4. Thelonious Monk: Paris 1969

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

For his final bow after months commanding the International Space Station, Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield recorded a music video from space. In covering David Bowie’s 1969 song, “Space Oddity,” Hadfield was able to croon a viral phenomenon that inspired over 12 million views in the week following its release. Hearing the 53-year-old sing about the fictional astronaut Major Tom—whose failed mission was revised by Hadfield …

5. Kris Kross: Totally Krossed Out

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

A never before released concert film and audio recording of Thelonious Monk’s late-career concert at the Salle Pleyel in Paris will finally be made available to the public on 25 November from Blue Note Records. Monk, a self-taught musician, was 52 years old at the time but balanced the quartet with two new young members—17-year-old drummer Paris Wright and student bassist from Berklee College of …

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 …