B-52s

Andrew H. Walker, Getty Images

Life has been a party for this band ever since its first gig -- at a party in 1977. While the campy New Wavers have only released one album in the past 20 years, they still perform 50 or 60 shows a year.

In their favor: They won't be forgotten so long as "Love Shack" remains in regular karaoke rotation.
Biggest threat: Fellow Athens, Ga., band R.E.M. convinces them it's not worth it any more.
Rating: 40