1.
What pop star based their stage name off a song by Queen?
Correct Answer
A. Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta
Explanation
Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, better known as Lady Gaga, based her stage name off of the Queen hit "Radio Ga Ga."
Amethyst Amelia Kelly = Iggy Azalea
Elizabeth Woolridge Grant = Lana Del Rey
Ella Marija Lani Ylelich-O'Connor = Lorde
2.
Before his music career, Drake stared in what TV show?
Correct Answer
A. Degrassi: The Next Generation
Explanation
Degrassi: The Next Generation was a Canadian teen drama that began in 2001 as a continuation of Degrassi High that ran for two seasons from 1989-91. In The Next Generation, Aubrey Graham starred as Jimmy Brooks, a promising basketball star who gets paralyzed in the fourth season after being shot in the back by a disgruntled schoolmate.
Graham independently released his first album, a mixtape called "Room For Improvement" in 2006. As a musician, he used only his middle name, Drake, to differ his music from his acting career. He released a second mixtape, "Comeback Season," the following year. "So Far Gone," his third mixtape was released in 2009.
Which each album he released he garnered more and more success, collaboration with big names in the rap industry such as Trey Songs, Lil Wayne, among others. "So Far Gone," proved to be such a huge success that Drake decided to leave Degrassi: The Next Generation in 2009, after it's eighth season, to make music his name career focus. The show lasted for five more seasons, ending in 2014.
3.
Who is the only member of One Direction not from England?
Correct Answer
A. Niall Horan
Explanation
While four members of the popular boy band hail from England, Niall Horan is from Mullingar, Ireland.
4.
Who is the only member of the Backstreet Boys to have not released a solo album?
Correct Answer
A. Kevin Richardson
Explanation
Ever member of the Backstreet Boys has released at least one solo album... except for Kevin Richardson.
5.
Katy Perry's first album was as a Christian performer.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
True.
In 2001, Katy Hudson released her debut self-titled album, a contemporary Christian pop album with some rock flare. The album was reviewed well and garnered one top 20 single "Trust In Me." She was even an opening act on Phil Joel's first solo tour, The Strangely Normal Tour. However, the album ultimately wound up being a flop. Her label Red Hill Records would become defunct later that year, leaving Hudson unsigned.
In 2003, she began transitioning to a career in mainstream pop music. When she signed with the now-defunct Jive in 2004, she did so under the name Katy Perry, the name she has gained widespread fame with.
6.
Katy Perry does not use her actual surname in order to avoid confusion with what other celebrity?
Correct Answer
A. Kate Hudson
Explanation
When Kathryn Hudson began a career as a mainstream pop star in 2003, she chose to use her mother's maiden name of Perry, opposed to her actual surname, in order to avoid confusion with actress Kate Hudson.
7.
Joel is Billy Joel's actual last name.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
True.
William (Billy) Martin Joel was born on May 9, 1949, in New York City.
8.
Paul McCartney originally wrote The Beatles' song "Helter Skelter" in attempts to out rock what band?
Correct Answer
A. The Who
Explanation
Paul McCartney originally wrote The Beatles' song "Helter Skelter" in attempts to out rock The Who.
9.
Who is the only barefoot Beatle on the cover of the album "Abby Road"?
Correct Answer
A. Paul McCartney
Explanation
While a few variations of the iconic album cover exist, on the one that made it to store shelves, all of The Beatles are wearing shoes... except for Paul McCartney.
10.
What was the first #1 solo hit by a member of The Beatles?
Correct Answer
A. "My Sweet Lord" by George Harrison
Explanation
"My Sweet Lord" by George Harrison was the first #1 solo hit by a member of The Beatles. This song was released in 1970 and topped the charts in multiple countries. It showcased Harrison's spiritual and philosophical beliefs, incorporating elements of Hinduism into the lyrics. The song's catchy melody and uplifting message resonated with audiences, solidifying Harrison's success as a solo artist after the breakup of The Beatles.
11.
Who was the first musician to host Saturday Night Live?
Correct Answer
A. Paul Simon
Explanation
Paul Simon became the second ever host of the famed variety show on October 18, 1975.
12.
Why did Jimi Hendrix burn his guitar at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967?
Correct Answer
A. He did not want to be upstaged by The Who
Explanation
In 1967, it was a debate as to who would be the closing act for the festival: Jimi Hendrix or The Who. Ultimately, the slot went to Hendrix. As The Who are famous for smashing their instruments at the end of their sets, Hendrix did not want to be upstaged, so during his performance, he lit his guitar on fire.
13.
What was the first music video ever shown on MTV?
Correct Answer
A. "Video Killed The Radio Star" by The Buggles
Explanation
Ironically, the first ever music video MTV ever played was "Video Killed The Radio Star" by The Buggles, on the station's premier day of August 1, 1981.
14.
What was the first ever #1 video on MTV's Total Request Live?
Correct Answer
A. "I'll Never Break Your Heart" by Backstreet Boys
Explanation
The first ever #1 video on MTV's Total Request Live was "I'll Never Break Your Heart" by Backstreet Boys.
15.
How many drummers did Nirvana have before Dave Grohl joined?
Correct Answer
A. 4
Explanation
When Kurt Cobain and Krist Novoselic first formed a band in 1986, they first recruited Bob McFadden. Together, the three performed together as The Sellouts, mainly playing covers of Creedence Clearwater Revival. The Sellouts quickly faded away, leaving the band without a drummer. So in early 1987 Cobain and Novoselic recruited Aaron Burckhard, who would remain with the band until December. They would then practice with Dale Corver from The Melvins, but he was never an official member of the band, as he quickly moved to San Francisco.
Their next official drummer would be Dave Foster, who was only with the band for a few months in 1988, leaving just as they were gearing up to record their first full album. A mutual friend introduced Cobain and Novoselic to Chad Channing, who recorded with band on their debut album "Bleach." Creative differences would cause Channing to leave in 1990.
Mudhoney drummer Dave Peters briefly filled the void, playing seven tour dates in 1990 with the Nirvana. Later that year, in September, they were introduced to Dave Grohl, whose D.C. band Scream had recently broke up. Grohl would remain Nirvana's drummer until Kurt Cobain's death, recording on the albums "Nevermind" and "In Utero."
16.
In 1994, Dave Grohl was asked to be the new drummer for what band?
Correct Answer
A. Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Explanation
When Tom Petty released his first solo album "Full Moon Fever" in 1989, every Heartbreaker contributed to at least one song on the album, except for drummer Stan Lynch. This could be the reason behind Lynch's growing tensions within the band, as he may have felt slighted from not being a part of the album. Lynch would remain a Heartbreaker until October 2, 1994. However, The band was scheduled to perform on Saturday Night Live on November 19, to promote Petty's second solo album "Wildflowers."
Petty asked Dave Grohl to fill in on drums for the show. Grohl recently found himself without a band as Kurt Cobain's suicide back in April brought an end to Nirvana. Petty thought Grohl was such a nice fit to the band, that after the SNL performance, he asked Grohl if he would like to be the new Heartbreaker drummer, officially replacing Lynch. Grohl declined, wanting to form a band of his own, which wound up being Foo Fighters.
Steve Ferrone, who was the drummer for Average White Band in the 70s, as well as a popular session drummer, became Lynch's official replacement, playing his first show as a Heartbreaker on February 28, 1995. He would remain the band's drummer until Petty's death in 2017.
17.
KISS drummer Eric Carr's death was overshadowed, because he died on the same day as which of these famous singers?
Correct Answer
A. Freddie Mercury
Explanation
In February of 1991, KISS drummer Eric Carr was diagnosed with heart cancer, During his absence, session drummer Eric Singer stepped in to fill Carr's role in the band, even recording on the album "Revenge." Carr underwent multiple surgeries to remove his tumor in April. Afterwards, his health seemed to be progressing, so he resumed his position within the band.
Later that year, in September, Carr suffered an aneurysm and was immediately hospitalized. A few days later, he suffered a brain hemorrhage from which he never regained consciousness. It wasn't until November 24 when he was officially pronounced dead at the age of 41.
Carr's death would be heavily overshadowed because on the same day Queen frontman Freddie Mercury was pronounced dead at the age of 45, due to AIDS related bronchopneumonia.
18.
In what year did VH1 debut?
Correct Answer
A. 1985
Explanation
VH1 made its debut on January 1, 1985.
19.
What was the first music video ever shown on VH1?
Correct Answer
A. "The Star Spangled Banner" by Marvin Gaye
Explanation
The first video VH1 ever played when it debuted on January 1, 1985, was Marvin Gaye's performance of "The Star Spangled Banner" from the 1983 NBA All-Star Game. Gaye had died the previous year, and the station wanted to pay tribute.
20.
How did Marvin Gaye die?
Correct Answer
A. He was shot
Explanation
On April 1, 1984, Marvin Gaye tried to intervene in a fight his parents were having. Things quickly escalated, especially between Gaye and his father, Marvin Gaye, Sr. Gaye quickly sought refuge in his childhood bedroom, but his father quickly caught up to him. The musician was shot once in his chest piercing his heart and again on of his shoulders. Gaye was rushed to California Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival at 1:01 pm. He was set to turn 45 the next day.
After a series of court appearances, Marvin Gaye, Sr. was charged with a six year suspended sentence with five years of probation on November 2, 1984.
21.
What is Bing Crosby's real first name?
Correct Answer
A. Harry
Explanation
Bing Crosby's real first name is Harry.
22.
What is Ray Charles' last name?
Correct Answer
A. Robinson
Explanation
Ray Charles Robinson was born on September 23, 1930, in Albany, Georgia.
23.
Aside from Kendrick Lamar who is featured on the track, how many celebrities guest star in Taylor Swift's music video for her song "Bad Blood"?
Correct Answer
C. 16
Explanation
Aside from Lamar, these 16 celebrities guest star in the music video: Selena Gomez, Lena Dunham, Hailee Steinfeld, Serayah, Gigi Hadid, Ellie Goulding, Martha Hunt, Cara Delevingne, Zendaya, Hayley Williams, Lily Aldridge, Karlie Kloss, Jessica Alba, Mariska Hargitay, Ellen Pompeo, and Cindy Crawford.
24.
Did you know that Keith Moon of The Who released a solo album? What is the name of this album?
Correct Answer
A. Two Sides of The Moon
Explanation
The correct answer is "Two Sides of The Moon." This album was released by Keith Moon, the drummer of The Who, as his only solo album. It was released in 1975 and featured collaborations with various artists including Ringo Starr, Harry Nilsson, and Joe Walsh. The album received mixed reviews but gained a cult following over time.
25.
Which of these musicians did not die from a drug overdose?
Correct Answer
A. Bob Marley
Explanation
Contrary to what many may believe, Bob Marley did not die from a drug overdose. In July of 1977, he was diagnosed with a type of melanoma under one of his toenails. Further tests confirmed the disease to be acral lentiginous melanoma. Doctors advised Marley to have the toe amputated, which he did not want to happen. So instead of the amputation, the melanoma slowly spread throughout Marley's entire body.
In the early 80s, Marley's health was gradually deteriorating. On May 11, 1981, Marley had canceled his tour so he could go rest in his native country of Jamaica. However, while on route to the island, his health took a turn for the worse, forcing an emergency landing in Miami. He would be pronounced dead at Cedars of Lebanon Hospital (now University of Miami Hospital) later that day, at the young age of 36.
26.
Bowie is David Bowie's real last name.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
False.
Bowie was born David Jones in 1947. He formed his first band in 1962, at the age of 15, going by the name Davy Jones. When he began transitioning into a solo career in 1967, he changed his name for a couple of reasons. First, he no longer liked the name Davy or any variation of it. Also, there already was a famous musician named Davy Jones - that of The Monkees. So for his stage name, he took on the surname of Bowie, named after the bowie knife, showcasing his love of American history and culture.
27.
What is the one and only song to win the Grammy Award for Best Disco Recording?
Correct Answer
A. "I Will Survive" By Gloria Gaynor
Explanation
"I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor is the one and only song to win the Grammy Award for Best Disco Recording. This song became an anthem for empowerment and resilience, resonating with audiences during the disco era and beyond. Its iconic lyrics and catchy disco beat made it a standout in the genre, earning it recognition and acclaim from the music industry, including the prestigious Grammy Award.
28.
The American Top 40 countdown debuted in 1970, on what holiday?
Correct Answer
A. Independence Day
Explanation
The first episode of the American Top 40 countdown premiered on July 4, 1970.
29.
What was the first ever #1 song on the American Top 40 Countdown?
Correct Answer
A. "Mama Told Me (Not To Come)" by Three Dog Night
Explanation
On the first episode of the American Top 40 countdown, these were the top four songs:
1. "Mama Told Me (Not To Come)" by Three Dog Night
2. "Ball of Confusion" by The Temptations
3. "The Love You Save" by The Jackson Five
4. "Ride Captain Ride" by Blues Image
30.
Which of these country musicians actually uses their first name?
Correct Answer
A. Trace Adkins
Explanation
Tracy Darrell Adkins
Frederick Dierks Bentley
Troyal Garth Brooks
Thomas Luke Bryan
Kenneth Eric Church
31.
Tim McGraw's father was an athlete in what professional sports league?
Correct Answer
A. MLB
Explanation
Tim McGraw's father Frank, better known as Tug, was a closing pitcher in the MLB (Major League Baseball), from 1965-1984. He split his time evenly between the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies, playing ten years with each team.
32.
Rapper Coolio sang the theme song for what Nickelodeon show?
Correct Answer
A. Kenan & Kel
Explanation
Coolio sang the theme song for the Nickelodeon show "Kenan & Kel."
33.
Terence Butler of the band Black Sabbath goes by what nickname?
Correct Answer
A. Geezer
Explanation
Terence Butler, the band member of Black Sabbath, is known by the nickname "Geezer".
34.
Which of these bands was Eric Clapton never a part of ?
Correct Answer
A. Humble Pie
Explanation
Eric Clapton was never a part of Humble Pie. He was a member of Blind Faith, Cream, and John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers at different points in his career.
35.
Which of these legendary guitarists never spent time as a member of The Yardbirds?
Correct Answer
A. Ronnie Wood
Explanation
Ronnie Wood never spent time as a member of The Yardbirds. The other three guitarists, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, and Eric Clapton, all had stints as members of The Yardbirds at different points in their careers.
36.
How may syllables are in each of the album titles by Kings of Leon?
Correct Answer
A. 5
Explanation
Each of the album titles by Kings of Leon consists of five syllables.
37.
Keith Richards has publicly stated that he conceived main riff of what Rolling Stones song in a dream?
Correct Answer
A. (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction
Explanation
Keith Richards has publicly stated that he conceived the main riff of "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" in a dream. This song is one of the Rolling Stones' most iconic hits and is known for its catchy guitar riff. Richards has mentioned in interviews that he woke up in the middle of the night with the riff playing in his head and quickly recorded it before falling back asleep. The dream-inspired riff became the defining element of the song and has since become one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history.
38.
Patricia Mae Andrzejewski is more famously known by what name?
Correct Answer
A. Pat Benatar
Explanation
Patricia Mae Andrzejewski is more famously known as Pat Benatar.
39.
The all Christian version of the Grammy Awards is named after what bird?
Correct Answer
A. Doves
Explanation
The all Christian version of the Grammy Awards is named after doves because doves are often associated with peace, purity, and the Holy Spirit in Christianity. Doves are mentioned multiple times in the Bible, including during the baptism of Jesus, where the Holy Spirit descended on him like a dove. Therefore, naming the Christian version of the Grammy Awards after doves symbolizes the desire for peace and the presence of the Holy Spirit in Christian music.
40.
How many Disney songs have won the Academy Award for Best Original Song?
Correct Answer
A. 14
Explanation
To date, these 14 Disney songs have won the award:
•"When You Wish Upon A Star" from Pinocchio
•"Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah" from Song of The South
•"Chim Chim Cher-ee" from Marry Poppins
•"Under The Sea" from The Little Mermaid
•"Beauty and The Beast" from Beauty and The Beast
•"A Whole New World" from Aladdin
•"Can You Feel The Love Tonight" from The Lion King
•"Colors of The Wind" from Pocahontas
•"You'll Be In My Heart" from Tarzan
•"If I Didn't Have You" from Monsters, Inc.
•"We Belong Together" from Toy Story 3
•"Man or Muppet" from The Muppets
•"Let It Go" from Frozen
•"Remember Me" from Coco
41.
REO Speedwagon is named after a real model of motorized vehicle.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The band took their name after the REO Speed Wagon, a truck made by Oldsmobile founder Ransom Eli Olds, though spelled differently to avoid any legal issues.
42.
Sis’s cousin Peter Furler is a member of which of these Christian bands?
Correct Answer
A. Newsboys
Explanation
Peter Furler is a member of the Christian band Newsboys.
43.
In 1982, Thomas Dolby had a #1 hit with "She Blinded Me With ________."
Correct Answer
A. Science
Explanation
In 1982, Thomas Dolby had a #1 hit with the song "She Blinded Me With Science." The song's lyrics describe a romantic encounter where the singer is captivated and overwhelmed by the woman's intellect and knowledge in the field of science. The phrase "She Blinded Me With Science" has since become a popular idiom to describe being amazed or dazzled by someone's intelligence or expertise in a particular subject.
44.
Which of these bands has Paul Rodgers never been a part of?
Correct Answer
A. Foghat
Explanation
Paul Rodgers has been a part of the bands The Firm, The Law, and Free, but he has never been a part of the band Foghat.
45.
Pop singer Alecia Moore based her stage name off a character from what Quentin Tarantino movie?
Correct Answer
A. Reservoir Dogs
Explanation
Pop star Alecia Moore has publicly stated that she based her stage name P!nk off Steve Buscemi's character Mr. Pink, from the Quentin Tarantino movie "Reservoir Dogs."
46.
In 2010, why did English musician Dan Smith name his band Bastille?
Correct Answer
A. He was born on Bastille Day
Explanation
Bastille frontman Dan Smith was born on July 14, 1986, aka Bastille Day.
47.
Aretha Franklin's iconic hit song "Respect" was originally recorded and released by what other singer?
Correct Answer
A. Otis Redding
Explanation
"Respect" was originally recorded and released by Otis Redding. Aretha Franklin's version of the song became more popular and iconic, but it was originally written and performed by Redding.
48.
Joan Jet & The Blackhearts had a #1 hit with "I Love Rock and Roll." Who originally recorded and released the song?
Correct Answer
A. The Arrows
Explanation
While a #1 hit for Joan Jett & The Blackhearts in 1981, the song was originally recorded and released in 1975 by The Arrows.
49.
Who sings the line "I Want My MTV" on the Dire Straits' hit "Money For Nothing"?
Correct Answer
A. Sting
Explanation
According to bassist Illsley, "Sting used to come to Montserrat to go windsurfing, and he came up for supper at the studio. We played him 'Money for Nothing' and he turned round and said, 'You've done it this time, you bastards.' Mark said if he thought it was so good, why didn't he go and add something to it. He did his bit there and then."
The result wound up being the iconic "I want my MTV" line, garnering Sting a co-writing credit on the song.
50.
Grunge rock is sometimes referred to by what geographical term?
Correct Answer
A. The Seattle Sound
Explanation
Since a good handful of prominent grunge bands hail from Seattle (Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Mudhoney, etc.) the genre is sometimes referred to as "The Seattle Sound."