Absolutely essential yet underestimated. It's literally the backbone of any muscle workout. Pun intended. :)

Exactly. If only I had realized it's importance when I first started lifting - I could have avoided a slight muscular imbalance from doing so damn many pushing exercises... But I'm better off for it, since that's the reason I got into flexibility and mobility work (hooray for foam rolling!)

Superb article. As you mentioned, the back not only plays an underlying role in the appearance of your body, it also plays a huge role in overall strength, which most people don't realize. A stronger back will provide a more stable base for benching especially; in turn, giving you greater gains. Gotta love those deadlifts and pullups!!

If I had to pick two essential exercises...I would go with pull-ups and squats. Silly thought exercise...but, there it is.