10 BEST 1980s RECORDS EVERY COLLECTION NEEDS

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Ahhhh the 80’s I can still feel the neon thumbprint’s of that decade in my playlists. When it comes to music, the 1980s were a defining era for the kind of music we listen to today. It was the end of an old, as well as the birth of a new. When it comes to innovation and upheaval, this decade offered a lot more than that. And the seeds that were planted during that time have continued to flourish. Here, take a look at 10 best 1980s records that are still fresh and worth being in any collection.

10 Best 1980s Records Every Collection Needs
Def Leppard - Pyromania (1983)

It is tough to rank Pyromania from the much-publicized Hysteria album from the same artist because both combine to be two of Def’s greatest albums. Songs like “Photograph,” “Foolin” and “Rock of Ages,” all combine to make the Pyromania album fresh through decades and suitable for our list of 10 best 1980s records.

BEST 1980S RECORDS
Ozzy Osbourne - Blizzard of Ozz (1980)

Blizzard of Ozz was not just Ozz’s breakout album, but it was also his greatest. The incredibility of Randy Rhoads guitar works in this album adds up to make it a must-listen then and now.

BEST 1980S RECORDS
Van Halen - 1984 (1984)

Without an iota of doubt, this is Helen’s best album, and it was made possible by Diamond Dave, the fret-tapping of Eddie and some all-time hit tracks like “Jump,” “Panama,” and “Hot for Teacher.”

BEST 1980S RECORDS
Gun n' Roses - Appetite for Destruction (1987)

Apart from being on our list of the finest 80s album to listen to, “Appetite for Destruction” is also one of the best debut albums we’ve seen from any band. The album had all the band members doing what they know how to do best. Each track carried its own special flavor, but their delivery is what we love about this record.

Gun n' Roses - Appetite for Destruction (1987)
Motley Crue - Shout at the Devil (1983)

It is easy to fall in love with this album again. It is a complete package of what you desire from a Motley Crue album, and we are not surprised by all the airtime it got throughout that decade. If you are a fan of fast, hard, and furious rock, then this is absolutely something for you.

BEST 1980S RECORDS
Rush - Moving Pictures (1981)

Despite the acceptance and love showered on their first album by music fans, “moving pictures” still came and quickly overshadowed. The awesomeness of this album is undeniable, with its progressive rock attitude and crazy synclines. It is an album you can break out anytime and still enjoy the beauty of its freshness.

Rush - Moving Pictures (1981)
Queen - The Game (1980)

This legendary vocalist set the standard in the early 80s with an album that combined some great lyrics with the sounds of the time.

Queen - The Game (1980)
Quiet Riot - Metal Health (1983)

Although for a short while in the 80’s, Quiet Riot became an unstoppable phenomenon, thanks to the great “Mental Health” album. There’s a lot to reminisce about this one that it will be challenging to have a collection of the 80s without it.

BEST 1980S RECORDS
Motorhead - Ace of Spades (1980)

With the track “Ace of Spade” on this album, you expect the whole album to be a hit, and that was exactly what it was. We love the album! Fast, smoking, and full of hard rock splendor.

BEST 1980S RECORDS

Poison - Look What the Cat Dragged In (1986)

Yes, they may not be the best album in the world, but this album brings something different to the table. And is a must for any collection.

BEST 1980S RECORDS

Final thoughts for the BEST 1980S RECORDS!

There were too many great albums in the 1980s that it would be difficult selecting just ten. We’ve limited our list to these based on specific criteria. Each of them is guaranteed to add color and flavor to your collection.

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