Shannon Noll Essentials

Since placing second in 2003's inaugural Australian Idol, Shannon Noll has kept on running with a string of rousing rockers and stirring ballads. He hit big early with “What About Me,” an emotive, orchestrated arm-waver where he sends out a war-cry for the underdog with his impassioned vocals. A series of uplifting songs with one-word titles—“Drive,” “Shine,” “Lift”—saw him weld ringing country rock to '80s arena rock, all linked with messages of self-worth and big chorus hooks. Noll is never shy about espousing his Aussie heartland credentials: The rollicking “Land of Mine” celebrates hard work, good times, and endless summers.