The Beach Boys

Another iconic band of the 20th century. The Beach Boys music has positive vibes that radiate towards all who listen. Since the beginning of the 1960s, this band is a name almost everyone knows. My personal favorites are "Surfin' USA" and "Wouldn't It Be Nice". These songs remind me of the joy of summer. These songs are very warm to the soul, and carry a lot of fun personal memories for me. Swimming in the pool, driving during sunset, and playing on the beach are common memories that are linked to these songs. I love how practically all of "The Beach Boys" music is very lighthearted and happy, just a carefree time. 

Etta James

Etta James has one of the most mesmerizing and passionate voices I have ever experienced. Each song is filled with such emotion; I get lost in her words and drift off into a mental state of peace. Recently, my grandmother unexpectedly passed. It has been a hard few weeks, but music has been there to comfort me in ways people can't. Etta James's song "At Last" warms my heart and brings me memories of my grandma. I know my grandma lives on in my heart and will always and forever be with me; this song is part of us. 

Red Hot Chilli Peppers

The Red Hot Chilli Peppers have remained an iconic band of the twentieth century. My favorite song remains to be “Otherside”. I love this song because the message is open-ended to interpretation by those who listen. Not only do I love the message, but I love the emotions linked to the song by its changes in pace and energy. 

Johnny Cash

Not as popular as the Beatles, but of course a personal favorite. I love the music of Johnny Cash, which is surprising to many since I typically don’t prefer country. There is something beautiful about his music, something that draws me in. I cannot imagine how hard his life must’ve been. Just from research on his brother’s death at a young age, to his father’s continuous disapproval, to his drug addictions. Through it all, music was his one escape that made him feel free. I can hear his euphoria in his songs, my favorites including “Get Rhythm”, “Ring of Fire”, and “Jackson”. 

Paul McCarntey

Although I talked about the Beatles, I wanted to specifically talk about Paul McCarntey. It is really hard to be a successful musician in a band, and later come back and be successful on your own. Paul was able to do this through his incredible works after the Beatles split up, such as “Uncle Albert / Admiral Halsey”. He was also able to create a successful modern song with Rihanna and Kanye West called “FourFiveSeconds”. I am touched by Paul’s work and know that his legacy will last for generations. 

Ray Charles

Ray Charles has one of the most spectacular and special voices I’ve ever heard from a human. He seemed so happy and radiated such positivity, which was rare for someone who was blind. This did not stop him from becoming one of the most well known singers of his time. His spirit lives on today to be one of the most inspiring artists ever. My favorite song of his is a duet with Billy Joel, “Baby Grand”. The emotion and power in this song touches its audience, which is exactly what Ray Charles did.

Ben E. King

I absolutely love Ben E. King. His love songs bring the iconic old-fashioned love to live in modern times. My favorite songs are “This Magic Moment” and “Stand By Me”. The actual words of these songs embody a spark of magic that no other artist can replicate. Ben E. King, you are truly a legend of love. 

Lynyrd Skynyrd

I love Lynyrd Skynyrd. The band is so unique, and I love their energy. The band plays rock, which is a really fun genre of music to listen to. Some of their music is more mellow, such as “Tuesday’s Gone” and “Simple Man” (some of my personal favorites). One of their most iconic songs is “Sweet Home Alabama”, which, like their spirit, will live forever. They were part of the iconic 70s and will live in spirit. 

Freddy Mercury

Even though I already wrote about Queen, I want to specifically talk about Freddie Mercury. I admire Freddie Mercury so much, and if I could meet one person who has died, it would be hands down Freddie. His confidence and individuality is such an inspiration. Without his courage, the band would never have been as spectacular as it is today. It is such a shame that he passed too soon. His vocals give me chills, and while I love singing along to him, no one compares to his voice. He was one of a kind, a forever legend. 

Queen

Queen is my favorite band to listen to. I love their family connection, and how even though they fell apart at one point, they came back together because true family stays by each other no matter what. My favorite songs are “Somebody to Love”, “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “Don’t Stop Me Now”, and “We Are The Champions”. It breaks my heart that I will never have seen Queen in its true form perform onstage, but I can only imagine how magical it must be.

The Beatles

Perhaps the most iconic band ever, the Beatles. I love how you can almost feel their connection to each other in the songs. One of the only songs that can comfort me at any point of my life, whether I am distressed, or feeling upset, confused, or lonely, questioning why something has happened to me, I think back to “Let it Be”. This song holds a special place in my heart, being there for me through so much. The lyrics really not only speak to me, but hold onto me, telling me everything will be ok.