Top 10 selling artists

1. The Beatles

What can be said about the Beatles that hasn't already been said? Throughout their career, these four fab lads redefined themselves, our culture, and rock and pop music--their effect is still being felt today, which makes it pretty much impossible to make a list of top artists without acknowledging their influence.

2. U2

From their humble roots in the early '80s to their current status as quite possibly the best recording band in the world, U2 holds a unique place in world of rock music. They've remained relevant by crafting melodically catchy and emotionally resonant music that speaks to the times, yet never feels dated or out of place--anthemic pop music that truly makes the whole world sing.

3. Norah Jones

Back in 2002, nobody could have predicted the meteoric rise of jazzy songstress Norah Jones. Appealing to everyone from soccer moms to rock-freak Mike Patton (who used her on his latest project), Norah's soothing piano and sultry vocals took the world by storm. With only two albums under her belt, she has already made her mark--we're looking forward to more.

4. Johnny Cash

Unrivaled in the world of music as both a songwriter and performer, Johnny Cash set the standard for many country performers that followed in his footsteps, and remained an active, vital, and important artist for his entire career. From his early days at Sun Records to his stunning series of "American Recordings" produced by Rick Rubin, the Man in Black's storytelling and emotional transparency never faltered, securing his spot in our Top 10.

5. Diana Krall

Diana Krall is at once anachronistic and staunchly modern--her ability to make decades-old standard jazz tunes reverberate with a new life lends her a cross-generational appeal few artists enjoy. With her traditional staccato piano style and smooth dynamic vocals, it's easy to fall under her spell.

6. Bob Dylan

Remaining a relevant, active artist for nearly a half century is no easy task, especially in the finicky ever-changing world of music, but for Bob Dylan, it seems to be both effortless and natural. As both an oft-covered songwriter and unique performer, Dylan has influenced countless followers with his chameleonic musicality ranging from folk to rock to blues to country.

7. Frank Sinatra

As the artist who brought to life the definitive versions of many of America's classic standards, Frank Sinatra easily makes our list of top 10 artists. With his inimitable voice, this legendary rat-packer simply sings some of our all-time favorite songs.

8. Dixie Chicks

With their major label debut, Wide Open Spaces, the Dixie Chicks exploded onto both the country and pop charts, and with each subsequent album demonstrated over and over that their initial success was no fluke. Weathering controversy with confidence, they've proven their staying power and ability to appeal across genre lines while maintaining their personal and musical integrity.

9. Enya

Getting her start with Irish mainstay Clannad, Enya broke out on her own in a big way with 1988's Watermark. With a sound uniquely her own, encompassing layered vocal textures, plucked strings, and tranquil synth pads, Enya has solidified her place not only in Celtic and New Age music, but deeply within our hearts.

10. Rod Stewart

Beginning his career with the Jeff Beck Group and the Faces, Rod Stewart has traveled a diverse artistic path, flirting with blues, folk, rock, disco, and American standards. Whether you prefer him as a young bluesy rocker, an '80s pop interpreter, or a dignified sensual crooner, Rod Stewart and his trademark raspy vocals deliver the goods.