November 29, 2024
In the world of indie pop, Clairo has emerged as a voice of a generation—an artist whose music feels as personal as it is universal. Born Claire Cottrill, the Massachusetts native rose to fame with...
Read moreNovember 29, 2024
In a world of loud and fast-paced pop music, The Marías have emerged as a band that thrives on subtlety and sophistication. Known for their ethereal soundscapes, bilingual lyrics, and vintage...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
Kendrick Lamar has once again captivated the music world with the unexpected release of his sixth studio album, GNX, on November 22, 2024. This surprise drop marks his first full-length project...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
Kendrick Lamar, often celebrated as one of the most influential rappers of his generation, is more than just a hip-hop artist. Born Kendrick Lamar Duckworth on June 17, 1987, in Compton, California...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
The 1990s saw the rise of many influential bands, but few reshaped the alternative music landscape like Radiohead. With a sound that transcended traditional rock, they pushed the boundaries of the...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas O’Connell have become one of the most successful creative duos in modern music. From chart-topping singles to Grammy-winning albums, their collaborative...
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Sabrina Carpenter has found herself at the center of a debate as critics question her bold embrace of sensuality in her recent performances and music. The singer, known for her evolution from...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
Lil Nas X is back with another hit, and his latest single, “Need Dat Boy,” is already turning heads. Known for his ability to blend catchy beats with bold, unapologetic lyrics, the Grammy-winning...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
The rap industry has seen countless talents rise and fall, but few have left as lasting a mark as Meek Mill. Born Robert Rihmeek Williams on May 6, 1987, in South Philadelphia, Meek's journey to...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
Playboi Carti has long been celebrated for his ability to push the boundaries of hip-hop. Known for his high-pitched delivery and unique ad-libs, Carti has become a cultural phenomenon, with his...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
In a music industry dominated by rapid releases and fleeting trends, Frank Ocean has established himself as an artist who values depth, emotion, and timelessness. Known for his introspective...
Read moreNovember 24, 2024
In a world of fast-paced trends and fleeting fame, H.E.R. stands as a powerful example of staying true to one’s musical roots while still capturing the hearts of modern audiences. Born Gabriella...
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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.