Previously I released my list of the top ten rock bands of all time, and a list of my top twenty artists of all time, Parts 1 and 2. I am moving on to one of my favorite music subjects – albums. Here is part 1 of the top twenty debut rock albums of all time. Feel free to share your own list, debate my choices, or tell me I am wrong in the comments.
The criteria I used for creating this list
Here are the three criteria I used for selecting my list of the best debut rock albums of all time:
- The band or artist must have released more than one album
- The debut album must be their best album ever – this eliminates many choices
- It must be a full long-play (LP) album, no EPs or singles.
For example, Never Mind the Bollocks Here’s the Sex Pistols did not make the list since it is the only real album they released. The debut album of my favorite band from Dublin, Boy by U2, did not make the list since it is not their best album. Boy was simply a sign of the greatness that came later.
Debut album #20 – Workbook by Bob Mould
Let’s start the list with a somewhat obscure choice – Workbook by Bob Mould. Some of you are probably thinking who the hell is Bob Mould. He was the original guitarist and main singer for the punk band, Husker Du. The band broke up in 1987 after their landmark album Warehouse. Bob Mould went solo and released Warehouse a few years later. It contains a ton of great songs that are really out of character for Bob.
Debut album #19 – The B-52s
Some of you are thinking the B-52s released better albums than this one – they didn’t. Their debut album is their best. It includes the weird, wild, and wonderful hit song Rock Lobster. If you don’t like this song, then I am not sure we can be friends.
Coming in at #18 – Beauty and the Beat by the Go-Go’s
This album by the all-girl band the Go-Go’s is what put them on the map. It includes the hit songs We Got the Beat, and Our lips are sealed, along with several other really good songs like This Town.
Debut Album #17 – The Lumineers
Let’s jump to something more modern. At #17 is the Lumineers. If you are looking for a modern band that writes excellent songs then listen to this album. It is full of excellent music.
Debut album #16 – The Romantics
Some of you may argue that In Heat is a better album – I disagree. This debut album includes their killer hit What I Like About You and She’s Got Everything, plus several other rocking songs. Besides, look at the album cover. Red leather suits, skinny ties, and bad hair make this album an 80s classic.
At #15 – The Doors
This debut album introduced the world to Jim Morrison. It includes several hit songs like Light My Fire.
Debut Album #14 – Everybody Wants by the Struts
Perhaps another surprise choice. This album rocks. If you like Queen, you will enjoy the Struts. I saw them live in concert, and their lead singer even looks a little like Freddie. If you are looking for a modern band that rocks, then check out the Struts.
Debut album #13 – Outlandos d’Amour by the Police
Some of you are shaking your head thinking that the Police released better albums than this one, like Synchronicity. I think this album is golden. It includes the megahit song Roxanne that made them stars. Outlandos d’Amour shows the band’s diverse tastes with both punk and reggae-flavored tracks.
Coming in at #12 – Are you Experienced by Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix is one of the best rock-n-roll guitarists of all time. He released a few albums. This one is his best. It includes several hit songs that you will recognize along with some other soulful music. If you are young and have never heard of Hendrix – start here. His band does not get better than this debut album.
Debut album #11 – Tuesday Night Music Club by Sheryl Crow
Rounding out part 1 of this list is Tuesday Night Music Club by Sheryl Crow. I always enjoy listening to this album. Yes – she has released a ton of great music since then, but I think this one is her best.
There you have it – the first half of my list of top twenty debut rock albums of all time. If you think I am wrong – let me know in the comments. All feedback is welcome. Feel free to post your own list.
I am Doug Keating and this is my letter to sons.