his brother Bobby higher on the list. I was very enlightened at how many artists fit the bill for this category. Keep up the good work.

    1. I moved El up with each edit of the list. You’re right, he’s clearly one of the best falsetto singers ever – in terms of the pure quality and range of his vocals.

      1. I TOTALLY AGREE BOBBY IS BETTER THAN THEM ALL HE ALONG WITH THE BEE GEES ARE THE BEST!

  1346. Another good read. I agree with most of your choices but maybe not in the same order. I’m sensing a little Earth, Wind and Fire bias. Lol!

      2. Wayne Cooper “Why have I lost You”, Cameo 1978 and 1980 version best falsetto and Philip Bailey 2nd, El And Bobby Debarge 3 and 4

  1347. Love the graphics & how you included the video for each song mentioned…NICE! So there weren’t any other gospel songs by that title? I guess they have other words in the title in addition to “alright” though.

  1348. Yes, the song titles haven’t changed but the messages have gone from sugar to #%$&@. I will always stand by rap that has a consciousness such as Common’s I used to love her. I think also we’ll be asking where are a lot of people in the near future…ie. Mike Jones…

    1. Thanks, Cameo! Yes, the songs could only have that one word in their titles to qualify. I’ll be including more videos in future articles (now that I know how to do it…hehe).

  1350. DJR, I can honestly say that your blog is the BEST!
    In spite of my promise to never read anything longer that one paragraph(after grad school), somehow I find myself entirely immersed, in the articles that you post.
    You make them very easy to read, facts are clear and the flow of it is well organized
    You present the content in a way that makes the reader pause, and reflect on where they were during that particular time….
    Music has the power to take us backwards or forward, but also to allow us to enjoy and embrace the present.
    Thank you for providing us with the memories that have faded, DJR.
    Blessings to you.
    Trisha B.

    1. Well said Trisha…I totally agree!! Music is so powerful & I love reading insightful commentary on djrobblog every week. And the cute lil baby pics are an added bonus in this article to bring back memories of some of the greatest hits of all-time!?

  1351. Seeing your pics reminds me of how great the music of that era was…one of my favorite R&B songs circa 1968 is Backfield in Motion by the duo Mel & Tim. I’m also reminded of my learning how to play Soulfinger by the Barkays during my marching band days. Thanks DJRob!

  1352. DJROB I’m proud (and glad) to be on board for this journey from the beginning. I’ve been entertained, challenged, and educated by your posts. In these chaotic times your blog is a refreshing change of pace from social media and as a music lover I find myself eagerly awaiting the next post. Keep up the good work because you’re touching more people than you know.

    Sincerely,

    DeanofDialogue

  1353. Wow…I cannot believe it’s been 6 months already!! Well it has been a pleasure to read your weekly blog. You always keep it fresh & it clearly comes from your heart. Looking forward to more great articles in the days to come!?

  1354. Great points Djrobb! I have a “side eye” theory as to why many of the great female artist you mentioned may not be experiencing charting success.
    A. Many of the artists mentioned objectify themselves. Gone is the day when Erykah Badu could say “now the we got that trick off the stage, we can have a show”
    B. Speaking of show, where is the show part of the business. Many of these artist aren’t well groomed with timing or stage presence. While Whitney may have lacked dance skill or rhythm, she could truly deliver.
    C. Reality TV I believe hinders image. Tamar Braxton is truly a Brat! Lil Sister’s behavior although hyped for TV is not cute. I am deeply saddened by R&B Divas ATL and LA. Chante Moore, Leelah James, Chrisette Michelle, Mi’chele are such talented woman but lack guidance, appear to be self absorbed, egotistical and arrogant. These women could really make moves if they checked their egos and got promoted from High School Girl to women about business.
    D. Lastly, it’s the public. We are lost in music because we don’t know our musical history which is comprised of many genres with levels and variations. I get so irritated when people claim a song as hot and its a basic remake. Blurred Lines? Was Gotta Give it up from note one. We need to recognize Blues, Doo Wop, jazz, Rap (Hip Hop is a culture), R&B, Soul, Disco, even Country (Ray Charles’ – I can’t stop loving you). It seems black music has been watered down just like school systems trying to accommodate every culture – what!, no pledge of allegiance? Justin is NOT R&B, and while I can appreciate a big butt and a smile, give me true talent, and a show that I will remember forever, because I got my money’s worth. Nikki, Rihanna, Dej Loaf, are very one dimensional. Rap is so watered down and the artists out nowadays seem stuck on labels cars jewelry sex and liquor. It used to be about an experience – LIFE from ones perspective. That is why Tupac and Biggie’s music holds weight.
    E. Quality material is just not out the either, and it seems artists aren’t creating or their labels are controlling what they put out which is garbage. I still will buy Vivian Green and definitely Avery Sunshine, but I may hear one song on their album that I like. Where in the hell is Sade? Laylah Hathaway, Jill Scott (@?? Wondering obout u girl I’ve heard some red flags), India Arie, ANITA BAKER, Erykah (lost in space?), come on girls!, Tyrese, and Tank can’t do it alone. The female sound is what takes you there while listening. Thanks for this post. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to play some Maysa, incognito, and Impromp2u wreckudz!

    1. P.S. I miss Luther Vandross and Vesta Williams, Phyllis Hyman, and Minnie Ripperton. Now those were quintessential R&B artists!

    1. Thanks Darren. As for Toussaint, I considered him and would maybe have him in the Top 40 as far as writers/producers go. In the end, I figured he was more known for his piano arrangements and singing than he was for record-producing, although it’s a very fine line.

  1357. I’ve heard many people predict Janet’s success and failure regarding this new release. Although “No Sleep” is not performing well at the moment, I do believe video will help the interpretation and sales of the song and album. I wonder how Janet is doing in comparison to her industry peer P-Diddy and his work “FinnaGitLoose” which has a youthful following with freestyle dance aided by his sons. I can’t help but remember Diana Ross attempting the same thing in the early 90s with a video following that included her teenaged daughters at the time. I say Kudos to Janet and Diddy for reaching back to attract youthful audiences. I like that Janet has placed her stamp with creating a label. As for Jam and Lewis, I do believe you are right sir – a younger fresher sound MUST be present to carry these artists. Snoop Dogg has done just that by combing the classic styling of Stevie Wonder, and the age defying Pharrel on the cut “California Roll”. I say let’s not discount Janet just yet, and see where this goes. Let’s also keep in mind her international status, and the influence of her relationships with the hubby and the Arabic market. If Aretha Franklin and Patti Labelle can still jam, then Miss Jackson gon be alright. As for older people (50+) like yourself, a promotion through AARP might make a significant impact LOL! Said with love for elder care.

    1. Excellent read! I chuckled at the Janet/Randy-Sonny/Cher reference. I agree with almost everything you said.

  1358. You missed one here with Chuck Negron, formerly of Three Dog Night and his rendition of Try A Little Tenderness from Captured Live at the Forum which rated right up there with the Al Jarreau or Otis Redding version. Ron Gaston

    1. Ron, someone suggested I include Three Dog Night and I considered it. You could make a case for Negron and the others as they all had lead roles that were occasionally soulful. I may have to update the list as several omissions have been pointed out.

  1359. Okay…I can’t hold my tongue on this one. When I think of buying a show ticket, I want my money’s worth! I was impressed with the BadBoy reunion. It had the whole young fly and flashy thing going. The tribute to Smokey Robinson was pure quality entertainment, not to mention his message to the youngins. You can be gone tomorrow in this bizness; check yo egos. Ciara and Jason Derulo did a great job of channeling Janet Jackson. I digress here – I sincerely hope she puts out a good album, because SLEEP is exactly what the track sounds like, and exactly what I will do if it bombs lol. Swinging weave and twerking does not a good album make. All in all I expect more from Janet because we know she can do it like no other performer-she can deliver! Call me old fashioned, but if you sing well in the studio and sound like crap live, then you are wasting your time in the Bizness, and my WEEKNDz could be better (yeah I’m throwing shade). I’m also waiting to hear when Jidenna will be hanging upside down from a balcony lol #FiveHeartbeats. Lastly, why do we always let it be the Chris Brown show? Do one song and sit yo ass down. My rant is loaded-sorry for that. But why give Nikki Minaj an award she doesn’t appreciate or even acknowledge what it’s for? I was disappointed by the level of disrespect given by artists. The profanity whether accepting an award or in performance was completely uncalled for. Mind you, young impressionable minds are watching. What happened to the clean versions of songs and parental advisory? Shame on Debra Lee for mixing class and trash. If you let people run with it, they will eventually tell you what you can and cannot do, because you lost the boundaries-which makes for FCC violations and fines. Lastly again, shout out to Miss Patti Labelle, Tamar.com, and KMichelle and her backside 🙂 for a great collabo. Patti hit notes to let the youngins know she is a seasoned artist. I’ve got more observations, but I’ll hold off since most of you who will read this are older than me and wear glasses like me TOO. Oh yeah, as for Rihanna #BBHMM, #BBGMMR (Bitch betta give me my refund) Pluh-eeze!

    1. Thanks, Darren! If I allowed those artists listed in the caveat paragraph to be ranked, it’s likely Smokey would be in the top ten.

    1. Smokey Robinson is indeed one of the most prolific songwriters of all time, but I mentioned in the intro paragraph that I included him in my other list – the 100 Greatest Musicians of All Time – and credited his songwriting for that list. This list includes only those who were more known for their behind-the-scenes work of writing or producing (or both) for other artists than for their own singing (or rapping). It was a close call for Smokey considering his huge repertoire of hits for other artists.

  1362. How do you do it?! Every blog entry is fresh, insightful, informative & beautifully written. Two thumbs up!!

      1. You’re welcome…& thank you for giving Kashif honorable mention. To me, he is one of the greatest!!

  1363. The number one clearly belongs to Quincy Jones. When I think of music production in the grand scheme of things, I am constantly reminded of Q. Question for you though. Would Motowns The Funk Brothers fit on this list? Would they be considered producers? I’m curious in lots of ways…..

    1. Los, I wouldn’t consider them producers in the sense that I’m using it here. Production credit is usually noted on every record and it’s usually the person whose “directing” the recording process. While many producers also play instruments on records – as the Funk Bros did – the Funk Bros were not behind the mixing boards deciding how vocals and instruments would be mixed or how the final edit would sound. Good question though.

  1364. Once again I am absolutely impressed with this blog and your knowledge of music. I was glad to see Leon Sylvers on the list as well as RZA. Great blog and great info!

      1. Jackie Wilson, Joe Cocker, both said “Nobody sings blues better than Elvis”

        Bobby Womack, “Elvis sent a shockwave thru the black community like nobody I’d ever heard before. Now that’s power”

        George Michael, “It’s like Elvis you know. I’m a white guy who sings music that’s acceptable as black”

        The fact you put Johnnie Rivers on your blue eyed soul list and leave Elvis off citing your ignorant justification,shows you should be called DJ poser. I thought that list was vocal style? Another clue you’re ignorant of Presley’s vocal style.

        1. Awww…you’re butt-hurt because you didn’t see your beloved Elvis on a list on which you claim he got disrespected. You remind me of those Taylor Swift stans who can’t stand when she gets less than a perfect rating on anything she releases, regardless of quality. Since you’re so much an expert on Elvis’s vocal style, try describing it in your own words rather than citing dubious quotes by dead celebrities, the validity of which is questionable. Because George Michael said Elvis was “acceptable by blacks” means I’m supposed to consider it among the top 20? Man, jump off my page and create your own where you can create all the tributes to Elvis your heart desires.

  1365. I’m a huge fan of songs that are rarely heard but recorded by artists as B sides. Many of the artists listed have done such. I’m reminded of Dionne Warwick’s Trains and Boats and Planes.

  1366. Darrell, well done. I’ll just say this: can’t wait to see your top 50 if Thelonious Monk is in your bottom 50! 😉

  1367. Ha! Another work of art, Darrell!! So many of the songs on your list I heard as a young child. My mom singing along with Charlie Pride, Johnny Matthis and Lena Horne, my sisters with Rick James and Mavis Staples, my brothers talking about Thelonious Munk and Sly & the Family Stone.
    Awesome!!

  1368. This is superb and thought provoking analysis DJ Rob. I especially like how you are including all genres. From my point of view, there are some blues greats and singers that altered the course of music and I am looking forward to seeing where they land. The names Jimi Hendrix and Marvin Gaye jump immediately to mind. I am not a huge blues guys but there are some greats whose riffs and licks form the basis of a huge chunk of rock music. Lets see how you deal with all that when you get to the rarified air of the top 20 or so!!

    1. Anthony, I think you’ll be pleased at how well the blues and rock and roll pioneers are represented, but we shall see.

  1369. As always, you amaze me with your accuracy. I’m further impressed with mention of Public Enemy and NWA. This summer should prove to solidify their contributions with movies due out soon including Dope, and Straight Out Of Compton. Kudos to you sir!

    1. They were both game-changers (even if I didn’t like what N.W.A had to say at the time, it doesn’t change their legacy). Quite frankly, the number of quality rap artists and legendary artists in general who DIDN’T make the list will astound you.

  1370. Buddy Guy should get a little more love than that:) I am so hoping to see Hendrix on the list as well. One great modern guitarist is Tony Macalpine. I am sure most have not heard of this guy and he probably won’t make the list, but he has been doing it for thirty plus years and has influenced an entire genre of guitar instrumentalists!! Good list so far can’t wait to see the rest!!

  1371. Wow, what a list!! I love the variety…never knew who was coming up next on the list. Thank you for including Pastor Shirley Caesar. I hope some other influential gospel artists are included too. Many artists who have had great influence never won any awards or received any notable recognition. Thoroughly enjoyed the article & looking forward to the next!!

    1. Cameo, yes there are other gospel artists on the list, although some missed the cut. You’ll find all of that out next weekend when I post Part II. Lol. (Glad you enjoyed and, as always, thanks of the loyalty and support).

  1372. Wycc on PBS in Chicago is doing a special on Buddy Guy at 4am on Saturday June 6th… For early birds only. Might have to dvr that. : )

  1373. Hey Darrell what about Phil Collins? When I hear him sing, I FEEL IT! Especially “One More Night”, “I Don’t Care Anymore”, or my personal favorite, “In The Air Tonight”. He is quite soulful to me.

    1. Wow, Cameo! Do you have my phone wire-tapped or something? I was discussing him with a friend of mine and those songs came up as examples. I thought “One More Night” was his best soul example, the friend thought “In the Air Tonight” was.

  1374. I was reminded this morning of Boy George and Culture Club in regards to Blue-Eyed Soul. Although he/they were pop artist, their music was popular as crossover appeal to the African American community as well.

  1375. What an amazing list!!! Clearly, you put your heart & soul into this blog week after week, but you outdid yourself on this article!! It is so informative, as well as entertaining. Awesome!!

  1376. I love this week’s blog. I had forgotten about Simply Red. I also see a trend of artist coming from a UK background. Great stuff!

  1378. You’ve done a ton of research here because this list is through; forgot some of these artists. Thanks for the info & trip down memory lane.

  1379. I forgot to mention earlier that Dusty Springfield’s The Look of Love is absolutely enchanting. Glad to see her on this list.

  1380. I love it! Great list and great choices. Although not as popular as some of the artists mentioned here, I would encourage you to YouTube Nikka Costa’s Like A Feather. Great stuff! Keep them coming.

  1381. I was so surprised to see Chi Coltrane on the list. Great song, Keep up the great work!

  1382. Best part about this very well-written article is Lisa Stansfield, Teena Marie, & the fact that you excluded hip hop artists!! I totally agree with your reasons why. Some of them I have never heard of, but at your suggestion, I will have a listen!

    1. Cameo, when you click that playlist, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at some of the sounds coming from those voices. They all didn’t get as much R&B airplay as Lady T or Lisa Stansfield, but they had soul nonetheless. Thanks for the support as always!

  1383. Billboard should make it a year end celebration of performances and just forget about the awards.

  1384. Love 1-5!! I’ll add two more:

    Reason #6…Most of these award shows only reflect music that is mainstream & “commercially” successful. They hardly ever display artists who have true, raw talent.

    Reason #7…Iggy Azalea is still a contender as a “hip hop” artist. P-leazzzz make it stop!!!

  1385. Hello DjRob! I enjoyed going through this list and was totally oblivious that a lot of these great artists were part of Chicago’s music history. Earth, Wind and Fire?? I love that band! Wish I get a chance to see them live some time soon.
    I actually went to see Buddy Guy at Legends in January of this year and it was such a cool show!

    1. Hey Roberto, thanks for the comment! I hope you get to see EWF at some point. Even though they’re not what they were in their prime, it’s still a worthwhile show!

  1387. Loved the article, I would have LOVED to see Minnie much higher on the list though, LOVE Fall Out Boy and Earth, Wind & Fire is my all time favorite band……. just exchanging numbers 22 an 12 and the list is WAY more accurate…. just my opinion. GREAT READ
    Marcus Howell

  1389. Isnt Cheap Trick from Rockford, IL? Why not include REO Speedwagon from Champaign? Lol.

    But other notables: Twista, Lupe Fiasco.

    1. You’re right, Rockford is a little bit far to be considered a Chicago burb. Unless I or one of the other readers can find a stronger tie to Chicago for Cheap Trick, I may have to eliminate them from the list…unfortunately.

  1390. Brian was a special dude and this column is an excellent tribute to him.

    1. Excellent! Criticism of some artist not making music that reflects what’s going on in society is evidenced by your not having some of the most notable artist of today on your list.

  1392. Simply amazing!! Thanks so much for sharing about your best friend, as well as the historical facts behind songs that have had such a powerful impact upon our culture.

  1393. I’ve known you to be one of the incredible musicKNOWLEDGEist ever born. I’m glad to see you share your talent!

  1395. Great article Darrell. Several of these are still favorites of mine. Pulling out the iPod to listen to several of them. 🙂

  1396. So I would use Bernadette for the Four Tops and perhaps Rollin on the River for Tina and many others for Dylan, plus I might add Classical Gas and Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, a Song For You and Every Time I Think Of You to the list. Of course, I am a number of years older than you, but When a Man Loves a Woman is always on my list of favorites!

    1. Good points, Lee. I thought about “Bernadette” for the Tops, but didn’t consider “Proud Mary” by Ike & Tina Turner. Both of those suggestions raise doubts about my selections as do some of the others you mentioned. Which “Every Time I Think Of You” are you thinking of? The Babys hit?

    2. Lee, I’ve adjusted the list to eliminate the Four Tops. You weren’t alone in the recognition that they had too many hits to have one song be considered their “signature tune.” I made some other adjustments as well.

  1398. Yet again another great read! Oddly you reflect my sentiments in that the very people unveiling TIDAL is what turns me off from it. Never been a big Jay-Z fan and I’m so over him and his wife. Been over Kanye for years. I vascilate between these feelings and asking myself would I be against TIDAL if someone unkown to me launched it. I’m not sure about the latter but I am sure that they won’t get my business. Keep up the good work!!

  1399. Jay-Z is a much better businessman than a rapper in my opinion. He is all about himself & as always, he has the most to gain out of this venture than anyone else involved.

    Great article!!

  1401. Impressive perspective… I could debate how much longer hip-hop will be around and why and what does “be around” mean. But I will save that discussion for another article.

  1402. I’m often to blogging and i definitely appreciate your content material. The article has seriously peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your website and keep checking for new information and facts.

  1403. Love how you bridge the gap between the different eras of music. Young people, as well as some “older young people” need that bit of history! History which explains how the stage was set (literally) for present day artists who enjoy exponential levels of success. Awesome!!

    1. Thanks, Karen. I’ve heard mixed views on this topic, and they’re usually split along generational lines. .

  1409. good list. my only comment is that No Limit should be in the top 12. Master P paved the way for many of the independent rap labels.

    1. Danté, I gave No Limit a lot of consideration. I can easily make a case for them being ahead of Tabu records.

    2. ?Facts. No Limit was before Cash Money.
      Master P himself with his business acumen puts No limit much higher.

      Irv Gotti and Murda Inc. later known as The Inc. had remarkable run.

  1412. DJ Rob, this is definitely a 180° turn from your day time job. I have a love for writing also. However, I am not much of a music person. My old school picks would be the group “Midnight Star” and O’Brian’s – You and I. Good luck to you.

  1414. Two thumbs up!! Some of them must have been tough to rank. Like LA Face…not sure how, but I feel those guys should have a spot in the Top 5! But given the level of musical genius listed, that’s challenging. What a list!!

  1415. DJROB,

    Great post! I agree with you about Empire in that it has become an addicting show for many. I will say this in retort to your wondering how the fictional record label flourished and how Cookie is so up to date with her clothes: The company was supposedly built on the career of Lucius Lyon’s rap career but in last Thurday’s episode a new character was introduced and explained to be Empire Royalty as she allegedly contributed to the success of the fictional record label. That character, played by Courtney Love, was named Elle Dallas. As for Cookie and her wardrobe, she made a play for a $5 million a year salary plus frills on the first episode. With that kind of $crilla it isn’t hard to get your designer duds. I enjoy the show although I feel it has room for improvement. I’m glad that it has inspired you to write about black owned record labels as this is interesting information.

  1417. I like the valuable info you provide on your articles. I will bookmark your weblog and check again right here frequently. I am relatively sure I’ll be told many new stuff right right here! Best of luck for the next!

  1418. I’ve always wondered what the difference was between record & song of the year! Thanks for breaking it down! Enjoyed seeing all the hits that have managed to receive both awards over the years. Prompted me to take a closer look at what might be a possible common denominator in all of the hits. One overriding theme I saw was love…somebody who has found love, lost love, or searching for love. Never gets old! Great article!

    1. Cameo, great observation! Love is the common theme, although sometimes it just boils down to creating a great song that just resonates with everyone (“Bette Davis Eyes,” for example).

  1419. Dear Mr, Roberts
    I enjoyed reading your blog. I admire your knowledge of the music industry. This must take a lot of research. By the way, I think Stevie Wonder will be honored @ this year’s Grammys. Keep up the great work!

  1420. Rob……………music changed – a bit – after disco was declared ‘dead’. As disco music is an identifiable genre, what would you consider one of the last disco songs?

  1423. Good luck on this site big brother. I’m a true to life Metalhead so if anyone has questions or want to chit chat on this, I will definitely chime in. 1. Metallica 2. Lamb of God after that Anthrax, Black Label Society, Slayer, Arch Enemy, God Forbid to name a few.

  1425. To quote Usher, “The DJ got us falling in love all over again” with music. Looking forward to the journey through the decades….

  1426. Great to see the blog is up, I’m email some folk that I know will enjoy it.

      1. I was JUST literally thinking about how I need to publish a book for teens about Soul Train. So if you’re still looking. We are hiring.

Comments are closed.

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