The 40 US Greatest Bands Today

Three weeks ago british newspaper The Guardian published a list of the artists who have made British rock and pop music exciting again. The response was so remarkable they’ve decided to repeat the exercise – with Americans. The Flaming Lips top the chart, followed by Outkast and Timbaland. And here is how Madonna, at #15.

Madonna

Nothing has been the same since Guy, the Kabbala and her reinvention as a Pearly Queen. Madonna’s current album, American Life – a “coruscating” view of her home country as seen from the gritty stately homes of Gloucestershire – is pop most foul.

But still, this is Madonna. Perpetually open to new sounds and styles, she shapes the pop environment as much as she is shaped by it.

After 20 years, there is still nothing else like her.

Sound: 8
Songs: 16
Gigs: 14
Style: 17
Attitude: 12
Total: 67

Source: Guardian Unlimited