But did the bands of 1967 really “teach” modern artist how to play? It’s no question that bands like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and The Rolling Stones have transformed music. But is their influence still prominent, or has it been loss in transition from 50 years ago to today?

The rise of rock ‘n’ roll spawned a wide variety of bands and sounds as 1967 rolled around. This variety has grown even more since, like new genres like rap, and hip-hop surfacing in more recent years. The syncopated beat and spoken word style can be found in Frank Zappa’s release “Lumpy Gravy”. It also reflects modern rap due to its controversial, and political opinions weaved in the tracks. Zappa was also one of the main reasons for the “Parental Advisory: Explicit Content” that we all see on albums nowadays.

Some artists are very blatant when it comes to their musical influences. Kanye West has expressed his love for his predecessors numerous times, most notably David Bowie, who released his self titled debut fifty years before, and Paul McCartney. The Beatles had released Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and Magical Mystery Tour in 1967, oblivious to their future impact.

“David Bowie was one of my most important inspirations, so fearless, so creative, he gave us magic for a lifetime,” West tweeted following the rock legend’s passing.

Though the dynamic of the music industry has shifted dramatically since the times of pure rock ‘n’ roll, women were still present in the scene. Janis Joplin released her debut with Big Brother and The Holding Company, Dusty Springfield came out with The Look Of Love, and Grace Slick sang her heart out on Jefferson Airplane’s Surrealistic Pillow, and though these girls were few and far between they brought that sound to the mainstream and have allowed women to take their rightful place at the top of the charts.

Heavier sounds also range from the record players of the youth. Albums like Disraeli Gears by Cream, Are You Experienced? by The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and Little Games by The Yardbirds hit the charts but also lasted much longer. Those groups helped form modern heavy metal, and the hardcore subculture.

Each type of artist can be weaved back to these roots, and maybe even farther. The impact of these artist can’t be dismissed, for each of the top musicians on the radio have someone to thank. Whether it was the empowering women with explosive vocals, or those who turned mainstream music into a more emotional media, the music industry thrives on its past. Artists like Adela, and Beyonce ran with the influence of female artist from the 1960s, not only carrying the legacy of women in mainstream music but raising the opportunities of women to new standards. Now, they are at the forefront and the top of the charts.