The world of music gave us icons whose talents not only defined their respective genres but continued to influence generations well into the future. Some tragic legends were just taken from us all too early through personal struggles, tragic accidents, or just one of those life’s unexpected occurrences. Here we remember 20 music legends who left us before their time but who are continued to be a legacy among us.
These artists are remembered not just by their genius but also by that special mark they left on music. Although they died early, they still manage to inspire new generations and remind us of how long-lasting the power of music is in changing people’s lives and culture.
1. Jimi Hendrix (1942–1970)
The innovative guitar skills of Hendrix will always change the face of rock music. Known for classics like “Purple Haze” and “All Along the Watchtower,” he died at just 27 years, while his influence only grew after his death.
2. Janis Joplin (1943–1970)
Dubbed the Queen of Psychedelic Soul, the raw and electric voice of Joplin solicited ovation. She passed away at 27 from a heroin overdose and shortly after recording her last album, Pearl.
3. Jim Morrison (1943–1971)
As the lead singer for The Doors, Morrison was known for poetic lyrics and enigmatic stage presence; he died under unclear circumstances in Paris at 27, joining the so-called “27 Club.”
4. Kurt Cobain (1967–1994)
The voice of a generation through Nirvana’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Cobain churned out grunge music. Success and other personal problems haunted him when he took his own life at 27, creating a monumental mark on rock music.
5. Amy Winehouse (1983–2011)
Winehouse’s voice was soulful, and her lyrics raw, making her an international sensation with songs like “Rehab.” Battling addiction, she died of alcohol poisoning at 27, adding to the tragic “27 Club.”
6. Tupac Shakur (1971–1996)
One of the more poetry-oriented rappers and a civic activist, Tupac became one of the most important figures in hip-hop of all time. He was shot down in Las Vegas at age 25, with his murder still officially unsolved.
7. Notorious B.I.G. (1972–1997)
Biggie Smalls, widely known as Notorious B.I.G., was one of the many artists who gave shape to East Coast hip-hop. Words flow from his mouth like honey, and at just 24 years old, he was shot right when he started to solidify a name in rap.
8. Selena Quintanilla (1971–1995)
She was referred to as the Queen of Tejano Music. Selena tore down cultural and linguistic barriers. Highly tragic, she was murdered by her manager of the fan club at such a tender age of 23, which shortened her brilliant and pioneering career.
9. Buddy Holly (1936–1959)
Holly was one of the founding fathers of rock and roll; he did such songs as “Peggy Sue.” His career was very unfortunately cut short at 22 when he died in a plane crash along with Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper.
10. Ritchie Valens (1941–1959)
At only 17, Valens was one of the pioneers of rock and roll, with hits such as “La Bamba.” The same plane crash that killed Buddy Holly-the incident now referred to as “The Day the Music Died”-took his promising career.
11. Jeff Buckley (1966–1997)
Thanks to his haunting cover of “Hallelujah,” Buckley’s music was cut off at 30 when he drowned. His only finished single album, Grace, is still an unseen critical masterpiece.
12. Aaliyah (1979–2001)
R&B singer Aaliyah was one of the original trendsetters, one of the original stars. Bringing in hits like “Try Again,” at 22, in a plane crash, it seemed she may never show her full capabilities.
13. John Lennon (1940–1980)
Lennon co-founded The Beatles; he revolutionized music. At 40, he would be assassinated just at the start of his solo campaign.
14. Sam Cooke (1931–1964)
Often referred to as the King of Soul, Cooke gave hits such as “A Change Is Gonna Come.” He was cut short at 33 under very hazy circumstances but still managed to make his mark on soul and pop.
15. Freddie Mercury (1946–1991)
The flamboyant lead man of Queen, Mercury had one of rock’s strongest voices. He died at age 45 because of complications from AIDS, yet his songs and bombastic live performances remain truly iconic.
16. Marvin Gaye (1939–1984)
Through songs like “What’s Going On,” he let the world know its pain and voice for social change. At the age of 44, he was shot by his father and bade adieu to his life dedicated to the evolution of soul and R&B music.
17. Whitney Houston (1963–2012)
With a voice that defined pop and R&B, Houston gave the world hits like “I Will Always Love You.” Her life came to an uncouth end at 48 years through accidental drowning, with contributing factors related to drugs.
18. Prince (1958–2016)
The musical genius of Prince knew no bounds as he mixed genres into a blend that could not be placed in categories. Known for tracks such as “Purple Rain,” he succumbed to an accidental overdose that left a void in the world of music that is irreplaceable at 57.
19. Bob Marley (1945–1981)
He was an icon across the world, and wherever he went, he spread reggae and Rastafarian culture. When he was 36 years old, cancer claimed his life, leaving memories of his music and activism for peace and unity.
20. Elvis Presley (1935–1977)
The King of Rock and Roll, Elvis had changed the face of music and culture with his songs, including “Jailhouse Rock.” He passed away when he was 42 years old, reportedly due to a heart attack, but he is still remembered as the very pioneer of rock.