A syllabus for your freshman musical orientation

By Michael Shilling
Special to MSN Music

Though college life is ever-changing, one truth remains clear: Knowing what's what and who's who in music is key to success. Here are 19 artists you will hear over and over in your dorm, at parties, and, most importantly, from out of the tinny headphones worn by that cutie in the cafeteria. Want an easy conversation starter? Musical knowledge is as good as it gets. (And if you want extra credit, check out kindred artists that influenced these musicians, were influenced by them, or share their "aesthetic," as your prof might say.) (John Rahim / Lucy Hamblin / Retna Pictures / Retna Ltd.)