Table of Contents 64q43
- Dua Lipa – Future Nostalgia (2020)
- Lorde – Melodrama (2017)
- Billie Eilish – When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? (2019)
- Robyn – Body Talk (2010)
- Frank Ocean – Blonde (2016)
- Sade – Diamond Life (1984)
- Alicia Keys – Songs In A Minor (2001)
- Lady Gaga – The Fame Monster (2009)
- Amy Winehouse – Back to Black (2006)
- Lana Del Rey – Norman F*king Rockwell! (2019)
- Janet Jackson – Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989)
- Justin Timberlake – FutureSex/LoveSounds (2006)
- OutKast – Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003)
- Mariah Carey – Daydream (1995)
- Beyoncé – Lemonade (2016)
- Janelle Monáe – Dirty Computer (2018)
- Carly Rae Jepsen – Emotion (2015)
- Stevie Wonder – Talking Book (1972)
- Prince – Sign o' the Times (1987)
- Madonna – Music (2000)
- Taylor Swift – 1989 (2014)
- Ariana Grande – Thank U, Next (2019)
- Michael Jackson – Off the Wall (1979)
- Whitney Houston – Whitney Houston (1985)
- Solange – A Seat at the Table (2016)
- Harry Styles – Fine Line (2019)
- Adele – 21 (2011)
- Blood Orange – Freetown Sound (2016)
- Kendrick Lamar – To Pimp a Butterfly (2015)
- Missy Elliott – Supa Dupa Fly (1997)
- Britney Spears – Blackout (2007)
- Aaliyah – One in a Million (1996)
- Kate Bush – Hounds of Love (1985)
- George Michael – Faith (1987)
- Kylie Minogue – Light Years (2000)
- Donna Summer – Bad Girls (1979)
- Bee Gees – Saturday Night Fever (Soundtrack) (1977)
- Diana Ross – Diana (1980)
- Olivia Newton-John – Physics (1981)
- Tears for Fears – Songs from the Big Chair (1985)
- Eurythmics – Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) (1983)
- P!nk – Funhouse (2008)
- Cyndi Lauper – She's So Unusual (1983)
- Culture Club – Color by Numbers (1983)
- Soft Cell – Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret (1981)
- Grace Jones – Nightclubbing (1981)
- Blondie – Parallel Lines (1978)
- Roxy Music – Avalon (1982)
- David Bowie – Young Americans (1975)
- Dusty Springfield – Dusty in Memphis (1969)
- The Weeknd – After Hours (2020)
- Rihanna – ANTI (2016)
- Bruno Mars – 24K Magic (2016)
- Daft Punk – Random Access Memories (2013)
- Grimes – Art Angels (2015)
- Charli XCX – Pop 2 (2017)
- FKA twigs – LP1 (2014)
- Haim – Women in Music Pt. III (2020)
- Kendrick Lamar – DAMN. (2017)
- Childish Gambino – Awaken, My Love! (2016)
- Anderson .Paak – Malibu (2016)
- Robbie Williams – Escapology (2002)
- Katy Perry – Teenage Dream (2010)
- SZA – Ctrl (2017)
- Lianne La Havas – Is Your Love Big Enough? (2012)
- Fiona Apple – Tidal (1996)
- Björk – Homogenic (1997)
- Gwen Stefani – Love. Angel. Music. Baby. (2004)
- Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998)
- Paula Abdul – Forever Your Girl (1988)
- Beyoncé – RENAISSANCE (2022)
- Lady Gaga – Born This Way (2011)
- Janet Jackson – The Velvet Rope (1997)
- Mariah Carey – The Emancipation of Mimi (2005)
- Destiny's Child – The Writing's on the Wall (1999)
- TLC – CrazySexyCool (1994)
- Spice Girls – Spice (1996)
- Kylie Minogue – Fever (2001)
- Backstreet Boys – Millennium (1999)
- *NSYNC – No Strings Attached (2000)
- Dido – No Angel (1999)
- Christina Aguilera – Stripped (2002)
- P!nk – Missundaztood (2001)
- Jessie Ware – What’s Your Pleasure? (2020)
- Britney Spears – In the Zone (2003)
- Jennifer Lopez – J.Lo (2001)
- Ricky Martin – Ricky Martin (1999)
- Shakira – Laundry Service (2001)
- Céline Dion – Falling into You (1996)
- Aretha Franklin – I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You (1967)
- Whitney Houston – The Bodyguard (Soundtrack) (1992)
- Michael Jackson – Bad (1987)
- Prince – Purple Rain (1984)
- Madonna – Ray of Light (1998)
- Cher – Believe (1998)
- Marvin Gaye – Let's Get It On (1973)
- Diana Ross – The Boss (1979)
- Janet Jackson – Control (1986)
- Michael Jackson – Thriller (1982)
- Madonna – Like a Prayer (1989)
Dua Lipa – Future Nostalgia (2020) 2r56
The singer's second album Dua Lipa, entitled Future Nostalgia is acclaimed as one of the best pop albums of our time for its creative revival and modernization of the disco and funk sounds of the 1970s and 1980s. It pays homage to these eras with impeccable production and, at the same time, brings lyrics about the experiences of the current generation, making the work simultaneously nostalgic and innovative.
Lorde – Melodrama (2017) 2p3664
The second studio album by Lorde, Melodrama, from 2017, is a deep dive into the transition and self-discovery that follows the end of a relationship. After the resounding success of pure heroine, the singer channels the intense emotions of partying, heartbreak and loneliness into compositions that capture the complexity of youth. With her sharp lyricism and innovative production, Lorde not only delivers a grand pop album, but also proves that the genre can masterfully embrace introspection and vulnerability.
Billie Eilish – When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? (2019) 231h5y
Launched in 2019, When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? consolidated Billie Eilish as a global phenomenon and a landmark in pop music. With 14 tracks, the album not only launched her straight to stardom, but is widely acclaimed for its ability to reinvent the genre, reflecting the complex experience of fame at a young age. In her meteoric rise, Billie, with the experimental and innovative production of his brother Finneas, explored themes such as anxiety, fear and unrequited love with unabashed honesty. The album's sound, which experiments with the fusion of pop, electronic and indie, created a dark and captivating atmosphere, proving that pop can be deeply experimental, personal, introspective and authentic.
Robyn – Body Talk (2010) h1p50
In 2010, the artist Robyn revolutionized the pop scene with the release of body talk. Initially conceived as a trilogy of mini-albums (Body Talk Pt. 1, Pt. 2 and Pt. 3), the 15-track full-length became a landmark for combining pulsating electronic beats with cutting lyrical sincerity. Hailed for its ability to transform loneliness and heartbreak into dancefloor anthems, the album redefined the genre, proving that vulnerability and raw emotion can coexist in avant-garde pop production. Additionally, the hit Dancing On My Own has earned a place in several series soundtracks, with emphasis on Girls, Gossip Girl e Grey's Anatomy.
Frank Ocean – Blonde (2016) 1p5c2u
Frank Ocean launched Blonde, in 2016. This is an album that quickly became a turning point in music. With 17 tracks including the hits Nike's, Pink + White e Ivy, the work is the result of a period of profound experimentation, exploring themes involving masculinity, sexuality, disappointments, losses and traumas. In addition, the album stands out for its introspective and experimental sound, mixing pop, soul, indie, electronic and hip-hop, which consecrated it as one of the most important and authentic albums of all time in the pop and R&B scene.
Sade – Diamond Life (1984) 4r3c66
In 1984, the music scene was impacted by the debut of Said and his work in Diamond Life. With only nine tracks, this work quickly established itself as one of the best pop albums of all time. Far from the synthetic sound prevalent in the 1980s, Diamond Life stood out for its elegant fusion of jazz, soul and R&B, delivering an organic and deeply emotional sound. The album's timelessness, refined production and style sophisti-pop which helped to make it successful, along with the mature lyrics and seductive vocal performance of Said, give it a rare charm and depth that have cemented it as a true classic.
Alicia Keys – Songs In A Minor (2001) 1d6966
In 2001, artist Alicia Keys debuted her first album, Songs In A Minor. The project brings pop with elements of soul, R&B and jazz. Created by a young Alicia Keys of prodigious talent, the work emerged at a crucial moment, rescuing the essence of neo-soul and classic soul amidst more commercial pop. Its originality, depth and the artist's organic approach solidified the Songs in A Minor as an instant classic.
Lady Gaga – The Fame Monster (2009) 2v2a3w
Launched in 2009, the The fame monster emerged as an expanded reissue of the debut album by Lady Gaga, The fame, but quickly established itself as a massive project in its own right. Created during a period of intense ascension for the artist, it is considered one of the greatest pop albums of all time for its visionary production, captivating lyrics and Gaga's mastery of fusing performance art with massive pop hits.
Amy Winehouse – Back to Black (2006) 645f5g
Created in a period of intense inspiration and personal turmoil, Back to Black, Amy Winehouse, served as a catharsis for his relationships and addictions. The album delved deeply into the sounds of soul, R&B and jazz from the 1950s and 1960s, recapturing the authenticity and emotional rawness of a musical golden age. The pop touch is mainly due to the production of Mark Ronson e Salaam remi who ed Amy's powerful and unique voice.
Lana Del Rey – Norman F*king Rockwell! (2019) 2b5x6t
The album Norman F*king Rockwell! de Lana Del Rey emerged as a profound meditation on the American dream, pop culture and life in Los Angeles. The work, which marked a period of artistic maturation for the singer, features 14 tracks that deepen her melancholic and cinematic aesthetic, blending folk, rock and soft pop with poetic and introspective lyrics.
Janet Jackson – Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989) 3t3k4m
Released in 1989 and produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Rhythm Nation 1814 de Janet Jackson emerged during a period of growing social activism in the US, and the artist used her work to address more serious issues. Comprising 20 tracks, including interludes, the Rhythm Nation 1814 is a powerful statement about racial injustice, poverty, drugs and ignorance, all wrapped up in innovative dance-pop and R&B beats. The album not only spawned seven Top 5 singles on the Billboard Hot 100, but also inspired a generation with its vision of unity and awareness.
Justin Timberlake – FutureSex/LoveSounds (2006) 5s276x
In the year 2006, Justin Timberlake made a triumphant return and reinvention of his solo career with the release of FutureSex / LoveSounds. By distancing itself from its roots in boy bands, the artist has established himself as a pop icon. This project, created in collaboration with renowned producers Timbaland e Danya, resulted in a compilation of hits such as Sexy Back, What Goes Around…/…Comes Around e Summer Love that dominated the global charts.
OutKast – Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003) 6f6l6t
In the early 2000s, the OutKast launched Speakerboxxx / The Love Below“, an audacious double album that encapsulated the evolution and individuality of its , Big Boi e Andre 3000. With an impressive 40 tracks in total, the project blends hip-hop, funk, soul, pop and even rock, showcasing the unique sound and personality of each artist. This is one of the best pop albums for investing in boldness, exploring musical diversity and also for its ability to generate timeless hits while expanding the boundaries of hip-hop, proving the duo's versatility.
Mariah Carey – Daydream (1995) 3a1f2c
Daydream de Mariah Carey could not be left out of the ranking of best pop albums, as it was the one that consolidated her position as one of the greatest vocalists and songwriters in the music industry. With 12 tracks, the project marked a transition in her career, incorporating more R&B and hip-hop elements while maintaining pop in a period when Mariah sought greater creative expansion. The result is an album that balances powerful ballads and catchy tracks, reinforcing the artist's ability to master both pop mainstream as contemporary R&B, breaking records and influencing generations of singers.
Beyoncé – Lemonade (2016) 3c3137
When Beyonce lraised the conceptual Lemonade in 2016, it didn't take long for it to establish itself as one of the best pop albums of all time. Created in a period of turmoil and social issues, the project deeply addresses themes such as infidelity, anger, female empowerment and the rich African-American heritage. Lemonade moves fluidly and innovatively through different genres, from R&B and pop to rock, blues and country.
Janelle Monáe – Dirty Computer (2018) 4n2x5m
In a creative and unique way, Janelle Monáe launched the Dirty computer as a visual album that has a narrative, marking a period in which the artist openly explores her queer identity and the complexities of being a black woman. The project, which has 14 tracks, is a sonic journey that es through funk, R&B, pop and rock, celebrating individuality, freedom and reaffirmation of identity.
Carly Rae Jepsen – Emotion (2015) 594e53
In 2015, Carly Rae Jepsen launched Emotion, an album that consolidated her beyond the success of Call me Maybe and proved her artistic versatility and depth. Here, the album is a vibrant celebration of ’1980s pop that fuses with a modern sensibility and lyrics that explore love and vulnerability. It ranks among the greatest pop albums for elevating “bubblegum pop” to a higher level of quality that continues to please fans and win over critics.
Stevie Wonder – Talking Book (1972) 1r4p
Talking Book, from 1972, marked a crucial turning point in the career of Stevie Wonder. This was the first work in which the artist exercised total artistic control, revealing his genius as a composer, producer and instrumentalist. Through 10 songs, the album moves between funk, soul, R&B and pop, with revolutionary use of synthesizers and lyrics that address themes such as love, spirituality and social criticism.
Prince – Sign o' the Times (1987) 21691v
The album Sign o' the Times was born from a period of creativity and experimentation Prince. After the breakup of his band The Revolution and the shelving of projects, this double album released in 1987 became a reference in the exploration of the genres funk, soul, rock, pop and jazz. The album addresses social, spiritual and personal themes with unparalleled depth and boldness. It is considered one of the best pop albums for its stylistic range, complex lyrics and the ability to Prince in mastering every aspect of production, showing his versatility as a multi-instrumentalist and composer.
Madonna – Music (2000) 3a6o6a
Owner of many of the best pop songs, Madonna launched Music in the 2000s with a proposal focused on electronic and experimental sounds, coming soon after the success Ray of Light, which is also on this list. The project was created in collaboration with the French producer Mirwais Ahmadzai, resulting in a final blend of dance pop, electronica and folk, with hints of country. Here, Madonna managed to reinvent its image and sound, remaining relevant and influential in constant evolution.
Taylor Swift – 1989 (2014) 2e561h
Launched in 2014, 1989, from the popular Taylor Swift, marked his definitive transition from country to pop mainstream, consolidating a phase of maturity and dominance of pop culture. The project was created in collaboration with producers such as Max Martin e Shellback, resulting in a sound synthpop eighties, modern and highly addictive.
Ariana Grande – Thank U, Next (2019) 40q3m
In the year 2019, Ariana Grande transformed an intense period in his personal life into pure pop art with the release of Thank you, Next. The album, which came about after public losses and relationship breakups, is a 12-track sonic diary with cohesive, contemporary production that blends R&B and trap-pop. In addition, Ariana's ability to channel pain into resilience and emotional maturity was irable, making her one of the most important voices in pop today.
Michael Jackson – Off the Wall (1979) 4r1a4f
Already with Off the Wall, Michael Jackson marked the beginning of his global rise and his journey to the title of King of Pop. This was his first solo work with full creative control, in collaboration with the legendary producer Quincy Jones. The album features vibrant sounds that explore the boundaries of funk, disco, soul and pop, characterized by complex arrangements and powerful vocals.
Whitney Houston – Whitney Houston (1985) 62g73
Released in 1985, the debut album entitled Whitney Houston marked the astronomical rise of Whitney Houston, as it revealed one of the most powerful and exciting voices in the history of music. With 10 tracks, the project, which was created at a time of great expectations for the young singer, brings a mix of pop, R&B and soul ballads, with grand arrangements and refined productions.
Solange – A Seat at the Table (2016) 1t2e1w
A Seat at the Table de Solange emerged in 2016 as an intimate and political project. Created in a context of growing awareness about racial issues and black empowerment in the United States, the album takes us on a sonic and lyrical journey that explores themes of identity, anger, healing and the experience of black women in the world. Blending R&B, soul, funk and experimental pop, the work was acclaimed for its aesthetic beauty, its authenticity.
Harry Styles – Fine Line (2019) 5b3g59
The second album of Harry Styles, entitled Fine line, represented a significant step in the artist's solo career. The project distanced the singer even further from his roots in boy band, revealing a more mature and eclectic sound. Here we have a vibrant mix of pop rock, folk pop, progressive pop and indie pop, reflecting the artist's personal experiences with love, disappointments and self-discovery.
Adele – 21 (2011) 5i6tf
the disk 21, released by Adele in 2011, was created during a period of intense heartbreak, serving as an emotional catharsis for the end of a relationship. In addition to pop, we can find genres such as soul, R&B and blues with an authenticity and vulnerability that resonate worldwide to this day. The album not only broke countless sales records, but also became a cultural phenomenon, proving the universal power of a good song about a broken heart.
Blood Orange – Freetown Sound (2016) v2t5m
In 2016, Dev Hynes, Better known as Blood Orange, delivered an introspective and politically charged masterpiece in music form with the album Freetown Sound. Created against a backdrop of growing social tensions and movements for racial justice, the project is a sound network that transitions between R&B, pop, funk, hip-hop and new wave. The work serves as a profound personal reflection on black identity, gender, sexuality, and the experiences of life in the United States.
Kendrick Lamar – To Pimp a Butterfly (2015) 6j514h
To Pimp a Butterfly was a visceral response from Kendrick Lamar in 2015 to the social and political landscape of the United States, especially in relation to the black experience and the Black Lives Matter movement. With 16 tracks, this album challenges the boundaries between hip hop and pop, also introducing hints of jazz, funk, soul and spoken word poetry to build a complex narrative about fame, identity and depression.
Missy Elliott – Supa Dupa Fly (1997) d2u6w
In the year 1997, Missy Elliott revolutionized hip-hop with the release of Soup After Fly, introducing a futuristic sound and aesthetic that puts its foot in pop, since it was entirely produced by Timbaland. He created innovative, sampled and textured beats, complementing the unique rhythm and lyrics of Missy. This project stands out for breaking down barriers for women, proving that experimentation and authenticity could dominate the mainstream.
Britney Spears – Blackout (2007) 3o715p
The year 2007 was not all about outbreaks. During that same period, even in troubled waters, Britney Spears released Blackout which later became one of his best works. With references to electronic pop and dance pop, the album debuted with beats ahead of its time, and was responsible for hits such as Gimme More, Piece of me e break the ice that helped define the face of late 2000s pop.
Aaliyah – One in a Million (1996) wl4f
The album One in a Million released by Aaliyah in 1996 solidified her position as one of the most innovative artists in R&B and pop, marking her collaboration with Timbaland e Missy Elliott. The project featured a futuristic, minimalist sound, with unconventional beats, whispering vocals and atmospheric arrangements that redefined music. Furthermore, the album's ability to be both avant-garde and commercially accessible has earned it a lasting legacy.
Kate Bush – Hounds of Love (1985) 4o3e21
Kate Bush worked on the album hounds of love de Kate Bush in his own home studio, where he enjoyed complete creative freedom. The final result was divided into two parts, hounds of love e The Ninth Wave, innovatively mixing art pop, synthpop, progressive rock and traditional Irish music. It stands out in the ranking of best pop albums for its originality, lyrical depth, and the courage to Bush in creating a conceptually and emotionally dense work that, nevertheless, generated great successes.
George Michael – Faith (1987) v212i
Faith marked the successful transition of George Michael from teen idol to a mature and accomplished solo artist, breaking sales and popularity records. Here, the work was built on an eclectic mix of pop, R&B, soul, funk and rock, with George Michael acting as main composer, producer and arranger.
Kylie Minogue – Light Years (2000) 296d
In the 2000's, Kylie Minogue made a triumphant return to its dance pop and disco roots with the release of light years, after a period of experimentation in Britpop and indie. The album was created at a time when Kylie sought to reaffirm her place as a pop diva, and brought an exuberant and nostalgic sound, perfect for the dance floor.
Donna Summer – Bad Girls (1979) 34533r
Bad Girls de D emerged at the height of the disco era as a manifesto by the artist to expand her musical horizons. In this double album, the artist explored and masterfully mixed the genres of disco, rock, R&B and pop, while addressing themes of female empowerment and social criticism. It can be considered one of the best pop albums due to the punctual production of Giorgio Moroder e Pete Bellotte, combined with the vocal versatility of Summer and the audacity to transcend the boundaries of disco, which in turn delivered a cohesive and powerful work that influenced countless musical genres.
Bee Gees – Saturday Night Fever (Soundtrack) (1977) 506g14
Released in the year 1977, Saturday Night Fever (Soundtrack) was a phenomenon that captured the essence of the height of disco fever. With the Bee Gees in charge of composing most of the tracks, the project that contains 17 songs is an impeccable collection of disco-pop, funk and soul. It is considered one of the best pop albums for having launched multiple worldwide hits such as Stayin 'alive, How Deep Is Your Love, More Than A Woman, If I Can't Have You, More Than A Woman, You Should Be Dancing e Disco Inferno, in addition to selling millions of copies, which consolidated the disco genre in mainstream and became a cultural phenomenon.
Diana Ross – Diana (1980) 5fe52
In 1980, Diana Ross experienced a true rebirth in his solo career with the release of Diana. The album distanced the singers from ballads and allowed them to dive headfirst into a more vibrant and danceable sound. The eight songs were entirely produced by the band's duo Chic, Nile Rodgers e Bernard Edwards, and this fact resulted in a lesson in disco-funk and pop, with infectious bass lines and hypnotizing instrumentals.
Olivia Newton-John – Physics (1981) 1v1673
Physical, from 1981, marked a time of reinvention for Olivia Newton-John, which left its country and soft pop roots to embrace dance-pop and new wave. With 10 tracks, the album was created in a context of rising culture fitness and dynamic video clips.
Tears for Fears – Songs from the Big Chair (1985) 16n1o
Songs from the Big Chair, released in 1985, consolidated the Tears for Fears as one of the main names of synthpop and new wave. With only eight tracks, the album was created in a period of musical maturation, exploring psychological, political and self-knowledge themes with a lyrical depth rare in the pop of the time. It is also on this album that the hits emerged Everybody Wants To Rule The World e Head Over Heels.
Eurythmics – Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) (1983) 235j55
The album Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) was responsible for driving Eurythmics to worldwide stardom and for defining the electronic sound and androgynous aesthetic of the British duo. The album was created in a period of experimentation with synthesizers and sequencers, resulting in a hypnotic fusion of synthpop, new wave and soul elements. It is considered one of the best pop albums for its minimalist and futuristic production, the striking vocals of Annie Lennox and the duo's ability to create music that was both icy and emotionally resonant.
P!nk – Funhouse (2008) 3w703x
Funhouse, the singer's fifth studio album P! Nk, emerged from a period of intense personal changes for the artist, reflecting her divorce and a great process of self-discovery. The album mixes pop-rock, pop and ballads, presenting lyrics that address themes focused on relationships, resilience and female empowerment with those touches of irony characteristic of the work of the artist. P! Nk. In addition to the singer's charisma and realism, with this album she created some of the best pop songs such as So what, Sober, Please Don't Leave Me and the very Funhouse.
Cyndi Lauper – She's So Unusual (1983) 673828
The album She's So Unusual, released in 1983, marked the debut of Cyndi Lauper and highlighted the artist as one of the most vibrant and eccentric figures in pop music. The album was created against the backdrop of the rise of MTV and visual pop music, blending new wave, synthpop and rock with an irreverent and fun attitude.
Culture Club – Color by Numbers (1983) 3h6a61
In 1983, the band Culture Club solidified its position as a global phenomenon with the release of Color by Numbers, driven by the androgynous charisma of Boy George and its unique sound. The album is an engaging mix of pop, new wave, reggae and soul, with lyrics that address themes of identity, love and acceptance. The Color by Numbers can be considered one of the best pop albums for its commercial appeal with a message of inclusion and originality, facts that mainly made the Boy George an icon of 1980s music and fashion.
Soft Cell – Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret (1981) 4jb6y
In the year 1981, the SoftCell launched Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret, his debut album that stood out for its sound synthpop and lyrics that explored the underworld of nightlife and urban eroticism. With 12 tracks, the project is a mix of minimalist electronic beats with the dramatic vocals of Marc almond and a fun atmosphere in the sound and a bit melancholic in some lyrics.
Grace Jones – Nightclubbing (1981) 5d4o1e
In colaboration with Sly and Robbie, Grace Jones created the night clubbing in 1981 with references to new wave, pop, reggae, dub, post-punk and disco. The impeccable production, the hypnotic vocal performance and the iconic persona of Jones subverted gender and racial norms, and secured a place among the greatest albums ever produced.
Blondie – Parallel Lines (1978) 213p5q
When launching the Parallel Lines In 1978, the band Blondie achieved a commercial and artistic turning point in their career. The album was produced by Mike Chapman and combines sounds that derive from pop, punk, new wave and disco, thus creating an innovative sound. The production together with the more pop compositions and the captivating way of Debbie Harry have made this album over time prove to be a timeless classic and capable of propelling a punk band into mainstream without losing its essence.
Roxy Music – Avalon (1982) 382b23
In the year 1982, the Roxy Music reached the height of its sophistication and elegance with the launch of Avalon, which marked the band's transition to a more polished and atmospheric sound. In a mix of art pop and sophisti-pop, the album is characterized by lush arrangements, subtle instrumentation and the soft, melancholic voice of Bryan Ferry.
David Bowie – Young Americans (1975) 46z53
In 1975, David Bowie underwent a radical reinvention in his career with the release of Young americans. The artist dove headfirst into soul, pop, R&B and funk, in a style he himself called plastic soul. With only eight tracks, the album was created in a period of fascination with Bowie by American musical culture and had the collaboration of artists such as Luther Vandross. This is a clear example of why Bowie was known as a musical chameleon. He had a mastery of adapting and mastering a new genre each time he challenged himself.
Dusty Springfield – Dusty in Memphis (1969) 5u5s4x
The album Dusty in Memphis de Dusty springfield was born from the British artist's desire to explore the roots of American soul music, with recordings at the famous American Sound Studio located in Memphis. From this, a project was born that mixes sublime pop with soul and R&B in songs characterized by the powerful and emotive vocal performance of Dusty.
The Weeknd – After Hours (2020) 1v355t
Conceived in a period of intense sonic and visual exploration, the After Hours do The Weeknd arrived in 2020 to build a dark narrative in a cinematic way to explore themes related to excess, regret and disillusionment amidst beats of synthpop, new wave and 1980s disco.
Rihanna – ANTI (2016) 186g28
Nine years ago, Rihanna launched the ANTI, her eighth album and last to be produced until then. In it, the singer decided to seek creative freedom and break with the commercial expectations that had been placed on her previous works. With an eclectic mix of pop, R&B, soul, hip hop and dancehall, Anti delivered hits such as Kiss It Better, Work, NeededMe e Love On The Brain.
Bruno Mars – 24K Magic (2016) 2h3b2s
With 24K Magic, Bruno Mars arrived with the clear intention of reviving the golden era of funk, pop, soul and R&B from the 1980s and 1990s, but with a modern and irresistible approach. With only nine tracks, the album celebrates the groove through infectious beats, smooth vocals and choruses made for the dance floor. The album is ranked among the best pop albums for exploring the essence of nostalgia without sounding dated, of course, due to the charismatic performances of Bruno Mars, and the project's ability to be pure, high-quality pop entertainment.
Daft Punk – Random Access Memories (2013) 405z22
In 2013 the Daft Punk launched Random Access Memories, an album that established the duo's departure from the sampled electronic sound and solidified their pursuit of a more organic and "human" approach to electronic and pop music. The 13-track album was recorded with anastruments and featured collaborations with legendary funk, disco and rock musicians. Daft Punk of paying homage to the golden era of disco and funk music while creating something entirely new and catchy resulted in a landmark in electronic music with worldwide pop appeal.
Grimes – Art Angels (2015) 3y2t3j
Art angels, Grimes, is an album that was entirely written, produced and mixed by the artist herself, reflecting her unique artistic vision and without needing to make any concessions. It practically served to explore any and all variations of pop, with references to electronic music, synthpop, K-pop and rock, which consequently led her to create a unique sound universe.
Charli XCX – Pop 2 (2017) 6g4k4t
Well before the Brat came the Pop 2, released in 2017. This album was responsible for consolidating the Charli XCX as one of the most innovative voices in contemporary pop, influenced by producers such as AG Cook. In this work, the focus was to explore the hyper pop and avant-garde pop, bringing futuristic sounds, processed vocals and incredible collaborations like Tove Lo and Carly Rae Jepsen. The artist managed to play with the variations of pop in a way that worked and created songs that are challenging, addictive and emotionally resonant, establishing a new paradigm for the genre.
FKA twigs – LP1 (2014) 233h6z
LP1 marked FKA twigs' debut in 2014 with a highly distinctive sound and aesthetic that explores themes related to love, sex and identity from a more raw and, at the same time, artistic perspective. In of genres, in addition to pop, it ventures into R&B, avant-pop and trip-hop.
Haim – Women in Music Pt. III (2020) 2b1pi
The sisters Haim launched the Women in Music Pt III in 2020 and brought with it reflections on topics involving anxiety, depression, relationships and feminism in a period of uncertainty. In of sound, the trio experimented with moving between pop, alternative rock and folk.
Kendrick Lamar – DAMN. (2017) 444k1v
Kendrick Lamar launched DAMN. after the success with To Pimp a Butterfly, which is also on this list. The album brings the pop element in Lamar's lyrical mastery and innovative beats to portray complex and social issues through popular rhythms that derive from trap, hip hop, R&B and soul.
Childish Gambino – Awaken, My Love! (2016) 3r4n23
Em Awaken, My Love!, Childish Gambino (Donald Glover) moved away from hip hop to delve into a universe of funk, pop, soul and psychedelic R&B. With 11 tracks, the album is a vibrant homage to the golden era of P-Funk and soul from the 1970s, with powerful vocals. It is interesting to highlight the way he managed to recreate and revitalize a classic sound with a modern sensibility, resulting in an authentic, captivating and sonically rich work that surprised everyone.
Anderson .Paak – Malibu (2016) 1e5z3g
Em Malibu, album released in 2016 by Anderson .Paak, we follow a warm and eclectic journey that moves through pop, soul, funk, jazz and hip-hop combined with his versatile voice. This phase is consolidated after he has gained some recognition in the alternative scene, a fact that made him explore his aspirations and experiences in this new moment.
Robbie Williams – Escapology (2002) 5v5f4p
In 2002, Robbie Williams reached one of the high points of his solo career with the release of escapology, an album that solidified his persona as entertainer pop star. The album is a grand mix of pop-rock, ballads and stadium anthems, with lyrics that address fame, introspection and the complexities of his personal life. escapology stands out for its ambitious production, its captivating compositions and the charismatic and confessional delivery of Williams, who demonstrated his versatility and ability to connect with a wide audience through songs that were both funny and deeply sincere.
Katy Perry – Teenage Dream (2010) 3f3v1j
Teenage dream is an essential album for anyone who wants to know more about contemporary pop music. It was this album, in fact, that boosted the career of Katy Perry and brought several timeless hits to the charts such as Teenage dream, california gurls, Firework e The One That Got Away. The work is a celebration of pure pop, with catchy choruses and the talent and contagious energy of Katy Perry that ended up defining the sound of pop in the 2010s.
SZA – Ctrl (2017) 1y5l56
The album Ctrl marked the singer's debut SZA in 2017 and established her as one of the most authentic and relevant voices in pop and R&B today. The album brings more intimate themes related to love, insecurity, sexuality, adult anxieties and relationships, resonating with generations and paving the way for a new sound in the genre.
Lianne La Havas – Is Your Love Big Enough? (2012) 6u101
The debut album by Lianne la havas, Is Your Love Big Enough?, released in 2012, introduced the world to her powerful voice and mature compositions amid sounds that range from pop, neo-soul, folk and R&B. This is considered one of the best pop albums for its vulnerable compositions, for The Vas and for the sophisticated work that proves to be timeless.
Fiona Apple – Tidal (1996) 6q5h54
Tidal was the first studio album by artist Fiona Apple and featured six singles, including Shadowboxer, Slow Like Honey, Sleep to Dream, The First Taste, Criminal e Never Is a Promise. The album features a mix of piano rock, alternative pop and jazz, factors that, combined with the singer's intense vocal performance and her courage to tackle denser lyrics, won over critics and the public.
Björk – Homogenic (1997) 1314c
Homogeneous of the illustrious Birch was born during a period of self-imposed exile in Spain, when the artist was searching for a more unified and cohesive sound to reflect her Icelandic identity. With 10 tracks, the album followed a path that involved experimental electronics, orchestral strings and trip-hop elements to create a more icy soundscape. The gift of Birch of combining nature with technology, resulted in a unique, emotionally dense and timeless work that pushed the boundaries of what pop could be.
Gwen Stefani – Love. Angel. Music. Baby. (2004) y2zh
Spotify | THEApple Music
With the release of this new album in 2004, Gwen Stefani not only received prominence and marked his solo career, but also contributed to a new layer in pop culture. Love. Angel. Music. Baby. is a tribute to 1980s pop, R&B and hip hop and brings catchy beats and visual aesthetics typical of the early 2000s with futuristic touches.
Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998) s6t67
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is the only solo studio album by Lauryn Hill, conceived after the success with the Fugees and in a period of self-discovery and motherhood. Including the interludes, the project has 16 songs and explores the fusion of pop, hip hop, R&B and reggae through lyrics focused on themes such as love, spirituality and motherhood. Lauryn managed to give direction to the neo soul genre from this project.
Paula Abdul – Forever Your Girl (1988) 5l3xd
Forever Your Girl is known for being the project that marked the transition in Paula Abdul's career. From a renowned choreographer, she became a pop star and used all her dance knowledge to create innovative music videos. The songs released move between dance pop and R&B, offering infectious beats and pop melodies. In addition to Abdul dominating the dance floors, she dominated the radio with hits such as Straight up, Forever Your Girll, cold hearted e Opposites Attract, solidifying her place as an icon of 1980s dance and pop.
Beyoncé – RENAISSANCE (2022) 1tm3u
Conceived as a tribute to the dance floor, RENAISSANCE de Beyoncé celebrates ballroom culture, disco, house and dance music, in a post-pandemic period in which everyone was excited to hit the dance floors. With hints of techno and afrobeat, the artist worked on samples and arrangements that pay homage to the pioneers of these genres. It is one of the best pop albums of all time because of its conceptual cohesion, clever lyrics and the way it Beyoncé created a space to celebrate queer and black identity, reinforcing once again why it is considered an unparalleled cultural and artistic force.
Lady Gaga – Born This Way (2011) cm22
At the height of fame, Lady Gaga arises with the powerful Born This Way and consolidates this work as a reference for the LGBTQIAPN+ community. Amidst electronic pop, dance pop, rock and techno, Gaga celebrates individuality, inclusion and freedom of expression. It is on this album that the hits emerged Marry the night, Born This Way, Judas, You and I e The Edge Of Glory.
Janet Jackson – The Velvet Rope (1997) 4r6z17
Em The Velvet Rope we found a Janet Jackson more introspective with a focus on more serious lyrics, challenging the limits of pop. The work mixes R&B, pop, trip-hop, jazz and electronics, with a darker and more experimental sound. The excellent production of Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and the way in which Janet opened up emotionally, made the album a more vulnerable symbol but, at the same time, it has a very rich sound.
Mariah Carey – The Emancipation of Mimi (2005) 2e646p
Mariah Carey once again achieved a position in the ranking of best pop albums and, this time, with the iconic The Emancipation of Mimi that brought her back to the top of the charts. This album symbolizes the singer's creative rebirth and brought new songs that blend R&B, contemporary pop and hip hop through her characteristic vocals. Here we have the creation of the hits It's Like That, We Belong Together e Shake it off.
Destiny's Child – The Writing's on the Wall (1999) 6q2040
Destiny's Child, that the final and best-known formation included the singers Beyonce, Kelly Rowland e Michelle Williams, launched their career as one of the biggest female pop and R&B groups with the release of the album The Writing's on the Wall in 1999. The trio delivered timeless anthems and not only broke records but also set a new standard for girl groups.
TLC – CrazySexyCool (1994) 5f5q3a
O TPA solidified their career in 1994 as one of the most important and influential female groups in R&B and pop with the release of Crazy Sexy Cool. The 16-track album is a blend of R&B, pop, hip-hop and soul that also features elements of funk and jazz. The lyrics address sex, empowerment and social issues through a cohesive and timeless sound and through the striking vocal performances of T Boz, left-eye e chilli.
Spice Girls – Spice (1996) 2f1l6w
In 1996, the album Spice was responsible for boosting the career of Spice Girls with its bubblegum pop and lyrics that emphasized the fun and power of female friendships. With an infectious energy and undeniable charisma of Melanie Brown, Melanie Chisholm, Emma Bunton, Geri Halliwell, and Victoria Beckham, Spice had a huge cultural impact at the time and reverberates to this day with the hits.
Kylie Minogue – Fever (2001) 216g60
Fever is another success of Kylie Minogue that masterfully pays homage to dance pop. It is with this that the singer solidifies herself in the genre after going through a more experimental phase. This project was created with a sound focused on modern pop disco and electronic music, with the main objective of taking fans to the dance floor. In addition to delivering memorable hits, Minogue stood out with his charisma and delivered a perfect and timeless pop album, which transcends time and trends.
Backstreet Boys – Millennium (1999) 2c5ba
Millennium, released in 1999 by Backstreet Boys consolidated the group as the largest boyband from the late 1990s, selling millions of copies and breaking records. The 12-track album is an excellent collection of pop ballads and dance pop anthems and features hits such as I want it that way, Larger Than Life e Show me the meaning of being lonely that captured the essence of millennial teen pop.
*NSYNC – No Strings Attached (2000) 1e1qw
Another hit released in the 2000s, No Strings Attached of *NSYNC was a milestone and a turning point for the group, which in turn broke sales records and solidified its position as one of the biggest names in the teen pop and dance pop at the time.
Dido – No Angel (1999) 3l5x4d
In 1999, the singer Dido marked his debut with the album No Angel. She managed to innovate by presenting an alternative work to the more thunderous pop and betting on more subtle songs with soft vocals, without straying from the genre. In addition to the softer pop, the album explores electronic folk and calmer genres such as trip hop.
Christina Aguilera – Stripped (2002) 263z17
In 2002, Stripped of the singer Christina Aguilera marked a restructuring of her image and sound, with the artist seeking authenticity and more creative spaces. With 20 tracks (including interludes), the album is an eclectic mix of pop, R&B, soul, rock and hip-hop, with lyrics that address themes related to self-esteem, feminism and the complexity of interpersonal relationships.
P!nk – Missundaztood (2001) 641r39
Released in the year 2001, missundaztood, the singer's second studio album P! Nk, marked a significant evolution in her career, mainly due to the fact that she co-wrote all the tracks on the album and had the collaboration of Linda Perry in production. This work mainly features pop rock with lyrics focused on troubled relationships and rebellion.
Jessie Ware – What’s Your Pleasure? (2020) w44x
Jessie ware managed to unite some of the best pop songs in What's Your Pleasure?, their fourth studio album. It serves as a pure celebration of the disco, pop, R&B and dance genres of the 1970s and 1980s, and served as an optimistic escape from the isolation of the era. Not only are the tracks a great ode to the dance floor, but the lush atmosphere and impeccable production make the album an excellent homage to the past, while also exploring a modern sensibility. Here, Jessie ware created an elegant, sensual and deeply captivating record, proving the timelessness of the pop record.
Britney Spears – In the Zone (2003) 3h481q
With In the Zone, the princess of pop, Britney Spears, managed to explore her creativity further in of sound and compositions. Here, the album moves between electronic pop and R&B, reinforcing more present beats and lyrics related to sexuality, parties and self-knowledge. The album enters the ranking of best pop albums because, once again, Britney managed to anticipate pop trends and deliver successful hits such as Me Against the Music (feat. Madonna) to Toxic.
Jennifer Lopez – J.Lo (2001) 4k3o6f
In 2001, the album titled as J.Lo consolidated the image of Jennifer Lopez as a pop diva in all spheres, masterfully balancing her music, film and fashion careers. Here, JLo mixes Latin pop and hip-hop, full of infectious beats and lyrics that celebrate love, dance and self-confidence.
Ricky Martin – Ricky Martin (1999) 3c54b
Released in the year 1999, Ricky Martin, the English album by Ricky Martin, was responsible for her success on the global music scene, leading the Latin introduction into pop. The album is a celebration of Latin pop itself, dance pop and romantic ballads. Martin managed to break cultural barriers with magnetic performances and vibrant sounds that brought the rhythm of Latin music to millions of fans around the world.
Shakira – Laundry Service (2001) 1w3y3s
The year 2001 marked the transition from Shakira for the global music market with the laundry service, an album mostly in English. With an unmistakable voice, the singer added sounds derived from pop rock, Latin pop, folk and world music to the project. Her ability to blend different cultures and rhythms in a fluid way contributed to her success and proved that pop music can reach every corner of the world and remain authentic.
Céline Dion – Falling into You (1996) t6a4a
With 16 tracks, the album Falling into You da Celine Dion can be seen as a collection of power ballads, R&B and more adult pop with more emotional vocal performances. In addition to the vocal mastery of Dion, the album provided great hits such as (You Make Me Feel Like) a Natural Woman e River Deep, Mountain High that have become timeless classics, resonating with audiences of all ages.
Aretha Franklin – I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You (1967) 674l4m
The launch of I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You It was a defining moment in his career. Aretha Franklin, because it was from then on that she became the queen of soul and an important figure in the history of music. Authentic and with an absurd vocal performance, Franklin managed to capture the essence of American soul and expand it to other genres such as pop itself and generations of different artists.
Whitney Houston – The Bodyguard (Soundtrack) (1992) 1k219
The soundtrack of the film starring Whitney Houston, The Bodyguard (Soundtrack), released in 1992, not only became one of the best-selling albums of all time, but also solidified the artist's legacy. The album blends pop, R&B and soul, always highlighting the artist's unparalleled and emotive voice. Whitney. The project deserves to be highlighted for having managed to transcend cinematic success to become a musical phenomenon in its own right.
Michael Jackson – Bad (1987) 1am39
Another classic from King of Pop achieved a position in the ranking of best pop albums. Released in 1987, Basic came to continue the phenomenon that was Thriller and further expand the musical and artistic boundaries of Michael Jackson. Fulfilling its purpose with mastery, Jackson released hits in this era like Basic, Man in the mirror e smooth Criminal, continuing to break cultural barriers and cementing his position as one of the most influential artists, not only in pop, but in the music industry as a whole.
Prince – Purple Rain (1984) 5cn2w
This is the sixth album of Prince and the first to be credited with the band The Revolution. It was the soundtrack for the film of the same name and a milestone in the singer's popularity. With only nine tracks, Prince managed to dominate pop, rock and R&B in a psychedelic way in the instrumental and in the lyrics about love, sex and spirituality. Purple Rain managed to perfectly capture the artist's artistic vision and define for the public who his persona is.
Madonna – Ray of Light (1998) 5b6m2t
Ray of Light it wasn't just another album on the bill Madonna, but rather a profound artistic and personal reinvention. Created after the birth of his daughter, Lourdes Mary, the album delved into spiritual themes and explored the vast possibilities of electronic dance pop music. The project stands out mainly for its boldness in experimenting with new sounds, for the emotional honesty of Madonna and for her ability to constantly reinvent herself, solidifying her status as an artist ahead of her time and a timeless influencer in pop music.
Cher – Believe (1998) 2o1z1d
Of course it couldn't be missing Believe in the ranking of the best pop albums of all time. This project marked the return of Expensive into the spotlight, redefining her career with a modern and optimistic sound. Amid songs that range from dance pop to Eurodance, the artist pioneered the use of the auto-tune pitch correction effect as a new and creative resource. Believe is proof that pop music can be timeless and break generational barriers.
Marvin Gaye – Let's Get It On (1973) 6f3968
Released in 1973, the album Let's get it on consolidated Marvin Gaye as one of the greatest artists in soul music, exploring sexuality and love in an explicit and elegant way. With eight tracks, the album is a complete work of soul, funk, pop and R&B, with smooth melodies, luxurious instrumentals and the seductive and expressive voice of Gaye.
Diana Ross – The Boss (1979) d4q2e
The album T, of the incredible Diana Ross marked a period of renewed initiatives for the artist, who co-produced the album and presented the public with a little more of herself. Among the eight tracks, Diana mixes disco, funk and pop, with infectious beats, powerful vocals and lyrics that celebrate female independence and strength. In addition, credit also goes to the producer and composer couple Ashford & Simpson who worked together with the singer and transformed the album into a reference in the disco genre.
Janet Jackson – Control (1986) 1w471r
In third place in the ranking of best pop albums, following closely behind its brother, we have Janet Jackson with Control, released in 1986. This album marked a turning point in her career, as the artist decided to separate herself from her family and take creative control. With only nine tracks, the work is a great fusion of dance pop and R&B with innovative beats for the time and lyrics focused on empowerment. Its avant-garde production shaped the sound of 1980s pop, and Janet's charismatic and confident performance made her an icon.
Michael Jackson – Thriller (1982) 5a75
Thriller could not be left out of the top 5. Released in 1982, the album of the eternal Michael Jackson produced by none other than Quincy Jones contains the best pop songs like Wanna Be Startin' Somethin', Beat It, Human Nature, Billie Jean e PYT (Pretty Young Thing). This cultural phenomenon of impeccable musical quality revolutionized the music industry and music videos themselves, showing that they can also be a great creative tool for cinema.
Madonna – Like a Prayer (1989) 3g6l5f
And finally, the first place in the ranking of the best pop albums goes to like a prayer, Madonna, which was released in 1989 and came at a time when the artist was exploring deeper themes related to faith and sexuality, confronting her Catholic roots. With an eclectic mix of pop, rock and other subgenres that packed 11 taboo-defying tracks, the work emphasizes Madonna's boldness and artistic maturity, which in turn generated great, high-quality hits.
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Text revised by Alexandre Marques in 31 / 05 / 2025.
Sources: Rolling Stone, Pitchfork e Metacritic
