Classic Western albums: must-listen recommendations you should hear at least once

The Very Best of Deep PurpleDeep Purple

Deep Purple – Smoke On The Water (Live, 1974, California)

Let’s embark on a journey through the quintessential paths of Western rock.

The compilation album by Deep Purple, the British hard rock giants, is the perfect guide for that trip.

Covering their trajectory from their 1968 debut up to May 2000, this collection is like a treasure chest.

The iconic guitar riff of Smoke on the Water and the epic scope of Child in Time are unforgettable once you hear them.

Their music, which portrays universal themes such as love and loss, war and peace with a heavy, powerful sound, resonates across generations.

It’s a must-listen not only for rock fans but also for anyone looking to make their debut into Western music.

BabyJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber – Baby ft. Ludacris

The male vocalist who captivates the world had been showcasing his talent since childhood.

Among his works, Justin Bieber’s “Baby” stands out as exceptionally popular and has had a major impact on young people across the United States.

Its popularity remains strong, and many young people still listen to it today.

How Crazy Are You?Meja

Meja – How crazy are you

It’s a classic song with a striking, beatbox-like intro.

The artist is from Sweden, a country known for brilliant melody-makers, and her cute voice is pleasing to the ear as she delivers a catchy melody.

Near DarkBurial

Burial – Near Dark

EDM became a major movement in the 2010s.

It’s often said to be influenced by dubstep, and one of dubstep’s early masterpieces is Burial’s “Untrue.” Its austere, dark aesthetic is worlds apart from EDM and may surprise many listeners, yet elements like the heavily distorted bass hint at its later impact on EDM.

While it’s a niche, somewhat esoteric album that EDM fans might not immediately take to, it’s an essential listen for any dance music devotee.

Send It OnD’Angelo

D’Angelo Send It On

Who is the current king of Black music? Many people would probably answer, “D’Angelo.” He’s a rare artist who crafts that distinctly Black-music groove, with melodies that glide effortlessly across octaves and rhythms that lock in with the drums and bass.

His signature album is likely Voodoo.

Its sticky, almost ritualistic groove and the overdubbed vocals that build into a one-man gospel can be impossible to escape once you’re hooked.

Thinkin Bout YouFrank Ocean

Frank Ocean – Thinkin Bout You – Saturday Night Live (2012) (reupload)

Frank Ocean, a member of the American hip-hop collective Odd Future and one of the premier singers of the 2010s.

With his beautiful vocals and ever-forward-thinking sound, he grew into one of the leading young singers, and his debut work is Channel Orange.

Incorporating hip-hop elements—such as a guest appearance by Odd Future leader Tyler, the Creator—the album unfolds into a beautiful R&B experience.

MothershipLed Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin – Immigrant Song (Official Audio)

A luxurious compilation album that distills the essence of Led Zeppelin’s career.

Released in November 2007, it includes the band’s signature songs such as “Whole Lotta Love” and “Stairway to Heaven.” With powerful rhythms and melodic guitar phrases, you’ll find yourself drawn deeper into the music.

It’s a record packed with the band’s appeal, from Jimmy Page’s innovative guitar work to Robert Plant’s distinctive vocals.

Combining accessibility with depth, it’s perfect as an introduction to Western rock.

Highly recommended not only for rock fans but also for those encountering English-language music for the first time.