Top 100 Artists of the 50s

The Top 100 artists of the 1950s, pioneers who set the stage for modern music genres, are celebrated for their groundbreaking contributions to rock ‘n’ roll, jazz, and blues.

This era’s list encapsulates the dawn of a musical revolution, highlighting the legends whose sounds echo through the ages. Explore the roots of contemporary music with the icons who defined the vibrant 1950s.

Elvis+Presley+Elvis

1.Elvis Presley
2. Fats Domino
3. Chuck Berry
4. Little Richard
5. The Everly Brothers
6. Bill Haley & His Comets
7. Ray Charles
8. Buddy Holly & The Crickets
9. The Clovers
10. The Platters

billy ward dominoes

11. Billy Ward & The Dominoes
12. Ruth Brown
13. Bo Diddley
14. Jerry Lee Lewis
15. Sam Cooke
16. Hank Ballard & The Midnighters
17. Johnny Otis
18. Ricky Nelson
19. Big Joe Turner
20. The Drifters

The 5 Royales

21. The “5” Royales
22. Johnny Ace
23. The Coasters
24. LaVern Baker
25. Eddie Cochran
26. The Flamingos
27. Chuck Willis
28. Frankie Lymon & The Teenagers
29. Carl Perkins
30. Little Willie John

31. Clyde McPhatter
32. The Moonglows
33. Gene Vincent & The Blue Caps
34. Ivory Joe Hunter
35. Jackie Wilson
36. Lloyd Price
37. Shirley & Lee
38. Otis Williams & The Charms
39. Jesse Belvin
40. James Brown

41. Faye Adams
42. Jack Scott
43. Duane Eddy
44. Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
45. The Five Keys
46. Sonny Til & The Orioles
47. Larry Williams
48. Link Wray
49. Professor Longhair
50. The Chantels

51. Etta James
52. Huey “Piano” Smith & The Clowns
53. Dion & The Belmonts
54. The Cadillacs
55. Bobby Darin
56. The Del-Vikings
57. Mickey & Sylvia
58. “Little” Esther Phillips
59. Percy Mayfield
60. Ritchie Valens

Gene & Eunice

61. Gene & Eunice
62. Big Maybelle
63. The Penguins
64. Smiley Lewis
65. The Cleftones
66. Johnny Burnette Rock ‘n’ Roll Trio
67. The Crests
68. The Harptones
69. Marvin & Johnny
70. Big Mama Thornton

71. The Spaniels
72. Dale Hawkins
73. Gene Allison
74. Buddy Knox & The Rhythm Orchids
75. The Five Satins
76. Johnny “Guitar” Watson
77. Roy Hamilton
78. Bobby Day/Hollywood Flames
79. Wanda Jackson
80. Don & Dewey

81. Bobby Freeman
82. The Robins
83. Lee Andrews & The Hearts
84. Bill Doggett
85. The Larks
86. El Dorados
87. The Heartbeats
88. Richard Berry
89. The Skyliners
90. Brenda Lee

91. Bobby Mitchell
92. Little Anthony & The Imperials
93. Amos Milburn
94. Cliff Richard
95. Roy Orbison
96. Don Julian & The Meadowlarks
97. Andre Williams
98. The Chords
99. The Diamonds
100. The Crows

Who was the most popular music artist in the 1950s?

The title of the most popular music artist in the 1950s often goes to Elvis Presley, whose impact on the music and culture of the era was unparalleled. Known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” Presley’s blend of country music with rhythm and blues revolutionized the music industry.

His iconic status is supported by a string of hits and charismatic performances, making him a legend among 1950s singers and music artists.

Who was the most famous rock star of the 1950s?

Chuck Berry, another monumental figure, is often hailed as the most famous rock star of the 1950s. Berry’s innovative guitar riffs and energetic performances laid the groundwork for the future of rock music.

His storytelling through music, with hits like “Johnny B. Goode,” left a lasting legacy and established him as a pioneer among 50s musicians and 1950s bands, influencing countless singers from the 50s and beyond.

What were some popular songs in the 1950s?

The 1950s produced a wealth of popular songs that still resonate today. “Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley & His Comets became an anthem for the rock ‘n’ roll movement. “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry and “Heartbreak Hotel” by Elvis Presley are standout tracks defining the decade.

These songs exemplify the rich tapestry of 50s music artists and 1950s bands, capturing the spirit and innovation of 1950s musicians.