In an ode to musical greatness, Apple Music has unveiled its highly anticipated list of the top 10 albums of all time, as part of its 100 Best list. Crafted by Apple Music’s team of experts in collaboration with a select group of artists, songwriters, producers, and industry professionals, the list celebrates the enduring impact of iconic records that have shaped the world of music.
To mark the occasion, Apple Music’s Zane Lowe and Ebro Darden engaged in a special roundtable discussion with legendary record producer, writer, and performer Nile Rodgers, alongside Grammy-nominated artist and producer Maggie Rogers. The roundtable, which aired globally on Apple Music, offered insightful reflections on the albums that made the coveted top 10.
Apple Music’s 100 Best Albums represents a modern 21st-century ranking of the greatest records ever made, transcending streaming numbers to deliver an editorial statement. It serves as a tribute to the albums that have left an indelible mark on music lovers worldwide, shaping the way we live and listen.
Exploring the Top 10 Albums:
10. Lemonade (2016), Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s genre-defying sixth album, “Lemonade,” captivates with its fervent emotion and bold experimentation. A testament to personal resilience and artistic bravery, each moment of “Lemonade” deserves admiration and analysis.
9. Nevermind (1991), Nirvana
“Nirvana’s “Nevermind” revolutionized popular culture, propelling grunge into the mainstream and anointing Kurt Cobain as a reluctant voice of a generation in need of catharsis.
8. Back to Black (2006), Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” transcends retro-soul, delivering poignant reflections on love and loss with unapologetic honesty and timeless artistry.
7. good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012), Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s “good kid, m.A.A.d city” stands as a defining hip-hop masterpiece, showcasing his unparalleled storytelling prowess and solidifying his status as a visionary artist.
6. Songs in the Key of Life (1976), Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in the Key of Life” epitomizes musical brilliance, offering a panoramic view of life’s complexities and emotions through soulful melodies and profound lyrics.
5. Blonde (2016), Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean’s “Blonde” is a kaleidoscopic journey through the artist’s psyche, blending innovative production with raw vulnerability to create a truly transformative listening experience.
4. Purple Rain (1984), Prince & The Revolution
“Prince’s “Purple Rain” redefined the boundaries of pop music, showcasing his unparalleled artistry and leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
3. Abbey Road (1969), The Beatles
The Beatles’ “Abbey Road” stands as an enduring testament to the band’s creative genius, offering a timeless collection of songs that continue to resonate across generations.
2. Thriller (1982), Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” remains a pop culture phenomenon, setting the standard for blockbuster albums and reshaping the music industry with its groundbreaking sound and visuals.
1. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998), Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” reigns supreme as a transformative masterpiece, offering a profound exploration of love, identity, and spirituality that transcends time and genre boundaries.
Apple Music’s 100 Best list is a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite people across the globe. As listeners explore the top 10 albums and beyond, they are reminded of the transformative impact of music on our lives and the timeless beauty of exceptional artistry.
