Reply #1: It's more difficult when you mix genres

[OmahaBlueDog]

1 would be Elvis -- not because he was the best or most talented, but he made the breakthrough that made all else possible in rock music.

2 would be Lennon, but I don't think you can factor out McCartney and the other Beatles

3 would be Johnny Cash. To me, without Cash, you don't get to much, if any of today's country music, and his impact on Rock can't be underestimated

4 would be Elton John. He dominated mid 70s music, and made a lasting impact over 20 years. He's still a great live performer.

5 would be MJ -- from child star to pop genius to freak show and now to cultural icon -- a legend who made an enduring mark on pop music and culture

6 would be Willie Nelson, who has been, IMHO, the most enduring country legend since Cash (yes, I'll hear from the George Strait and Loretta Lynn fans).

7 would be Janis Joplin

8 would be Caruso

Others might have added:

In Jazz, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Charlie Parker

In Opera: Pavarotti, Joan Sutherland, Robert Merrill

In Country: George Strait, Lorretta Lynn

In Rock: Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison

In NOTA: Prince, Stevie Wonder