If you're anything like me, you can't stand the music that's on the radio these days. Because of this, I've made a list, inspired by my friend Everett, of 10 classic rock artists that you can listen to and that should definitely be on your playlist.
"Music doesn't lie. If there is something to be changed in this world, then it can only happen through music." -Jimi Hendrix
10. Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young. This band has a different sound from the rest on this list. With a more "folky" sound, this band spices up the rest of the music on your playlist. Their harmonization is something you will not find anywhere else. (Listen to: Our House, Almost Cut My Hair, and Woodstock)
9. Bruce Springsteen. His music speaks to the younger generations with songs that you can't help but sing along to. His songs are anthems that perfectly describe teenage life in America. (Listen to: Dancing In The Dark, Born To Run, and you can never leave out Born In The USA)
8. Pink Floyd. This music will add a more "trippy" side to your playlist, but that's not a bad thing. Pink Floyd's use of echo, guitar, and synth mixed with mysterious vocals make their music a genre of its own. (Listen to: Comfortably Numb, Dark Side of the Moon (yes, the whole album), Another Brick In The Wall (Parts 1-3), and, last but not least, Wish You Were Here)
7. Beatles. "Let it be, Let it be" I shouldn't have to say more than that, but I'm going to anyway. The Beatles are a family favorite. Once you start to listen to more than the popular songs everyone knows, you see their true musical talent. Plus, there's an awesome theory about Paul McCartney being dead. (Listen to: Let It Be (obviously), Can't Buy Me Love, Eleanor Rigby, and Come Together)
6. Cream. Two Words: Eric. Clapton. There's a reason the saying is "Eric Clapton is god". Cream is the perfect mix of late '60s vocals and a wailing guitar. (Listen to: White Room, Sunshine Of Your Love, and Crossroads)
5. Van Halen. Many people mix Van Halen in with the cheesy artists of the '80s, but Eddie Van Halen's guitar skills set them apart from the rest. Eddie Van Halen being a musical genius is the reason Van Halen makes it into the top 5. (Listen to: Eruption/You Really Got Me, You're No Good, and I'll Wait)
4. Led Zeppelin. Where do we even start with Zeppelin? Robert Plant's uniquely beautiful voice, Jimmy Page's blues/rock guitar, and John Bonham's funky drum style all come together to create one of the greatest bands in history. (Listen to: Babe I'm Gonna Leave You, Dazed and Confused, Whole Lotta Love, When The Levee Breaks, and, I guess, Stairway to Heaven)
3. Eric Clapton. Yes, Cream is already on this list, but Eric Clapton has to be mentioned on his own, as well, because of how talented he is. While Cream's music is designed to bring out Clapton's awesome guitar, Clapton's voice and guitar together have got to be the closest thing to Heaven on Earth. (Listen to: Old Love, Layla- try the acoustic version too, and I Shot The Sheriff)
2. Jimi Hendrix. Listening to Jimi Hendrix play guitar has to be the best sound anyone has ever heard. Jimi had more talent in his 27 years on this earth than most people do in 100. Also, look up the video of him lighting his guitar on fire. Inspiring. (Listen to: Hey Joe, All Along The Watch Tower, Little Wing, and his cover of Like A Rolling Stone)
1. The Rolling Stones. The Stones are number one on this list for one main reason: this band has it all. From Keith Richard's great guitar to Mick Jagger's sweet dance moves (see: Start Me Up music video), The Rolling Stones have an array of different music. If blues and rock had a baby, it would be The Rolling Stones. While The Beatles might be the family favorite, The Stones will cater to your rebellious side... and they're still together. The Stones are not only great at making music, they're as cool as it gets. (Listen to: Gimme Shelter, Honky Tonk Women, Little T&A, Beast of Burden, and Jumping Jack Flash)
The thing that makes this music genre so great is their use of guitar. These bands have some of the greatest guitarists of all time. It's hard to not enjoy listening to a song with a great guitar.
