Apple Music recently compiled a list of the best 100 albums of all time, featuring a diverse range of genres and artists. While some placements received widespread applause, others sparked debate. The list features notable names such as Travis Scott, Tyler, The Creator, AC/DC, Lady Gaga, Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, Eminem, Drake, Missy Elliott, Billie Eilish, N.W.A, 2Pac, Sade, Fleetwood Mac, and Nas.. However, the top 10 selections particularly drew attention and varied opinions.
Number 10 & 9
Closing out the list at the tenth spot is Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” (2016). This album, her sixth studio effort, was accompanied by a film of the same title. It is a conceptual album that details Beyoncé’s experiences with her husband’s infidelity, exploring various genres like reggae, gospel, country, blues, hip-hop, and rock. At the ninth spot is Nirvana’s second studio album, “Nevermind” (1991). This album is celebrated as one of the greatest rock albums ever, serving as a cornerstone for the grunge and alternative rock subgenres. Composed mainly by Kurt Cobain, it brought significant acclaim to the band and established Cobain as the “voice of his generation.”
Number 8 & 7
Amy Winehouse’s second and final album, “Back to Black” (2006), takes the eighth spot. Inspired by her breakup with her then ex-boyfriend and eventual husband, the album blends contemporary R&B and neo-soul. Kendrick Lamar’s “good kid, m.A.A.d city” ranks seventh. This album, his second studio release, garners acclaim for depicting his upbringing in Compton and exploring themes of poverty, gang violence, and racial discrimination. It laid the foundation for Kendrick’s reputation as one of the most respected hip-hop artists of this decade.
Number 6-4
Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in the Key of Life” (1976) occupies the sixth spot. This album is a hallmark of Stevie’s legacy, praised for its recording quality and musical depth. Frank Ocean’s “Blonde” (2016) ranks fifth. This album showcases an abstract, atmospheric sound and stands as a modern classic in pop and alternative soul. Prince and the Revolution’s “Purple Rain” takes the fourth spot, showcasing a richer musical complexity compared to Prince’s earlier albums, with grandiose, synthesized, and psychedelic qualities.
Number 3 & 2
Debuting the top three is The Beatles’ “Abbey Road” (1969), the last recorded album by arguably the biggest band ever. The album incorporates rock, pop, blues, and progressive rock and remains one of the greatest albums ever. Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” is ranked second. As the best-selling album of all time, with sales between 70-100 million worldwide, it blends post-disco, funk, pop, synth-pop, R&B, and rock.
Number 1
Taking the crown is “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” (1998). This neo-soul and R&B album incorporates elements of hip-hop, soul, and reggae, and its lyrics explore Hill’s experiences with pregnancy and conflicts within her former group, the Fugees, along with themes of love and spirituality. The album’s title draws inspiration from the film and autobiographical novel “The Education of Sonny Carson” and Carter G. Woodson’s “The Mis-Education of the Negro.”
Overall, the list is very respectable; however, it has faced criticism. For instance, some argue that certain albums, such as Kendrick Lamar’s “To Pimp A Butterfly,” deserved inclusion. Moreover, others point out the lack of representation for African albums or other genres. Additionally, the high placement of artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish over acts like Nas, Snoop Dogg, The Notorious B.I.G., and 2Pac has been a point of contention.
