One of the most singular talents in music, a multi-talented pop/funk/rock performer who showed remarkable stylistic growth and musical diversity.
28. Grateful Dead
Legendary Haight-Ashbury sextet who took a long, strange trip from acid-testing jugband to worldwide countercultural institution.
27. Sleater-Kinney
Arguably the most important punk band of the 1990s and 2000s, with feminist songwriting matched by taut melodicism and jaw-dropping sonic complexity.
26. The Smashing Pumpkins
One of the biggest bands of the alternative era, who deftly mixed roaring rock with dark, insular alternative pop.
25. Nick Cave/Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds
Eclectic and powerful post-punk band that's steadily evolved under the leadership of one of rock's most celebrated songwriters. One of the finest songwriters of the post-punk era, whose hybrid of blues, gospel, and rock complemented his dark, literary style and baritone vocals.
24. The Rolling Stones
The premier British rock band for over half a century, creators of the sound and style imitated by countless groups.
23. The Who
An explosive combo that pioneered progressive and arena rock, each new sound increasing their influence and legacy.
22. Bruce Springsteen/Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band
A rock & roll true believer with a poet's heart, the Boss defined mainstream American rock in the late 20th century. The best band in classic rock, formed around Clarence Clemons, "Miami" Steve Van Zandt, Danny Federici, Roy Bittan, Garry Tallent, and Max Weinberg.
21. Sigur Rós
Icelandic post-rockers whose uniquely dreamlike, slow-motion sound was popular with shoegazers and filmmakers.
