An abundance of artists over the course of history have never changed up what their style is or just follow in the footsteps of others, often leading to a stagnation or even regression in their career. Three artists who passed away this year—Lil Peep, Aretha Franklin, and Mac Miller— defied that norm, starting their own movements and even sometimes abandoning that very style purely in the interest of artistic evolution.

  Lil Peep’s characteristic lo-fi aesthetic divided music listeners. It broke the rules of standard mixing and mastering, and alongside his melancholy vocals and lyrics, Lil Peep established himself as a unique figure in the underground scene, and successfully broke through with a catalogue of great singles. Peep died of a suspected Fentanyl-Xanax overdose at age 21, having frequently documented his struggles with drugs in his own music. Peep made music essential to the wave of hazy and dark rap music he was a standout player in.

  Aretha Franklin died of pancreatic cancer at age 76. Looking back on her career now, her contributions to music through her gospel-charged, attention grabbing voice are incredibly noticeable. Franklin is undoubtedly one of the greatest artists who ever explored soul music, with that legacy stretching to American pop as a whole. Additionally, her involvement with the struggle for civil, women’s, and Native American rights are notable, with her songs “Respect” and “Natural Woman” used as anthems in some of these movements. Her genre defining music has maintained its relevancy and will continue to be held in high regard.

  Mac Miller died of a suspected drug overdose in his home at age 26. His career started with some upbeat pop-rap songs like “Donald Trump” along with hype building mixtapes which culminated in his debut studio album “Blue Slide Park.” Despite the record’s commercial success, it received scathing reviews, prompting a stylistic shift. Mac’s next four projects had a newfound psychedelic influence, with improved production and lyricism all around. Mac changed up his style again for his next two albums. A smoother, jazz filled, neo-soul inspired sound was present, one that could make Aretha Franklin happy.

  These three artists provided an escape for their listeners while grounding their music in reality. Whether they discussed themes of depression, addiction, or love, they provided a shoulder for audiences to lean on. Their work has been noticeable in its impact. Lil Peep has paved the way for the majority of sad and introspective rap music, more focused on melody, mood, and blunt releases of emotion. Aretha Franklin laid the template for the entire genre of soul music, which has held onto its prominence. Mac Miller’s work in the early 2010s world of internet rap has been deservedly held up with every recognized movement in rap history. Their impacts have been felt and they won’t be forgotten.