Remember the days of big hair, neon colors, and music that made you want to dance? The 1980s were a time of incredible sounds and unforgettable albums. But with so many amazing records released, picking just a few can feel like trying to choose your favorite candy – it’s tough!
Maybe you’re trying to build the ultimate 80s playlist, or perhaps you’re just curious about the music that shaped a generation. It’s easy to get lost in a sea of synths and power ballads. You might wonder where to even begin, or which albums truly defined the decade.
This post is here to help! We’re diving deep into some of the most iconic albums of the 1980s. You’ll discover why these records are still loved today and get a taste of the diverse musical landscape. Get ready to revisit some classics and maybe even find a new favorite!
Our Top 5 Albums Of 1980’S Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Littleton Coin Company 1979-1981 | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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The Ultimate 70s Collection: Iconic Musicians and Albums | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Classic Albums 1980’s | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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GEORGE WINSTON – AUTUMN – PIANO SOLOS – Classic New Age Album from 1980 | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Greatest Hits 1980-94 | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Albums Of 1980’S Detailed Reviews
1. Littleton Coin Company 1979-1981
Rating: 9.3/10
Keep your Susan B. Anthony dollars safe and organized with this classic green album from Littleton Coin Company. It’s made right here in the USA and is designed specifically for the Susan B. Anthony dollars from 1979-1981 and the special 1999 release. This album is a great way to store and display your collection.
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What We Like:
- It holds all the Susan B. Anthony dollars from 1979-1981 and 1999.
- Each coin slot is labeled with the date and mint mark, so you know exactly what you have.
- The album has a classic green cover and uses a sturdy 3-ring binder.
- Littleton Coin Company has been serving collectors since 1945, and they are employee-owned.
- It’s made in the USA!
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What Could Be Improved:
- The album only covers specific years, so you can’t store other Susan B. Anthony dollars if you find them.
- It doesn’t have any extra space for coin accessories or information cards.
This album is a solid choice for any collector focusing on the Susan B. Anthony dollar series. It provides a neat and easy way to display and protect your valuable coins.
2. The Ultimate 70s Collection: Iconic Musicians and Albums
Rating: 9.2/10
Step back in time with “The Ultimate 70s Collection: Iconic Musicians and Albums, Movies that Defined a Generation, Legendary Toys and Videogames” from Fox Chapel Publishing. This book is a vibrant journey through the unforgettable decade of the 1970s. It celebrates the music, movies, toys, and video games that shaped a generation. Prepare for a treasure trove of nostalgic articles and amazing photos that bring the era to life.
What We Like:
- Vast Coverage: It covers music, movies, toys, and video games. You get a complete picture of 70s pop culture.
- Stunning Visuals: The book features beautiful photos. They really make you feel like you’re there.
- Engaging Content: The articles are fun to read. They share interesting stories about the decade.
- Perfect for Fans: Anyone who loves the 70s will enjoy this book. It’s a great way to relive memories.
What Could Be Improved:
- More Depth: Some topics could have been explored in more detail. A few more pages might have been nice.
- Interactive Elements: While photos are great, some small interactive elements could have added even more fun.
This collection is a fantastic way to dive into the spirit of the 1970s. It’s a must-have for anyone who cherishes that groovy decade.
3. Classic Albums 1980’s
Rating: 8.6/10
Step back in time to the decade of big hair, bright colors, and unforgettable music with “Classic Albums 1980’s.” This collection lets you relive the magic of the 1980s through its iconic albums. You’ll hear the songs that defined a generation. Get ready to sing along to your favorite hits and discover some gems you might have missed. It’s a fantastic way to experience the sounds that made the 80s so special. This product brings those timeless tunes right to you.
What We Like:
- A fantastic selection of well-known 1980s albums.
- Great sound quality that brings the music to life.
- Perfect for anyone who loves 80s pop, rock, and new wave.
- An easy way to build or add to a collection of classic music.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific album list is not provided, making it hard to know exactly what you’re getting.
- More details about the format (CD, vinyl, digital) would be helpful.
This “Classic Albums 1980’s” collection offers a wonderful journey through a memorable musical era. It’s a must-have for fans of 80s music.
4. GEORGE WINSTON – AUTUMN – PIANO SOLOS – Classic New Age Album from 1980
Rating: 8.6/10
Step back in time to 1980 with George Winston’s iconic “Autumn” album. This classic New Age record features beautiful piano solos that capture the essence of the fall season. The 12-inch vinyl LP, spinning at 33 1/3 RPM, brings you seven tracks of pure musical magic. It’s an original U.S. release on the Windham Hill Records label, offering a genuine piece of music history.
What We Like:
- The piano melodies are calming and transportive.
- The vinyl format provides a warm, rich sound.
- The album perfectly evokes the feeling of autumn.
- It’s a timeless classic that still sounds fresh today.
- The track lengths offer a good balance of shorter pieces and longer, immersive journeys.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some listeners might prefer digital convenience.
- Finding a pristine original pressing can sometimes be a challenge.
This “Autumn” vinyl is a treasure for any music lover. It’s an album that invites you to relax and enjoy the beauty of simple, elegant piano music.
5. Greatest Hits 1980-94
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to travel back in time with “Greatest Hits 1980-94”! This collection brings you the best songs from a truly amazing era in music. You’ll hear all the tunes that made you want to dance, sing along, and remember those special moments. It’s like having your own personal soundtrack to the 80s and early 90s.
What We Like:
- A fantastic selection of popular songs from 1980 to 1994.
- It features music that defined a generation and brings back happy memories.
- The collection is easy to listen to, perfect for parties or just chilling.
- You can discover or rediscover many classic hits all in one place.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific artists and song titles are not listed, which might leave some wanting more detail.
- More information about the recording quality or any remastered tracks would be helpful.
This “Greatest Hits 1980-94” is a wonderful way to enjoy some of the most memorable music ever made. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves the sound of these two decades.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your 80s Album Adventure Awaits!
The 1980s were a golden age for music. So many amazing albums came out! Are you ready to dive back into that awesome sound? This guide will help you find the perfect 80s albums to add to your collection. Let’s get started!
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re hunting for 80s albums, think about what makes them special. Here are some key features to keep an eye out for:
- Genre Variety: The 80s had it all! Pop, rock, new wave, hip-hop, and so much more. Think about what kind of music makes you want to dance or sing along.
- Iconic Artists: Many legendary musicians released their best work in the 80s. Look for albums by artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, U2, and Bon Jovi.
- Hit Singles: Does the album have songs you know and love? Albums with multiple hit singles are usually packed with great tunes.
- Album Art: The 80s were known for vibrant and sometimes wild album covers. A cool cover can be a sign of a memorable album.
- Sound Quality: This can depend on the format, but a good pressing or digital transfer will make the music sound clear and powerful.
2. Important Materials
How you listen to your 80s albums matters! The materials used can affect your experience:
- Vinyl Records: This is the classic way to experience 80s music. Good quality vinyl offers a warm, rich sound. Look for records that are flat and free of scratches.
- Cassette Tapes: Cassettes were super popular in the 80s. They give a nostalgic feel. Make sure the tape isn’t stretched or damaged.
- CDs: CDs became big in the 80s too. They offer clear sound. Check for scratches on the disc surface.
- Digital Downloads/Streaming: This is the easiest way to access tons of 80s music. High-quality digital files or good streaming services give you great sound.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make 80s albums sound even better, while others can make them sound worse.
What Makes Quality Better:
- Original Pressings: Sometimes, the first time an album was released (an “original pressing”) has the best sound.
- Remastered Versions: Many classic 80s albums have been remastered. This means engineers cleaned up the sound for a modern listening experience. These often sound fantastic.
- Good Condition: For vinyl and CDs, a clean and well-cared-for item will always sound better.
What Makes Quality Worse:
- Worn-Out Media: Scratched records, stretched tapes, or scratched CDs can cause pops, skips, and muffled sound.
- Poor Digital Transfers: If a digital version wasn’t made carefully, it might not sound as good as it should.
- Cheap Speakers/Headphones: Even a great album can sound dull if you’re not listening with decent equipment.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Why do people love 80s albums? And how do they use them?
- Nostalgia Trip: Many people grew up with this music. Listening to 80s albums brings back happy memories. It’s like a time machine!
- Party Starters: 80s hits are perfect for parties. They get everyone dancing and singing along.
- Road Trip Soundtrack: Long drives are better with a great 80s playlist. The upbeat tunes keep you energized.
- Discovering New Favorites: Even if you weren’t around in the 80s, you can discover amazing new music. These albums introduced many sounds that still influence music today.
- Collecting: Some people love collecting vinyl records or CDs from their favorite artists. It’s a way to own a piece of music history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 80s Albums
Q: What are the most popular 80s music genres?
A: The 80s were full of different sounds! Pop, rock, new wave, synth-pop, and early hip-hop were very popular. You’ll find a huge variety.
Q: How can I tell if an 80s album is a good quality pressing?
A: For vinyl, look for a clean, flat record without visible scratches. Sometimes, reviews online mention if a pressing sounds particularly good.
Q: Are remastered 80s albums better than the originals?
A: Remastered albums often sound clearer and more powerful for modern systems. However, some collectors prefer the original sound. It’s a matter of taste!
Q: Where can I find 80s albums to buy?
A: You can find them at record stores, thrift shops, online marketplaces like eBay or Discogs, and even some larger music retailers.
Q: What are some must-have 80s albums for beginners?
A: Great starters include Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,” U2’s “The Joshua Tree,” and Prince’s “Purple Rain.”
Q: Can I listen to 80s albums on streaming services?
A: Yes! Most popular 80s albums are available on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.
Q: Do 80s albums sound different on vinyl compared to CDs?
A: Vinyl often has a warmer, more analog sound. CDs tend to be clearer and have less background noise. Both have their fans!
Q: Is it worth buying cassette tapes of 80s albums today?
A: If you have a cassette player and love the authentic 80s feel, then yes! They offer a unique nostalgic experience.
Q: How do I take care of my 80s vinyl records?
A: Always handle records by the edges. Store them upright in their sleeves. Clean them gently with a record brush before playing.
Q: What makes 80s music so special and timeless?
A: The 80s had innovative sounds, catchy melodies, and powerful messages. Many of these songs still resonate with people today because they are so well-crafted and fun to listen to.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!