Great Singers - Missing Links Quiz

Answer: River of Dreams

Billy Joel's early interest for classical music proved to be the launching ramp for a prodigious musical career. His extraordinary piano skills and his obvious song-writing abilities were the guarantees for success. He has recorded 12 albums and he is the recipient of five Grammy's (as well as 12 other nominations), the Grammy Legend Award, the American Music Award, and the Billboard Century Music Award.

In 1992 he was inducted into Songwriter's Hall of Fame.

Answer: Sun Is Shining

Reggae music would be inconceivable without Bob Marley and the Wailers. Truly devoted to his Rastafari belief, the immensely gifted and charismatic Jamaican singer managed to deliver his message far beyond the borders of his native Caribbean island. As Eric Clapton describes him: "...he was a great lyric writer, a musical genius and a great leader of men." His inspiring music has profound and hidden meanings, speaking about universal truths.

He recorded over 20 albums and held 9 memorable concerts between 1973-1980.

Answer: Young Turks

Rod Stewart's hoarse voice has become somehow very familiar with the passing of years. He inevitably became one (maybe the most popular) of the rock & roll idols of the 70s as he easily climbed the ladder of success, after leaving his former band - Faces.

His originality consists in his ability to ingeniously combine the music elements of rock, folk, pop, blues and R&B, as well as his playing it with such an extraordinary verve.

Answer: Run, Baby, Run

After a tough and rather discouraging start in the music industry, Sheryl Crow eventually found her own road to stardom. She began as a backup singer, and in just a little time, become one of the most respected supporting artists, collaborating with Eric Clapton, Rod Stewart, Joe Cocker, Stevie Wonder, George Harrison and many others.

Her solo career began in 1993, with the top hit "All I Wanna Do" granting her debut album a total success. The spark was ignited, and since then, her clever lyrics and catchy melodies have made a lot of fans.

Answer: Candle in the Wind

This artist is not just a successful pop singer, but a real entertainer, with flamboyant and memorable appearances on the stage. He "revived" the piano, using it at its full potential, this happening in an era dominated by the guitar. He is at the same time a talented singer and an inspired songwriter. From his long lasting collaboration with lyricist Bernard Taupin emerged countless hits, regarded today as pop classics.

He recorded more than 30 albums, being awarded 23 gold albums and 13 gold single records.

He was the first Western artist to tour the USSR. The most challenging yet touching moment of his career was singing at the funeral of Princess Diana... This was just in a few words the remarkable Elton John!

Answer: Layla

While Billy Joel and Elton John mastered the secrets of the piano, Eric Clapton has the renown of being one of the greatest guitarists of all times. He activated in the early 60s with the 'Yardbirds'. Clapton's fulminating ascension began in the late 60s, when he formed 'Cream', a band that saw immediate success. From this point on, Eric Clapton embarked on an outstanding, award winning solo run that continues to this day. Throughout this period he recorded numerous exceptional albums, including 'Layla'('70), 'Backless'('78), Crossroads'('88), 'Unplugged' (92'), 'Pilgrim' ('98).

In this respect and considering his love of the blues, he is regarded as the greatest white blues guitarist.

Answer: Innuendo

The much-regretted Freddie Mercury ensured 'Queen' a timeless place in the musical hall-of-fame of the XXth century. The band enjoyed a huge popularity through the 80s and is still regarded today as one of the greatest rock bands ever. With each new album 'Queen' experimented new music styles including glam rock, hard rock and funk.

Their highly appreciated "rock opera" - "Bohemian Rhapsody" - was "officially" recognized by being selected in 2004 as one of the Songwriter's Hall Of Fame inductees. 'Queen' recently received yet another honor: a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honor which only few non-US bands have ever been granted.

Answer: Ray of Light

Although she has raised a lot of controversies through the years, Madonna is nevertheless one of the most original, influential and inspiring artists of our time. Courage and strong made it all possible for her, as she succeeded in almost everything she has undertaken.

Her greatest achievement is obviously her music, which has captured the public's appreciation for over two decades, counting numerous tops of the charts, selling in millions of copies and winning countless awards. Her name is also closely linked with the concept of musical video, which she has well-invested in, foreseeing its huge creative and commercial value.

Answer: Every Little Thing She Does is Magic

'The Police' is one of those bands which made a powerful impression and left their mark on the consciousness of the audience in only the few years of their existence. This UK trio, consisting of Gordon Sumner (vocals, bass), Stewart Copeland (percussion, vocals) and Andrew Summers (guitar) astonished the public with five successful and valuable albums, approaching a pop sound with strong reggae and jazz influences.

The group separated rather early, due to the clash of opinions between the three members, who ended up following their individual paths.

There was still some good in this, as they stepped out of the spotlight in their full glory. The first mentioned member of the band (Sting being his famous alter-ego) has built a solid solo career, becoming one of the most praised and respected artists of our times.

Answer: Father Figure

George Michael's musical career may have had its ups and downs, but regardless of that, he is still one of all-time great performers and best selling artists. The four years spent with 'Wham' have brought him the fame he needed to launch in a successful solo career.
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