The Early Days

You could say that the songs of music hall were the first real pop songs,
written by professionals and widely performed for audiences. That dates back
to the Victorian era, when a performer needed a catchy, identifiable song.

Post Beatles

The Beatles influenced a generation - more than one, really - with their melodies
and harmonies, and that was apparent in the 1970s, when pop careened through several
styles, from the Glam Rock of T. Rex to the raw fire of punk. But the biggest pop star
to emerge from the period was a singer and pianist, Elton John, whose popularity has
remained constant.

Michael Jackson

Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009) was an American recording artist,
entertainer and businessman. Often referred to as the King of Pop, or by his initials MJ Jackson
is recognized as the most successful entertainer of all time by Guinness World Records. His
contributions to music, dance, and fashion, along with a much-publicized personal life, made
him a global figure in popular culture for over four decades. The seventh child of the Jackson
family, he debuted on the professional music scene along with his brothers as a member of The
Jackson 5 in 1964, and began his solo career in 1971.

The New Millennium

Since the year 2000 there's been a dearth of major new stars, relying mostly on established
talent. Several younger artists have come and gone, and new styles have briefly emerged,
but nothing appears to have gained a major foothold beside modern R&B, which owes little
to its soulful predecessor, but a lot to hip-hop - which itself has become a pop style.