19 Albums Released In 1989

With the one and only Taylor Swift FINALLY releasing '1989 (Taylor's Version)' much to the excitement of Swifties worldwide, we couldn't help but reminisce on what a great year that was. 

When you step back into the neon glow of 1989, you step back into a year when our mixtapes were as eclectic as the patterns on our windbreakers. The music scene was as vibrant and varied as a fresh pack of Lisa Frank stickers, with genres colliding and transforming right before our eyes (and ears). Rock gods strummed alongside pop princesses, and hip-hop was busting out of boomboxes with a fresh, playful edge.

MTV was our oracle, guiding us through this audioscape with larger-than-life music videos that were as iconic as the tracks themselves. From the start of The Simpsons to Taylor Swift's birth year, 1989 isn't just any old year; it was a cultural carnival.

And the soundtrack? Oh, it was nothing short of legendary. So, grab your neon shades and your trusty turntable, as we dive deep into 19 albums that didn't just define a year—they defined an era.

1/ 'Nick of Time' by Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt’s 'Nick of Time' was like a shot of soulful, bluesy adrenaline, with its heartfelt storytelling and gritty guitar work resonating across tracks like “Thing Called Love” and the title track. Raitt, collaborating with producer Don Was, not only rejuvenated her own career with this GRAMMY-sweeping masterpiece but also reminded the world of the power of authenticity and the timeless appeal of blues-infused rock, all delivered with a side of slide guitar and undeniable swagger.

2/ 'Paul's Boutique' by Beastie Boys

'Paul's Boutique' was the Beastie Boys’ dazzling display of sonic innovation, a kaleidoscope of samples ranging from The Beatles to Curtis Mayfield, crafted meticulously by the Dust Brothers, setting a gold standard for hip-hop production. It wasn’t just an album; it was a cultural juggernaut, turning tracks like “Shake Your Rump” and “Hey Ladies” into anthems, and proving that three rowdy New Yorkers could evolve from frat-party rappers to avant-garde audio architects with style and a smirk.

3/ 'Like A Prayer' by Madonna

Madonna's 'Like A Prayer' was like a pop explosion, a heady mix of religious symbolism and boundary-pushing beats with hit tracks like “Like a Prayer” and “Express Yourself” becoming instant anthems. Collaborating with the likes of Prince and co-producer Stephen Bray, Madonna sparked a cultural conversation, challenging norms and turning music videos into art, all while ruling the charts and proving once again that she was the undisputed Queen of Pop.

4/ 'Bleach' by Nirvana

Nirvana’s 'Bleach' was a gritty love letter to the raw power of grunge, capturing the restless energy of the Seattle scene with ferocious tracks like “About a Girl” and “Blew.” Produced by the legendary Jack Endino and released on the iconic Sub Pop label, this album wasn’t just a debut; it was a declaration, heralding the arrival of a band that would change the face of music and spearhead a cultural revolution with their torn jeans and flannel shirts.

5/ 'Doolittle' by Pixies

'Doolittle' by Pixies was nothing short of a musical roller coaster, weaving through the whimsical and the weird with iconic tracks like “Monkey Gone to Heaven” and “Here Comes Your Man.” With the genius production of Gil Norton capturing the band’s dynamic range, this album didn’t just leave a mark on the alternative rock scene – it kicked the door wide open, inspiring legions of musicians to embrace their eccentricities and create music that defies expectations, all while having a hell of a good time.

6/ 'Disintegration' by The Cure

The Cure’s 'Disintegration' is like the velvet cloak of goth-rock, a lush and brooding masterpiece with hit tracks like “Lovesong” and “Pictures of You” that have serenaded countless melancholic hearts. The album, largely crafted by the enigmatic Robert Smith, didn’t just resonate with the legions of black-clad fans; it transcended genres, showing that even the darkest of lyrics could find a home on the dance floor and in the mainstream, all while maintaining an air of poetic mystery.

7/ '3 Feet High and Rising' by De La Soul

'3 Feet High and Rising' saw De La Soul flipping the hip-hop script, infusing the genre with a kaleidoscope of psychedelic samples and playful, positive vibes, particularly evident in tracks like "Me Myself and I" and "Say No Go." Collaborating with producer Prince Paul, the trio crafted an album that was both a cultural touchstone and a genre-defying adventure, breaking down barriers and inviting listeners into a world where hip-hop could be as whimsical as it was profound, and as fun as it was revolutionary.

8/ The Stone Roses' self-titled

The Stone Roses' self-titled debut was a sonic bloom in the heart of the Madchester scene, melding jangly guitars with danceable beats in tracks like “I Wanna Be Adored” and “She Bangs the Drums.” Their collaboration with producer John Leckie turned the album into a cultural phenomenon, capturing the euphoria of the late '80s and creating a legacy that has inspired countless bands to pick up guitars and chase the groove, all while sporting bucket hats and a swagger that’s distinctly Roses.

9/ 'Rhythm Nation 1814' by Janet Jackson

'Rhythm Nation 1814' wasn't just an album for Janet Jackson; it was a full-fledged movement, combining fierce beats with a call for social justice in hits like "Rhythm Nation" and "Miss You Much." Teaming up once again with legendary producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Jackson created a pop powerhouse that did more than just dominate the charts—it sparked conversations, broke records, and proved that dance music could carry a message and still get the whole world moving.

10/ 'Full Moon Fever' by Tom Petty 

'Full Moon Fever' saw Tom Petty strutting solo with his signature heartland rock, delivering timeless tracks like "Free Fallin'" and "I Won't Back Down" that are as beloved at backyard barbeques as they are in sold-out arenas. With a little help from his friends, including Traveling Wilburys bandmates Jeff Lynne and George Harrison, Petty crafted an album that transcended generations, proving that good songs and great storytelling never go out of style.

11/ 'Pretty Hate Machine' by Nine Inch Nails

'Pretty Hate Machine' was Nine Inch Nails’ electric howl in the dark, a synth-heavy manifesto of angst and raw emotion that resonated with the alienated and the restless, evident in tracks like “Head Like a Hole” and “Down in It.” Trent Reznor’s one-man-band approach and collaboration with producers like Flood and Adrian Sherwood didn’t just set the stage for industrial rock’s mainstream breakthrough – it etched NIN’s signature sound into the cultural landscape, turning computerized chaos and heartfelt screams into an unexpected form of catharsis and connection.

12/ 'The Sensual World' by Kate Bush

Kate Bush’s 'The Sensual World' is a lush, enigmatic adventure through sound and emotion, weaving its magic with tracks like the ethereal title song and the poignant “This Woman’s Work.” Bush’s innovative use of the Bulgarian folk choir Trio Bulgarka and Irish frame drums created a unique sonic tapestry, transcending typical pop conventions and solidifying her status as one of the most innovative and influential artists of her time, all while inviting listeners to dive into a world as sensuous and mysterious as the album itself.

13/ 'The Seeds of Love' by Tears for Fears

Tears for Fears’ 'The Seeds of Love' was a lush, ambitious sonic journey, taking listeners from the anthemic “Sowing the Seeds of Love” to the soulful “Woman in Chains,” showcasing the duo’s knack for blending pop sensibilities with progressive rock ambition. With the help of co-producer Dave Bascombe and the soulful vocals of Oleta Adams on “Woman in Chains,” the band crafted an album that transcended their '80s pop roots, solidifying their place as musical innovators and capturing the transformative energy of the era.

14/ 'Cosmic Thing' by The B-52's

The B-52’s 'Cosmic Thing' was like a wild, cosmic party, bursting onto the scene with infectious energy and unforgettable tracks like “Love Shack” and “Roam.” The album, produced by Nile Rodgers and Don Was, wasn’t just a comeback for the band; it was a cultural phenomenon, turning the B-52’s campy, retro style into a mainstream craze and proving that rock lobsters and tin roofs could get the whole world dancing and singing along.

15/ 'Fear of a Black Planet' by Public Enemy

Public Enemy's 'Fear of a Black Planet' was a sonic Molotov cocktail, exploding with defiant rhymes and revolutionary beats in tracks like “Fight the Power” and “Welcome to the Terrordome.” Teaming up with the Bomb Squad for production, Chuck D, Flavor Flav, and the rest of the crew crafted an album that was as politically charged as it was musically innovative, challenging societal norms and placing Public Enemy at the forefront of socially conscious hip-hop, all while making sure the revolution had a killer soundtrack.

16/ 'Pump' by Aerosmith

Aerosmith's 'Pump"' was a rock 'n' roll tour de force, catapulting the band back into the limelight with its raw energy and hit tracks like “Love in an Elevator” and “Janie’s Got a Gun.” With the magic touch of producer Bruce Fairbairn and songwriter Desmond Child, the Bad Boys from Boston not only proved that they could conquer the charts once again, but they also injected a dose of rock-star swagger back into the cultural conversation, reminding everyone that rock 'n' roll was here to stay, and it was meant to be loud, proud, and a whole lot of fun.

17/ 'Dr. Feelgood' by Mötley Crüe

Mötley Crüe's 'Dr. Feelgood' is a full-throttle ride through the wild side of rock ‘n’ roll, delivering hit after hit with tracks like “Kickstart My Heart” and the gritty title track “Dr. Feelgood.” Produced by Bob Rock, the album not only solidified the Crüe’s status as glam metal gods but also left an indelible mark on the late ‘80s rock scene, proving that heavy riffs, towering hair, and a penchant for excess could create a recipe for chart-topping, fist-pumping glory.

18/ 'Cuts Both Ways' by Gloria Estefan

Gloria Estefan's 'Cuts Both Ways' was a thrilling concoction of Latin-infused pop and heartfelt ballads, showcasing Estefan's dynamic vocal range and emotional depth on hit tracks like the soulful “Don’t Wanna Lose You” and the energetic “Get on Your Feet.” The album played a pivotal role in bringing Latin music to the mainstream pop scene in the late ‘80s, with Estefan's Cuban roots shining through, while collaborators such as husband Emilio Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine helped craft its signature sound, making 'Cuts Both Ways' a vibrant and enduring chapter in the story of Latin pop crossover success.

19/ 'Foreign Affair' by Tina Turner

Tina Turner's 'Foreign Affair' is a high-octane adventure through rock, pop, and soul, showcasing Turner's unparalleled vocal prowess and charismatic stage presence. With powerhouse hits like "The Best" and "Steamy Windows," the album solidified Turner's status as a global superstar, captivating audiences worldwide and proving that her talent and appeal transcended both genres and generations. So, buckle up and get ready for a wild ride with the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, because 'Foreign Affair' is a testament to Turner's enduring legacy and her ability to rock the charts and our hearts!

So if the latest Taylor record has you nostalgic about the good ol' days of 1989 like us then re-live all the enduring magic of that year on vinyl now! 

Photo of Janet Jackson by Gie Knaeps/Getty Images