Rolling Stone magazine has been a leading voice in music journalism for decades, and their list of the top ten albums of all time is a highly respected and widely debated topic among music fans. From classic rock to hip-hop, the list includes a diverse range of genres and artists that have shaped the music industry and continue to influence new generations of musicians.
The list, which was last updated in 2020, includes the following albums:
“The Beatles” (1968) – The Beatles
“Pet Sounds” (1966) – The Beach Boys
“What’s Going On” (1971) – Marvin Gaye
“Exile on Main St.” (1972) – The Rolling Stones
“London Calling” (1979) – The Clash
“Highway 61 Revisited” (1965) – Bob Dylan
“The Velvet Underground and Nico” (1967) – The Velvet Underground
“Kind of Blue” (1959) – Miles Davis
“Nevermind” (1991) – Nirvana
“The Joshua Tree” (1987) – U2
The Beatles’ self-titled album, also known as “The White Album,” tops the list as the greatest album of all time according to Rolling Stone. The album, which was released in 1968, showcases the band’s versatility and experimentation with different genres, from rock to folk to electronic music. It features some of their most iconic songs, such as “Helter Skelter” and “Blackbird,” and is considered a masterpiece of rock music.
Coming in at number two is “Pet Sounds” by The Beach Boys. The album, which was released in 1966, is widely considered one of the most influential albums of all time and is often cited as an inspiration for many other artists, including The Beatles. The album features a mix of pop, rock, and folk music, and showcases Brian Wilson’s songwriting and production skills.
Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” takes the third spot on the list. The album, which was released in 1971, is a political and social commentary on the state of the world during the Vietnam War era. It features a mix of R&B, soul, and funk music, and is considered one of the most important albums of the 20th century for its message of peace and unity.
Other notable albums on the list include “Exile on Main St.” by The Rolling Stones, “London Calling” by The Clash, and “Highway 61 Revisited” by Bob Dylan. Each of these albums is considered a classic and has had a significant impact on the music industry.
In conclusion, Rolling Stone’s list of the top ten albums of all time is a testament to the enduring impact of music on our lives and culture. From The Beatles to Nirvana, these albums have stood the test of time and continue to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers. The list is a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and to reflect the world around us. It is a must-read for any music fan looking to explore the history and evolution of music.