Remember the electric energy of the 1980s? The music from that decade still pulses with an undeniable beat. But with so many iconic albums—from synth-pop masterpieces to hair metal anthems—how do you possibly pick the best ones to revisit or discover for the first time? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of legendary releases.
Navigating the landscape of 80s music can be tricky. Do you stick to the chart-toppers, or dig deeper for hidden gems? You want that perfect soundtrack for nostalgia, but you don’t want to waste time sifting through mediocrity. We understand that challenge.
This deep dive cuts through the noise. By the end of this post, you will have a curated list featuring the essential, genre-defining albums of the decade. We highlight the records that truly shaped the sound of the 80s. Get ready to turn up the volume as we count down the must-hear albums that defined a generation!
Top Albums Of 1980’S Recommendations
- Jim Bagley (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 144 Pages - 08/01/2023 (Publication Date) - Fox Chapel Publishing (Publisher)
- Audio CD – Audiobook
- English (Publication Language)
- 10/16/2012 (Publication Date) - Emi Import (Publisher)
- Lee, Jean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 110 Pages - 02/03/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
![GEORGE WINSTON - AUTUMN - PIANO SOLOS - Classic New Age Album from 1980 , 12-Inch Vinyl LP Record Album , 33 1/3 RPM , Original U.S. Release on the Windham Hill Records label , 7 Tracks: September - A1. Colors / Dance [10:25] , A2. Woods [6:47] , A3. Longing / Love [9:10] - October - B1. Road [4:14] , B2. Moon [7:44] , B3. Sea [2:42] , B4. Stars [5:36]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51PgMQNGDFL._SL160_.jpg)
- Audio CD – Audiobook
- English (Publication Language)
- 10/25/1990 (Publication Date) - Sony Legacy (Publisher)
- Tarrier, Keith (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 76 Pages - 05/31/2021 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- 224 pages
- Size: 12" x 9"
- Composer: Various Composers
- ISBN: 793583551
- English (Publication Language)
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Diving into the Sound of the 1980s
The 1980s brought amazing music. Think big hair, bright colors, and fantastic sounds! Buying albums from this decade is a fun journey. This guide helps you find the best ones.
Key Features to Look For
When you choose an 80s album, check these things first.
Original Pressing vs. Reissue
- Original Pressings: These are the first copies made. Collectors often prefer them. They sometimes sound just like the band intended.
- Reissues: These are newer copies. They often use better modern technology for sound. Sometimes, they sound clearer than the old ones.
Format Matters Most
Most 80s music came on Vinyl LPs (records) or Cassette Tapes. CDs also became very popular.
- Vinyl (LP): This format gives a warm, classic sound. Look for 12-inch records.
- Cassettes: These are portable but can wear out easily. They offer a very nostalgic feel.
- CDs: These offer digital clarity. They became the standard later in the decade.
Important Materials and Condition
The material of the album package affects its value and sound.
Vinyl Quality
Vinyl quality is key for sound. Pure vinyl lasts longer.
- Virgin Vinyl: This means the record is made from brand-new material, not recycled plastic. It usually sounds better.
- Weight: Some collectors like “heavyweight” vinyl (180-gram). These records often lie flatter and sound more solid.
Sleeve and Artwork
The cover art is a huge part of the 80s experience. Check the jacket carefully.
- Jacket Integrity: Look for no major tears or ring wear (a circle mark from the record rubbing). A good sleeve protects the record inside.
- Inserts: Did it come with posters, lyric sheets, or special inner sleeves? These add value.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
How an album was handled changes its quality a lot.
Improving Factors (Better Sound/Value)
- Storage: Albums kept upright, away from heat and sunlight, sound better.
- Cleanliness: Records that have been professionally cleaned often sound amazing.
Reducing Factors (Worse Sound/Value)
- Scratches: Deep scratches mean the needle will skip or pop loudly.
- Warping: If the record isn’t flat, the sound will wobble (wow and flutter). Heat causes warping.
- Tape/Water Damage: Never buy cassettes or sleeves with major water stains or heavy tape repairs.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you enjoy your 80s album?
For the Casual Listener
If you just want to play the music, look for good quality used CDs or well-kept reissues. They are usually cheaper and sound great on modern stereos.
For the Serious Collector
Collectors focus on first pressings, specific colored vinyl variants, or sealed (never opened) copies. They often buy special protective outer sleeves.
The Nostalgia Factor
Sometimes, you just want that specific cassette tape you listened to in your Walkman. For nostalgia, the condition of the packaging might matter more than perfect audio quality.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying 80s Albums
Q: Is an original 80s vinyl always better than a new reissue?
A: Not always. Modern reissues use better mastering (sound preparation), which can make them sound clearer than the original 1980s pressing, especially if the original was poorly made.
Q: What does “NM” mean when grading a record?
A: “NM” stands for Near Mint. It means the record looks almost brand new, with maybe one or two tiny, inaudible flaws. It is a very high grade.
Q: Should I clean records before playing them?
A: Yes. Even if a record looks clean, dust hides deep in the grooves. A quick brush before playing reduces pops and extends the life of your stylus (needle).
Q: Are 80s cassette tapes worth collecting?
A: Yes, especially rare promotional tapes or albums with unique cover art. However, their sound quality often degrades faster than vinyl or CDs.
Q: How do I check for warping on a record in a store?
A: Hold the record up to a bright light source. If you see dips or bends, it is warped. Avoid buying warped records if you plan to play them often.
Q: What is “dead wax” on a record?
A: The dead wax is the smooth, ungrooved area near the center label. Matrix numbers etched here tell you exactly which pressing plant made the record. Collectors look at these numbers.
Q: Which 80s format is the most durable?
A: Compact Discs (CDs) are generally the most durable format from the 80s, as they do not suffer from groove wear like vinyl or tape stretching like cassettes.
Q: What is a “split sleeve”?
A: A split sleeve means the record has worn through the side or top edge of the cardboard jacket, often creating a slit or tear. This significantly reduces the album’s value.
Q: Should I buy sealed (unopened) 80s albums?
A: If you want the very best investment, yes. But remember, if it is sealed, you cannot check the vinyl condition inside. You must trust the seller’s description.
Q: Are imports (foreign pressings) better quality?
A: Sometimes. European or Japanese pressings often used higher quality vinyl materials than some US pressings during the 80s. They can sound noticeably better.