Remember the sound of a crackling vinyl record or the satisfying click of a cassette tape? The 1980s were a wild time for music! Think neon colors, big hair, and sounds that shaped entire generations. But with so many iconic albums blasting from boomboxes and Walkmans, how do you even begin to choose which ones truly defined the decade?
Navigating the vast landscape of 80s music can feel overwhelming. You want the essential, groundbreaking records, but sifting through the sheer volume of releases—from stadium rock anthems to groundbreaking new wave tracks—is tough. You might worry about missing out on the true classics or getting stuck listening to just the same old hits everyone already knows.
Fear not! This journey through the greatest albums of the 1980s will cut through the noise. We’ve curated the must-hear masterpieces that changed the industry. By the end of this post, you will have a definitive list of essential LPs to add to your collection and impress your friends.
Get ready to press play as we dive deep into the decade that refused to be quiet.
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)
- 224 pages
- Size: 12" x 9"
- Composer: Various Composers
- ISBN: 793583551
- English (Publication Language)
- Tarrier, Keith (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 76 Pages - 05/31/2021 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Audio CD – Audiobook
- English (Publication Language)
- 10/25/1990 (Publication Date) - Sony Legacy (Publisher)
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Relive the Awesome 80s with Classic Albums
The 1980s brought us some of the best music ever made. Think big hair, bright colors, and catchy tunes! If you want to own these musical treasures, buying 80s albums is a fantastic idea. This guide helps you pick the best ones.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for 80s albums, look closely at a few things. These details matter for how good the music sounds and how long the album lasts.
- Original Pressing vs. Reissue: An original pressing means it’s the very first time the record was made. These often sound unique. Reissues are newer copies, sometimes made with better modern technology.
- Format: Most 80s albums came on vinyl records (LPs). You might also find cassette tapes or CDs. Vinyl usually gives a warmer sound. CDs offer clearer, digital sound.
- Tracklist Accuracy: Check the song list. Sometimes, different countries had slightly different songs on their albums. Make sure you get the version with your favorite hits!
Important Materials and Condition
The materials used affect the sound quality. For vinyl, the thickness and type of vinyl matter.
Vinyl records are made from PVC plastic. Thicker vinyl records (often 180 grams) are heavier. Heavy vinyl usually resists warping better. Warping is when the record bends, which makes the music skip or sound bad. Always check the condition of the sleeve (the paper or cardboard cover) too. A ripped sleeve lowers the value and protection.
For CDs, look for clean playing surfaces. Deep scratches ruin the music. Cassettes should have tape that isn’t tangled or stretched.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one 80s album better than another? It often comes down to how it was treated after it was made.
Improving Quality:
- Mastering: This is how the final sound mix was prepared. Albums mastered specifically for vinyl often sound better on vinyl than those simply copied from a CD master.
- Careful Storage: Albums kept flat, away from sunlight, and at cool temperatures sound much better years later.
Reducing Quality:
- Scratches and Surface Noise (Vinyl): Scratches create pops and clicks when you play the record. This noise distracts from the music.
- Wear and Tear: Faded covers, ring wear (a circle mark on the sleeve from the record inside), and water damage reduce the quality significantly.
- Poor Playback Equipment: Even the best record sounds bad if you play it on a cheap, old turntable with a worn-out needle. Good equipment makes the music shine.
User Experience and Use Cases
Why do people buy these albums today? The experience is key!
Many people buy 80s albums for nostalgia. They want to remember dancing to those songs in their youth. Playing a vinyl record is a hands-on experience. You have to get up, flip the side, and look at the artwork. This slows you down and makes you listen more carefully.
Use cases include:
- Collecting: Serious collectors hunt for rare first pressings or colored vinyl editions.
- Home Listening: Casual listeners just want to enjoy the music on a quality stereo system.
- DJing/Parties: Certain 80s tracks are still perfect for dance parties!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying 80s Albums
Q: Should I buy vinyl or CD for 80s music?
A: It depends on what you like! Vinyl offers a warm, classic sound and a great physical experience. CDs are portable and offer clearer digital sound without the pops and clicks.
Q: How do I know if a used vinyl record is worth buying?
A: Check the visual condition of the record surface first. Look for deep scratches. Then, ask the seller if they know the record’s grading (like VG+ or NM). NM (Near Mint) is the best condition.
Q: What does “Japanese pressing” mean for an 80s album?
A: Japanese pressings were often made with very high quality control. Many collectors believe they sound fantastic, even if they cost a little more.
Q: Are cassette tapes from the 80s worth collecting?
A: Yes, if you love the retro look! However, the sound quality often degrades over time because the magnetic tape stretches. Check that the cassette hubs still turn smoothly.
Q: What is a “gatefold” sleeve?
A: This is a record sleeve that opens up like a book, usually showing extra artwork or lyrics inside. It’s a nice feature but doesn’t change the sound quality.
Q: How should I clean my newly purchased 80s records?
A: Always use a dedicated record cleaning solution and a soft microfiber cloth or brush. Never use window cleaner or paper towels; they will scratch the plastic.
Q: Should I worry about the album cover color fading?
A: Yes. Faded covers mean the album was exposed to too much sunlight. This fading often happens alongside internal damage to the vinyl itself.
Q: Is it better to buy a “remastered” 80s album?
A: Sometimes! Remasters use modern techniques to improve sound clarity. However, some purists prefer the original mix because the remaster might sound too loud or artificial.
Q: What price range is normal for a common 80s album in good condition?
A: Common albums in great shape usually cost between \$15 and \$30 USD for vinyl. Rare or first-pressings can cost much more.
Q: Why do some 80s albums have printed inner sleeves?
A: These sleeves hold lyrics or photos. They are often fragile. If the inner sleeve is torn or the record has cut through the paper, it lowers the album’s overall grade.