Original Features

A songwriter's songwriter covered by everyone from Linda Ronstadt to Bob Dylan, he never lost his caustic wit, even when knocking on heaven's door.

Guitarist played nice with others - many others - throughout his 60-year recording career.

Few other artists made such a seismic impact on the medium.

He had a long, varied career playing the roles of sideman, band member and group leader.

They cover a lot of ground, from folk ballads to jazz experiments to orchestral re-recordings.

Bands were suddenly blending in disco bounce and punk fury. It wasn't always an easy mix, but they kept rock 'n' roll alive.

Some memorable artists were one-and-done.

Watch the band's second singer tackle songs from the group's original lineup.

Classic rockers made bold statements, while pioneering new bands took cues from the masters.

The year's highlights brought major change for some groups.