stayc main image

Make Music Again: Overcoming Creative Burnout Like Pharrell Williams

August 21, 2024

Hey there, fellow music creators! Whether you’re balancing a day job, DJ gigs, and music production, or just feeling creatively stuck, you’re not alone. Many of us hit a wall at some point, where...

Read more
stayc main image

Master Your Craft as a Beatmaker: The J Dilla Way

August 21, 2024

In this article, we’ll explore the most efficient ways to master your creative process as a beatmaker, and how you can learn from one of the most respected producers in the game: J Dilla.

Read more
stayc main image

Bumbershoot Festival 2024: A Creative Celebration in Seattle

August 8, 2024

This Labor Day weekend, Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival returns to Seattle Center from August 31 to September 1, 2024. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, Bumbershoot continues to be a...

Read more
stayc main image

Ohana Festival 2024: A Must-Attend Event for Music Creators

August 8, 2024

As the summer winds down and the crisp autumn air begins to roll in, music enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating one of California’s premier music festivals. The Ohana Festival, set to take place...

Read more
stayc main image

Desert Daze 2024: A Creative Oasis for Music Enthusiasts

August 8, 2024

As the vibrant hues of summer give way to the golden tones of fall, the anticipation for one of California’s most eclectic music festivals begins to build. This October, the 2024 Desert Daze music...

Read more
stayc main image

How to Create a Joyful Song Like "Happy" by Pharrell Williams

July 24, 2024

Creating a song that radiates joy and energy, much like Pharrell Williams' hit "Happy," is an exciting challenge for any music creator. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out...

Read more
stayc main image

Why Nas' Illmatic Deserves the Top Spot: Rap Lyricism at its Finest

July 17, 2024

Nas’ debut album, Illmatic, has been crowned the greatest rap album of all time by Billboard, and for good reason. Celebrated for its lyrical brilliance and profound storytelling, Illmatic set...

Read more
stayc main image

How to Create a Viral Chart-Topping Song Like Tommy Richman's "Million Dollar Baby"

July 8, 2024

Creating a viral, chart-topping song is the pinnacle of success for many music creators. Tommy Richman’s "Million Dollar Baby" exemplifies how to craft a hit that resonates with a wide audience...

Read more
stayc main image

Crafting Music Like Jeff Bhasker: A Guide for Aspiring Music Creators

July 2, 2024

Jeff Bhasker is a legendary figure in the music industry, celebrated for his outstanding contributions as a producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. His Grammy-winning career has seen...

Read more
stayc main image

The Magic of K-pop: Insights from "Song Machine: Inside the Hit Factory"

June 30, 2024

In the ever-evolving world of pop music, K-pop has emerged as a global powerhouse, captivating audiences with its unique sound and stunning visuals. John Seabrook’s book, "Song Machine: Inside the...

Read more
stayc main image

Blackpink’s Lisa Dominates iTunes with New Single ‘Rockstar’

June 30, 2024

Music enthusiasts and aspiring creators, take note! Blackpink’s Lisa is making waves in the U.S. with her latest single, "Rockstar." Released late on Thursday, June 27, the song quickly shot up the...

Read more
stayc main image

Unlocking the Secrets of Pop Hits: Insights from "Song Machine: Inside the Hit Factory"

June 30, 2024

Have you ever wondered what makes a pop song stick in your head, or how some artists consistently produce hit after hit? John Seabrook's "Song Machine: Inside the Hit Factory" pulls back the...

Read more

Why The Killers ‘Mr. Brightside’ Has Remained on the Charts for a Decade and Counting

stayc main image

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.