Lists

A look back at the most important and memorable moments of a wild and crazy year.

There's a soundtrack to every year. We've collected the most memorable ones from across four decades.

Our look back found at least one instance where they improved upon the initially released version.

A hot start to a brand new decade.

They didn't necessarily become huge commercial or critical hits, but some produced career-changing moments anyway.

The best acts were able to successfully navigate the artistic and commercial challenges the decade threw at them.

Unless you're ZZ Top or U2, bandmates tend to come and go.

Influences and pop culture references abound.

Whether you're looking to relax with some Purple Pantera, break your anxiety with Ghost OG or stimulate your appetite with some Fat Axl.

The year keeps giving us music you need to hear.

Others subbed for him as far back as 1964's "You Can't Do That."

Linkin Park, Queen, Nirvana and more.