XTC – Best Classic Rock Artists A-Z

The New Wave band XTC were way more popular in their homeland of England than anywhere else in the world. They were also pretty popular in Canada for some reason.

But their impact on rock music in the '80s is significant. Early songs like 'Making Plans for Nigel' and 'Senses Working Overtime' were U.K. hits, but more importantly, they carved out a little segment of the post-punk universe with their smart, snappy lyrics and melodies, which were hugely influenced by the Beatles.

And their 1986 album 'Skylarking,' which was produced by Todd Rundgren, is a psych-pop tour de force that crackles with retro energy.