The 100 Best Albums Streaming On Spotify Right Now

The hottest music streaming service out now is Spotify. Though it launched in 2008, it wasn’t until last summer that the Swedish start-up made its way stateside. At first there was excitement, then disappointment. Due to legal issues with record labels, mad albums are still missing. Almost a year later, you still can’t find Dr. Dre’s The Chronic (epic fail!) or Michael Jackson’s Bad—amongst other massive releases.

Still, Spotify remains a dope service that boasts some pretty deep digital crates. Millions of people are already members and more are signing up every day to be able to stream the greatest works from artists as varied as Jay-Z, Arcade Fire, and Phil Collins via their computers and mobile devices. Just to help you navigate through all the overwhelming options—and avoid disappointment—we decided to put together a list of The 100 Best Albums Streaming On Spotify Right Now (listed in alphabetical order). Check it out and find out who else made the cut.

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2Pac, All Eyez On Me (1996)

Label: Death Row, Interscope

Surely it's overblown at two disks and filled with some filler, but who cares? Most of 2Pac's best songs reside in this incredible album including "California Love," "Picture Me Rollin'," and "Ambitionz Az A Ridah."

50 Cent, Get Rich Or Die Trying (2003)

Label: Aftermath, Shady, Interscope

Combining aggressive flows, hypnotic song-writing, and big-budget production from the likes of Dr. Dre and Eminem, 50 Cent crafted an ultra-violent Thriller of rap, with virtually every album cut getting spins on radio stations across America. The other Mr. Jackson proved that it's perfectly fine for rappers to sing all their hooks and pose shirtless on their album cover-as long as they've been shot nine times.

A Tribe Called Quest, The Low End Theory (1991)

Label: Jive, RCA Records

The Low End Theory is many things. One of those things is the only reason to listen to Busta Rhymes, ever.

Alicia Keys, The Diary of Alicia Keys (2003)

Label: J Records

Alicia Keys really took off as an artist who captivated us with her skills on the ivories. If there's one Keys album to put on rotation, it's this combination of classic-sounding R&B and old-school soul that brims with emotion. 2001's Songs In A Minor was a major debut that won her five Grammy Awards. The Diary Of Alicia Keys was growth in finding her earnest voice that we all love.

Amy Winehouse, Back To Black (2006)

Label: Island

Now that she's gone, songs like "Tears Dry On Their Own," "You Know I'm No Good," and "Wake Up Alone" sound even more heartbreaking than they did at first listen. The only thing that makes the end of our affair with Amy even slightly bearable is the laughter we can hear behind songs like "Rehab." But way down inside, we're still saying No, no, no.

Animal Collective, Strawberry Jam (2007)

Label: Domino

It might not have been until Merriweather Post Pavilion that most people realized the genius of Animal Collective, but if you caught on late, going back to Strawberry Jam is a must. It wasn't quite as instantly gratifying, but psychedelic gems like "Peacebone" made it clear that this band was creative enough to craft catchy hits while still being wildly experimental.

Arcade Fire, Funeral (2004)

Label: Merge, Rough Trade

The indie rock community is constantly picking out new buzz bands to champion as "the next big thing," and a lot of times those bands come and go as quickly as it takes to write an exaggerated album review that inflates the hype. But it was clear with Funeral that Arcade Fire wasn't one of those bands. All it took was one listen to "Wake Up" and you knew that this band was one that was made to rock arenas.

Beenie Man, Maestro (1995)

Label: Greensleeves, VP

Making a great Beenie Man album is like catching lightning in a bottle. Maestro captures the Doctor before he reached the heights of his crossover success, spitting fire on bad-man tunes like "Any Mr. Man" and dancehall boomshots like "Romie" and "Girls Them Sugar." The album's operatic title track is the essence of audio excitement.

Beyonce Dangerously In Love (2003)

Label: Columbia

Breaking away from a group as strong as Destiny's Child can be a daunting task. But Queen B did it with ease, jumping into the solo world with her then boyfriend Jay-Z on “Crazy in Love,” then winding it up with Sean Paul on reggae jam “Baby Boy.”

Black Star, Mos Def And Talib Kweli Are Black Star (1998)

Label: Rawkus, Priority, EMI, MCA, Universal

While both of their careers have grown and progressed in the 14 years since this landmark record was made, the two stars of Mos Def and Talib Kweli Are Black Star were never more unstoppable than they were here. It doesn't hurt that the production from Hi-Tek and Da Beatminerz is practically flawless.

Boogie Down Productions Criminal Minded (1987)

Label: B-Boy Records

Posing on their album cover with uzis and hand grenades, KRS-One and DJ Scott LaRock left no doubt that BDP was fully equipped to do damage. With a big assist from Ced Gee of Ultramagnetics, BDP changed the sound and slang of hip-hop with hardcore anthems like "9 MM Go Bang" and "South Bronx."

Buju Banton, Til Shiloh (1995)

Label: Loose Cannon/Island

Buju's first three albums-the Techniques debut Stamina Daddy, the Penthouse classic Mr. Mention and Voice of Jamaica, his first major-label album-were all well-received and very different from each other. But Til Shiloh was a quantum leap. Acoustic reggae anthems like "Untold Stories" and "Til I'm Laid To Rest" marked a new level of artistic maturity for the Banton, who'd already proved he could dominate the dancehall, as he continued to do with cuts like "Champion" and "Only Man" and "Murderer." Buju's collabo with the late Garnet Silk on "Complaint" stands as one of the best records of his entire career.

Cam'ron, Purple Haze (2003)

Label: Roc-A-Fella, Diplomat, Def Jam

There's nothing quite like Cam'Ron in his prime. With Jim Jones and Juelz Santana holding down the Diplomats, Killa's solo career soared to new heights with his 2004 Roc-A-Fella release Purple Haze. Cam's magnetic flow over soulful and airy beats detailed Harlem life for rap fans to consume. In his laid-back cadence, Cam dished out nonsensical boasts about violence, drug trade, and going toe-to-toe with his enemies. Real talk, these were some of his finest moments on wax. And Haze remains Cam'Ron's most potent album to date.

Capleton, Prophecy (1995)

Label: Def Jam Records

Few major-label dancehall albums have had the decency to avoid watering down a good thing. But Capleton's Def Jam debut, Prophecy, stands as a shining example of the good things that can happen when A&Rs simply leave a great artist alone and let him do what he does best. The few hip-hop remixes-"Wings of the Morning" featuring Method Man and the classic "Tour" remix on the "Chilldren's Story" beat-work not only because they're tastefully done but also because they're few and far between. The rest of the album is reserved for killer cuts like "Dis The Trinity" and "Heathen Rage." More fire.

Clipse, Hell Hath No Fury (2006)

Label: Star Trak, Arista

Hell Hath No Fury is hopeless, dark, and cold. Even on the more pop-leaning tracks, like the buzzing "Trill," or "Wamp Wamp (What It Do)"-on which Pusha raps "Ask what I feel? Nada"-you get the sense that these two are never smiling. Even the boasts and brags ("I ain't spend one rap dollar in three years, holla") are delivered with a sense of grimness.

Common, Resurrection (1994)

Label: Relativity

Chicago's answer to Nas's Illmatic, the soulful and lyrically advanced Resurrection finds the artist formerly known as Common Sense letting loose over No I.D.'s inspired production. The highlight of the record is of course "I Used to Love H.E.R.," a record where Common narrates the story of lost love but in a twist, it's in fact the story of hip-hop.

Cut Copy, In Ghost Colours (2008)

Label: Modular

Casual and breezy, this album is loaded with summer feel good songs built for the dance-floor. There's an endless mishmash of styles and genres on here and it's all up-tempo. Serving as a example of just what can happen when indie meets electric while dipping in psychedelia, there's few albums that's as easy to love as this one.

D'Angelo, Voodoo (2001)

Label: Virgin

Forget the sculpted body in the music video, forget the tragic fall from grace-just listen to the album, the greatest R&B album the 2000s produced. Nothing is sexier than D's cover of “Feel Like Makin' Love,” nothing grimier than the Primo-produced “Devil's Pie,” nothing hurts as much as “One Mo'Gin.” Even if he never records another album there will be Voodoo.

Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley, Welcome To Jamrock (2005)

Label: Tuff Gong, Universal

That "Out in the streets they call it murder" hook can still rock any party but Damian Marley's double-Grammy-winning third album has more to it than just a rough-tough title track. Besides a strong Nas collabo ("Road To Zion") and Bobby Brown's best record in years ("Beautiful"), there's also "Khaki Suit," a bouncy dancehall boomshot featuring Eek-A-Mouse and Bounty Killer. Plus "Move" brings Bob Marley's "Exodus" into the dancehall era, while "Pimpa's Paradise" (featuring Stephen Marley and Black Thought) reworks one of Bob's more obscure album cuts into something even bigger and more ambitious than the original.

DMX, It's Dark and Hell Is Hot (1998)

Label: Ruff Ryders, Def Jam

Just when it seemed like flashy rap had taken over the radio, It's Dark And Hell Is Hot introduced one the most exciting street rappers to ever hit the rap scene. At the time, DMX's dark and aggressive lyrics offered a stark contrast from the gaudiness that artists like Ma$e and Jay-Z had made popular. This is the work that started one of rap's most memorable careers.

Drake, Take Care (2011)

Label: Young Money, Cash Money, Universal Republic

Drake's sophomore album, featuring the Weeknd and Rihanna amongst other, is him best yet-more matured than his marquee mixtape So Far Gone and more cohesive than his debut set.

Eminem, The Eminem Show (2002)

Label: Aftermath, Interscope

Back when rap skits were still a craze, Eminem's The Eminem Show was part one of his now full-fledged comeback to the game. Tracks like “Cleaning Out My Closet” and “Hailie's Song” revealed a more confessional side of Em, while “Without Me” was the return of Slim Shady's trash talk. We could go on and on about his earlier albums, but this is Em soaking in the spotlight once again.

Eminem, The Marshall Mathers LP (2000)

Label: Aftermath, Interscope

Eminem's magnum opus finds Marshall Mathers' tortured soul dealing with the perils of a life turned upside down by fame. Drenched in his legendary lyricism and story telling abilities, the record is a must have for hardcore hip-hop fans who value song writing skills as much as wordplay.

Eminem, The Slim Shady LP (1999)

Label: Aftermath, Interscope, Web

Many of us didn't know much about this blonde hair, blue-eyed rapper from Detroit. All we knew was he had Dr. Dre's blessing, possessed a don't-give-a-fuck attitude, and could tear up a microphone. The Slim Shady LP resonates years after its release because Shady's clever lyrics were so unapologetic, yet masterfully put together. And skits like “Ken Kaniff” were just too hilarious. Simply put: This is Em at his finest.

EPMD, Strictly Business (1988)

Label: Fresh Records, Sleeping Bag Records

Erick and Parish started making dollars with this 1988 release on Fresh/Sleeping Bag Records. The brilliance of the pair's vibe -the only collaborator is DJ K La Boss who adds some scratches to the ninth track- is on full display and their laid-back, no frills delivery certified their fresh. No over-the-top bars here. Just head nod inducing raps delivered over funky beats. Even though we're just highlighting the sonic force of the albums on this list, we'd be remiss in not shouting out Eric Haze's cover art design here too.

Eric B & Rakim, Paid In Full (1988)

Label: 4th & B'way, Island

On Paid In Full Rakim basically invented the modern day rhyme structure that everyone from Eminem to Jay-Z still uses to this day. Filled with some of the most important rap records ever made, Rakim spits from the perspective of a rapper thinking of a master plan. He crafts just that.

Gang Starr, Daily Operation (1992)

Label: Chrysalis/EMI Records

The duo of DJ Premier and Guru have in many ways influenced later hip-hop gems like Nas' Illmatic and The Notorious B.I.G.'s Ready To Die . The evidence is in their third album Daily Operation , which set the standards for streetwise, socially conscious East Coast rap. Songs like “Ex Girl To Next Girl” and “Take It Personal” are straight ill '90s cuts, accented by Premo's jazz-influenced beats. Nearly 20 years later, true hip-hop heads are still bumping this classic.

Ghostface Killah, Supreme Clientele (2000)

Label: Epic, Sony, Razor Sharp

Fly words over fly beats. "Supreme Clientele" is one of those mesmerizing albums full of delightfully bizarre lyrics and neck cracking beats. Given the frequency of "best line" topic threads on message boards, the lasting legacy of Ghost's finest solo long player isn't surprising. It's not out of the ordinary to see a few choice bars printed on tees either. "Supreme Clientele" is basically streewear's favorite album.

Gorillaz, Demon Days (2005)

Label: Parlophone

Demon Days is a shining example of a band not only avoiding the dreaded sophomore slump, but taking their previous sound and expanding it to new heights. Plus, who doesn't want to hear Gorillaz front man Damon Albarn sharing vocal duties with MF DOOM, De La Soul, Roots Manuva, and Dennis Hopper?

Green Day, Dookie (1994)

Label: Reprise

When Green Day dropped their major label debut and won over the mainstream, punk fans complained that the band had "sold out." They had no idea by 2010, the "punks" would be taking their music to the least punk place possible: Broadway. Despite the fact that Green Day's mainstream success drastically changed the direction of their sound, Dookie still stands as the perfect balance between a brash rock album for the rebellious youth and something catchy enough for millions to embrace.

Hot Chip, The Warning (2006)

Label: EMI, Astralwerks, DFA Records

In the middle of the aughts, a handful of bands introduced dance music to the cool kids, the ones who wouldn't normally dance. They did it by appealing to listeners' love for ironic posturing and clever snark. But it always felt like a bitter coating for real sentiment and emotion. Take Hot Chip's second album, the record they still haven't topped. What do you remember? Bopping to “Over and Over” and its smart lyrics: “Over and over, and over, and over, and over/Like a monkey with a miniature cymbal/The joy of repetition really is in you.” That's pop music in a nutshell: the song we want to hear again and again, the chorus embedded in your brain, scratching the same itch in the right way every time.

Ice Cube, Death Certificate (1991)

Label: Priority/EMI Records

Although it closes with the vicious diss track "No Vaseline," most of Ice Cube's sophomore album deals with political and social issues that still affect America today, including gun ownership, STDs, and racism. On the surface Cube may come off as violent and obnoxious, but underneath it all what he values is knowledge and self-empowerment.

Janet Jackson, The Velvet Rope (1997)

Label: Virgin

The ever sexy Jackson took a hard left turn here, going from naughty girl to straight S&M bad-ass. Cuts like “Rope Burn” let folks know that she's looking for a little pain with her pleasure, while her Joni Mitchell-sampling “Got 'Til It's Gone” gave her another introspective classic.

Jay-Z & Kanye West, Watch The Throne (2011)

Label: Roc-A-Fella, Roc Nation, Def Jam

"Black excellence, opulence, decadence," raps Jay-Z on "Murder to Excellence," waiting a full 10 tracks to deliver the album's mission statement. Though, if you couldn't figure out what Watch the Throne was about after peeping the Givenchy-inspired gold-plated album cover, or listening to the infectious, new-age bounce of "Ni**as in Paris", maybe it wasn't meant for you to understand.

A partnership between rap music's two biggest attractions, The Throne is an examination of of life from a height no other rappers have ever managed to ascend to-a whiff of that rarified air that's only sniffed by the likes of Oprah, Will Smith, and a whole lot of non-black people.

Jay-Z, Reasonable Doubt (1996)

Label: Roc-A-Fella, Priority

Although his subsequent work is best noted for its commercial appeal, Jay-Z's debut is a mafioso rap classic. Laced with intricate rhymes, street tales, and Jay's relentless cool, RD is an unforgettable listening experience. While other rappers sounded excited by the violence of street life, Jigga was concern with the high life and the dark side of the game weights heavily on his mind on cuts like "D'Evils" and "Regrets."

Jay-Z, The Blueprint (2001)

Label: Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam

At the peak of his powers Jay-Z dropped the The Blueprint, arguably his greatest accomplishment. Jay's debut might be more lyrical, but BP remains one of the most influential rap records ever recorded. Featuring production from then newcomers Just Blaze and Kanye West, the album brought soul samples back to the forefront of rap.

Joy Division, Unknown Pleasures (1979)

Label: Factory

It's more than just a shirt you can buy at Urban Outfitters-Unknown Pleasures was Joy Division's debut, the template for the angular, post-punk the Factory label is synonymous with. No excuse for not having heard this one. Play it on your headphones at work-everyone will think you're crying due to the dull desk job.

Justin Timberlake, Futuresex/Lovesounds (2006)

Label: Jive

Justin Timberlake's FutureSex/LoveSounds attracted us with sexier lyrics than his first album. Produced almost entirely by Timbaland, it allowed Timberlake to rise to pop icon status and gave hip-hop heads a chance to explore his edgier side. “Cry Me A River,” “My Love” and “Sexy Back” were all monumental singles. For those of us missing JT, let him remind you who brought sexy back first.

Kanye West, Graduation (2007)

Label: Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam

Graduation had it all-an experimental Daft Punk-sampling hit record with “Stronger,” “Can't Tell Me Nothing,” which still basically functions as Kanye's mission statement, and a synthed out banger that didn't need radio success to set it off in the club (“Flashing Lights”). To put it plainly, Graduation made Kanye king. No cap and tassel needed. He took the crown.

Kanye West, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010)

Label: Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam

Kanye West's fifth solo album felt even more painfully, soul-baringly honest than the rest of his oeuvre. MBDTF is all about the struggle for one man's eternal soul, the eternal tussle between spirit and flesh. Call it the last temptation of 'Ye.

Kanye West, The College Dropout (2003)

Label: Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam

At a time when super hero rap was the hot ticket, here came a kid from Chicago rocking pink Polo shirts with popped collars who was rapping about how bad he felt for all the clothes he bought. Behind those rhymes weren't slick keyboard synths, but warm, lovingly chopped soul samples that played like a mix between the RZA and Diddy's Hitmen crew. Kanye was able to bring the best of the underground to the forefront and infuse it with pop sensibilities.

Kate Bush, The Dreaming (1982)

Label: EMI

The fourth album by the British singer was the first that she produced entirely on her own-released in when she was a twenty-something girl, she has called it her "I've gone mad album," by turns dark, playful, and abstractly poetic. With songs as diverse and daring as "Sat In Your Lap," "Pull Out The Pin" and "Houdini," it's no surprise that The Dreaming has gone on to influence independent-minded female musicians like Bjork.

Kendrick Lamar, Section.80 (2011)

Label: Top Dawg Entertainment

Section.80 cements Kendrick Lamar's status as one of the Aughts' most engaging, intelligent, and altogether impressive MCs. With this album, the Compton native didn't just stand out from his contemporaries; he stood above them.

Kid Cudi, Man On The Moon II (2010)

Label: Dream On, GOOD Music, Universal Motown

The lonely stoner returned as a rager on his sophomore effort, audibly sniffing coke while moaning over some epic, gloomy jams.

LCD Soundsystem, Sound Of Silver (2007)

Label: DFA, Capitol

In the past decade, the indie world has been inundated with danceable, electronic indie pop, but none did it quite like LCD Soundsystem. "All My Friends" is the perfect example of the glaring difference. It captured something that the usually lighthearted genre never came close to touching: powerful, almost overwhelming nostalgia.

Lil Wayne, Tha Carter II (2005)

Label: Cash Money, Universal

After making us all pay attention on Tha Carter, Tha Carter II was the album that catapulted Lil Wayne into “best rapper alive” contention. Although installments three and four had huge hits, Wayne had become a much bigger star, and his ability to wow us had been tainted by high-expectations.Tha Carter II is essential listening, from one of music's biggest superstars.

M83, Saturdays=Youth (2008)

Label: Virgin

Sensing the height of our post-millennial nostalgia wave, Anthony Gonzalez-the mastermind behind the French electropop outfit M83-capitalized on it with an album that wouldn't sound out of place in a John Hughes film.

It was a formula he'd been building on with four previous releases, but now that '80s-inspired synth sound was fully realized. "Kim & Jessie," "Graveyard Girl," and "We Own The Sky" have appeared in a gang of commercials and movies since, all evoking that same feeling of comfort and wonder we experience when we listen to Saturdays=Youth.

Madvillain, Madvillainy (2004)

Label: Stones Throw

Madlib and MF DOOM's classic wasn't meant for the radio, but it was too good to be kept to the underground. While Jay-Z, Outkast, and Eminem were dominating the charts, Madvillain ignored all that and put together this dusty, weeded up, 22-song masterpiece that stood alone and brought us all into its own little world. Madlib and DOOM are two artists so weird and outside the realm of your typical hip-hop that their collaboration never seems out of style. Maybe that's why listening to this album never gets old.

Marvin Gaye, What's Going On (1971)

Label: Tamla

Motown boss Berry Gordy didn't want to release Marvin Gaye's timeless masterpiece, because he feared songs like "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)" and "Inner City Blues (Makes Me Wanna Holler" would be too politically provocative. But as a tried and true hitmaker Marvin used all the leverage he could muster to preserve the integrity of the album, which touched on sensitive topics like drug abuse, poverty, and the Vietnam War. The record was also his most musically daring, blending Latin and funk rhythms with the radio-ready R&B Motown was known for. If your vinyl copy of this masterpiece is old and scratchy, rediscover it on Spotify in full digital clarity.

Mavado, Gangsta For Life: The Symphony of David Brooks (2007)

Label: VP Records

Best known to American listeners for his massive hit single "So Special," Mavado's mournful voice and unapologetic gangster tales made him the most important dancehall singer of his generation. His debut album collects all the hits that solidified his reputation-"Weh Dem A Do," "Full Clip" (featuring Busy Signal), "Real McKoy," and "Last Night"-not to mention his home-turf anthem "Gullyside."

On the song "Dying" (featuring Serani) Mavado channels his favorite rapper in one of the most successful Tupac interpolations ever attempted. Now signed to DJ Khaled, Mavado's career has entered a new phase, but Gangsta For Life stands as an enduring record of one man's rise from the gully to the world.

MGMT, Oracular Spectacular (2007)

Label: MGMT, Oracular Spectacular (2007)

MGMT's lack of direction and unwillingness to choose a cohesive sound for their psychedelic debut made Oracular Spectacular sound unfocused and scattered, but it also made it one of the most fun, unpredictable projects of the decade. With singles as huge as "Kids," "Time To Pretend," and "Electric Feel," MGMT proved that being weird and being popular didn't necessarily have to be mutually exclusive.

Michael Jackson, Thriller (1982)

Label: Epic

You can argue whether or not this is the King's best album. What's not debatable is that Thriller is the best-selling album of all time. From pop masterpieces like "Billy Jean" and "Beat It" to the Vincent-Price-narrated title track and the quiet-storm jam “Lady in My Life,” Thriller is forever.

Mobb Deep, The Infamous (1995)

Label: Loud, RCA, BMG Records

The Infamous craved out a unique and unmistakable sound. Dark, moody, brooding, and sinister, the music was apocalyptic and Havoc and Prodigy's unyielding and unremorseful lyrics painted a very bleak picture of what life was like growing up in Queensbridge. What made it even crazier was that either one for old enough to drink at the time.

Mos Def, Black On Both Sides (1999)

Label: Rawkus, Priority

Coming off the success of a classic project like Black Star's debut makes expectations ridiculously high, but Mos Def didn't disappoint. He still had a lot to say, and he did it with artistry that overpowered the stigma attached to the "conscious rap" label. Hip-hop with a message isn't easy to come by these days. Even harder to find is good hip-hop with a message, so if you're feeling the need to nod your head and think about society's issues at the same time, Black On Both Sides never fails to deliver.

N.W.A., Straight Outta Compton (1988)

Label: Ruthless, Priority, EMI

Like Public Enemy and BDP on the east coast, NWA became the west coast voice of inner-city America, in the late-'80s. Straight Outta Comptonwas the confident musical declaration that the black American youth were fed up with being ignored and mistreated.

The album perfectly reflected the anger and despair born out of the crime and contentious race relations of the Reagan era. NWA essentially crafted a listenable snapshot in history.

Nas, Illmatic (1994)

Label: Columbia

With the worldview of a ghetto monk, in less than 40 minutes Nas takes listeners to the Queensbridge Projects and back. Produced by some of the finest beatmakers the rap game has ever seen-Q-Tip, Large Professor, Pete Rock, and DJ Premier-and filled with some of the best, most thoughtful lyrics ever recorded, Illmatic is arguably the greatest rap record ever.

Neutral Milk Hotel, In the Aeroplane Over The Sea (1998)

Label: Merge, Domino

Playing Jeff Mangum's sex-and-Anne-Frank obsessed marvel is the best way to attract cool kids (and a handful of posers) to whatever speakers the strangled voice and swooning horns are emerging from. Take turns picking apart the warped lyrics that circle around truths impossible to say directly. Or just ask out the prettiest lady who comes calling. Smart girls love Mangum.

Nirvana, Nevermind (1991)

Label: DGC

At this point, there's not much more that needs to be said about Nirvana's Nevermind. It was positively one of the most important rock albums of all time, but no matter how many times you hear that, it still can't match the impact of sitting down and listening to the album through. If it's been a while since you revisited Nirvana's masterpiece, take a trip back to the '90s and listen to the biggest rock album of the decade.

Oasis, (What's The Story) Morning Glory? (1995)

Label: Creation

Oasis' second album What's The Story Morning Glory is filled with 90's buzz ballad anthems including Liam Gallagher's crooning on 'Wonderwall' and the seven-minute closing track 'Champagne Supernova.' While the Gallagher brothers Liam and Noel's sibling disputes led to the band's break-up, their second album broke records as it sat at number one on the UK charts for 10 straight weeks.

Outkast, Aquemini (1998)

Label: LaFace, Arista

On their third studio album, Outkast's Big Boi (the Aquarius) and Andre 3000 (the Gemini) took full advantage of the live instrumentation of Atlanta musicians with reggae horns on 'SpottieOttieDopalicious' and spoken word lyricism on 'Aquemini.' High off of their out-of-this-world ATliens, Aquemini was certified double platinum and was the first Southern rap album to receive a five-mic ranking from The Source.

Outkast, ATLiens (1996)

Label: LaFace, Arista

16 years later, ATLiens is-by all accounts-a hip-hop classic. Before 3 Stacks and Sir Lucious Left Foot grew into hip-hop's resident invariably strange, but always entertaining odd couple, Big Boi and Dre were just two kids from the streets of Atlanta trying to make a name for themselves. The album is full of aspirations, hunger and tales of life in the dirty south, and it's only gotten sweeter with age.

Phil Collins, Face Value (1981)

Label: Atlantic

Phil's “In the Air of the Night” is his trademark cut. But along with that on this effort are sweet songs like “This Must Be Love” and thoughtful gems like "The Roof is Leaking.”

Phil Collins, No Jacket Required (1985)

Label: Atlantic

Mr. Collins' third studio album includes undisputed bangers in "Sussudio," "One More Night," "Don't Lose My Number," and "Take Me Home." These classics are enough to turn an average night into a full on '80s evening. And, if you've got the balls, each can make you a star at the karaoke bar.

Portishead, Dummy (1994)

Label: Go! Beat

There isn't a wasted second on Portishead's incredible debut. Responsible for popularizing the trip-hop genre, the album's deep groves found the perfect mix between the dance world and the brilliant vocal performance of Beth Gibbons.

R. Kelly, TP-2.com (2000)

Label: Jive, Sony

In addition to containing one of the most moving statements about loss and fame music has ever recorded (“I Wish,” for those needing a sign), TP-2.com will get more than your eyes wet. Is that crass? Yes. But we're talking about an album where, in the first three minutes, Kels compares the feeling of almost coming to feeling “tinkly.” What do you know about being an R&B thug?

Radiohead, OK Computer (1997)

Label: Parlophone, Capitol

Kid A is the better album if you want Radiohead's take on electronica, but for loud guitars OK Computer will also be the gold standard in the group's discography. Your cred as an indie kid begins here. Take it in, react to it, tell your friends about how the drums on opener “Airbag” were inspired by DJ Shadow.

Radiohead, The Bends (1995)

Label: Parlophone, Capitol

To listen to Radiohead's The Bends is to hear a band on the precipice of something amazing (OK Computer). While Pablo Honey might be their debut, it's The Bends that gives you a true introduction to one of the greatest bands of all time.

Raekwon, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... (1995)

Label: Loud, RCA, BMG Records

One of the most cinematic rap albums ever recorded, Cuban Linx features Lex Diamonds and Tony Starks-b.k.a. Raekwon The Chef and Ghostface Killah-playing the role of pasta eating dons who overrule the underworld while weaving incredible street tales with narrative detail. On the production side, The RZA creates one of his best batch of beats ever. The '90s was a fascinating time in New York rap, and this album remains a landmark for gangsta rap.

Rick Ross, Teflon Don (2010)

Label: Maybach Music Group, Slip-n-Slide, Def Jam

Showcasing The Boss' insatiable appetite for lush yet thugged out beats, this is the album that made people wish Rozay could A&R some of his peers' albums, too. J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League closed out their “Maybach Music” trilogy with heavy orchestration. While Lex Luger pummeled the bass in speakers all over with thumpers in “B.M.F.” and “MC Hammer” as Ross' bars danced around the competition.

Sean Paul, Dutty Rock (2002)

Label: VP Records, Atlantic

The most successful dancehall reggae album in history, Sean Paul's sophomore release had a immediate and lasting impact on pop culture that's still felt to this day. Rather than relying on remixes and guest features, Sean Paul won on his own terms, riding raw uncut riddims straight out of Jamaica's dancehalls all the way to the international pop charts.

From the breakout single "Gimme The Light" to the chart-topping "Get Busy" Sean kicked in the door for dancehall reggae on a worldwide scale. Club favorites "Like Glue" and "I'm Still In Love With You" cemented his position at the toppa top. His secret? Those dutty, hard-edged flows and an uncanny ability to craft hooks that stick in the brain like the highest-grade ganja.

Sizzla, Black Woman And Child (1997)

Label: VP Records

Though he learned his craft with Fattis Burrell and the Firehouse Crew, the first time a young Sizzla linked up with legendary dancehall producer Bobby Digital, they created Black Woman And Child a classic album that still stands as one of the crowning moments of Jamaican music. From the dreamy title track to sound system scorchers like "One Away" and "Give Them A Ride" and "No Time To Gaze," Sizzla has never burned hotter.

Slick Rick, The Great Adventures of Slick Rick (1988)

Label: Def Jam, Columbia, CBS

There are many powerful arguments why 1988 was hip-hop's greatest year ever, but none more convincing than Silck Rick's Def Jam debut. The story-telling genius he displayed on "Children's Story" and "Mona Lisa," and the poignant blend of rude-boy reality on "Hey Young World" and the pimp game of "Treat Em Like A Prostitute" put this album on the short list of all-time greatest rap classics. It's no accident that when he was looking to kick of Blueprint, Jay-Z channeled Rick's bombastic swagger from "The Ruler's Back"

Snoop Doggy Dogg, Doggystyle (1993)

Label: Death Row, Interscope, Atlantic

A continuation of Dr. Dre's The Chronic, Snoop Dogg's debut is the stuff of legend. Snoop's charisma is off the charts and his flow is so smooth it's impossible to deny this West Coast classic.

T.I., King (2006)

Label: Grand Hustle, Atlantic

Already sitting firmly on top of the rap world, T.I. had thrust himself out of mere stardom and into superstardom with King. The album meshed the grit and grime to which early Tip fans had become accustomed with the flash and sophistication that his new fans had come to love. King welcomed us all into Tip's coronation.

T.I. Trap Muzik (2003)

Label: Grand Hustle, Atlantic

Before T.I. became the self-proclaimed King of the South, he came from the bottom of the trap. If you need an offering of some dope boy narratives, Tip has got you. Trap Muzik is his canvas to paint vivid pictures of things hustlers do without glorifying any of it. From talking big rims on “24s” to counting money on “Rubberband Man,” this is Tip's most impressive album.

Talking Heads The Name Of This Band Is Talking Heads (1982)

Label: Sire

Live albums don't usually count as essential listening, but this Talking Heads double-disc nailed it. It captures the live energy of one of the most creative and influential bands of all time, and instead of just being a supplemental addition to their catalog, it ended up being one of their best albums.

Terror Fabulous Yaga Yaga (1994)

Label: East West/Atlantic

What would happen if one genius producer created an entire album with a cutting-edge dancehall artist and it got a major-label push with no interference from the label? That's exactly what happened with Yaga Yaga by Terror Fabulous, released by East/West Records exactly as it was submitted by producer Dave Kelly of Madhouse Productions. The result was classic singles like "Gangster's Anthem" and "Action" featuring Nadine Sutherland. But each and every album cut on this all-killer-no-filler collection stands up to repeated listens, despite the fact that there's not a single "superstar" collabo.

The Black Keys Rubber Factory (2004)

Label: Fat Possum

The ominous Country bluesy guitar riffs on 'When The Lights Go Out' lead into The Black Keys' third studio album, Rubber Factory, mostly recorded in an empty, run-down tire factory staying true to the album name. It's heavy instrumentals and true-to-blues moaning, break-up lyrics by Dan Auerbach show the duo's constant improvements that have led them to where they are now.

The Clash, Sandinista! (1980

Label: CBS, Epic

When critics blasted The Clash for self-indulgence after they released the double album with London Calling, they responded in true punk fashion by telling critics to fuck off and dropping a sprawling triple album with the most politically provocative title possible. Shouting out the Central American socialist rebels whom the newly elected Reagan administration considered public enemy number one was almost as bad at the time as bigging up Bin Laden would be after 9/11.

But Joe Strummer and Mick Jones never were ones to back down from a fight. And with songs like "Somebody Got Murdered" and "Charlie Don't Surf" and "Spanish Bombs" they had the tunes to back up their rebel rhetoric. From the punk rap and disco breaks of "The Magnificent Seven" to the unhinged pop of "Hitsville UK" and Mikey Dread-engineered dubwise sonics of "Crooked Beat," Sandinista remains this band's densest most eclectic work ever.

The Clash Super Black Market Clash (1993)

Label: Epic

First released as Black Market Clash a 10-inch vinyl EP collecting crucial dub versions and b-sides for collectors of Clash rarities, the expanded Super Black Market Clash is nearly tripled in size, including some of the tastiest treats from the UK's most revolutionary foursome since The Beatles.

The Diplomats, Diplomatic Immunity (2003)

Label: Roc-A-Fella Records,Diplomat Records, Def Jam Recordings

Building off of the success of Jay-Z's and Roc-a-Fella's early aughts run, the album was soaked in chopped chipmunk soul courtesy of the Bronx production crew the Heatmakerz. At two discs this ambitious double album was inarguably too long-but tracks like the towering "I Really Mean It", the breezy "My Love", the triumphant "I'm Ready", and Cam's ode to his favorite herb, "Purple Haze," more than made up for the filler.

The Game The Documentary (2005)

Label: Aftermath, G-Unit, Interscope

The Documentary introduced the masses to Jayceon Taylor, a rapper caught in a tug-of-war between street wisdom and simply being young and reckless. Although led by Dr. Dre-the production included contributions from Just Blaze, Timbaland, Kanye West, and Cool & Dre, while the album featured verses from the likes of the G-Unit General 50 Cent-who co-wrote many of the memorable hooks-as well as Eminem and Mary J. Blige. It was a star-studded affair, and certainly a substantive one. Although 50 and Game eventually fell out, The Documentary is still hailed as a modern-day classic

The GZA, Liquid Swords (1995)

Label: Geffen, MCA

The darkest, most devastating Wu solo album is on Spotify. Turn out the lights, spark a candle (and blunt), and hold a séance to commune with classic '90s hip-hop, the moment when the GZA calling himself a genius was the most logical thing in the world.

The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Are You Experienced (1967)

Label: Experience Hendrix, MCA

FM radio killers like "Foxy Lady" and "Fire" and "Manic Depression" are so familiar by now that it's easy to forget how groundbreaking they were. Hendrix's 1967 debut blew the lid off of rock and roll in every conceivable way. The electric guitar never sounded the same after Jimi Hendix turned it upside down and had his way with it. And until you've experienced psychedelic gems like "3rd Stone From The Sun" you really haven't used your brain or your headphones.

The Killers, Hot Fuss (2004)

Label: Island

While the first half of The Killer's debut album Hot Fuss has acclaimed singles including "Mr. Brightside", "Somebody Told Me" and the 'I've got soul, but I'm not a soldier' anthem "All These Things That I've Done, the second half fails to impress to the same extent. Nonetheless, the musicians from Las Vegas nailed the Brit-pop sound that influenced them in the first of their four studio albums.

The Notorious B.I.G. Life After Death (1997)

Label: Bad Boy Records

One of the few double discs in hip-hop history that doesn't feel padded with filler, Biggie's prophetically titled, posthumously released sophomore album stands as the crowning achievement of his all-too-brief career, demonstrating the full range of his lyrical brilliance, from club bangers like "Hypnotize" to Primo classics like "10 Crack Commandments" and "Kick In The Door" and the double-time mastery of "Notorious Thugs." Biggie Smalls is was and shall ever be the illest.

The Notorious B.I.G. Ready To Die (1994)

Label: Bad Boy Records

If you haven't heard Ready To Die, you basically have no business talking about rap music. One of the all time great rap debuts, RTD is filled with both paranoid street tales (several songs on the album end with gunfire) but celebratory moments like "Juicy" and "Big Poppa."

The Pixies Doolittle (1989)

Label: Elektra

The Pixies never quite blew up while they were releasing their best music, but it seems like with every year that passes, more people realize how great of a band they really were. Maybe the problem was they came along at the wrong time, right before alternative rock took over the mainstream with grunge. But considering that the Pixies were one of Kurt Cobain's favorite bands, would grunge have even existed without them? Either way, Doolittle is a classic in its own right.

The Postal Service, Give Up (2003)

Label: Sub Pop

It's funny how a backlash can change the way you think about an album. When The Postal Service's Give Up came out, the indie crowd loved it, but as it picked up speed, it succeeded as Sub Pop's best selling album since Nirvana's Bleach and became the one indie album that every kid on every college campus feel in love with. This turned a lot of the indie kids off. Almost a decade later, we can move past all that and listen to the album for what it is: awesome. In retrospect, you can hear how the electronic sounds of The Postal Service changed the direction of the indie pop that came after it, and there's no longer a reason to feel any guilt while enjoying it.

The Rolling Stones Some Girls (1978)

Label: Rolling Stones/Atlantic

The Stones last great album before they became dinosaurs of "classic rock," Some Girls captures Mick, Keith, Charlie, and Ron at the peak of their debauched swag. Every song's a killer, from the disco stomp of "Miss You" to the whiskey-soaked country & western of "Faraway Eyes." Keith's gentle guitar solos on "Beast of Burden" are to die for and "Shattered" sums up the appeal of New York City as well as any record ever: "Laughter joy and loneliness and sex and sex and sex and sex."

The Roots Things Fall Apart (1999)

Label: Geffen

Narrowing down The Roots' best album is no easy task, especially given their streak in the late '90s / early Aughts. But Things Fall Apart may be the quintessential set from Philly's finest, who weave together slick battle raps, insightful social commentary, and one of the best hip-hop love songs of all time into a coherent concept album that's as dope as it is clever.

The Strokes Is This It (2001)

Label: RCA

Julian Casablancas has an undoubtable talent for writing lyrics on life, love, sex and “Barely Legal” girls in New York City and it all started on Is This It, the debut album from the American indie band The Strokes. In 2001, the modern rock n' roll guitars of “Last Nite,” the lyrical rant on “The Modern Age,” and the nostaglic, break-up “Someday” single contributed to the resurgence of skinny jeans, guitars, and a very significant change in mainstream music at the time.

The Velvet Underground The Velvet Underground & Nico (1967)

Label: Verve

Don't let audiophiles tell you otherwise-listening to the Velvet Underground's debut on Spotify makes sense. This record continues to inspire new music, and today new music happens via the Internet. That said, you should probably cop this noisy, beautiful classic on vinyl and give it a spin at 33 1/3 RPMs. Nico's expressive but flat voice, John Cale's droning viola, and Lou Reed's effortless cool sound best in mono.

The White Stripes Elephant (2003)

Label: V2

When something great comes along, you don't always know it. Sometimes it takes time to realize the importance of an album. That wasn't the case with Elephant. The Grammy Award-winning major label debut from The White Stripes avoided trends and started one of its own with a bluesy, garage-y, relentless rock album that still holds up almost 10 years later.

Tom Waits Rain Dogs (1985)

Label: Island

Wading into the catalogue of Tom Waits is like stepping into a junkyard. This only has a little to do with Waits singing about junkyard or recording music on instruments culled from junkyards. No, is discography is full of odds and ends, pieces that only make sense when you fit them up against other records. Rain Dogs is a glorious scrapheap of styles, weird America as heard through the ears of one of its real geniuses.

UGK, Ridin' Dirty (1996)

Label: Jive

An influential Southern rap classic, the Underground Kings Pimp C and Bun B created their own gangsta rap hybird with this album-one that mixed traditional gangsta rap with Southern slang and a laid back approach.

Usher Confessions (2004)

Label: LaFace, Arista

Usher hit his pinnacle as a singer with Confessions . For a traditional R&B album that covers everything from romantic songs to sentimental issues to getting a shorty in the club, Usher's voice never fails him. There are plenty of opportunities to flex his falsetto on this album that fuses dance and R&B. It's perfect for your late-night slow jam sessions.

Weezer Blue Album (1994)

Label: DGC

With hits like “Say It Ain't So” and “My Name is Jonas,” Weezer's 1994 debut album launched the band to mainstream acclaim with its self-deprecating humour and crunchy pop-rock guitar work. (Those Spike Jonze music videos didn't hurt either.) The band has recorded eight more albums over the past two decades, but this one set the standard.

Wu Tang Clan Enter The Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers (1993)

Label: Loud

If you can't recite at least one verse off 36 Chambers, your musical life is a failure. Luckily, there is a voice to match every personality, and a character to mirror even your craziest alter-ego... so it is never two late to start memorizing. 36 Chambers has aged well (it has been almost two decades since release). We're also ok with saying it ain't nothing to fuck with.

Young Jeezy Thug Motivation 101 (2005)

Label: CTE, Island Def Jam

The combination of the Snowman's confidence, charisma, and honesty set him apart from the average rapper with a cocaine flow. The album featured some huge singles, including “Soul Survivor” and “And Then What,” and it featured from the likes of Jay-Z, T.I. and Bun B, among others. His voice and ad-libs were fresh and effortless, and his ability to weave honest tales of street hustling into melody made TM101 an incredible debut album.