The Byrds

Two very different groups -- Cream and the Byrds -- square off against each other in the first round of the second-ever Ultimate Classic Rock Hall of Fame election. Each month, our readers will determine which of eight legendary artists or bands is immortalized forever for their contributions to classic rock history.

They practically invented both folk-rock and country rock.

The voice of Roger McGuinn was a huge part of the late '60s. The singer/guitarist, who turns 70 July 13, began his career as a backing player and songwriter for hire, but caught his big break when meeting up with Gene Clark to form the Byrds.