I'm shocked by some of the groups mentioned on this thread, especially:
The Beatles, not only brilliant musicians & songwriter but brilliant production.
The Clash & The Sex Pistols, they captured the vibe of the English youth back in the late 70's.
Pink Floyd, all I have to say is "Look mummy, there's an airplane up in the sky."
Van Morrison, Astral Weeks is one of the GREATEST songs written.
Genesis (I'm referring to the Peter Gabriel era), they took theatrics & poetry & turned it in to a sound that hasn't been close to being re-produced.
Guns n Roses, these crackers ROCK!
Miles Davis, oh no, not Miles! OK when he dipped in to the whole jazz fusion genre, that was bad form, but before that is pure brilliance! Especially what he was doing w/ John Coltrane. I would consider that some of the finest music to come out of the USA.
I'm surprised no one has mentioned Led Zeppelin, Iggy Pop, James Brown, David Bowie & The Ramones! When that happens I want to meet in a dark alley & settle this once & for all!