Classic Western albums: must-listen recommendations you should hear at least once
From timeless classics to hidden gems, we present a carefully curated selection of essential Western albums.
We’ve gathered masterpieces that have left their mark on music history, as well as lesser-known records that resonate deeply.
Each of these albums carries a unique charm that reflects the artist’s individuality and the spirit of its era, revealing something new with every listen.
These works highlight the depth of music and reaffirm its diversity.
They’re perfect for newcomers to Western music and offer enjoyment for everyone from beginners to seasoned listeners.
Find your favorite record, broaden your musical horizons, and savor an unforgettable listening experience.
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- Hall of Jazz: Classic Blue Note Records. Recommended jazz albums.
- A classic tribute album of Western music. A highly recommended pick.
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Classic Western albums: Recommended records you should listen to at least once (71–80)
Love The Way You LieEminem
This is a classic track by Eminem, a globally renowned rapper known by virtually every artist and music professional.
His ultra-fast rap style gained massive popularity, especially among young people, and this song comes from a time when his fame was at its peak, including appearances in films.
WorthFifth Harmony
Even after a member left, the popularity of this female dance and vocal unit, Fifth Harmony, never waned.
As their name suggests, it’s a standout track featuring melodies where the five-part harmonies lock in beautifully, paired with an irresistibly upbeat groove.
FireworkKaty Perry
It’s a masterpiece by Katy Perry, who has now become the world’s greatest hip-hop artist carrying the hip-hop scene.
Her music, loved by celebrities around the world, is highly refined and sure to captivate anyone who listens.
Classic Western albums: Must-listen recommended albums (81–90)
Hey MamaDavid Guetta
This is a famous song by David Guetta, whose musical sense is so renowned that virtually everyone in the artist community knows his name.
A collaboration with Nicki Minaj, known for her flashy fashion and exceptional sense of rhythm, the track has an upbeat vibe that has influenced many people, especially young listeners.
Latch feat.Sam SmithDisclosure
Settle is the 2013 debut album by the British dance duo Disclosure.
It uses the garage and 2-step beats that were popular in the UK club scene, layering them with top vocalists like Sam Smith.
While the club scene of the 2010s became saturated with EDM, we shouldn’t forget artists like Disclosure who emerged from the traditional underground club culture.
In that sense, this album is a classic that deserves much wider recognition.
Let Me See YouGirl Talk
One of the techniques used by DJs is called sampling.
It involves taking a portion of an existing song and repurposing it in one’s own music.
The group that has mastered this approach is Girl Talk.
Centered on hip-hop, they sample a wide array of hit songs from different eras and places to create the ultimate sampling music.
Their representative album is Feed The Animals, and in the track Let Me See You they even use a Fleetwood Mac song.
Because they draw from such a mix of genres, there’s bound to be a part that makes anyone think, “I love this bit!”
Late BluesIda
A delicate slowcore that’s so cute you’d want to tuck it away in a little treasure chest, yet it carries a certain emotional weight.
The vibe is somewhat similar to what CHARA represents in Japan.
Sung by male–female twin vocals, it unfolds slowly and gently, as if speaking to you.