In 1979, Billboard changed the name of its Easy Listening Chart to Adult Contemporary. The genre basically covers all the major soft rock artists on the music scene since the 1970s and is characterized by melodious vocals and soft, catchy tunes. Key Artists: Air Supply, Michael Bolton, Mariah Carey, Phil Collins, Chicago, Whitney Houston, Billy Joel, and even the softer side of Madonna.
Read more: the ListenSmart article on this style.