Strong single ladies, classic crooners release year’s most memorable music across industry’s favorite genres
“El Camino” — The Black Keys
Fresh off 2011 Grammy wins for their previous album “Brothers,” The Black Keys once again released a polished collection of raw, grungy rock ‘n’ roll (including the alternative radio hit, “Lonely Boy”) that pleased fans and will surely be major awards bait in the coming year. The band is touring in support of “El Camino” in 2012 and will make a stop at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte on March 24.
“21” — Adele
The young, British songtress with pipes like no other released her second album in February and made America cry with soulful ballads like “Someone Like You” and “Set Fire to the Rain.” While it was hard to escape Adele’s tunes on the radio, the singer canceled most of her American tour dates due to vocal problems. Get well soon, Adele!
“Sweeter” — Gavin DeGraw
While Gavin DeGraw could have easily become a one-hit wonder, the singer’s third album is quite possibly his best yet. The singer/songwriter made the ladies swoon with the piano-driven radio single “Not Over You” and bared his angsty rock star side on the title track. DeGraw toured with Train and Maroon 5 this summer and may hit the road again in 2012.
“Torches” — Foster the People
With the band’s single “Pumped Up Kicks” being one of the most-played songs of the summer, Foster the People enjoyed the success of its top-selling debut album in 2011. A high-energy “Saturday Night Live” performance helped the band achieve stellar sales. The combination of the band’s electronica sounds and lead singer Mark Foster’s unique voice, Foster the People will no doubt continue to draw in new fans in the new year.
“Duets II” — Tony Bennett and Various Artists
Although he’s in his 80s, Tony Bennett’s still got it. And on 2011’s “Duets II,” Bennett proved he can play the top 40 game, too. Pairing up with artists ranging from Queen Latifah to Willie Nelson, Bennett and friends released new versions of classics from “The American Songbook.” Standout moments include “The Lady Is a Tramp” with Lady Gaga, “Watch What Happens” with Natalie Cole and “One for My Baby (And One More for the Road)” with John Mayer.
“Ceremonials” — Florence + the Machine
The firey-haired singer released “Ceremonials” around Halloween, a fitting time for an album filled with eerie undertones and howling vocals. Lead singer Florence Welch holds down the album with her powerhouse belting style and brought a bigger instrumental ensemble along for the ride on her second full-length disc, which includes radio singles “Shake It Off” and “What the Water Gave Me.”
“Turtleneck & Chain” — The Lonely Island
Andy Samberg and pals Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone proved comedy and hip-hop go hand in hand with the release of The Lonely Island’s second album “Turtleneck & Chain” features “SNL” hits, including “The Creep” featuring Nicki Minaj and John Waters, the Michael Bolton–assisted “Jack Sparrow” and the group’s collaboration with Akon on “I Just Had Sex.” The Lonely Island is nominated for the 2012 Grammy award for Best Comedy Album.
“4” — Beyonce
The former Destiny’s Child singer proved she runs the world with the release of her fourth album, appropriately titled “4.” Boasting pop hits including “Run the World (Girls),” “Love on Top” and “Best Thing I Never Had,” Beyonce let listeners know she isn’t going anywhere. At the end of 2011, Beyonce and husband Jay-Z welcomed their first child into the world. Let’s hope that just because she’s a new mommy doesn’t mean she will stop putting out hot tracks.
“Barton Hallow” — The Civil Wars
With a little bit of country and a little bit of rock ‘n’ roll, music duo The Civil Wars released their debut album “Barton Hallow” in 2011 to much critical acclaim. Drawing inspiration from the country greats of Nashville and reminding listeners of the successful collaboration between Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, it seems The Civil Wars have brought an original sound to the music industry and aren’t going away for a long time.
“Born This Way” — Lady Gaga
Mama Monster did it again. May 2011’s highly anticipated “Born This Way” gave birth to five hit radio singles, including the title track and Gaga’s latest single “Marry the Night.” The queen of controversy didn’t spare any expenses in creating elaborate music videos and jaw-dropping costumes. And even though some tracks may sound slightly ripped from Madonna’s discography, Gaga has remained a successful artist. Dates for the “Born This Way” tour are rumored to be released this week.