American rock band Paramore was founded in 2004 in Tennessee. As of today, the band is made up of vocalist Hayley Williams, guitarist Taylor York, and drummer Zac Farro. Their first album, ‘All We Know is Falling’, topped charts both in the US and UK.
Their second album, ‘Riot!’, was a huge success and was certified platinum in the U.S., and their 2009 album ‘Brand New Eyes’ was an even bigger success, reaching number two on the Billboard 200. Then, in 2013, they released their self-titled album and went up to number one on the US and UK charts and in several other countries. Paramore won a Grammy for their song “Ain’t It Fun” in 2013.
Recommended Listening: “Crushcrushcrush,” “That’s What You Get,” “Misery Business,” and “The Only Exception.” Their album ‘Paramore’ should be listened to from front to back.
The Smashing Pumpkins
Formed in 1988 in Chicago, The Smashing Pumpkins are one of the best American alternative rock bands ever. Founded by frontman Billy Corgan, guitarist James Iha, bassist D'arcy Wretzky, and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin, the band rose to fame thanks to their unique, diverse, and layered sound.
Combining gothic, psychedelic, and progressive rock with heavy metal and dream pop, The Smashing Pumpkins definitely have a very particular sound and, thanks to Corgan, very deep and cathartic lyrics that have shaped the band.
Recommended Listening: Their 1995 album "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness" should be listened to from beginning to end.
Toto
Known for a sound that mixes rock, pop, funk, soul, R&B, jazz, and blues, Toto is definitely a very unique band. Formed in Los Angeles in 1977, the band was originally made up of Joseph Williams, Steve Porcaro, David Paich, and Steve Lukather, and touring members Shannon Forrest, Lenny Castro, Warren Ham, and Shem von Schroeck.
Toto gained huge commercial success in the 1970s and '80s, starting with their debut album and then their widely popular 1982 album, 'Toto IV.' They've won several Grammys and sold over 40 million records worldwide. Band members came and went, but in 2010, Toto came back together and did a short tour in Europe to benefit former band member Mike Porcaro, who had a serious illness. In 2019, Toto announced they were going on an indefinite break.
Recommended Listening: "Africa," "Rosanna," and "Hold the Line" are must-hear for this band.
The Killers
American rock band, The Killers have seen worldwide fame since their formation in 2001. The band was founded by Brandon Flowers and Dave Keuning in Las Vegas, and the line-up got bigger as bassist Mark Stoermer and drummer Ronnie Vannucci Jr. joined a year later.
The Killers have released five studio albums that topped charts in several countries, including 'Hot Fuss,' 'Sam's Town,' 'Day & Age,' 'Battle Born,' and 'Wonderful Wonderful.' They are considered one of the best rock bands of modern times, performing in more than 50 different countries and having live shows in historic venues like Wembley Stadium and Madison Square Garden. Fun fact: the name for the band came from a logo on a bass drum of a fake band that appears in New Order's "Crystal" song video.
Recommended Listening: "Mr. Brightside" and, "Somebody Told Me" are two of their most famous songs, and for good reason. If you want to keep listening, try their 'Hot Fuss' album. You won't be disappointed.
Marilyn Manson
Marilyn Manson, born Brian Hugh Warner, is an Ohio-born singer/songwriter, producer, actor, and visual artist. Famous for his controversial look and personality, Manson is the frontman for his self-titled band, which he formed with Daisy Berkowitz in 1989.
His 1990's albums, 'Portrait of an American Family,' 'Antichrist Superstar,' and 'Mechanical Animals,' earned him a worldwide reputation as an icon of industrial and hard rock and alternative metal. Three of his albums have been certified platinum, and another three gold, and the band has been nominated for four Grammys. Fun fact: Marilyn Manson's stage name came from a combination of two of America's most famous cultural icons: Charles Manson and Marilyn Monroe.
Recommended Listening: Manson's cover of "Tainted Love" is pretty amazing. "Disposable Teens," "Rock is Dead," and "Tourniquet" are some of our favorites.