2009 comebacks: Hillary Duff, Eminem, The Grateful Dead, Gwen Stefani, Natalie Imbruglia

For many musicians, the thought of a comeback sustains them through years of state fair and trade show gigs, but sadly, few manage to grab the gold ring twice. In 2009, however, several musicians stand a good chance of returning to prominence, including Hillary Duff, Eminem, the Grateful Dead (those of them left, that is), Gwen Stefani and her No Doubt Band, and Natalie Imbruglia.

Many people are familiar with Hillary Duff through her acting roles, most notably as the star of television's Lizzy McGuire. However, she has also had great success as a musician, with several platinum records, including Metamorphisis and Most Wanted, to her credit. Her last new album, Dignity, was released in April of 2007, while a greatest -hits compilation appeared on the shelves in December of 2008.

Duff told MTV recently that she is beginning work on a new album, under a new label. She has also signed on to star in a new half-hour sitcom for NBC. Expect the cross-pollination to drive renewed interest in her music.

Marshall Bruce Mathers III, aka Eminem,named in 2008 by Vibe Magazine voters as the best rapper alive, has been absent from the new music scene since 2005. After a series of huge hit albums, including The Eminem Show and Encore, the artist and actor took a break for the obligatory stretch in drug rehab and some R n' R.