Sheryl Crow

On her way up from singing backing vocals to playing arenas, Sheryl Crow hasn’t changed that dramatically. Sure, there’s that James Bond theme song and the links to politicians, but she’s always nicely balanced songcraft, ranging from fluffy (“Soak Up The Sun”) to tough (“If It Makes You Happy”) to somewhere in between (“Everyday Is A Winding Road,” “Steve McQueen”). The finish has only gotten sleeker since her 1993 debut, Tuesday Night Music Club, but not enough to alienate anyone who liked Crow’s blend of pop, folk, and rootsy rock in the first place. She released her seventh studio album, 2010’s 100 Miles From Memphis, showcasing a new, soul-influenced streak.

Updated 05/04/2011