Must-Have Vinyl: The Best Records From the ‘80s
The 1980s brought us an incredible array of music across genres, with vinyl records capturing the sound and spirit of the decade. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to vinyl, the '80s offer a treasure trove of albums worth adding to your collection. After covering the best vinyl records of the 1970s, it’s now time to dive into the unforgettable hits and hidden gems of the '80s. Here's our curated list of the best 1980s vinyl records—classics and cult favorites that define the era.
1. Thriller by Michael Jackson (1982)
No discussion of '80s music is complete without mentioning Michael Jackson's Thriller. This record not only shattered sales records but also showcased Jackson's unparalleled talent with hits like "Billie Jean" and "Beat It." Clean used copies can usually be found for $15 or less.
Why it's a must-have:
Groundbreaking production by Quincy Jones.
Iconic music videos that shaped pop culture.
2. Purple Rain by Prince and The Revolution (1984)
Prince's magnum opus blends rock, R&B, and funk into an electrifying experience. Featuring the unforgettable title track and "When Doves Cry," Purple Rain is a masterpiece.
Why it's a must-have:
A genre-defying album that showcases Prince’s genius.
The perfect blend of artistry and commercial success.
3. The Joshua Tree by U2 (1987)
U2’s The Joshua Tree elevated the band to global stardom. With anthems like "With or Without You" and "Where the Streets Have No Name," this record is an emotional journey.
Why it's a must-have:
Stunning production and timeless themes.
A defining moment in rock history.
4. Hounds of Love by Kate Bush (1985)
Kate Bush’s Hounds of Love is a bold and experimental work that pushed the boundaries of pop music. Tracks like "Running Up That Hill" and "Cloudbusting" remain as fresh today as they were then.
Why it's a must-have:
Innovative use of sampling and synths.
A highly influential album for future artists.
5. Back in Black by AC/DC (1980)
Back in Black is a hard rock classic that brought AC/DC back to the forefront following the tragic loss of Bon Scott. Tracks like "Hells Bells" and the title song are legendary.
Why it's a must-have:
The best-selling rock album of all time.
A triumphant comeback story.
6. Remain in Light by Talking Heads (1980)
This album is a daring blend of funk, worldbeat, and rock. Remain in Light features standout tracks like "Once in a Lifetime," making it a critical darling and a fan favorite.
Why it's a must-have:
A milestone in art-rock and avant-garde music.
Produced by the legendary Brian Eno.
7. Like a Virgin by Madonna (1984)
Madonna’s Like a Virgin solidified her as a pop icon. Songs like "Material Girl" and the title track became anthems for a generation.
Why it's a must-have:
Defines the 1980s pop scene.
Madonna's bold style and music set trends.
8. Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987)
This debut album from Guns N' Roses injected a raw energy into rock music. Featuring hits like "Sweet Child o' Mine" and "Welcome to the Jungle," it’s an essential record for any collection.
Why it's a must-have:
A game-changing rock album with edge and attitude.
Stellar guitar work by Slash.
9. Graceland by Paul Simon (1986)
Paul Simon’s Graceland is a global journey through music, blending South African rhythms with Western songwriting. Tracks like "You Can Call Me Al" and "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes" are unforgettable.
Why it's a must-have:
A groundbreaking fusion of cultural sounds.
Helped spotlight South African musicians on the global stage.
10. Synchronicity by The Police (1983)
Synchronicity is a triumph of new wave and pop-rock. With hits like "Every Breath You Take," it’s the band’s most iconic release.
Why it's a must-have:
Features impeccable songwriting and production.
Marked the peak of The Police’s career.
Overlooked Gems of the '80s
While the '80s produced many mainstream classics, several lesser-known albums deserve attention. Here are three obscure titles to explore:
Spirit of Eden by Talk Talk (1988)
This album marked a dramatic shift for Talk Talk, moving away from synthpop to create a haunting, atmospheric sound. Tracks like "The Rainbow" and "Eden" are immersive experiences.
Why it's worth a listen:
A precursor to the post-rock genre.
Lush, intricate arrangements and emotional depth.
Nightclubbing by Grace Jones (1981)
Grace Jones’s Nightclubbing is an eclectic blend of reggae, new wave, and funk. Songs like "Pull Up to the Bumper" and her cover of "Walking in the Rain" highlight her avant-garde style.
Why it's worth a listen:
A groundbreaking album that influenced fashion and music.
Jones’s commanding vocals and unique artistic vision.
Seventeen Seconds by The Cure (1980)
The Cure’s second album lays the foundation for their iconic gothic sound. Songs like "A Forest" and "Play for Today" showcase the band’s moody, atmospheric style.
Why it's worth a listen:
A cornerstone of the gothic rock genre.
Demonstrates The Cure’s evolution and experimentation.
Why Collect Vinyl from the '80s?
The '80s represent a fascinating intersection of analog and digital technology, with many albums embodying a unique warmth and richness on vinyl. These records also come with visually striking cover art that epitomizes the decade's style.
Whether you’re drawn to synth-heavy pop, gritty rock, or groundbreaking experimental sounds, the 1980s has something for every vinyl collector. Explore these timeless albums and take a step back into one of music's most vibrant decades.
Looking to sell your old '80s records? Whether you’re downsizing, making room for new albums, or simply ready to part with your collection, We Buy Records is here to help! You can visit our Chicago store or, for added convenience, we can come directly to your home to evaluate and collect your vinyl records.
We proudly serve Chicago and several surrounding locations, including Homewood, St. Charles, Batavia, Evergreen Park, Calumet City, Schaumburg, Bridgeview, Schaumburg, and many more. Our team is passionate about vinyl and always on the hunt for great collections, from '80s classics to rare gems.
Contact us today to turn your old vinyl records into cash while ensuring they find a new home with fellow music lovers!