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Music buff? Here’s a list of the top 10 albums of the 1980’s based on rankings in the “Best of the 80’s” album lists from Pitchfork, Rolling Stone and Slant. Perfect to get you started for the Top Albums Of The Decade (1980s) quiz.
1. Talking Heads – Remain In Light (Aggregate Rank: 1, Points: 291)
Released in 1980, Remain In Light by Talking Heads is a revolutionary album that fused art rock with African polyrhythms. Produced by the legendary Brian Eno, the album introduced groundbreaking musical techniques, including looping and sampling, which gave it a dynamic and layered sound. Tracks like “Once in a Lifetime” became instant classics, characterized by David Byrne’s introspective lyrics and a hypnotic rhythm section. The band’s experimentation with minimalist structures and global influences pushed the boundaries of what popular music could achieve.
Remain In Light is hailed as one of the most influential albums of all time, inspiring countless artists and earning a permanent place in music history. Its innovative sound and social commentary continue to resonate, making it a timeless masterpiece.
2. Prince & The Revolution – Purple Rain (Aggregate Rank: 2, Points: 287)
Prince & The Revolution’s 1984 album Purple Rain is a masterpiece that defined the 1980s. Seamlessly blending rock, funk, R&B, and pop, it showcases Prince’s virtuosity as a musician and performer. The album features iconic tracks such as “When Doves Cry,” “Let’s Go Crazy,” and the emotive title track “Purple Rain.” These songs cemented Prince’s reputation as a musical innovator and cultural icon.
Accompanied by the film of the same name, the album’s narrative explores themes of love, identity, and ambition. With its electrifying guitar solos, lush arrangements, and deeply personal lyrics, Purple Rain resonates across generations. It remains one of the best-selling albums of all time and a definitive statement of Prince’s artistic legacy.
3. Public Enemy – It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back (Aggregate Rank: 3, Points: 279)
Released in 1988, Public Enemy’s It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back is a landmark in hip-hop history. The album’s dense production, courtesy of the Bomb Squad, revolutionized the genre with its aggressive layering of samples, noise, and funk-driven beats. Chuck D’s commanding voice delivers politically charged lyrics, tackling themes of systemic oppression, racism, and empowerment.
Tracks like “Bring the Noise” and “Don’t Believe the Hype” showcase the group’s ability to combine revolutionary messages with high-energy beats, making the album both thought-provoking and sonically thrilling. Public Enemy’s uncompromising approach made It Takes a Nation not just an album but a cultural statement that continues to influence hip-hop and activism.
4. R.E.M. – Murmur (Aggregate Rank: 4, Points: 277)
R.E.M.’s debut album, Murmur, released in 1983, marked the beginning of a new era in alternative rock. The album is characterized by its jangly guitars, enigmatic lyrics, and Michael Stipe’s hauntingly melodic vocals. Tracks like “Radio Free Europe” and “Talk About the Passion” showcase the band’s ability to craft introspective yet universally resonant songs.
Murmur received widespread acclaim for its fresh sound, blending post-punk and folk influences with a distinct Southern Gothic aesthetic. The album’s understated production by Mitch Easter and Don Dixon emphasizes mood and texture, setting it apart from the glossy pop of the era. R.E.M. would go on to define alternative rock, and Murmur remains a cornerstone of their legacy.
5. Michael Jackson – Thriller (Aggregate Rank: 5, Points: 268)
Released in 1982, Michael Jackson’s Thriller is the best-selling album of all time, a cultural phenomenon that transcended music. With iconic tracks like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the title track “Thriller,” the album defined the sound of the 1980s and cemented Jackson’s status as the King of Pop.
Produced by Quincy Jones, Thriller combines pop, rock, R&B, and funk with unmatched precision. The album’s groundbreaking music videos, particularly for “Thriller,” elevated the visual aspect of pop music and set new industry standards. Jackson’s unmatched talent, from his smooth vocals to his electrifying performances, makes Thriller a timeless masterpiece that continues to influence artists across genres.
6. Tom Waits – Rain Dogs (Aggregate Rank: 6, Points: 260)
Tom Waits’ 1985 album Rain Dogs is a kaleidoscopic journey through the underbelly of urban life, blending experimental sounds with traditional American music styles. Often considered his magnum opus, the album explores themes of love, loss, and survival with gritty, poetic storytelling. Tracks like “Downtown Train” and “Jockey Full of Bourbon” showcase Waits’ distinctive growl and a wide array of instrumentation, from marimbas to accordions.
Rain Dogs defies genre conventions, merging elements of blues, jazz, and folk into a surreal sonic experience. Its raw, theatrical quality makes it a standout in Waits’ illustrious career. A favorite among critics, the album remains an enduring testament to Waits’ unique artistry and his ability to craft vivid narratives through music.
7. U2 – The Joshua Tree (Aggregate Rank: 7, Points: 246)
U2’s 1987 album The Joshua Tree propelled the band to international superstardom. Featuring iconic tracks like “With or Without You,” “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” and “Where the Streets Have No Name,” the album combines anthemic rock with introspective lyrics. Produced by Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, the album draws on American musical traditions while grappling with themes of spirituality, politics, and identity.
The expansive soundscapes and Bono’s impassioned vocals create a sense of grandeur, making The Joshua Tree both deeply personal and universally resonant. Widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time, it earned critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying U2’s place in rock history.
8. Joy Division – Closer (Aggregate Rank: 8, Points: 230)
Released in 1980, Closer by Joy Division is a haunting and introspective work that stands as a post-punk masterpiece. The album was released shortly after the tragic death of lead singer Ian Curtis, adding a poignant layer to its already somber tone. Tracks like “Isolation” and “Decades” feature Curtis’s deep, emotive vocals set against stark, minimalist instrumentation.
Produced by Martin Hannett, Closer is marked by its atmospheric soundscapes and experimental production techniques. The album explores themes of despair, alienation, and existential longing, resonating deeply with listeners. Joy Division’s influence on music is immeasurable, and Closer remains a landmark album that captures the essence of their artistry.
9. Sonic Youth – Daydream Nation (Aggregate Rank: 9, Points: 227)
Sonic Youth’s 1988 double album Daydream Nation is a seminal work in the alternative rock genre. Known for its experimental guitar tunings and extended instrumental sections, the album blends noise rock with a sense of melodic urgency. Tracks like “Teen Age Riot” and “Silver Rocket” showcase the band’s ability to balance dissonance with catchy hooks.
The album’s sprawling, ambitious nature captures the energy and spirit of the late 1980s indie scene. Praised for its innovation, Daydream Nation has influenced countless artists and remains a cornerstone of Sonic Youth’s legacy. Its induction into the National Recording Registry in 2005 highlights its enduring cultural significance.
10. The Replacements – Let It Be (Aggregate Rank: 10, Points: 220)
The Replacements’ 1984 album Let It Be marked a turning point for the band, showcasing a more mature and introspective side while retaining their punk rock edge. Tracks like “I Will Dare” and “Unsatisfied” highlight Paul Westerberg’s raw, heartfelt songwriting, exploring themes of love, alienation, and self-discovery.
Blending punk, rock, and pop influences, Let It Be defies categorization, offering both raucous anthems and tender ballads. The album’s humor and vulnerability resonate deeply with listeners, earning it a place among the most beloved records of the 1980s. A cornerstone of indie rock, Let It Be remains a testament to The Replacements’ enduring influence.
