Housekeeping issues in 2009

Today is the first day back to school for the tiny terrorists. This means I can go wild. Hmmm, I have no idea what to do. I have been captive for so long, as evidenced by my playlist. I am so out of touch...that's right, I have no idea who sings what or even who the artists are anymore. Unless they are on the Radio Disney they don't even make my radar. It's all part of the torture you see. My mother brought this to my attention when she said that she doesn't like Janet Jackson. So I searched for some new music and I found out I have no idea how to search for music because that would require I actually have something to search with...like a name. So I may, just for kicks, actually watch MTV or VH1 while the terrorists are learning new things to torture me with (ie schoolwork). However I don't even know what channel MTV or VH1 are on so my new year resolution is to find some new artists to listen to. Please help me with any up to date recommendations. I like Pop, Top 40, R&B and ballads, things you can sing to.