21st Century Man

The song "21st Century Man" by Cornerstone from their 2003 album Once Upon Our Yesterdays stands out for its infectious organ solo, a highlight that gives it a distinct classic rock vibe reminiscent of 1970s and 1980s hard rock. Reviewers have praised its energetic guitar riffs and the way it channels the spirit of bands like Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, while still carving out a unique sound for the Danish/British melodic metal supergroup. The track’s production, handled at Media Sound Studios, Mirand Studio, and Basscamp mobile recording, showcases a polished yet gritty sound, with strings by The Studio String Ensemble adding depth. Fans on platforms like Amazon have noted the song’s ability to blend nostalgic metal elements with a fresh, modern edge, making it a favorite for those who appreciate old-school metal with a contemporary twist.

While specific interviews or social media posts about "21st Century Man" are scarce, the album itself has garnered enthusiastic responses from fans and critics alike. On Cornerstone’s Facebook page, fans have shared their love for the album’s cohesive songwriting and Doogie White’s powerful vocals, with some calling the organ-driven energy of "21st Century Man" a standout moment. The song’s lyrical themes, though not explicitly detailed in available sources, align with the album’s exploration of dark and introspective imagery, as noted in a Sea of Tranquility review. The track’s memorable organ solo and driving rhythm have made it a staple for fans of the band’s live performances, though no specific anecdotes about its creation or performance have surfaced in recent posts or interviews.

Cornerstone was formed in 1999 as a collaboration between Scottish vocalist Doogie White, known for his work with Rainbow and Yngwie Malmsteen, and Danish bassist and keyboardist Steen Mogensen, formerly of Royal Hunt. The band emerged from Mogensen’s solo project, evolving into a full-fledged group that blended melodic hard rock with elements of classic metal. Their debut album, Arrival (2000), set the stage for their signature sound, combining White’s soulful, hook-laden vocals with Mogensen’s robust instrumentation. The duo’s chemistry, honed through years of experience in the European rock scene, led to a string of well-received albums, including Human Stain (2002) and Once Upon Our Yesterdays (2003). Their music draws heavily from influences like Rainbow, Deep Purple, and Whitesnake, appealing to fans of classic hard rock with a modern sensibility.

You can follow Cornerstone’s official website for updates on their music and legacy, though the band has been less active in recent years. Their Facebook page remains a hub for fan interaction, where supporters share memories and discuss the band’s discography. Unfortunately, no active Instagram or X accounts for Cornerstone were found, suggesting their social media presence is limited to Facebook. For fan communities, the Cornerstone Facebook page serves as the primary gathering spot, with fans occasionally posting about rare tracks like “Candyman,” a free download once offered on the band’s website. No dedicated fan websites or additional Facebook groups were identified, but the band’s music continues to resonate with metal enthusiasts through platforms like Encyclopaedia Metallum and Discogs.