New Immortals: Which Artists Top the List?

Back in 2004, Rolling Stone Magazine started The Immoral list, for the 100 Great Artists of all time.

“The essays on these top 100 artists are by their peers: singers, producers and musicians. In these fan testimonials, indie rockers pay tribute to world-beating rappers (Vampire Weekend's Ezra Koenig on Jay-Z), young pop stars honor stylistic godmothers (Britney Spears on Madonna) and Billy Joel admits that Elton John "kicks my ass on piano." Rock & roll is now a music with a rich past. But at its best, it is still the sound of forward motion. As you read this book, remember: This is what we have to live up to,” (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/100-greatest-artists-of-all-time-19691231).

As for a comparison, some of the “classic” artists in the 2004 edition included Elvis Costello at 80, The Beastie Boys at 77, Aerosmith at 59, Simon and Garfunkel at 40, Johnny Cash at 31, and Ray Charles at 10 (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/100-greatest-artists-of-all-time-19691231/ray-charles-20110420). To see #1 click on the link and comment on your reaction.

As for the New Immortals, 14, is Taylor Swift, no surprise there, “Swift grew up obsessed with the Dixie Chicks on a Christmas tree farm in rural Pennsylvania; she started writing songs at 14 before moving to Tennessee. It didn't take her long to conquer the Nashville machine – or to break out of it,” (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/the-new-immortals-20130305/taylor-swift-19691231).

Lady Gaga or should I say, Stefani Angelina Germanotta, made the ranks at 10 (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/the-new-immortals-20130305/lady-gaga-19691231). Others on the list include Beyonce at 9, Rihanna at 7, and The Strokes at 3 (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/the-new-immortals-20130305/lady-gaga-19691231). To see the complete list, click the link. Which artist is your favorite and why?