Discogs Classics: The Top 25

From Pink Floyd to Madonna, Discogs Classics continue to inspire, and each selection is a must-have addition to any record collection.
Introducing Discogs Classics. These 25 records continue to endure as timeless classics, and each selection is a must-have addition to any record collection. Because these records continue to resonate with a large portion of the Discogs community, we’re highlighting the top 25 from the list to break down why they matter, the stories behind their recording, and why they continue to sell sometimes decades after their release. Whether you’re new to Discogs or an experienced collector, get to know the Discogs Classics.
#1
Dark Side of the Moon
Pink Floyd
Debuted in a live performance in 1972, and recorded later that year and the next at EMI Studios (now Abbey Road Studios), Pink Floyd’s conceptual masterpiece Dark Side of the Moon fully cemented the band’s evolution from bohemian London psych-prog outfit to one of the world’s most ambitious, arena-filling rock bands. Released in 1973, the album reflected a darkening mood as the late ‘60s summer of love gave way to the long hangover of the early ‘70s, and the worldwide sense of wonder at the space race that took man to the light side of the moon curdled deeper into Cold War paranoia. Closer to home, the album dealt with the band’s own exhaustion with a rigorous touring schedule as well as with the alienation and frayed mental health of former bandmate Syd Barret. Upon release, the album became an immediate success, and has gone on to become one the best-selling albums of all time. On Discogs, it holds the honor of being the Most Collected and Most Wanted Pink Floyd album and the first album ever to appear in over one million collectors’ Wantlists.
#2
Thriller
Michael Jackson
For his sixth studio album, Michael Jackson challenged himself to write a record where “every song was a killer.” The result was Thriller, a Quincy Jones-produced album of disco-inflected pop that saw the singer embrace and blend styles including funk, rock, and R&B. Thriller went on to become the best-selling album of all time, estimated to have sold over 70 million copies worldwide, and seven of its nine tracks became No. 1 singles, including the title track (supported by its memorable music video) and the Eddie Van Halen assisted “Beat It.” Thriller catapulted Jackson to superstardom and left an indelible mark on music and pop culture.
#3
Rumours
Fleetwood Mac
Rumours is the eleventh studio album from British-American band Fleetwood Mac, recorded in California throughout 1976 and released in February of 1977. Written with the intention of making a “pop album,” the band expanded on the commercial success of their 1975 self-titled album. Despite internal relationship strife from the members of the band during recording, Rumours was an instant success, and is often cited as one of the greatest albums of all time.
#4
Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
As the second Most Collected and second Most Wanted Pink Floyd album, Wish You Were Here stands as one of most beloved releases throughout the entire Discogs community. With tributes to founding member Syd Barrett, critiques of the music business, and its blend of melancholy textures and warm melodies, the album takes listeners on an emotional and immersive journey. Wish You Were Here’s rich soundscapes and memorable vocal hooks make the album a must-have for any Pink Floyd fan.
#5
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
The Beatles
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band is a landmark that became a catalyst for the psychedelic, art rock, and prog rock that rose to prominence in the late ‘60s and ‘70s. Utilizing sound effects, tape manipulation, elements of vaudeville, and influences from Western and Indian classical music, the Beatles created an album that bridged the cultural gap between popular music and high art. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band is a groundbreaking release that forever expanded rock and roll’s sonic possibilities.
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