It’s the year 2023, but we’re taking it back to the oldies!

Read along as we–seniors Natalie and Allison–countdown the top 3 musical artists of each decade. As persistent listeners of older bands, we are sure to give you our best rating. We will start with the ’60s and work our way down all the way to the 2000s.

The 1960s:

1: The Beatles

They are ranked 1st on our list as multiple songs of theirs were a hit. The Beatles are the most popular band in the world, and their songs have pioneered the rock genre. Both of us enjoy many of their songs, and that is why they are ranked first on our list and in our hearts. A lot of people say that the Beatles are overrated, but they are just haters who don’t enjoy good music.

 2: The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones consist of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Brain Jones, Bill Wyman, and Charles Watt. They are an English band formed in the early 1960s. Like the Beatles, The Rolling Stones have had a huge impact on music history and the culture. They have some pretty good bangers, popular amongst people in their 50s and 60s.

3: David Bowie

“Space Oddity” by David Bowie is one of the best songs ever to travel through our ears. Bowie’s songs are truly a work of art, as  is his unique appearance and stage presence. So therefore David Bowie is 3rd on our list. 

The 1970s:

1: Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd had a long and extremely successful career; starting off in the sixties and finding much success in the 1970’s. The reason we put Pink Floyd in at number one is because we love the color pink, and their album, Prism, has groovy music. 

2: Blondie

They moved through the ranks during their time, releasing their most popular song, “Call Me.” There are many other songs, like “Rapture,” which introduced the first “idea” of rap during their time. Along with “Rapture,” “One Way or Another” also helped to increase their popularity. The members of Blondie consist of all brunettes, except for one: Debbie Harry.

3: Toto

This band has some great hits, like “Hold the Line.” This song can really can turn your frown upside down. They also produced their top hit “Africa,” which will be sure to get your feet moving.

The 1980’s:

 1: The Cure

The Cure reigned at number one for the 1980’s because of how different they were for their time period. We enjoy some of The Cure’s more whimsical songs, such as “Just Like Heaven” and “Friday I’m in Love.” The Cure’s image stands out to us as unapologetic and unique, therefore making their way to number one on our list.

2: The Smiths

The Smiths, a defining British band, diverge from 80’s synth music back into guitar-lead rock. Morrissey’s melancholic singing paired with Johnny Marr’s plucky guitar are a complementary pair that is unique to The Smiths. Classics like “This Charming Man” and “How Soon is Now” define the 1980’s for us, and make their way into number 2 on the list.

3: Queen

As their name implies, they truly are the Queens. They are quite popular and we don’t think we’ve ever met someone who has never heard of Queen. Truly an amazing band whose cultural impact is truly immeasurable.

The 1990s:

1.Nirvana

The classic grunge band Nirvana tops the list for the 1990’s. We believe that Nirvana is beloved for all the wrong reasons. Although good, songs like “Smells like Teen Spirit” and “Heart-Shaped Box” are overrated. People tend to overlook the message that other Nirvana songs look to deliver, like nonconformist attitudes, sexism, etc.

2. The Smashing Pumpkins

“1979” is their most popular song, making you feel almost nostalgic. It’s a good throwback band.

3. Guns ‘N Roses

Guns ‘N Roses is a fabulous band, with our favorite hit being “Welcome to the Jungle.” This is a very good song with an amazing guitar solo.  They have many other hits,  such as “Sweet Child O’ Mine” and “Patience.” Very good band with enjoyable songs. 

The 2000’s:

1. *NSYNC

A basic 2000s boy band featuring Justin Timberlake. Popular band amongst the millennials.  They have some good bangers, such as “Bye Bye Bye” and “It’s Gonna be Me.” They are so much better than the Backstreet Boys, so thats why we put them at number 1. 

2. Backstreet Boys

Another basic 2000s boy band but without Justin Timberlake. Very overrated in our opinion, but we put them as number 2 because by popularity they skyrocketed because of their singular hit song that has been overplayed to the point where your eardrums burst. 

3. Red Hot Chili Peppers

THEY’RE HOT! The Red Hot Chili Peppers is one great band. They have many amazing songs such as “Can’t Stop,” “Under the Bridge,” and “Snow.” These songs all have a wonderful beat to them. and that’s why we put them at number 3.

This article is dedicated to Kevin Weaver (1962-2023)