For its size, Scotland's contribution to the world of pop, if not exactly immense, has at least been respectable. For every generation of teenager since the 1950s, the country has produced a succession of acts which have risen - mercifully briefly in some cases - to the heights of popstardom. One of the first was Glasgow-born Lonnie Donnegan, the self-styled 'King of Skiffle' who was one of the most successful recording artists of the pre-Beatles era. Lulu and Donovan flew the flag in the 60s; the Bay City Rollers topped the charts in the 70s; there were many big bands in the 80 from Big Country and Simple Minds to The Jesus and Mary Chain; the 90s saw acts such as Primal Scream, Texas and Travis, all of whom are still in business, while current flavours of the month include The View, The Fratellis and KT Tunstall.

Scotland is also a mecca for the world's biggest artists on tour, regularly playing to thousands of fans. Stadium bands like U2 entertain the masses at Hampden Park. Big acts, including chart pop favourites from Kylie to Take That, play the indoor SECC in Glasgow. In Edinburgh Ingliston hosts huge raves, Murrayfield Stadium stages big concerts, and touring acts come to The Playhouse. The Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle has even staged concerts for top-billing stars such as Rod Stewart, Paul Simon and Robbie Williams. There are also a myriad of smaller venues supporting a vibrant live music scene in both Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Scotland also plays host to some of the best music festivals in Europe, such as the massive T in the Park, as well as Connect, Rock Ness and others. For two days each July, up to 80,000 fans descend on Balado airfield near Kinross for T in the Park to hear the best in indie, rock, dance and more. Recent headliners have included The Who, Oasis, Arctic Monkeys and The Red Hot Chilli Peppers.