1950s
Like many great rock-and-roll traditions, the modern-day guyliner phenomena started with black artists in the ‘50s. In a groundbreaking move, Little Richard and James Brown paired sharp suits with pompadours and a smooth visage achieved with pancake makeup and tightlined liner to frame the eyes.

1960s
Where pioneering rock-and-roll musicians went, Elvis followed. Though drawn on more discreetly, Elvis's guyliner was firmly in place—not that many screaming teens noticed; much to the dismay of their parents, the crooner's hips often caught all the attention.