Categories
Books & Literature

10 Scariest Books Ever Written

Source of image: www.barnesandnoble.com
Source of image: www.barnesandnoble.com

Horror, mystery, thriller, fantasy and psychological books have always been a favorite among us. And there is nothing better than a spooky, scary, spine chilling horror story. Now you may have watched quite a few scary movies but here’s a list of the scariest books ever written:

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – By Stieg Larsson

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Originally published in Swedish Language, this psychological thriller by Swedish Author and Journalist Steig Larson became an international best-selling novel. Based on true events, the book deals with rape, sexual abuse, serial murder, incest, corruption and severe psychological disorder of the characters. Due to its posthumous publication, the book became a global sensation. The explanation of brutal murders of women and girls does make us feel the chill inside our bones.

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children – By Ransom Riggs

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In 2011, American author Ransom Riggs published his debut novel “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children”. The story starts with a little boy who suffers a horrible family tragedy and then follows clues which lead him to an abandoned orphanage. And then the story leads you to some spooky scary events with vintage photographs that guarantee to haunt you in your dreams.

Pet Sematary – By Stephen King

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Pet Sematary is a horror novel by Stephen King. Published in 1983, King himself declared this book as his scariest work. The book was nominated for a “World Fantasy Award for Best Novel in 1984. With death, insanity and bizarre burial rituals, this book is indeed one of the scariest books of all the time. if you have a heart of a rabbit, we advise you to think twice before you read the book.

The Replacement – By Brenna Yovanoff

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How do you feel when something important to you is replaced or you have to replace it with other for some reasons. Don’t you get angry? Well in this book by Brenna Yovanoff you have no chance to get angry for the replacement caused, rather, be afraid, be very afraid! The story tells us about a small town where once in a while a baby is taken and it is replaced by another double with lots of trouble that dies soon after the switch.

The Shining – By Stephen King

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Another horror novel by Stephen King published in 1977 “The Shinning” is one of Kings’ remarkable novels. Published in January 28, 1977 this novel is based on true events experienced by King himself. “The Shining” makes you feel the horror going through your spine when you read the story of the young boy’s psychic ability to go see a hotel’s horrific past.

The Haunting of Hill House – By Shirley Jackson

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The most horrific thing about this horror classic by Shirley Jackson is that it leaves you unanswered with many questions at the end. Published in 1959, the novel basically relies on terror rather than horror. The story starts with Dr. Montage renting the eighty-year old Hill House hoping to find scientific evidence of the supernatural. However, Eleanor, the shy young woman who resides in the house is possessed by evil spirits. At the end, Eleanor dies but it is not explained properly in the book whether she was an emotionally disturbed young lady who committed suicide or any demonic or supernatural power caused her death.

The Amityville Horror – By Jay Anson

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If you are planning to move to new house, we suggest you to avoid reading this horror novel by Jay Anson before that. Published in 1977, the book is based on true paranormal events experienced by the “Lutz family”, but it has led to quite a bit controversy over its truthfulness. From Kathy feeling “being embraced in a loving way” by an unseen force to George finding bite marks on his ankles, the book tells you every worst thing that might happen to you in a haunted house.  True or not, this book definitely makes us want to hide inside the blanket after reading the book.

Frankenstein – By Mary Shelly

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Frankenstein or “The Modern Prometheus” is a science fiction by English writer Mary Shelly published in 1818. Based on a young scientist named Victor Frankenstein, Mary Shelly started writing this novel when she was just 18. However, though the book is a science fiction, it is indeed amazing to see Victor Frankenstein creating a monster and scaring the hell out of us still after almost 200 years from the date of publication.

Dracula – By Bram Stoker

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Imagine someone crawling through your walls and then entering your room to suck the blood out of you! Scary? Now imagine you becoming one of them. Even more scary isn’t it? This Gothic novel by Irish author Bram Stoker introduces us to the concept of vampires or the blood drinkers. Now it is obvious these days that we have seen vampires as a hot and happening character, but this novel doesn’t allow you to keep that image on your mind for long. Even after more than 100 years of publication, this novel is still one of the scariest and interesting novels of all the time.

The Exorcist – By William Peter Blatty

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Regan MacNeil, a 12 year old girl was possessed by demons and it’s when her mother decided to call two priests who performed exorcism on her. Based on true story, this horror novel was published in 1971. The exorcism ritual, Regan’s unnatural behavior and the demon, we just cannot forget these three things even in the brightest day light when we complete reading the book.

People who love to read horror novels or want to test their bravery must read these novels. Now I may not have included all of them, but this one can be much of a help if you are a gothic fan.

Categories
Music

Top 10 Most Controversial Music Videos of All Time

Controversies and entertainment are like two sides of one coin. They complement each other. Well our celebs and artists somehow manage to put controversy in almost everything they do. And it quite amuses me as we find few more gossip to munch on. Now that controversies make everything more interesting, there is a list of top 10 most controversial music videos of all the time. Have a look:

Only – Nicki Minaj

This video by Nicki Minaj gathered all the controversies when the animated video unknowingly (?) depicted Minaj as a powerful dictator from 1940s.Due to which, Minaj had to face a lot of questions and criticisms from the viewers as well as the critics. Minaj took the help of Twitter to appologise saying that it wasn’t her concept and she deeply regretted the fact that it offended others. However, thedirector of the video, Jeffrey Osborne told MySpace, “If my work is misinterpreted because it’s not a sappy tearjerker, sorry I’m not sorry. What else is trending?”

(s)AINT – Marilyn Manson

Marilyn Manson is widely known for his self-expression and repellent acts. This video by Manson provides the alternative version of a person’s sexuality and sexual preferences to the viewers. However, to be honest we find the video a bit disturbing with Manson cutting himself, masturbating or engaging in cunnilingus and it is indeed an explicit video which deserves quite a lot of controversy.

Jeremy – Pearl Jam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MS91knuzoOA

This video by Pearl Jam led to a hell lot of controversy when a mass killing perpetrator in 1996 revealed he was influenced by this video. Based on true story of a teenager named “Jeremy Delle” who shot himself, the video shows the torments Jeremy had to go through because of the bullies in school. However, the video ends with Jeremy killing his classmates.

Lemon Incest – Serge ft. Charlotte Gainsbourg

The video shows a 12 year old daughter who sprawled out on a bed beside her shirtless father. Serge Gainsbourg and Charlotte Gainsbourg had to face quite a bit of anger and controversy because of their “Lemon Incest.” Taking on burning topics like “incest” and “pedophilia”, the father daughter duet inspired controversies about health, innocence and the manipulation of power. Well the lyrics say, “The love that we’ll never do together.”

The Blurred Lines – Robin Thicke ft. T.I. Pjarrell

With inappropriate lyrics, it is almost impossible for anyone to not to make a controversial video showing three grown men paying models to frolic around them topless. However, it is basically the lyrics that much more vulgar which says, “I know you want it” and “I’ll give you something big enough to tear you’re a** into two”. This led the song to be banned from multiple university campus in the UK. Seriously, who talks like that?

Born Free – M.I.A

This video was removed from YouTube because of its “violent contents”. However when it was first released in 2010, it gathered quite positive response from the viewers. The 9 minute clip portrays violence and shows cruelty and torture towards a group of red-haired young men in a desert by a group of armed men. The video ends with the youngest boy being shot in the head.

Heart Shaped Box – Niravana

Despite being a controversial one, this video won two MTV VMA awards in 1994. The video tries to talk about society’s quite a few issues like cancer, people’s hatred for each other, drugs, religion and stuff. It shows stuffs like a fetus in a blood bag, an old man being crucified and other metaphors to mean death. Creepy!

Do What You Want to – Lady Gaga ft. R. Kelly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3jzMyYgPQs

We don’t really understand how Lady Gaga chose R. Kelly a convicted pedophile to feature on this video. And cherry on top, the director for the video was Terry Richardson, the infamous photographer accused of sexual abuse and coercing. Te original video was never released but a leaked 30 second clip to TMZ, shows explicit contents. A hidden source even quoted to New York Post the video was “literally an ad for rape.”

Like A Prayer – Madonna

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDnUIXF2ly8

The controversy’s child Madonna released this video in 1989 with contents like “black Jesus”, Madonna trying to titillate him and her dancing around burning crosses. This cost Madonna quite a bit as The Pope publicly condemned her and she lost her lucrative endorsement with Pepsi. Why Madonna why?

Looking Hot – No Doubt

Despite of being quite a clean video among all these in the list, this video by No Doubt faced quite a bit rage because of its stereotyping and appropriation of Native Americans. Released in 2012, the band had to pull down the video almost immediately after it offended the Native Americans. However they later apologized to the Native Americans saying it wasn’t their intention to hurt anyone.

Well, we are music lovers. Controversies or not, we love to watch the video of the songs we like. And a bit of controversy in something makes it more interesting. So here is my list. If you happen to find anything new, please feel free to let us know in the comment box!

Categories
Movies & TV Series

12 Worst ‘Game of Thrones’ Characters Everyone Hates

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Ever since we have fallen in love with Game of Thrones, we have always taken the characters to be integral parts of our lives. We cry when our favourite characters die, or we cherish it when our most hated characters meet their end. Now that almost half of the characters are dead, we cannot wait to see some of the most hated characters dead. Here is a list of most hated characters from Game of Thrones, dead and alive:

Olly

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This sweet little lad was once everyone’s pie when he came to Castle Black after he lost his parents and his whole village in the Wildling attack. But then he shot Ygritte. It was quite okay for us because she killed his parents. But when he betrayed Jon Snow, we all started to hate him. We felt good only when he was beheaded in Season 6.

Myranda

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We all remember that jealous psychopath lover of Ramsay Bolton. Myranda was a sadist with an intention of keeping Ramsay pleased all the time with her nasty deeds. From having Tansy mauled by the dogs to intimidating Sansa, Myranda took everything to a different level for the love she had for Ramsay. We couldn’t love to see it more when Theon threw her off the rampart to die.

Viserys Targaryn

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An arrogant, stupid and pompous fellow, who could do anything to get his work done, traded his little sister Daenerys to Khal Drogo for a bunch of Army. Though he claimed to be the righteous heir to the Seven Kingdoms, there was nothing “Targaryn” about him. We hated him more for what he said to Daenerys when she was reluctant to marry Khal, “I would let his whole tribe f**** you, all his forty thousand men and their horses too, if that’s what it took (to take Westeros).” Well we took a deep breath of satisfaction when Khal gifted him that “Golden Crown” and it led him to death.

Stannis Baratheon

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Though at one point Robert Baratheon’s younger brother seemed to be the righteous king to the “Seven Kingdoms”, this stubborn and obnoxious fellow lost all his respect when he killed his own brother with the help of black magic. His hunger for power and manipulation by the sorceress has led him to kill too many people. We hated him more when he sacrificed his own daughter Shireen to the Lord of the Lights in order to fulfill his motive of becoming the king of “Seven Kingdoms”. We are still grateful to Brienne for avenging Renly Baratheon by putting a sword through Stannis’s heart.

Melisandre

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“The Red Woman” as we all popularly know, Melisandre managed to be quite a despised character throughout the whole six seasons so far. Though she is a beautiful and graceful woman, this sorceress has manipulated Stannis to an extent that he sacrificed his own daughter in the name of mysterious deity the Lord of the Light. However, despite of all her black magic, murder, warmongering and stuff, we could not help but appreciate her when she brings Jon Snow back from the death. Let’s take a moment in the name of this Red Priestess and enchant in her way- “For the Night is Dark and Full of Terrors.”

Theon Greyjoy

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This irritating as hell heir to “Iron Islands” always did things to impress his Daddy Dearest and failed. By betraying Robb Start and beheading his childhood weapon trainer Ser Rodrik Cassel, this pathetic petulant managed to gather all our hatred. Always took pleasure in putting other’s down but soon became a victim himself. Now he no longer remembers his own name and manages to call himself “Reek”, a name given by Ramsay Bolton.

Lysa Arryn

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Littlefinger’s puppet, a mother of a spoiled child, murderer of her husband and what not! We all knew Lysa was quite selfish when she refused to help her own sister Catelyn Stark with an army against the Lannisters. She was so obsessed with her childhood sweetheart “Littlefinger” that she killed her husband according to his wish and later blamed it to the Lannisters. It has led to a huge civil war and hence thousands died along with her own sister and nephews. Well, she paid off her dues when she died after Littlefinger pushed her out through the Moon Door.

Lord Walder Frey

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Remember that creepy, pedophile, dirty looking old king from House Tully? Well no one can forget the man who signaled for the horrendous “Red Wedding Massacre” to begin. This deceitful old fellow enjoyed young wives and spawned more than 100 descendents. He joined forces with Roose Bolton and the Lannisters to betray the Starks and hence killed almost half of the Starks including Catelyn, Robb and Robb’s pregnant wife Talisa. We only felt justice has been served when Arya slit Walder’s throat the same way they did to Catelyn.

Petyr Bealish AKA Littlefinger

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Highly manipulative Petyr Baelish was the reason Ned Stark died and this is why we all hate him so much. Nobody knows which side is “Littlefinger” on! From plotting Joffrey’s murder to trading Sansa to Ramsay Bolton, Petyr Baelish did everything he could to be on the “Iron Throne.” Though we hate him to the core, we cannot just deny that he is one of the most important characters in the show.

Joffrey Baratheon

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I bet there might have not been a single minute on screen when you didn’t wish him dead throughout the seasons. Joffrey was a sadist little obnoxious freak who loved to torture Sansa and find happiness. We didn’t like him much from the beginning but with Ned Stark’s death, we almost started to loath him.  But thanks to Petyr Baelish, he died an awful dead which satisfied all our thrust!

Ramsay (Snow) Bolton

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A true bastard in every way, Ramsay wasn’t that much of a hated character at first. We did like him when he tortured Theon as we felt like he deserved it for what he did. But then, to our surprise, this good looking bastard took everything on a whole new level and we started hating him to the core. It was great to see how he was eaten by his own dogs. God bless Sansa! 

Cersei Lannister

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Have you ever hated a mother? Well, if you know Cersei then you have. She is beautiful yet deceiving and the most hated character of Game of Thrones till now. Being a woman, now she has managed to take Westeros under her and no doubt she is way too clever than any of the Lannisters. From incest to adultery, from mass murder to plotting of her husband’s death, Cersei did everything without letting her hands get dirty. She is certainly one powerful woman to hate. Isn’t it?

Though we hate them, we cannot disagree the fact that without these characters, Game of Thrones would have been a boring thing with just a bunch of good people. As they say, “It’s the villains who do remarkable things. Heroes just try to stop them.”

Categories
Books & Literature

10 Most Powerful Female Superhero Comic Book Characters

Being a superhero fan, I imagine sometimes what it would be like to have immense powers and then help people. We all have been fans of Batman, Superman, Spiderman, and the list goes on! But then there are a few female superheroes that are perfect combinations of power, humanity, beauty, and brain. Here is a list of 10 most  powerful female superheroes we cannot afford to miss:

She-Hulk

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She-Hulk, who happens to be the cousin of Bruce Benner (The Hulk), is actually a timid, shy and low confident girl. Her real name is Jennifer Walters, a lawyer by profession. She was first infected with her powers when she was shot by enemies and Bruce had to give her his blood. Though Bruce tends to be a form of rage and destruction, Jennifer on the other hand was empowered both physically and emotionally. She became strong, confident, and rather independent post her transformation. However, she chose to stay in her transformed Hulk-form so that she could help those girls who could not help themselves physically. We love her for her this heroic move.

Captain Marvel

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Carol Danvers or Captain Marvel has always been a deeply loved superhero from Marvel Universe. But, she rather had a pretty normal early life for a superhero. She grew up without any supernormal powers. But then growing up, she joined NASA, and eventually, in an Alien encounter, she got powers that included strength, stamina, and few others. She was previously known as Ms. Marvel for quite a few years but after a lot of struggles and hard times, she changed her name to Captain Marvel. She is indeed a superhero we can turn ourselves when it comes to motivation and encouragement.

Hippolyta

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Hippolyta is a Greek God possessing a hell lot of powers. She was the Queen of the Amazons and was the first Wonder Woman before it was passed to her daughter. She defeated Heracles and created Themyscira with the help of her sister Antiope. However, Heracles tricked her by offering peace and then chained her up in his palace. Somehow she escaped from there. After that, she and her followers settled at Paradise Island, and there she fought against evil for 3000 years.

Black Canary

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This beautiful superhero vigilante chooses Martial Arts and a sonic scream attack to fight. Her real name is Dinah Lance. Born into a fighter family, her mother, Dinah Drake herself was a vigilante and her father was a cop. She is one of the most powerful and greatest female superheroes in the DC Universe. However, she fights alongside the Green Arrow and they are romantically involved. Who won’t fall in love with someone like Black Canary anyway? Isn’t it?

Storm

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Ororo Munroe, AKA Storm is a mutant superhero who can manipulate the weather and flight. She was born in Harlem and raised in Egypt till her parents were alive, but was unable to have control over her mutant powers. And this is when she had to go to Professor X for help and she joined the X-Men. Thanks to her control over the weather and the flight, she is one of the most remarkable and powerful female superheroes of all time. Well, her powers and her abilities do make her intimidating and freaking cool!

Harbinger

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We loved Harbinger and yet we so much hate it that she has been missing from our comic book since she gave up her life to save someone else against Darkseid. With the ability to fly, manipulation of energy, and duplicating herself, Harbinger often gave the bad guys a tough time. Now we are glad that she is coming back in the New 52, but her superpowers will all be gone. Don’t worry; she will be able to control many technologies. With or without superpowers, we cannot stop loving this powerful female superhero. Can we?

Scarlet Witch

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Wanda Maximoff and her brother Pietro (aka Quicksilver) had superhuman abilities. She could alter reality in a different way. However, she was not quite able to control her powers at the initial but later she managed to keep her powers in control. Wanda was initially anti-superhero along with her brother as a part of the Evil Mutants and fought with the X-Men quite a few times but they both abandoned their evil sides and joined the Avengers. However, with her ability to control reality, we surely think that she is one of the most powerful Female Superheroes of all time.

Black Widow

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Started off as an antagonist in Iron Man, Natasha Romanoff aka the Black Widow has a unique life journey. Even though there has not been a full-time movie based on her, she has got the most screen attention than any other female superheroes. During her childhood, she was trained specifically to be a spy for a Black Widow program and she was brainwashed. This is why she turned out to be a defective adult. In spite of being an antagonist at first, Natasha later changed her mind and became an active member of the Avengers. Now we love the way she kicks the butt of bad guys. Don’t we?

Wonder Woman

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The daughter of the Demi-God has got the power to put Batman and Superman down. This badass leader of the Amazon race has immense powers and has been a member of the Justice League since the day it was created. We cannot even complete counting the names of the villains she has put down over the years. She is an incredibly beautiful and yet invincible superhero of all the time. No wonder they call her Wonder Woman.

Super Girl

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Now how can we forget our Alien female superhero! She is a Kryptonian female Superhero who is extremely beautiful yet immensely powerful. She took down villains like Kryptonian Man, Silver Banshee, Metallo and the list goes on and on. Now that cannot be too difficult for a superhuman cousin of a superhuman superhero. Can it be? We all love Super Girl and we always root for something more from her each time.

 

Now here are these super girls who make us think twice about the myth that women cannot fight or women are weak. I mean look at them, are not they the strongest and most powerful? They are a blend of beauty, brain, and power. Here’s to Girl Power!

Categories
Movies & TV Series

10 Interesting Facts You Need to Know About ‘The Arrow’

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“The Arrow” first aired their Season Premier on The CW on October 10, 2012 in North America and the international broadcasting took place it the late 2012. Since then it has been a massive success. Now that “The Arrow” completed its fourth season and the 5th one on its way, here are some of the facts about “The Arrow” to give you a bit of inside:

the-arrow1. Oliver Queen, a billionaire playboy, somehow ends up on a hostile island for five years. When he comes back to Starling City, he becomes a different person, a vigilante, trying to fight crime and corruption in his city. The character is played by Stephen Amell.

2. Although the story line is based on DC character “Green Arrow”, Oliver doesn’t use this name until the Fourth Season.

3. The Arrow or Oliver Queen character was first shown in the TV Series Smallville from 2006 to 2011. But then, the producers decided to make a totally different show just based on Oliver Queen and his humanity. So basically The Arrow is a spin-off series from the Smallville.

4. Most of the characters from The Arrow are totally different from the comic book. For instance, the character Jon Diggle, Oliver’s most trusted person is specifically designed for the series. He was added to mainstream DC universe “Green Arrow” comic only in October 2013 on the 24th issue.

5. Felicity Smoak, was supposed to be on the show only for one episode (episode 3, season 1). But then, the positive response from the viewers’ towards the character made her one of the leading characters on the show who later played the love interest of Oliver Queen.

6. In every episode throughout all the seasons, the episode title has been said by someone at least once.

7. The Arrow never wanted to reveal his identity. But whenever situation made him to, someone or the other either lost his life or was in danger. First time when Diggle found out about Oli, deadshot tried to kill him by tagging him with a curare laced bullet. Oliver himself was shot by his mother when Felicity found out. Again, when Barry Allen found out, Oli was poisoned. Then, Tommy found out and Malcolm Merlyn was about to die from a gunshot. Again, Oliver’s life was in danger when Merlyn himself found out. Pretty ironic isn’t it?

8. The exterior shots of Police Headquarter shown in the show is actually the main branch of Los Angeles’ public library.

9. The character Jon Diggle was named after the writer of ‘Green Arrow- Year One” Andy Diggle. However, it has been rumoured that Jon Diggle might become the Green Lantern in upcoming seasons. As of now he is the mantle of “Spartan” in the Season 4.

10. As of Season 4, John Barrowman, who plays the role of Malcolm Merlyn is the oldest of all the main cast members. However, Emily Bett Rickards who is portraying Felicity Smoak, is the youngest.

Aren’t these facts fun? Well we all need to know some insight about the shows we love. Isn’t it? Being a fan of DC Comics myself, I am happy to have another Superhero in the town. Keep watching and keep loving “The Arrow”.

Categories
Movies & TV Series

The 10 Best TV Series to Watch

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We certainly enjoy a good piece of entertainment when we come back home after a hard day of work. Be it watching TV or listen to some soothing music. Well if you are someone who like to munch on some snacks and watch TV, then we recommend you to go through this list of some of the best TV series for you to watch.

Orange is The New Black (2013- Present)

IMDB – 8.3

ROTTEN TOMATOES – 96%

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Piper Chapman, a woman in her thirties is sentenced to 15 months stint after being accused of drug dealing. Now she must adapt according to the situation of the prison. This American Comedy-drama was first premiered on July 11, 2013. As far now till 2016, there have been four seasons, each season consists of 13 episodes. However, the series is renewed for its fifth, sixth and seventh season as well.

Supernatural (2005- Present)

IMDB – 8.6

ROTTEN TOMATOES – 90%

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This American fantasy horror TV series was first premiered on September 13, 2005 on the WB and after that it became a part of CW’s line up. With 11 Season so far with a total of 241 episodes, this is one of the most popular shows on TV.  Two brothers, Sam and Jensen Winchester follow their father’s footstep and hunts down demons, ghosts, monsters and other supernatural entities. Fan of horror? Do not miss this one.

Suits (2011- Present)

IMDB – 8.7

ROTTEN TOMATOES – 77%

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A brilliant college drop-out named Mike Ross is on the run from a drug dealing gone bad. And then he is hired as an associate by one of the best Lawyers in town, Harvey Specter. Now they have to work on cases without disclosing Mike’s Educational Qualification. This American Legal-drama by Aaron Korsh became popular instantly after its first premier in June 23, 2011. There are 6 Seasons so far and a total of 86 Episodes. Like to watch courtrooms and Lawyer’s diplomacy? Watch this.

Mr. Robot (2015- Present)

IMDB 8.7

ROTTEN TOMATOES 96%

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Mr. Robot is an American drama thriller which was first premiered on June 24, 2015. The story is based on Elliot Alderson, a young cyber security engineer in the broad day light and a vigilante hacker at night. Alderson, who suffers from social anxiety disorder, now finds himself in a dilemma when he is recruited by an underground hacker group in order to destroy the corporate organizations he is paid to protect. There have been two seasons by far with a total number of 21 episodes. Love twisted things? Well, this one is for you!

Dexter (2006-2013)

 

IMDB 8.8

ROTTEN TOMATOES 79%

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This American psychological mystery is based on Jeff Lindsay’s novel by “Darkly Dreaming Dexter”. The first season was premiered on October 1, 2006 and it continued for a total number of 8 Seasons and 96 episodes till September 12, 2013. Dexter Morgan is a Forensic Expert by profession. He is a loyal lover, a brother and a friend. But wait! He is not what he seems to be! Morgan is a serial killer hunting down every evil being that he finds

Friends (1994-2004)

IMDB – 9.0

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When you are tired of all the horror, thriller and mysterious plots, sit down and enjoy this beautiful sitcom from the 90’s. This TV series can never go wrong in anyway and will likely to cheer up your mood anytime. Based on six reckless adults and their personal and professional lives, this series have managed to be one of the best and favorites of all the time among all the generations. There are 10 season with a total number of 236 episodes. Created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman, the first season was premiered on 22 September, 1994. We couldn’t help but crying when they premiered their last episode ever on May 6, 2004.

Stranger Things (2016- Present)

IMDB – 9.1

ROTTEN TOMATOES – 95%

stranger-things

Though it’s a new entry to the TV series world, it has gathered much appreciation from the audience. The show is created by the brother duo Matt and Ross Duffer. It’s a super natural horror science fiction where a young boy goes missing and a telekinetic girl tries to find him out with some of his friends. On the other hand, the boy’s mother, brother and the police keep looking for him on their own. The show first premiered on July 15, 2016 on Netflix. There have been 8 episodes on the first season as of now.

Sherlock (2010-Present)

IMDB – 9.2

ROTTEN TOMATOES – 91%

Sherlock

Based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective novel “Sherlock Holmes”, the British Crime Drama “Sherlock” was created by Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat. The season premier was first aired on 25th July 2010. There have been 3 seasons with a total of 10 episodes as of now. If you are a fan of detective stories, this one is best for you.

Game of Thrones (2011- Present)

IMDB – 9.5

ROTTEN TOMATOES – 94%

game-of-thrones

Game of Thrones is an American fantasy drama based on George R. R. Martin’s series of fantasy novel “A Song of Ice and Fire”. The story starts when several royal families fight over the Iron Throne to become the ruler of Westeros and thus starts a civil war. However, a sinister force is rising beyond the Wall in the North. The first season premier was aired on April 17, 2011 on HBO. Since then it has been widely loved and accepted. The best thing about the show is its variation. We love Game of Thrones. Let’s just say, “Winter is coming.”

Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

IMDB – 9.5

ROTTEN TOMATOES – 95%

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Breaking Bad is an American crime drama series. The story starts with a struggling high school teacher Walter White who finds out he has incurable lung cancer. After knowing this, he teams up with his former student Jesse Pinkman and starts producing and selling crystallized methamphetamine to secure his family’s financial condition before he dies. Thus he steps into a world of crime. Breaking Bad has been regarded as one of the greatest TV Series of all the time. By the time of its last episode that aired on September 29, 2013, it was the most watched series on cable on American Television.

Now if you are bored or don’t know what to do at your free time, go through this list and choose one of these TV series we have listed. If you happen to have some other names in your mind, do let us know on our comment box.

Categories
Books & Literature

10 Best Nonfiction Books of All Time to Read Before You Die

Now that it is a decade of all these technologies and stuff, there are a few things that haven’t changed yet. Reading books is one of them. Well, books have always been the key to one’s insight into knowledge and we all have read at least one book in our lifetime. Now here is a list of a few non-fiction books you might want to read before you kick the bucket:

A Feminine Mystique – By Betty Friedan

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In the era of the blooming feminism concept, The Feminine Mystique is quite an interesting book to start with. First published in 1963, this book by Betty Friedan deals with the amusing beginning of feminism in the United States. Friedan, a student of Smith College, was asked to interview her college mates for their 15th Anniversary Reunion, where she found out that almost every woman she talked with wasn’t quite happy about their lives despite having all the luxuries in their lives. This led Friedan to a deep digging into the matter and she started interviewing other suburban housewives. However, she found out that this was not only a problem of a small group of women but almost everyone was facing the same. Initially, she wanted to publish an article about this topic but no magazines wanted to publish the same. Eventually, Friedan published her own book. Well, we are glad that there is something we can look up to when we need some answers about Feminism.

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings – By Maya Angelou

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Based on her early life, Maya Angelou penned-down this beautiful autobiography in 1969. This is the first volume of her seven-volume series where she tries to explore things like racism, identity, rape, and literacy. She called her younger self which is the main character in the book as the “symbolic character for every black girl growing up in America.” The story begins with a sweet three-year-old Maya and her brother being sent to live with their grandmother at Stamps Arkansas and ends with Maya becoming a mother at the age of 16. This beautiful book teaches you how to be strong and how your love for literature can bring a difference in your life and overcome trauma.

An Autobiography of Malcolm X – By Alex Haley/ Malcolm X

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This biography based on the Human Rights activist Malcolm X was published in 1965, as a result of the collaboration of the activist himself and the Journalist Alex Haley. During the years from 1963 to 1965, Alex conducted a few series of interviews with Malcolm X and later he published these interviews in the form of a book. However, this book deals with Malcolm X’s philosophy towards black people and their pride, Black Nationalism, and Pan-Africanism.

The Second World War – Winston Churchill

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If you are an admirer of History, here is our Nobel Prize winner “The Second World War”. Published in 1953, Winston Churchill portrayed the period from the end of the First World War to July 1945 beautifully in the book. However, he used his own notes and scribbles along with some official documents but as he penned-down the book from his point of view, it misses quite a few details about the World War. But the book was a major commercial success in Great Britain and later was awarded The Nobel Prize for literature in 1953.

The Civil War: A Narrative – By Shelby Foote

Shelby Foote, formerly a novelist penned-down this non-fictional narrative history based on the American Civil War. It deals with the military history of America although it touches the sides of political and social themes at times. There are three volumes of this particular book- Fort Summer to Perryville, Fredericksburg to Meridian, and Red River to Appomattox. You definitely want to go for it if you want some insight knowledge about the American Civil War.

A Brief History of Time – By Stephen Hawking

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In an attempt to explain the range of subjects in Cosmology, the British Physicist Stephen Hawking wrote the book “A Brief History of Time.” There have been four revised editions of the book till now where he tries to explain the chances of time travel, wormholes, and also the possibility of a universe without a quantum singularity at the beginning of time. It has been a best-seller over time and sold more than a million copies in the last 20 years and it has been translated to more than 35 languages Worldwide.

In Cold Blood – By Truman Capote

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Based on true events, “In Cold Blood” is a novel written by American author Truman Capote. It deals with the murders of four members of a family living in Holcomb, Kansas. In 1959, all the family members of Herbert Clutter were murdered in their own house and when Capote learned about it, he flew to Kansas along with his friend and fellow author Harper Lee. There they investigated the case, talked to neighbors and other people, and gathered details. After six years of hard work on the book, Capote published the book in 1966 and it was a massive success. If you are a fan of crime and true events, you mustn’t miss it at any cost.

Black Boy – By Richard Wright

black-boy-by-richard-wright“Black Boy” by Richard Wright was first published in 1945 which is basically an autobiography based on Wright’s childhood and young adulthood. The book deals with his encounters with extreme racism and brutal violence, which stays with him for the entire life. The book starts with a mysterious, rebellious boy burning down his grandmother’s house and ends with he trying to start a revolution through his writing.

The Diary of a Young Girl – By Anne Frank

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It has been ages and we still cannot miss out on this one. The Diary of a Young Girl is actually based on true events that took place during the occupation of the Netherlands by the Nazis. Anne Frank, a 14-year-old girl, liked to note down her day to day life in a diary. During her days of hiding with her family, she maintained a diary where she put every little detail about her and her family’s life. In 1944, the family was apprehended but she died of typhus in the camp. It was her father who later found the diary and published it as a book in 1959.

The Interpretation of Dreams – By Sigmund Freud

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Psychology is one thing that makes us curious. We all want to go deep through it. So here is a book by Sigmund Freud explaining your dreams. This book was first published on November 4, 1899. Freud here introduces the theory of the unconscious human mind and tells us about how dreams work. According to Freud, dreams are our very own unfulfilled desires that we attempt to fulfill it on our unconscious mind. What’s more? Well, you need to go through the book by yourself to get more insight.

Bottom Line

book readingSo I have provided you some best possible options of books that you might want to go for. Read as much as books as you can and gain knowledge. As they say—“Knowledge is power.”

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Books & Literature

10 Best Historical Fiction Book of All Time

History is an interesting subject and we all want to know so many things that happened in the past.  Most of us find history boring but a good historical novel will always make you feel good when you are bored by those romantic ones. If you are a history fan, then we are providing you a list of the best historian books you must read in your lifetime.

The Twentieth Wife – By Indu Sundaresan

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This historical fiction by Indu Sundaresan is one of the most remarkable books in historical fiction. First published on January 29, 2002, this book won the “2003 Washington State Book Award”. The story tells about one of the most powerful Queens of the Mughal Dynasty, Nurjahan. Sundaresan describes Nurjahan’s (formerly known as Meherunnisa) early life, her love for Emperor Jahangir, and how she became Jahangir’s twentieth and last wife. Their love story is no less than Mumtaz and Shah-Jahan’s.

Regeneration – By Pat Barker

This historical and anti-war novel by Pat Barker was released in 1991. This epic work by Barker was nominated for the Booker Prize and it is regarded as one of the best four novels of the year published by New York Times Book Review. Based on the First World War concept, Barker took us into a life that was set in the year 1917, and yet we could no more feel any distance from the soldiers and their lives. It’s truly subtle and touching historical fiction.

Gone with the Wind – By Margaret Mitchell

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First published in 1936, Gone with the Wind is based on American Civil War and Reconstruction. Margaret Mitchell won the Pulitzer Award in 1937 for this historical fiction. The story tells us about young Scarlett’s struggles in her life to come out of poverty, who happened to be a rich spoiled child of a well-to-do plantation owner once.

War and Peace – By Leo Tolstoy

This historical novel by Leo Tolstoy was first published in the Russian Language in the year 1969 and then translated into the English version naming “War and Peace” by Nathan Haskell Dole in the year 1899. The story is based upon the French invasion of Russia and the effect of the Napoleonic era on Tsarist society. This novel is known as the finest work literary work of Leo Tolstoy.

Romola – By George Elliot

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With her pseudonym George Elliot, Mary Ann Evans penned-down this beautiful historical novel. The novel was published during 1862-63 in two parts. The story of Romola takes place during the historical events of the Italian Renaissance. However, the history of Florence society is beautifully explained in the novel. It is basically a “deep study of life in the city of Florence from an intellectual, artistic, religious and social point of view”.

Affinity – By Sarah Waters

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Sarah Waters published her historical fiction “Affinity” in the year 1999. This novel is set in the year 1874. The story tells us about Margaret Prior, an unmarried woman from an aristocratic society who is an unhappy person. Her father’s death and other issues lead her to unsuccessful suicide attempts. Hoping to get over from her grieves; she decides to visit the female prisoners in “Milbank Prison” in the Victorian Era. There she meets Selina Dawes, a medium of spirits. The spiritual element in this historical fiction makes it more interesting.

Wolf Hall – By Hilary Mantel

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Wolf Hall is a historical novel published in 2009 by English Author Hilary Mantel. This is actually a fictionalized biography about Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. IN 2012, the book won the Booker Prize and The National Book Critics Circle Award. There are two more sequels for this book. The first one is “Bring up the Bodies’ published in 2012 and the second one “The Mirror and the Light” will be published soon.

The Name of the Rose – By Umberto Eco

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This historical mystery novel was set in the year 1327. Italian author Umberto Eco made his debut as a novelist through this novel. Published in 1980 the book deals with a historical murder mystery set in an Italian monastery. The book combines fiction, medieval studies, biblical analysis, and literary theory. The novel was first published in the Italian Language and was later translated to English by William Weaver in 1983.

A place of Greater safety – By Hilary Mantel

A place of Greater safety – By Hilary MantelAgain another masterpiece by Hilary Mantel. Published in the year 1992, this historical novel is based on the French Revolution. The story is based on the lives of four people from their childhood. They are basically doomed from the beginning but it’s the end that makes us cry.

A Tale of Two Cities – By Charles Dickens

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A Tale of Two Cities is a historical novel by Charles Dickens published in 1859. The novel is based on the time during and after the French Revolution. “The two Cities” as mentioned in the title depicts London and Paris. The story tells us about the negligence of the French aristocrats towards the peasants. It beautifully illustrates the lives of two different cities’ people but also shows us the brutality of the aristocracy.

Bottom Line

history booksSo here is our list of the 10 best historical fiction of all time. Do read the books and you may thank us later. If you want to add some more to the list, please let us know in the comment box.

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Movies & TV Series

5 Worst ‘The Vampire Diaries’ Couples of All Time

What does it come to your mind when you think about The Vampire Diaries? Vampires, Werewolves, Hybrids, Witches, Hunters, and what not right? Well, keeping the supernatural stuff aside, The Vampire Diaries is all about love, lust, relationship, and stuff. From steamy hot kisses in the sunset to dreamy farewell dances, it has given us so much to go gaga over. But then, there are some hookups, we just could not take well. A few of them are listed below:

Matt Donovan and Elena Gilbert (The Melena)

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They both were cute, but not together. Close friends since childhood and then a couple, Matt and Elena were not just meant for each other. They broke off a couple of months after Elena lost her parents because she wasn’t ready for a relationship. But then she moved on with Stefan and Matt kept whining over the break up for quite a long time.

Jeremy Gilbert and Anna (The Janna)

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‘Janna” was quite an unpleasant one. They both were selfish and started seeing each other for their individual benefits. Anna was using Jeremy to bring her mother “Pearl” back from dead and Jeremy wanted Anna for her vampire blood so that he can become a vampire and be with Vicki. However, they started a normal relation afterward until Anna was dead, and then Jeremy moved on with Bonnie.

Katherine Pierce and Stefan Salvatore (The Stefarine)

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Katherine was the reason why Stefan and Damon became vampires. Well, it all started back in 1864 and since then Katherine continued to love Stefan. They came close in the recent decade as well but it was a one-time thing for Stefan. He moved on with Katherine’s doppelganger Elena and had no feelings for Katherine. Sweet Stefan and Fierce Katherine was no match at all!

Stefan Salvatore and Rebekah Mikaelson (The Stebekah)

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Back in 1920s, Stefan was a ripper and Rebekah was Stefan’s love interest. But then Klaus put Rebekah into sleep for years and the love story ended there. However, Rebekah found Stefan once again after she awoke from her sleep and they get back together one more time.  Obnoxious Rebekah had a good heart but she was not just perfect for Stefan.

Bonnie Bennett and Jeremy Gilbert (The Jonnie)

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This was the worst relationship of all time. We certainly love Bonnie but we could not hold this relationship in high regard. They both had strong feelings for each other until Bonnie found out that Jeremy was still talking to his dead ex-girlfriend Anna. They both break up after that and Jeremy died. However, Bonnie brought him back from life and they start afresh once again.

VampireWell despite a few miss matches, we continued to love The Vampire Diaries and we will. We love the way they make us wander around the beauty of the feeling of love. Nobody does love-lust or even hate like The Vampire Diaries. We could all get that hot, steamy, feeling of love in just one show. We hope to root over a few more tremendous relationships in the coming season.

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Music

10 Best Music Artists of All Time

Imagine a life without music. Now imagine the world without some of the great musical artists of all time. Can you? No of course we cannot. Life would have been like a desert without water. But thanks to the Almighty, he has blessed us with some of the greatest artists of all time. Let’s have a look:

Eminem

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Marshall Bruce Mathers III AKA Eminem was born in October 17, 1972. He debuted with his first album on 1996 named “Infinite”. In 1999 he won the Grammy Award for best Rap Album “The Slim Shady LP” which also earned him mainstream popularity. Eminem is one of the most loved Rap artists around the globe, especially among the youngsters. In his entire career till now, Eminem has 10 number one albums on the Billboard 200 and five number one singles on the Billboard Hot 100. He is also the second best selling male artist of the Nielsen Era, the Sixth Best selling Artist in the US and the best selling hip-hop artist.  Well, when it comes to Eminem, we cannot stop saying “You’re the Rap God”.

Madonna

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The “Queen of Pop” Madonna Louise Ciccone or simply Madonna is on No. 9 on our list. Her versatility, beauty, and her talent have made us fall in love with her. Born on August 16, 1958, Madonna debuted with her single “Everybody” in October 1982 followed by her next single “Burning up” in March 1983. Both became a huge success and reached number three on the Hot Dance Club Songs chart compiled by Billboard magazine. In 1998, Madonna won her first Grammy Award for her album “Ray of Light” and in 2005 she won the second Grammy Award for her album “Confessions on a Dance Floor”. However, our favorite female pop star has a record of selling more than 300 million records around the globe and has been recognized as the “best-selling female recording artist of all time” by the Guinness Book of World Records.

Mariah Carey

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She is famous for her song “Vision of Love”. Mariah Carey is one of the most beautiful and popular singers of all time. Well though she had a successful career till 2001, she went through a huge breakdown both physically and mentally which has let her down on her career. After a few years of issues and struggle, Carey returned to the top music charts with “The Emancipation of Mimi” in 2005. This album became the best-selling album in the US and the second best-seller worldwide. Now, this is why we all love this remarkably talented artist of all time!

The Rolling Stones

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Back in the 60s, “The Rolling Stones” called themselves the “World’s Greatest Rock and Roll Band”. Now a few argued with them at that point in time but now in 2016, we are unable to deny that fact as their music still continues to sound amazing.  The band was formed in 1962 consist of Brian Jones, Ian Stewart, Mick Jagger, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts. With some of their popular albums like “Some Girls”, “Tattoo You” or “Steel Wheels”, The Rolling Stones manages to be one of the most popular bands of all time. Their Blues and Rock music still soothes our ears. Isn’t it?

Michael Jackson

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Can we ever forget the “King of Pop”? From childhood till now, we have always admired this Artist. Some of us even tied to copy his dance steps many times. Didn’t we? Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, music producer, dancer, and actor. His contribution to music, dance, and fashion made him a popular culture for over four decades now. Jackson made his professional debut in 1964 as a member of Jackson 5 along with his brothers. He started his solo career in 1971 and in the early 80s, he became quite a popular name in the music industry. Though we have loved him throughout our childhood, we had to lose him early. He died on 2005, June 25 cause of suspected homicide. We still miss him.

Stevie Wonder

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Well, could you imagine being visually impaired and doing something remarkable? Seems pretty tough right? Well not for our No. 5 on the list. Stevland Hardway Morris, popularly known by his stage name Stevie Wonder, is an American Musician, Singer, and songwriter. Born in 1950, Wonder first started performing at the age of 11 when he signed with Morton’s Tamla label. He has recorded more than 30 US top 10 hits and has received 25 Grammy Awards thus becoming the most ever awarded male solo artist. He has sold over 100 million records worldwide which makes him one of the top 60 best-selling music artists of all time. Now no wonder he has a “Wonder” in his name.

Bob Marley

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Robert Nesta or Bob Marley was a Jamaican reggae singer, songwriter, musician, and guitarist. He started his musical career with the group The Wailers in 1963 and then later became famous because of his different way of writings and vocal style. In 1977, Marley started his solo career with the album “Exodus” and it grabbed him worldwide population making him one of the “World’s Best-selling Artist of all the time” with sales of 75 million records worldwide. Marley died t the age of 36 on 1981, 11 May due to a type of malignant melanoma. Now good people don’t last long on this earth. SMH!

Elvis Presley

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Now this one is the best looking lad of all the time. Born on January 8, 1935, Presley was an American rock musician and actor. He was regarded as the most significant cultural icon of the 20th century and he is known as the “King of Rock and Roll” to date. Presley started his music career in 954 when he sang for music producer Sam Phillips. He was a commercially successful artist in many genres including pop, blues, and gospel. With an estimated record of around 600 million worldwide, he is the best-selling solo artist in the history of recorded music. Unfortunately, Elvis died on August 16, 1977, at the age of 42.

Elton John

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Sir Elton Hercules John or Reginald Kenneth Dwight AKA Elton John is an English Song writer, pianist, singer, and composer. In his five-decade career, Elton John has sold over 300 million records worldwide which makes him one of the best-selling music artists in the world. With more than fifty Top 40 hits and seven consecutive No. 1 US albums, 58 Billboard top 40 singles, Elton John s indeed one of the best music artists of all time.

The Beatles

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John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr formed an English Rock Band in 1960 as “The Beatles”. Though earlier they were rooting for skiffle, beat and 50s Rock and roll, later they started experimenting with other various music styles like pop ballads, Indian music, hard rock, and psychedelia. With popular and widely influential albums like “Rubber Soul”, “Revolver”, ‘The Beatles” and “Abbey Road”, the band members parted their ways and started their own solo musical careers in 1970. The Beatles is the best-selling music artist in the United States with 178 million records selling. They have received 10 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and 15 Ivor Novello Awards. The band is active or not, we love their style and it will always be one of the best music artists of all time.

Bottom Line

These days, you can even hire musicians online to create personalizer music gifts for your events on reputed platforms such as Bring My Song to Life. It is really great to see how music has evolved over the years.

As far as the list artists are concerned, we all love the musicians mentioned above and I am pretty sure you wanted to know about them a little bit. And thanks to these musicians for whom we could enjoy the variety and beauty of music.