The Best Albums, From All Genres, Of 1981
Ranked from best to almost the best, but not quite. Although, depending on your subjective preferences, you may prefer a different order, omit some, or even ponder some that are not included. Trust me, I’ve changed the order countless times because determining the best albums often depends on how one feels at any given moment. Either way, let’s simply enjoy the best music from 1981.
1. Foreigner – 4
4 takes listeners on a captivating journey, blending powerful rock anthems with heartfelt ballads and infectious pop sensibilities. With chart-topping hits like Juke Box Hero and Waiting for a Girl Like You, Foreigner has solidified their place in music history with one of the greatest albums ever recorded. A true masterpiece in every sense of the word.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of 4.
2. Generation X – Kiss Me Deadly
Kiss Me Deadly by Generation X (Gen X) stands as a monument to the band's contribution to the punk rock and new wave movements of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Fronted by the charismatic Billy Idol, Gen X brought a unique blend of energy, attitude, and musicality to the table, and this album perfectly captures the essence of their sound and is one of the best albums from 1981.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Kiss Me Deadly.
3. AC/DC – For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)
For Those About to Rock (We Salute You) is AC/DC's eighth studio album and built upon the success of their previous releases, particularly Back In Black. With a collection of hard-hitting tracks that showcase AC/DC’s signature energy and riff-driven style, For Those About to Rock is one of the best albums released in 1981 and is an exceptional entry in the band's discography.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of For Those About to Rock (We Salute You).
4. ABBA – The Visitors
With a unique blend of pop, rock, and electronic influences, The Visitors stands as a testament to ABBA's enduring legacy. It’s deeply introspective and musically diverse, showcasing ABBA's ability to create memorable pop songs while tackling deeper themes. This makes The Visitors a must-listen for both ABBA fans and those looking to explore the evolution of pop music in the early ‘80s.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of The Visitors.
5. Iron Maiden – Killers
Killers solidified Iron Maiden's status as heavy metal pioneers. Building on the foundation laid by their self-titled debut album, the band pushed their boundaries and continued to evolve by delivering a record that combined adrenaline-fueled energy with thought-provoking lyrics and some of the greatest riffs you’re ever likely to hear.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Killers.
6. Earth, Wind & Fire – Raise!
Raise! is a testament to Earth, Wind & Fire's incredible artistry and their ability to create timeless music. From the energetic and irresistible Let's Groove to the quintessential closer, The Changing Times, each song showcases the band's unmatched musical prowess and their ability to uplift and inspire listeners. Raise! is, subsequently, a must-listen for any fan and newcomer alike.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Raise!.
7. Grace Jones – Nightclubbing
Nightclubbing is a masterful work of musical art that defies genre conventions and pushes the boundaries of musical expression. Grace Jones' distinctive style, combined with innovative production and diverse influences, results in an album that continues to captivate and inspire listeners; inviting them into a world of sophistication, intrigue, and sonic experimentation.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Nightclubbing.
8. Air Supply – The One That You Love
The One That You Love marked another successful chapter for Air Supply. Building upon their signature sound of melodic ballads and heartfelt lyrics, this album continues to capture the hearts of listeners with its emotive tunes and strong vocal performances. The result is a record that is one of the best albums of their illustrious career.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of The One That You Love.
9. Quarterflash – Quarterflash (Self-Titled)
Quarterflash's self-titled debut album is a hidden gem from the early 80s, and one of the best albums released in 1981, capturing the essence of the era's musical diversity. While Harden My Heart remains the standout hit, the album as a whole offers a well-rounded collection of classic songs that are so well-polished that it makes this album sound like a well-put-together greatest hits release.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Quarterflash.
10. Ronnie Milsap – There's No Gettin' Over Me
Ronnie Milsap’s thirteenth studio album, There’s No Gettin’ Over Me, is a remarkable collection of country and pop-infused tunes that showcase his signature blend of storytelling, soulful vocals, and impeccable musicianship. It’s, without a doubt, one of the best albums released from the era and is one of Milsap’s greatest recordings.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of There’s No Gettin’ Over Me.
11. Billy Squier – Don't Say No
Don’t Say No features ten tracks of hard-hitting rock music with catchy riffs and powerful vocals that ultimately became Squier's breakout success, following his solid solo debut The Tale Of Tape. Spawning several hit singles and earning him critical acclaim, Don’t Say No is a quintessential example of the 80s hard rock sound and is a must-listen.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Don’t Say No.
12. Peter Cetera – Peter Cetera (Self-Titled)
Peter Cetera's self-titled solo debut album was a musical departure from the legendary band Chicago, where he served as lead vocalist and bassist. Yet, with a greater focus on rock elements, this release showcases just what an incredible talent as a musician, vocalist, and songwriter Cetera really is. This release is a hidden gem if there ever was one.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Peter Cetera.
13. Quincy Jones – The Dude
The Dude is a testament to the exceptional talent and musical genius of Quincy Jones. With its interweaving styles, impeccable craftsmanship, and infectious grooves, The Dude remains not only a landmark release for Jones but is one of the greatest albums released in 1981.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of The Dude.
14. Elton John – The Fox
While not reminiscent of his classic era recordings, The Fox, Elton John’s fifteenth studio album, offers a unique listening experience for fans willing to venture into the uncharted territories of Elton John's discography. Blending his legacy sound with the more experimental and electronic techniques common in the early 80s, you’ll undoubtedly be captivated by The Fox; a hidden gem!
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of The Fox.
15. Mötley Crüe – Too Fast For Love
Packed with high-energy rockers, melodic ballads, and killer guitar work, Too Fast For Love is a must-listen debut album that has not only stood the test of time but it showcases the drive and musical talent of this motley crew. Offering an insight into the monster of a band they would ultimately become, Too Fast For Love is essential for any fan of Mötley Crüe or the 80s hard rock music scene.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Too Fast For Love.
Honourable Mentions (In Alphabetical Order)
These are albums from 1981 that I appreciate but don’t feel are the best of the best. However, there’s some killer music to be heard here, so load up your favourite streaming service and give them a listen, for our music tastes are subjective and you may just come across an album that you consider a masterpiece.
