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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- Classic Western songs to listen to at night
- 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: Must-hear recommended albums (31–40)
Billy The BestBilly Joel
Billy Joel’s best-of album, Greatest Hits, is a perfect pick for newcomers to Western pop music.
Released in 1985 and 1997, this classic compilation features unforgettable melodies like Piano Man and Just the Way You Are.
Many of the tracks are familiar from TV and commercials, so you’ll likely find favorites right away.
It’s a work that lets you feel Joel’s musical evolution and experience fresh inspiration.
How about taking it along for your next drive?
PassengersBruno Bavota
Post-classical music led by the piano.
Its exquisitely delicate, highly lyrical melodies—built on piano rhythms reminiscent of guitar arpeggios and gradually expanded by strings—reach you directly and resound deeply within.
PentatonixDaft Punk
This is a classic by a world-renowned, Grammy Award–winning artist.
Their unique worldview has drawn attention from artists across the globe, leading to numerous featured collaborations.
This track is one of their signature songs.
Go DoJonsi
Sigur Ros is a post-rock band from Iceland that achieved worldwide popularity.
“Go” is a solo work by their vocalist, Jonsi.
While Sigur Ros is known for its cool, otherworldly sound that evokes glaciers and the aurora, Jonsi’s work, though using similar textures, is more uptempo and pop-oriented.
As you can tell from the album’s opening track, “Go Do,” it even has a refreshing energy that makes you feel like you could start running as you listen.
RunawayKanye West
Rapper Kanye West often makes headlines for various problematic behaviors.
However, setting his personality aside, his musical talent is indisputable—especially on the album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, which earned perfect scores from many hard-nosed Western music critics and stands as one of the finest classics in hip-hop history.
Its lavish choruses, incendiary lyrics, and verses that lay bare his own ugliness shocked listeners and proved he was more than just a troublemaker.
This is likely an album that will be impossible to ignore when recounting the history of hip-hop in the future.
Masterpieces of Western music: 10 must-hear albums (41–50)
Full PerformanceMum
They’re a “weird group” in a good way.
In terms of what alternative music can be now, they create a mysterious world by making all kinds of instruments sound in all kinds of ways.
There are other artists who play experimental sounds, but even though múm use unusual timbres, their songs somehow come together with a sense of balance, making you want to listen again.
HappyPharrell Williams
It’s a masterpiece by a brilliantly talented Black singer who burst onto the scene like a comet.
Its upbeat, catchy vibe—familiar even to those who only know Happy—will have you hitting repeat after just one listen.
The artist’s exceptional sense of rhythm and captivating vocals are must-hear highlights.