Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington AKA "The Duke" was a towering figure in the world of jazz music and left an indelible mark with his innovative compositions, sophisticated arrangements, and charismatic stage presence. This included over two thousand songs with such hits as “In A Sentimental Mood,” “Sophisticated Lady,” “I Got It Bad And That Ain’t Good,” and “I’m Beginning To See The Light.” For almost fifty years he toured the world as a band leader and piano player.
John Coltrane
John Coltrane, AKA Trane, was an iconic saxophonist and composer, who reshaped the landscape of jazz with his innovative improvisational style, spiritual exploration, and boundary-pushing compositions. An architect of Bebop
Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra AKA “Ol’ Blue Eyes” was born Francis Albert Sinatra on December 12, 1915, in Hoboken, New Jersey. He died May 14, 1998, in Los Angeles, California and was an American crooner (singer), actor, and producer. He is one of the best-selling music artists of all time and a cultural icon of the 20th century. He famously “did it my way”.
James Brown
James Brown, often referred to AKA the "Godfather of Soul," was an influential American singer, songwriter, and bandleader. Born on May 3, 1933, in Barnwell, South Carolina, Brown's career spanned over six decades, during which he profoundly shaped the genres of soul, funk, and rhythm and blues. His electrifying performances, innovative musical style, and dynamic stage presence have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez, AKA J.Lo, is an American singer, actress, dancer, and businesswoman. Born on July 24, 1969, in the Bronx, New York City, Lopez has become a multifaceted entertainment powerhouse. Known for her dynamic presence on stage and screen, she has achieved significant success in both the music and film industries. Her journey from a dancer to a global superstar is marked by numerous chart-topping hits, critically acclaimed performances, and a lasting impact on popular culture.
Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige is an iconic singer, songwriter, and actress AKA as the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul”. Mary was born on January 11, 1971, in The Bronx, New York, Blige has influenced a generation of artists with her unique blend of R&B, soul, and hip-hop. She revolutionized R&B music by infusing it with a raw, emotional honesty and hip-hop beats. Blige is celebrated for her soulful voice and hits like "Real Love” "Family Affair” and "Be Without You”. Mary’s career, which soared in the early 1990s, has seen her win nine Grammy Awards and numerous other honors. She has also made a significant impact in acting, with acclaimed roles in films and television. Blige continues to be active in the industry
Bryan Adams
Bryan Guy Adams (born November 5, 1959) AKA “The Groover from Vancouver” is a Canadian singer, songwriter, record producer, guitarist, photographer, and philanthropist. He is best known for his hit songs in the 1980s and 1990s and has been recognized for his contributions to music with numerous awards and honors. You couldn’t escape "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" when you turned on the radio in 1991 – it was everywhere for months – but it was a good track.
Pink
Pink, AKA P!nk is a dynamic singer and songwriter celebrated for her powerful voice and rebellious persona. Her music, a mix of pop, rock, and R&B, produced hits like "Just Like a Pill" and "Raise Your Glass”. Rising to fame in the early 2000s, Pink's career has been marked by her outspoken nature and high-energy performances. Very impressively she has been known to fly on a zip wire over the crowd at he live shows. She continues to release music and tour, maintaining her status as a pop icon.
Donna Summer
Donna Summer AKA "The Queen of Disco" (born LaDonna Adrian Gaines; December 31, 1948 – May 17, 2012) was an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She gained prominence during the disco era of the late 1970s. She didn’t have the strongest voice but it had lots of character, perfect for the start of the electronic dance music that would later become the genre EDM.
Bob Marley
Bob Marley, AKA The King of Reggae was born Robert Nesta Marley on February 6, 1945, in Nine Mile, Jamaica, is a legendary figure in the world of music, renowned for popularizing reggae music globally. As a singer, songwriter, and cultural icon, his work transcended mere entertainment, embedding messages of peace, unity, and resistance against oppression. Marley's music and persona continue to inspire millions worldwide, making him a symbol of Jamaican culture and Rastafarianism.
Sean Diddy Combs
- A tribute to The Notorious B.I.G. AKA Biggie Smalls, the song became an international hit and one of Combs' most iconic tracks. It sampled The Police track of the same name
Tina Turner
Tina Turner, AKA The Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, was born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, in Nutbush, Tennessee, is a celebrated singer, songwriter, dancer, and actress. Her impressive legs caught the attention of then future King, Prince Charles. Tina rose to prominence in the 1960s as part of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue before achieving monumental success as a solo artist in the 1980s. With her powerful voice, energetic stage presence, and resilient spirit, Turner has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne, AKA the "Prince of Darkness” is a singer and songwriter known for his pioneering work in heavy metal as the lead vocalist of Black Sabbath and his successful solo career. With hits like "Crazy Train" and "Iron Man” Ozzy's music defined the genre from the 1970s onward. Despite numerous personal and health challenges, he remains a significant figure in rock music, performing and recording well into the 21st century.
Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin, born in 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee, was a musical prodigy AKA the "Queen of Soul”. Her career began with gospel music, but she rose to international fame with her hits during the 1960s and 1970s, including "Respect” "Natural Woman” and "Think”. With a career spanning over six decades, she won 18 Grammy Awards and was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Known for her powerful voice and emotional depth, Aretha's music transcended genres and influenced generations. Despite personal and financial struggles, she remained a beloved figure in music until her death in 2018. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower through her timeless music and powerful message of respect and dignity.
Biggie Smalls
Christopher George Latore Wallace, better known by his stage names Biggie Smalls or AKA The Notorious B.I.G., was an American rapper who became one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. Born on May 21, 1972, in Brooklyn, New York, Biggie's storytelling ability, deep voice, and flow quickly established him as a dominant force in the rap scene. Despite his brief career, his impact on hip-hop is immeasurable, with his music continuing to influence artists and listeners worldwide. Biggie's life was tragically cut short when he was murdered in 1997, but his legacy endures through his iconic music and lasting influence on the genre.
The Swampers
The Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, affectionately AKA known as The Swampers, played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of American popular music from the 1960s onward. As the house band for FAME Studios and later Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, The Swampers were instrumental in creating the "Muscle Shoals Sound," a unique blend of Southern soul, rock, and country music. Their work with an array of legendary artists has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
B.B. King
Who is the guitarist who comes to mind when you think of the Blues? None other than Riley B. King, better known as B.B. King AKA "The King of Blues", who was born on September 16, 1925, in Itta Bena, Mississippi. He grew up in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, surrounded by the sounds of blues and gospel music. He called his guitar Lucille (of course!) a Gibson ES-335 of which there is now a signature model available.
Madonna
Madonna, born Madonna Louise Ciccone on August 16, 1958, in Bay City, Michigan, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman. Often referred to AKA "Queen of Pop," she is known for pushing the boundaries of songwriting in mainstream popular music and for her reinventions within the music industry. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Madonna has become a cultural icon and has influenced countless artists and entertainers.
David Bowie
David Robert Jones (January 8, 1947 – January 10, 2016), known professionally as David Bowie, AKA ‘The thin White Duke’ was an English singer, songwriter, and actor. He is regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, renowned for his innovative work and distinctive voice. He took on so many personas – a true art school graduate!
Rihanna
Rihanna, AKA re re, is a Barbadian singer, songwriter, and businesswoman, burst onto the music scene in the mid-2000s with hits like "Umbrella" (come on let’s hear you ‘Ella, Ella”!) and "We Found Love”. Known for her versatile voice and bold fashion choices, she has successfully transitioned into various genres, including pop, R&B, and reggae. In recent years, Rihanna has focused on her entrepreneurial ventures, including her successful Fenty Beauty line, while still occasionally releasing new music.
Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen, often AKA "The Boss," is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and musician known for his work with the E Street Band. Born on September 23, 1949, in Long Branch, New Jersey, Springsteen's music is characterized by its poetic lyrics, working-class themes, and Americana sound. His career, spanning over five decades, has made a significant impact on rock music and American culture.
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, AKA "King of Rock and Roll," was one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century. Born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, Presley rose to fame in the mid-1950s and became a symbol of the transformative power of rock and roll music. His influence extended beyond music to fashion, film, and popular culture.
Larry Carlton
Larry Carlton, AKA "Mr 335" born on March 2, 1948, in Torrance, California, is a renowned American guitarist whose work spans a variety of genres including jazz, blues, pop, and rock. Carlton's interest in guitar began at age six, and by his teenage years, he was deeply immersed in jazz.
Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, AKA "The King of Pop" was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, began his career at a young age as part of The Jackson 5, a Motown group formed with his brothers. The group quickly gained fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s with hits like "I Want You Back," "ABC," and "I'll Be There," showcasing Michael's exceptional talent even as a child.
Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder AKA "Little Stevie Wonder" is an iconic American musician and songwriter known for his soulful voice, masterful keyboard and multi-instrumental skills. Born Stevland Hardaway Judkins on May 13, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan, Stevie overcame the challenges of being born blind to become one of the most influential and best-selling musicians of all time. His career, which spans over six decades, includes numerous hit songs, groundbreaking albums, and multiple awards.
Stevie Ray Vaughan
Stevie Ray Vaughan, Texas bluesman so revered he had his own title AKA "SRV". He blazed a trail through the music world before his untimely departure. Born on October 3, 1954, in Dallas, Texas, Vaughan's love affair with the blues began at an early age, inspired by the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Albert King.
The Beatles
The Beatles, AKA "the Fab Four", started in Liverpool in the 1960’s, originally as a skiffle group Lennon that formed called the Quarrymen. Paul McCartney and his school-friend George Harrison joined along with bassist Stuart Sutcliffe and Pete Best on drums, who was later replaced by Ringo Starr in 1962. The band initially built their reputation in Liverpool’s Cavern Club and honed their craft in the nightclubs of Hamburg playing often ten hours a night.
