The Understated Few

I had the opportunity and pleasure to read my homeboy Kevin's blog and he made a valid case that Ringo Starr was one of the most underrated performers of all time and should get more respect from Beatle fans...Hear, Hear to that....His insight got me thinking of some other people that I think are underrated and understated. Here are a few:

1. Dave Pirner--Soul Asylum--This dude is a great songwriter...They had some big hits in the early 90's but since then he has really put out some great works both solo and now with Soul Asylum again. Check him out.

2. Dave Menketti--Lead singer and guitarist of metal group Y&T...blues based voice, tremendous guitar player....severely underrated band...I really dig the stuff he did in the 80's, 90's and today.....

3. Blackie Lawless--Lead singer and brains of the band W.A.S.P.--most people see the name W.A.S.P. and either don't know them or pass them off as an 80's retread. WRONG!!!! When this guy is on he has produced some great work. His concept record "The Crimson Idol" was a masterpiece that even his mentor Pete Townsend thought was a crowning achievement.

4. Oasis---A band that sold 7 million copies of 1 record can't be underrated right? Wrong....This band continued to produce great music long after their 15 minutes of fame. Noel Gallagher continues to write great pop gems and his brother keeps reminding us what LSD is....Lead Singers Disease. A truly great band that takes inspiration from the greatest band ever...The Beatles.

5. Eddie Money--Shakin with the Money Man is a great experience...He made some great tunes and Gimme Some Water got its first big break on B94 in the 70's...Go figure...I have seen this man at least 10 times and he delivers everytime. The best was the acoustic show he did at Point State Park in front of 15,000 people. Just great songs played in front of a beautiful cityscape.

I am sure I can go on and on but I think these 5 suffice for now and should stir some debate amongst yourselves. I think these choices are right on the money if you give each of them a chance. Plus, I said so....so that must count for something.