Top 20 Best Albums of All Time
#20: “A Night at the Opera” (1975)
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Queen
“A Night at the Opera” captures all of the wonder of Queen’s musical greatness. Their unique hold on rock music couldn’t be more apparent than on this 1975 album. Combining massive arena sound and theatrical production, the four-piece come to life in this track list. The most memorable moment comes with the epic and operatic movements on “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Both heart wrenching and triumphant, this suite juggles diverse influences in one climactic performance. Freddie Mercury’s vocal skills really standout throughout this iconic release. His incredible range shines on everything from the catchy “You’re My Best Friend” to the romantic highs on “Love of My Life.”
#19: “Enter the Wu-Tang Clan (36 Chambers)” (1993)
Wu-Tang Clan
Rap groups were never more fully-loaded or talented than this one. Wu-Tang Clan came together for this influential debut, throwing out the textbook of hip-hop samples for something fresher. Producer and performer RZA uses his love of martial arts films in sounds that hadn't been heard on any album before, essentially creating a new genre. On top of this foundation, emcees like Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, and Method Man introduce themselves. Just when you think a track has enough rappers, even more emerge for extensive verses and iconic rhymes. The singles like “Protect Ya Neck” and “C.R.E.A.M.” are just the tip of this iceberg.
#18: “Paranoid” (1970)
Black Sabbath
Following an impressive debut, Black Sabbath were more than ready to unleash havoc with their second release. “Paranoid” is one of the heaviest records of its time, bringing heavy metal to the mainstream. This includes the searing “War Pigs,” setting the stage for an inventive and gritty journey. Tony Iommi’s guitar riffs take over on “Paranoid” and the anthemic track “Iron Man.” With Ozzy Osbourne on vocals, the group launches offensives on listeners with a deadly combination of music and lyrics. The band’s work here wouldn’t be complete without the rhythm section of Geezer Butler and Bill Ward. It’s an unforgettable album that hasn’t lost any of its intensity.
#17: “Dreaming of You” (1995)
Selena
Popularizing the Tejano style of music, the late Selena Quintanilla-Pérez delivered a successful and historical album in 1995. “Dreaming of You” delights both pop and Latin music fans with its engaging production. The track list is full of crossover hits that range from upbeat tunes to emotional ballads. Showcasing her one-of-a-kind voice, these songs helped to break down barriers between English and Spanish-language music. The fact that it was a posthumous release puts into perspective the impact of her brief career. In an album that transcends her tragic story, the vocalist proves herself as a solo artist with an enduring legacy.
#16: “Songs in the Key of Life” (1976)
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Stevie Wonder
As both a songwriter and vocalist, Stevie Wonder was on fire in the 1970s. From Grammys to hit albums, the artist capped off an impressive streak of success with this album. It includes many of his most notable songs in richly-layered productions. Bursting with pure joy, Wonder’s killer melodies are better than ever on the likes of “Isn’t She Lovely.” There are also deeper tracks like “Summer Soft” which could be mega-hits on a lesser performer’s record. This collection of classic music feels like an effective victory lap for a singer at the top of his game.
#15: “At Last!” (1960)
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Etta James
With this debut album, the amazing Etta James kicked off a long and influential career which landed her in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. Her crowning achievement on this classic album is her brilliant rendition of the title track. In just a few seconds, the song reveals the incredible power of her voice and joyous musicality. Legendary in the blues and R&B community, her work on this release influenced a host of R&B legends to cover songs like“At Last.” Anyone looking for a classic soulful album should look no further than this stunning achievement.
#14: “Purple Rain” (1984)
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Prince and the Revolution
For the soundtrack of his hit film, Prince doesn’t waste any time getting people ready to dance. “Let’s Go Crazy” is a jolt of musical joy that finds the artist in top form. Not to be outdone, the ballad mega-hit “Purple Rain” is another fantastic side of the performer’s eclectic sound. It’s a love song that hasn’t lost any of its luster, much like the rest of this perfect collection. From funk to rock, the artist shines as a vocalist and musician on every single track. Whether you love watching the movie or listening to the record, this music ranks as some of the best of the 1980s.
#13: “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” (1972)
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David Bowie
While his career can’t be boiled down to one album, David Bowie became an icon with the artistry on “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust.” His legendary character brings science-fiction elements and human-like vulnerability to these songs. The glam rock numbers such as “Suffragette City” bring both serious energy and sonic excellence. Beyond all the incredible myth-making, Bowie’s songwriting talents are on full display in “Starman” and the title track. He both embraces the rockstar lifestyle and pokes fun at it, and this album pushed the boundaries of what an artist can do with their persona.
#12: “London Calling” (1979)
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The Clash
Released in the UK at the tail end of the decade, this all-time amazing album by The Clash kept them at the forefront of punk and post-punk music. They brought together all of their influences into an incredibly musically diverse record. Politically charged, but in an accessible way, the group blends reggae and rock together seamlessly with strong messages. “London Calling” still works as an anthem for both Londoners and citizens of the world to enjoy. The band members don’t hold their creativity back, unafraid of breaking from their more aggressive beginnings. There’s also, of course, the track “Train in Vain,” which is a timeless rock classic.
#11: “Pet Sounds” (1966)
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The Beach Boys
Growing artistically from their wonderful surfer-themed hits, The Beach Boys became much more than just a surf band. Their producer and chief songwriter Brian Wilson decided to push their careers into uncharted territory in the mid-1960s. His studio techniques and melodic sensibilities created “Pet Sounds.” It also revealed the finer elements of Wilson’s songwriting, deeply influenced by, and influencing, bands such as The Beatles. This album includes songs such as “God Only Knows,” with its incredible chord progressions. The sunshine of “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” gives way to a mix of pop tunes, ballads, and even instrumentals. This became known as one of the most critically-regarded albums of all time.
#10: “Ready to Die” (1994)
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The Notorious B.I.G.
In a bold debut, The Notorious B.I.G. stakes his claim for rap supremacy. The album charts his life from birth to fame, with more extensive details than some full-length biographies. Biggie Smalls shows off his flow on memorable songs like “Juicy, “ and his verses and rhymes still stand out as some of the best of any decade. Full of attitude and embracing the hardcore life , this Bad Boy release shows the artist’s honest look at his complicated life. Kicking off his short and incredible career, Smalls never sounded better than on this fully-loaded and free-spirited record.
#9: “At Folsom Prison” (1968)
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Johnny Cash
For this live album, Johnny Cash reinvented himself and reclaimed his earlier success. The country star came off some turbulent years with substance abuse to perform at Folsom Prison. In one of the most unconventional venues imaginable, the performer became even more of a legendary figure in music history. With both original songs and covers, Cash provides all the raw power of an artist with nothing to lose. He uses his backing band and June Carter to great effect on tracks such as “Jackson.” With his unmistakably deep voice, the singer conjures up all of his magic for the performance of a lifetime. You could cite other country recordings alongside this one, but few can match the unique circumstances of this classic.
#8: “Blue” (1971)
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Joni Mitchell
On her fourth album, Joni Mitchell poured her heart and soul into ten fantastic tracks. These include references to high-profile relationships that shaped her life in the early 1970s. From the folksy “All I Want” to the heartbreaking “River,” Mitchell doesn’t hold back in describing her state of mind. The artist’s brutal honesty sets the stage for a perfect snapshot of her inner thoughts. To deliver her vulnerable lyrics, Mitchell creates exceptional compositions that feel fresh and dynamic all these years later. She more than earns her status as one of the best singer/songwriters — and guitarists — with this incredible release.
#7: “What’s Going On” (1971)
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Marvin Gaye
Synonymous with the wonders of Motown, Marvin Gaye represents the best of R&B and soul music. His career-defining work on “What’s Going On” includes many of his greatest tracks. It also includes some of his most socially-conscious lyrics, discussing the pressing issues of the early 1970s. Gaye reveals his feelings about civil rights and the Vietnam War in profound statements. He also talks about the environment in the memorable “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology).” Blending social commentary and musical excellence, this record reveals the breadth and depth of the singer’s artistry.
#6: “Rumours” (1977)
Fleetwood Mac
Much more than a break-up album, “Rumours” often receives attention for its troubled origins. But the result transcends any one relationship or marriage. Fleetwood Mac came together to create a timeless list of classic songs from multiple writers. Lindsay Buckingham’s underrated guitar parts provide the perfect energy for “Second Hand News” and “Go Your Own Way.” Christine McVie delivers moving love songs that include the piano ballad “Songbird” and the upbeat “You Make Loving Fun.” At the center of it all, Stevie Nicks steals the show with iconic compositions that include “Dreams.” Few groups can provide that kind of eclectic artistry into one pristine collection of rock.
#5: “Nevermind” (1991)
Nirvana
Few albums better capture the start of a decade than “Nevermind.” Nirvana’s breakthrough didn’t create grunge, but it did widely introduce the genre to the world. Kurt Cobain’s sharp lyrics and snarling vocals spoke to a new generation of kids looking for a savior. With a mixture of rock and punk styles, the band created a cocktail that crossed musical boundaries. The work of bassist Krist Novoselic and drummer Dave Grohl rounded out the singer’s visionary music. Laying a template for 1990s rock, anthems such as “Smells Like Teen Spirit” altered the landscape of pop culture.
#4: “Led Zeppelin” (1969)
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Led Zeppelin
Where do you begin with a band like Led Zeppelin? For this hard rock group, it all started with their debut in 1969. With instrumental firepower, the quartet announced their arrival as the latest and greatest in music. “Good Times Bad Times” flies out of your speakers with a fierce attitude and a no-holds-barred sound. This kind of fury is further evidenced by the likes of “Communication Breakdown,” bringing together high-powered riffs from Jimmy Page and an amazing rhythm section. Their blues-inspired music saluted the past and charted a course for a heavier sound in the genre. Helping to reignite the flames of rock, Zeppelin spent the next decade building off of this amazing foundation with many other landmark works including their fourth album.
#3: “Thriller” (1982)
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Michael Jackson
The best-selling album ever by most metrics, “Thriller” also ranks among the greatest examples of pop music on record. The not yet-controversial Michael Jackson was well into his solo career by 1982 and headed for even greater heights with this release. Co-produced by Quincy Jones, the album’s cutting-edge sound forever changed music. The title song hits hard all these years later with a production that blends funky grooves and horror movie-references. The hit singles didn’t stop there because the track list is full of them. Jackson delivers a famously energetic performance on “Beat It” as well as the iconic “Billie Jean.” This is a true landmark album.
#2: “The Dark Side of the Moon” (1973)
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Pink Floyd
With their eighth album, the progressive group stretched their talents to imaginative heights. “The Dark Side of the Moon” ranks among the most successful and acclaimed releases of all time. Pink Floyd manage to make sounds that feel like you’re heading to space and back, creating a soundtrack for a sci-fi film that doesn’t exist. Few albums can reach the soaring highs of “The Great Gig in the Sky” and the groovy basslines of “Money” all in one collection. Once experimental and now a confirmed classic, the atmospheric record never fails to inspire with its brilliant lyrics and music. It was far from the band’s final masterwork either, who ended the 1970s with “The Wall.”
#1: “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” (1967)
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The Beatles
After the band stopped touring, The Beatles’ best work came out in stellar albums, including this masterpiece. The experimental record features a revolutionary mixture of rock and pop, which all comes together like a spectacular show. It includes everything from orchestral numbers to traditional Indian music-inspired pieces. Each group member contributes mightily, themselves, with even Ringo getting one of the album’s most triumphant moments on “With a Little Help from My Friends.” It all comes down to the final number “A Day in the Life” which stands as one of John and Paul’s finest collaborations. And while “Sgt. Pepper’s” might be their crowning achievement, that doesn’t discount their giant achievements on later classics like “Abbey Road.”
What’s your favorite album of all time? Let us know in the comments below.
