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Few bands have managed to achieve the global reach, cultural significance, and musical versatility of Coldplay. Since their debut in the late 1990s, the British quartet—composed of Chris Martin...
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In the ever-expanding world of electronic music, few artists have managed to carve out a space as unique and emotionally resonant as Barry Can’t Swim. The moniker of Scottish producer and DJ Barry...
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Few artists have managed to transcend generations and genres quite like Cher. With a career spanning over six decades, she has solidified her position as one of the most influential figures in...
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Amy Winehouse was a singular talent whose soulful voice, raw lyrics, and bold persona left an indelible mark on music history. Despite her tragically short career, Amy’s influence on contemporary...
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Few artists have shaped modern music and culture like Madonna. With a career spanning over four decades, she has consistently pushed boundaries, redefined pop music, and challenged societal norms...
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Fleetwood Mac, one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, has left an indelible mark on music history. Known for their dynamic harmonies, raw emotional storytelling, and genre-defying sound...
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Stevie Wonder is a name that transcends music, standing as a symbol of creativity, resilience, and innovation. As one of the most celebrated artists of all time, Wonder’s extraordinary talent...
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In the vibrant world of house music, Dutch duo ANOTR has emerged as one of the most exciting and innovative acts of recent years. Comprised of Jesse van der Heijden and Oguzhan Guney, ANOTR has...
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PARTYNEXTDOOR, the enigmatic Canadian singer, songwriter, and producer, has emerged as a pivotal figure in reshaping the landscape of modern R&B. Born Jahron Anthony Brathwaite in Mississauga...
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Released in 2003 and re-released in 2004, The Killers' "Mr. Brightside" quickly became a defining anthem of the early 2000s, propelling the band to global superstardom. This synth-rock hit, characterized by Brandon Flowers' New Wave vocal delivery, captures themes of jealousy and deception with an irresistibly catchy melody. Its enduring popularity is evident in its remarkable achievements, including becoming the third biggest-selling song of all time in the UK and the longest-charting song in UK history. The universal appeal of "Mr. Brightside" lies in its infectious tune, relatable lyrics, and the perfect blend of synth-rock and New Wave elements, making it a staple across various playlists and settings, from personal listening sessions to large social gatherings.
In a recent episode of Rolling Stone’s "500 Greatest Songs" podcast, hosts Brittany Spanos and Rob Sheffield explore the story behind "Mr. Brightside" and its monumental global success. Featuring insights from mixing engineer Mark Needham, who played a crucial role in shaping the sound of The Killers, the podcast delves into how the track has managed to stay relevant and beloved for over two decades. Needham, alongside his business partners, worked tirelessly to secure a record label for the then-up-and-coming Las Vegas band, despite facing numerous rejections. Their perseverance paid off, resulting in a timeless track that continues to resonate with fans worldwide, underscoring the band's impact on music and the track's enduring legacy
Therefore, our goal was to make it even better, bigger, and fresher. We completely redesigned our 500 Songs list in 2021 and included a fresh group of voters from all over the world of music. Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs examines each song that is included on our list in more detail. Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs, produced in collaboration with iHeart, features Brittany and Rob discussing a new song every week and exploring its background and significance with the assistance of a special guest. Past guests have included producers, artists, and other RS colleagues. Here's our celebration of the all-time great songs, along with an analysis of their key elements.
