Aerosmith

Perform in a band for nearly 40 years and a few occurrences are unavoidable. You will experience both thrilling highs (Grammys, Academy Award noms, platinum sales to the nth degree) and crashing lows (drug addiction, the acrimonious departure of original members). You'll break social boundaries (Run-DMC's collaborative rap remix of "Walk This Way") and make technological breakthroughs (Guitar Hero: Aerosmith). You'll bust more than a few body parts (various knee and throat ailments, second-degree burns, hepatitis C). But in the case of Aerosmith, the journey will also include producing one of the most memorable bodies of work in American-music history. With a new album in the pipeline, Steven Tyler and Co.'s attitude-drenched, blues-based hard rock continues to appeal, evolve and, above all, endure. Dream until your dreams come true? For the Bad Boys from Boston, the coming true was only the beginning.