What a fun question.

1. Brian Wilson (for production and for introducing complex harmonies to Rock and Roll).

2. Jeff Lynne (for production and for introducing Classical Music to Rock and Roll).

3. John Lennon & Paul McCartney (for doing much of it first).

4. Harry Chapin (for telling awesome stories via his music).

5. Tom Petty (for producing filler-free albums).

6. Cat Stevens (simple never sounded so good).

7. Carl Wilson (the most awesome voice of the Beach Boys).

8. Ray Charles (for recording "The Mess Around").

9. Little Richard (Pioneer of Rock and Roll).

10. Elvis Presley (the man is legendary).

11. Johnny Horton ("Honky Tonk Man" "Battle of New Orleans" "Sink the Bismark", just to name a few.)

12. Stompin' Tom Connors (a Canadian Legend).

I could probably go on, but these are the ones I'll remember fondly.

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