6. Kendrick Lamar ft. Jay-Z: Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe (remix)

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

When Kris Kross “jumped” onto the scene in ’92, they inspired young people everywhere to get Totally Krossed Out with their Jermaine Dupri-produced debut album. They also ignited a major fashion moment when it was suddenly acceptable to wear an entire ensemble backwards—jeans, baseball jersey, belt and all. Their ephemeral reign as the daddy macs of teen rap left an indelible mark on music, and …

7. The Doors: Light My Fire

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

This souped-up remix of Kendrick Lamar’s hit, “Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe,” makes for the ultimate party anthem. Lamar’s Good Kid, M.A.A.D City album was released toward the end of 2012 but he dropped the original version of this single in March 2013. A song on daily repeat at CH HQ, it seems Jay-Z loved it as much as seemingly everyone else when he surprised …

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 …