Pop Music Pioneers

Possibly the most famous band in the world took the '60s by storm with their hit albums. Their last was Abbey Road.

The Beatles

Madonna

You listen to Britney Spears, Kelly Clarkson and Ashlee Simpson but who launched pop music into the worldwide phenomenon it is today? You think you know the true pop classics? Check out some of the pioneers from back in the day - you might even recognize some of them!

*Heads Up* If you plan on picking up a few of these albums you should know that some of the songs, on a few of the albums, may contain the occasional naughty word. We're not talking about Eminem-style trash talking, but you'll want to check with your 'rents before blaring this stuff in the living room. Remind your folks that this is the music of their generation, maybe it'll help!

Pop Music - The Beatles

Long before The Backstreet Boys were even born, these four guys from England became one of the greatest bands of all-time. With songs like Yesterday and All You Need Is Love, The Beatles took the world by storm. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr were the four hotties in the band, and they were an instant hit with girls everywhere. If you've never listened to a Beatles album, ask the 'rents to pull one out of the closet. Guaranteed they have one or two!

Pop Music - The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys were all about the beach, surfin' and lookin' cool. Their sound is very harmonious and with songs like Safari Surfin', California Girls and Fun, Fun, Fun, they became a huge hit in the 1960s. They first struck it big in the US and then around the world. This groovin' group was made up of Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Carl Wilson, Dennis Wilson and Al Jardine. The Beach Boys tunes are perfect for summer and they paved the way for the fun-lovin' songs that you hear on the radio today!

Pop Music - Michael Jackson

No matter how weird this guy is or how much make-up he wears, no pop playlist is complete without him. He first started out with the Jackson Five and went on to become one of the most famous artists of our time. With hits like Thriller, Beat It, Billie Jean, etc., this guy, for awhile, had it going on. With his upbeat songs and crazy moves, he pushed pop music to become what it is today.

Pop Music - Madonna

OK, so you probably know Madonna but are you familiar with any songs other than Hung Up or Beautiful Stranger? Madonna redefined music with her provocative music videos and outrageous costumes. With songs like Vogue, Like a Virgin and Like a Prayer, she stirred up controversy and soared to the top of the music charts. She's always been known for reinventing herself and she still comes out with new trends today that catch on fast.