He hasn't released an album in over two years, but it may have been his marriage and breakup with Julia Roberts that's kept Lyle Lovett in our thoughts. It may also give him fodder for songs on his new album, slated for release June 4 -- but don't bet on it. One of Lovett's most endearing qualities is his gentlemanly nature; he's always able to skewer the lover-protagonist of one of his songs in the slyest, understated -- even un-stated -- manner. His last album, after all, was titled I Love Everybody (MCA). But whether he's singing about "Fat Babies" that have no pride, or a trip to "North Dakota" for the softest of lullabies, everyone can identify with the quirky-looking man with that great head of hair. His music is an amalgam of country, folk, and soul; it's the music of the people, and maybe that's what makes it so easy to enjoy him year after year.

-- Andrew Strickman