Best of CH 2015: ListenUp

Musical highlights from our soundtrack to the year

This year, musicians protested through shouts and rhymes, exposed painful wounds, gave the middle finger to haters and, most of all, perfectly captured the essence of the here and now through their songs. In no particular order, here are 12 musical highlights from our soundtrack to 2015, including everything from uneasy electronica to acoustic tearjerkers. Revisit the songs we noted in our Listen section (updated …

Best of CH 2014: ListenUp

Spaced-out synth solos, vocal experiments, emoji videos, exciting newcomers, legendary acts and so much more in the year's musical highlights

As we bid adieu to 2014, we take a look back at the hundreds of new songs and albums (and even our own 4/20-themed playlist) we shared with our readers. While we said goodbye this year to a few music legends who have shaped today’s contemporary sound, we also warmly welcomed stellar debuts from emerging talents across all ages and genres—and veterans with long-awaited comebacks. …

8. Richie Havens: Freedom

The top songs, albums and artists influencing an incredible year in music

Jim Morrison may have very well been the frontman of The Doors, but it was keyboardist Ray Manzarek who ignited their worldwide success with his inimitable ability to play a Vox Continental organ with his right hand for the melodies while simultaneously playing a Fender keyboard with his left for the bass chords. Arguably no song better displayed his remarkable talent than the 1967 hit …