FEATURED ARTISTS

THE VENTURES

WALK DON’T RUN – 1963

The Ventures, an instrumental rock and roll group that shattered conventions and redefined the possibilities of music itself. With their virtuosic guitar skills, innovative arrangements, and timeless melodies, The Ventures carved a unique path that continues to captivate audiences around the world.

Formed in the late 1950s, against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving music scene, The Ventures would prove to be more than just a band; they were architects of sound, crafting intricate compositions that spoke to the heart without uttering a single word. Their mastery of the guitar and their groundbreaking use of reverb and effects catapulted them into the limelight, setting a new standard for instrumental music.

FATS DOMINO

I’M WALKIN’ – 1957

Fats Domino, born Antoine Dominique Domino Jr. on February 26, 1928, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a legendary American pianist, singer, and songwriter. He played a pivotal role in shaping the early rock and roll and rhythm and blues genres, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.

His distinctive piano style, characterized by infectious rhythms and boogie-woogie flourishes, set him apart. In the mid-1950s, he signed with Imperial Records and began his meteoric rise to fame.

His impact extended beyond the music charts. Fats Domino’s joyful performances and relatable lyrics made him a beloved figure. He became a source of inspiration for many musicians who followed in his footsteps, including Elvis Presley and The Beatles, both of whom cited him as an influence.

EDDIE COCHRAN

SUMMERTIME BLUES – 1958

Eddie Cochran was a pioneering American rock and roll singer, songwriter, and musician. His tragically short life left an enduring impact on the world of music. Eddie Cochran’s influence extended beyond his own recordings. He was a sought-after guitarist, contributing his skills to numerous other artists’ recordings. His versatile playing style allowed him to navigate various genres, from rockabilly to ballads, and he left an indelible mark on the sound of the era.

His music continues to inspire and captivate fans around the world, serving as a reminder of his remarkable talent and the enduring power of rock and roll music.

CHRIS MONTEZ

LET’S DANCE – 1959

Chris Montez is an American singer and guitarist known for his contributions to the early rock and roll and pop music scenes. With his smooth voice, catchy tunes, and a fusion of various musical styles, Montez carved out a distinct niche for himself in the 1960s music landscape. His ability to blend rock, pop, and Latin influences was a defining characteristic of his music. Montez’s bilingual recordings, which featured both English and Spanish versions of his songs, helped him connect with a diverse audience and expand his reach beyond language barriers.

Chris Montez’s enduring legacy is a testament to his ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles, his distinctive voice, and his knack for crafting catchy melodies. His songs remain cherished gems in the tapestry of music history, providing a window into the vibrant sounds of the 1960s and beyond.

ROGER MILLER

KING OF THE ROAD – 1965

Roger Miller was a prolific American singer-songwriter, musician, and actor. Renowned for his witty and clever songwriting, his unique blend of country, folk, and humor left an indelible mark on the music industry. Roger Miller’s music was characterized by its humor and playfulness. Songs like “Dang Me” and “You Can’t Roller Skate in a Buffalo Herd” showcased his lighthearted approach to songwriting, endearing him to audiences with his infectious charm.

Roger Miller’s songs remain cherished classics, celebrated for their timeless appeal and the enduring resonance of his unique voice. His ability to infuse his work with wit, wisdom, and a touch of whimsy solidified his place as a beloved figure in the realm of country and folk music.

JERRY LEE LEWIS

GREAT BALLS OF FIRE – 1957

Jerry Lee Lewis is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and pianist who played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of early rock and roll and rockabilly music. Known for his electrifying stage presence, virtuosic piano skills, and distinctive voice, Lewis is often referred to as “The Killer” for his dynamic performances and his impact on the music industry. His music has had a profound impact on subsequent generations of musicians. Artists ranging from Elton John to Bruce Springsteen have cited Lewis as a major influence on their own careers. His ability to infuse his performances with raw energy and emotion set him apart as a true original in the world of music.

Jerry Lee Lewis’s legacy as a rock and roll pioneer endures to this day. His music continues to resonate with fans old and new, and his role in shaping the early foundations of rock and roll is firmly cemented. His dynamic stage presence, fiery piano skills, and fearless approach to music have left an indelible mark on the fabric of American music culture.

LOS BRAVOS

BLACK IS BLACK – 1966

Los Bravos was a Spanish rock band that gained international fame in the mid-1960s. Formed in 1965 in Madrid, Spain, the group is best known for their hit single “Black Is Black,” which became a chart-topping success and remains one of the iconic songs of the era. Their sound was characterized by a blend of rock, pop, and rhythm and blues elements, with Mike Kennedy’s distinctive vocals giving the band a unique edge.

Their music continued to have a lasting impact. “Black Is Black” remains a beloved classic and a staple of ’60s pop and rock compilations. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious energy have ensured its place in music history.

THE MOODY BLUES

I’M JUST A SINGER (IN A ROCK & ROLL BAND) – 1972

The Moody Blues are a British rock band that emerged in the 1960s and became known for their fusion of rock music with symphonic and psychedelic elements. Founded in Birmingham, England, in 1964, the band achieved widespread recognition for their innovative sound, poetic lyrics, and distinctive use of orchestration. Their early music had a rhythm and blues foundation, but their breakthrough came with their second album, “Days of Future Passed,” released in 1967. The Moody Blues’ legacy is deeply intertwined with their innovative approach to music. They were pioneers in incorporating orchestral elements into rock music, and their poetic lyrics and introspective themes resonated with fans seeking a more profound listening experience. Their music often tackled complex topics and blended them with melodic hooks and lush arrangements.

The Moody Blues’ ability to combine rock, symphonic, and philosophical elements has solidified their place as one of the key figures in the evolution of rock music, and their music remains cherished by fans of all ages.

JETHRO TULL

LOCOMOTIVE BREATH – 1971

Jethro Tull is a British rock band that was formed in 1967. The band is known for their unique blend of rock, folk, and progressive music, which often incorporated elements of classical and medieval music as well. The band’s frontman, Ian Anderson, is particularly notable for his distinctive flute playing, which became a defining characteristic of their sound. Jethro Tull gained significant popularity during the late 1960s and 1970s, releasing a series of successful albums.

Jethro Tull’s music is characterized by Ian Anderson’s distinctive vocals, his energetic flute performances, and the band’s ability to seamlessly blend different musical genres. Their live performances often featured elaborate stage setups and theatrical elements that added to their unique appeal.

Despite not always fitting neatly into any one musical genre, Jethro Tull’s innovative and eclectic style left a lasting impact on the world of rock music.

ROBERT PALMER

SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE – 1988

Robert Palmer was a British singer, songwriter, and musician who gained fame for his distinctive voice and his ability to blend various musical styles, including rock, pop, soul, and funk. He achieved commercial success and critical acclaim throughout his career and is best known for his smooth and polished vocal style. Palmer’s music often combined rock with elements of soul, R&B, and pop. His polished image and suave stage presence, combined with his catchy and accessible songs, appealed to a broad audience.

Robert Palmer’s music continues to be celebrated for its catchy melodies, smooth vocals, and genre-blending approach. His contributions to the music industry left a lasting impact, and his hits remain popular to this day.

BLACK SABBATH

PARANOID – 1970

Black Sabbath is a legendary British heavy metal band that played a pivotal role in shaping the genre and influencing generations of musicians. Formed in Birmingham, England, in 1968, the original lineup consisted of Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), and Bill Ward (drums). Black Sabbath is often credited with laying the foundation for heavy metal music. Their music featured dark and heavy guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and lyrics that often explored dark and occult themes. Their debut self-titled album, released in 1970, is often regarded as one of the earliest heavy metal albums. Black Sabbath’s influence on the metal genre and rock music as a whole is immeasurable. Many consider them to be one of the greatest and most influential bands in the history of music. Their music has inspired countless artists and bands across various metal subgenres.

The band’s dark and heavy sound, along with their lyrical themes, helped define the aesthetics of heavy metal and set a precedent for many subgenres that followed. Despite lineup changes and the passage of time, Black Sabbath’s music continues to resonate with fans and newcomers alike, solidifying their place in rock and metal history.

DAVE CLARK 5

GLAD ALL OVER – 1964

The Dave Clark Five, often abbreviated as DC5, was a British rock and roll band that gained significant popularity during the 1960s. The band was known for their energetic performances, catchy melodies, and contributions to the “British Invasion” of the United States. The band was part of the wave of British musical acts that became popular in the United States during the mid-1960s. They are often mentioned alongside bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who.

While The Dave Clark Five may not be as widely discussed today as some other bands of the era, their music and role in the British Invasion remain important aspects of the 1960s music landscape.

FREE

ALL RIGHT NOW – 1970

Free was a British rock band that rose to prominence during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The band’s music encompassed a blend of rock, blues, and soul influences, and they are often considered a pioneer of the hard rock genre. The band is best known for their distinctive sound and the soulful vocals of their frontman, Paul Rodgers. Free gained significant attention with their second album, “Fire and Water” (1970), which included the hit single “All Right Now.” The song became one of their most iconic tracks and a classic rock staple. Free’s music was characterized by a combination of blues-inspired guitar work, soulful vocals, and a raw, energetic approach. Paul Rodgers’ powerful and emotive singing was a standout feature of their sound.

Despite their relatively short lifespan, Free’s impact on rock music is notable. Their ability to blend blues, soul, and rock elements created a unique sound that left a lasting impression on the rock landscape of the late 1960s and early 1970s.