Artist of the Year – 2014 Ultimate Classic Rock Awards
This is the big one: Artist of the Year. The names, of course, are all huge ones -- all giants in the classic-rock field. And each of them had a stellar year, rocking concert halls, releasing terrific records or just generally being awesome. But only one can snag the coveted title of Artist of the Year. So, vote now for Artist of the Year in the 2014 Ultimate Classic Rock Awards.
- Kevin Winter, Getty Images
Kevin Winter, Getty Images Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath finally got around to that big comeback in 2013, not only releasing their first album with Ozzy Osbourne since the '70s but also embarking on a world-conquering tour that's still in progress. They also scored their first No. 1 album out of it.
- Frank Micelotta, Getty Images
Frank Micelotta, Getty Images David Bowie
David Bowie started the year on his 66th birthday, when he announced a new album that nobody knew was coming. While he didn't tour, he did release a bunch of cool videos and an expanded version of his new record that added even more awesomeness.
- Christopher Polk, Getty Images
Christopher Polk, Getty Images Bob Dylan
Even though he didn't really release any new music in 2013, Bob Dylan did perform major surgery on one of his most hated records, 1970's 'Self Portrait,' for his 'Bootleg Series.' The result is a stripped-down folk collection, and one of his best in years.
- D Dipasupil, Getty Images
D Dipasupil, Getty Images Elton John
Elton John returned to the studio with a bunch of new songs about getting old, looking back and coming to terms with the past (and future). 'The Diving Board' is one of his most personal albums, a piano-driven tour de force delivered by a timeless music legend.
- Theo Wargo, Getty Images
Theo Wargo, Getty Images - John Hill, Getty Images
John Hill, Getty Images Paul McCartney
Paul McCartney preceded the release of his best album in decades with a promotional blitz worthy of Arcade Fire or 'Anchorman 2,' playing Times Square and even the roof of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night talk show. He has an even bigger 2014 lined up.
- Simone Joyner, Getty Images
Simone Joyner, Getty Images The Rolling Stones
Continuing their 50th-anniversary blowout, the Rolling Stones scaled down their usual endless tour itinerary in 2013. But they made the most of the shows, inviting special guests onstage almost every single night, and even returning to Hyde Park for a homecoming.
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