1,000 Albums for a Long and Happy Life

Note: listing is alphabetical, by artist, then by year; except for Various Artists [VA] compilations at the end, which should be alphabetical by title. + indicates album added after 2009 (pushing the count up).

  • King Sunny Ade: The Best of the Classic Years (1967-74 [2003], Shanachie) [african]
  • Air: Lore (1979, Novus) [jazz-60s]
  • Harry Allen: Blue Skies (1994, John Marks) [jazz-80s]
  • Henry "Red" Allen: World on a String (1957 [1991], RCA) [jazz-20s]
  • Lily Allen: It's Not Me, It's You (2009, Capitol) [rock-00s]
  • Lily Allen: Sheezus (2014, Warner Brothers/Regal) [rock-00s] +
  • Dave Alvin: King of California (1994, Hightone) [rock-80s]
  • Amadou and Mariam: Dimanche à Bamako (2005, Nonesuch) [african]
  • Amalgam: Prayer for Peace (1969 [2002], FMR) [jazz-60s]
  • Amazing Rhythm Aces: Stacked Deck (1975, ABC) [rock-70s]
  • Gene Ammons: Boss Tenor (1960 [1987], Prestige) [jazz-40s]
  • Laurie Anderson: The United States Live (1984, Warner Brothers, 4CD) [rock-80s]
  • Laurie Anderson: Strange Angels (1989, Warner Brothers) [rock-80s]
  • Louis Armstrong: Portait of the Artist as a Young Man (1923-34 [1994], Columbia, 4CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Louis Armstrong: The California Concerts (1951-55 [1992], Decca, 4CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Robert Ashley: Perfect Lives (Private Parts) / The Bar (1980, Lovely Music) [avant]
  • Kevin Ayers: Whatevershebringswesing (1972, Harvest) [rock-60s]
  • Albert Ayler: Spiritual Unity (1964 [2005], ESP-Disk) [jazz-60s]
  • Aztec Camera: High Land, Hard Rain (1983, Sire) [rock-80s]
  • Mildred Bailey: The Incomparable Mildred Bailey (1933-42 [2003], Columbia/Legacy) [vocal-20s]
  • Marcia Ball/Angela Strehli/Lou Ann Barton: Dreams Come True (1990, Antone's) [blues]
  • Afrika Bambaataa: Looking for the Perfect Beat: 1980-1985 (1980-85 [2001], Tommy Boy) [rap]
  • The Band: The Band (1969, Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • Billy Bang: Vietnam: The Aftermath (2001, Justin Time) [jazz-60s]
  • Billy Bang: Prayer for Peace (2005 [2010], TUM) [jazz-60s] +
  • Chris Barber: Panama! (1991, Timeless) [jazz-40s]
  • Gato Barbieri: Latino America (1973-74 [1997], Impulse, 2CD) [jazz-60s]
  • Kenny Barron/Mino Cinelu: Swamp Sally (1995, Verve) [jazz-60s]
  • Nik Bärtsch: Rea (2003 [2006], Ronin Rhythm) [jazz-00s]
  • Count Basie: The Complete Decca Recordings (1937-39 [1992], MCA, 3CD) [jazz-20s]
  • The Beach Boys: Endless Summer (1962-65 [1974], Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • The Beach Boys: Pet Sounds (1966, Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • The Beatles: Please Please Me (1963, Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • The Beatles: With the Beatles (1963, Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • The Beatles: Beatles for Sale (1964, Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • The Beatles: Help! (1965, Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • The Beatles: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Band (1967, Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • Beats International: Let Them Eat Bingo (1990, Elektra) [techno]
  • The Beautiful South: Welcome to the Beautiful South (1990, Go! Discs) [rock-90s]
  • The Beautiful South: 0898 Beautiful South (1992, Go! Discs) [rock-90s]
  • Beck: Odelay (1996, DGC) [rock-90s]
  • Tim Berne/Drew Gress/Tom Rainey [Paraphrase]: Pre-Emptive Denial (2005, Screwgun) [jazz-80s]
  • Chuck Berry: The Definitive Collection (1955-72 [2006], Geffen/Chess/Chronicles) [rock-50s]
  • The B-52's: The B-52's (1979, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • B-52's: Whammy! (1983, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Big Boi: Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty (2010, Def Jam) [rap] +
  • Big Star: Radio City (1974, Ardent) [rock-70s]
  • Big Youth: Screaming Target (1973, Trojan/Sanctuary) [reggae]
  • Raoul Björkenheim/Lukas Ligeti: Shadowglow (2003, TUM) [jazz-00s]
  • Black Stalin: Roots, Rock, Soca (1991, Rounder) [carib]
  • Black Uhuru: Anthem (1984, Mango) [reggae]
  • Black Flag: Wasted . . . Again (1987, SST) [rock-80s]
  • Black Oak Arkansas: Black Oak Arkansas (1971, MCA) [rock-70s]
  • Blackalicious: Nia (2000, Quannum Projects) [rap]
  • Art Blakey: Roots and Herbs (1961 [1999], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Art Blakey/Dr. John/David "Fathead" Newman: Bluesiana Triangle (1990, Windham Hill) [jazz-40s]
  • Bobby "Blue" Bland: The Voice: Duke Recordings 1959-69 (1959-69 [1991], Ace) [blues]
  • The Blasters: The Blasters Collection (1980-85 [1991], Slash) [rock-80s]
  • Blondie: Parallel Lines (1978, Chrysalis) [rock-70s]
  • Blondie: Autoamerican (1980, Chrysalis) [rock-70s]
  • Alpha Blondy: The Best of Alpha Blondy (1990, Shanachie) [african]
  • Blue Oyster Cult: Agents of Fortune (1976, Columbia) [rock-70s]
  • Arthur Blythe: Lenox Avenue Breakdown (1978 [1998], Koch) [jazz-60s]
  • Arthur Blythe: Focus (2002, Savant) [jazz-60s]
  • Boulevard of Broken Dreams: It's the Talk of the Town and Other Sad Songs (1989, Hannibal) [vocal-80s]
  • David Bowie: Hunky Dory (1971, Virgin) [rock-60s]
  • David Bowie: Station to Station (1976, Virgin) [rock-60s]
  • Lester Bowie: The Fire This Time (1992, In+Out) [jazz-60s]
  • Billy Bragg/Wilco: Mermaid Avenue (1998, Elektra) [rock-80s]
  • Anthony Braxton: Creative Orchestra Music 1976 (1976, Arista) [jazz-60s]
  • Anthony Braxton: Charlie Parker Project 1993 (1993, Hat Art, 2CD) [jazz-60s]
  • Anthony Braxton: 20 Standards (Quartet) 2003 (2003 [2005], Leo, 4CD) [jazz-60s]
  • Cedric Im Brooks: Cedric Im Brooks and the Light of Saba (1974-76 [2003], Honest Jons) [reggae]
  • Tina Brooks: Minor Move (1958 [2000], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Big Bill Broonzy: The Young Big Bill Broonzy 1928-1935 (1928-35, Yazoo) [blues]
  • Clifford Brown/Max Roach: Study in Brown (1955, Emarcy) [jazz-40s] +
  • James Brown: Live at the Apollo (1963 [1987], Polydor) [rock-50s]
  • James Brown: In the Jungle Groove (1969-72 [2003], Polydor) [rock-50s]
  • James Brown: Star Time (1956-84 [1991], Polydor, 4CD) [rock-50s]
  • Ruth Brown: Miss Rhythm: Greatest Hits and More (1949-60 [1989], Atlantic, 2CD) [rock-50s]
  • Dave Brubeck: Time Out (1959, Columbia) [jazz-40s]
  • Buck 65: Man Overboard (2001, Metaforensics) [rap]
  • Buck 65: Square (2002, Warner Music Canada) [rap]
  • Buck 65: Talkin' Honky Blues (2003, Warner Music Canada) [rap]
  • Buffalo Springfield: Retrospective: The Best of Buffalo Springfield (1966-68 [1969], Atco) [rock-60s]
  • Solomon Burke: The Best of Solomon Burke (1961-65 [1989], Atlantic) [rock-60s]
  • Burning Spear: Social Living (1978-80 [2003], Island) [reggae]
  • Abraham Burton: The Magician (1995, Enja) [jazz-80s]
  • Charlie Burton: One Man's Trash: The Charlie Burton Story 1977-1999 (1977-99, Bulldog) [rock-70s]
  • The Buzzcocks: Operator's Manual: The Buzzcocks Best ([1991], IRS) [rock-70s]
  • Don Byas: Savoy Jam Party (1944-46 [1995], Savoy) [jazz-40s]
  • The Byrds: Sweetheart of the Rodeo (1968, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Cabaret Voltaire: The Original Sound of Sheffield '83/'87: The Best of the Virgin/EMI Years (1983-87 [2003], Superfecta) [rock-70s]
  • Cachao: Master Sessions Volume 1 / Volume 2 (1993 [1994-95], Crescent Moon/Epic, 2CD) [latin]
  • John Cale: Paris 1919 (1973, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • John Cale: The Island Years (1974-77 [1996], Island/Chronicles, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Cab Calloway: The Hi-De-Ho Man: 1930-1933 (1930-33 [2003], Jazz Legends) [vocal-20s]
  • Cab Calloway: Are You Hep to the Jive? (1939-47 [1994], Columbia) [vocal-20s]
  • Robert Calvert: Lucky Leif and the Longships (1975, United Artists) [rock-70s]
  • Camper Van Beethoven: Camper Van Beethoven (1986, IRS) [rock-80s]
  • Captain Beefheart: Trout Mask Replica (1969, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Captain Beefheart: Shiny Beast (Bat Chain Puller) (1978, Bizarre/Straight) [rock-60s]
  • Hayes Carll: Trouble in Mind (2008, Lost Highway) [country]
  • Benny Carter/Arnold Ross: The Complete Benny Carter: The Essential Keynote Collection 7 (1946 [1987], Mercury) [jazz-20s]
  • Benny Carter: Cosmopolite: The Oscar Peterson Sessions (1952-54 [1994], Verve) [jazz-20s]
  • Benny Carter: Further Definitions: The Complete Further Definitions Sessions (1961-66 [1997]): jazz-20s [Impulse]
  • Carlene Carter: I Fell in Love (1990, Reprise) [country]
  • James Carter: The Real Quietstorm (1995, Atlantic) [jazz-80s]
  • James Carter: Conversin' With the Elders (1996, Atlantic) [jazz-80s]
  • The Carter Family: Anchored in Love: Their Complete Victor Recordings (1927) (1927 [1993], Rounder) [country]
  • Johnny Cash: The Sun Years (1955-58 [1990], Rhino) [country]
  • Rosanne Cash: Interiors (1990 [2005], Columbia/Legacy) [country]
  • Cee-Lo Green: Cee-Lo Green and His Perfect Imperfections (2002, Arista) [rap]
  • Oscar "Papa" Celestin/Sam Morgan: Papa Celestin and Sam Morgan (1925-28, Azure) [jazz-20s]
  • The Chairmen of the Board: Greatest Hits ([1990], HDH) [rock-60s]
  • Serge Chaloff: Blue Serge (1956 [1998], Capitol) [jazz-40s]
  • Manu Chao: Clandestino (1998, Ark 21) [europe]
  • Manu Chao: Proxima Estacion: Esperanza (2001, Virgin) [europe]
  • Manu Chao: La Radiolina (2007, Nacional/Because) [europe]
  • Marshall Chapman: Dirty Linen (1987, Tall Girl) [country]
  • Marshall Chapman: Inside Job (1991, Tall Girl) [country]
  • Ray Charles: The Birth of Soul (1951-59 [1991], Rhino/Atlantic, 3CD) [rock-50s]
  • Ray Charles: Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music (1962-63 [1988], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Doc Cheatham/Nicholas Payton: Doc Cheatham and Nicholas Payton (1996, Verve) [jazz-60s]
  • Neneh Cherry: Raw Like Sushi (1989, Virgin) [rap]
  • Chic: The Best of Chic: Dance Dance Dance ([1991], Atlantic) [rock-70s]
  • Chic: The Best of Chic, Volume 2 ([1992], Atlantic) [rock-70s]
  • Chicks on Speed: Chicks on Speed Will Save Us All (2000, EFA) [rock-90s]
  • The Chi-Lites: Greatest Hits (1969-74 [1992], Rhino) [rock-60s]
  • The Chills: Submarine Bells (1990, Slash) [rock-80s]
  • The Chills: Soft Bomb (1992, Slash) [rock-80s]
  • Stella Chiweshe: Ambuya? (1987, Shanachie) [african]
  • Harry Choates: Fiddle King of Cajun Swing (1946-50 [1982], Arhoolie) [cajun]
  • Charlie Christian: Genius of the Electric Guitar (1939-41 [1987], Columbia) [jazz-20s]
  • June Christy: Something Cool (1953-55 [1991], Capitol) [vocal-50s]
  • Sonny Clark: Cool Struttin' (1958, Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • The Clash: The Clash (1977, CBS [UK]) [rock-70s]
  • The Clash: London Calling (1979, Epic) [rock-70s]
  • The Clash: Sandinista! (1980, Epic, 2CD) [rock-70s]
  • Buck Clayton/Buddy Tate: Buck and Buddy Blow the Blues (1961 [1995], Fantasy) [jazz-40s]
  • Jimmy Cliff/VA: The Harder They Come (Deluxe Edition) (1968-72 [2003], Hip-O/Island) [reggae]
  • Patsy Cline: The Definitive Collection (1956-63 [2004], MCA Nashville) [country]
  • George Clinton: Computer Games (1982, Capitol) [rock-80s]
  • George Clinton: You Shouldn't-Nuf Bit Fish (1983, Capitol) [rock-80s]
  • The Clovers: Down in the Alley: The Best of the Clovers ([1991], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • The Coasters: 50 Coastin' Classics ([1992], Rhino, 2CD) [rock-50s]
  • Arnett Cobb: Party Time (1959 [1995], Prestige) [jazz-40s]
  • Eddie Cochran: Legendary Masters ([1972], Capitol) [rock-50s]
  • Joe Cocker: Mad Dogs and Englishmen (Deluxe Edition) (1970 [2005], A&M) [rock-60s]
  • Leonard Cohen: Songs of Leonard Cohen (1967 [2007], Columbia/Legacy) [rock-60s]
  • Leonard Cohen: I'm Your Man (1988, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Leonard Cohen: The Future (1992, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Leonard Cohen: Live in London (2009, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Nat King Cole: The World of Nat King Cole (1943-91 [2005], Capitol) [vocal-20s]
  • George Coleman: My Horns of Plenty (1991, Birdology) [jazz-60s]
  • Ornette Coleman: The Shape of Jazz to Come (1959, Atlantic) [jazz-40s]
  • Ornette Coleman: Dancing in Your Head (1973-75 [1977], Verve) [jazz-40s]
  • Ornette Coleman: Of Human Feelings (1982, Antilles) [jazz-40s]
  • Ornette Coleman: In All Languages (1985, Caravan of Dreams) [jazz-40s]
  • Ornette Coleman: Sound Grammar (2005 [2006], Sound Grammar) [jazz-40s]
  • Bootsy's Rubber Band: Stretchin' Out in Bootsy's Rubber Band (1976, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Bootsy's Rubber Band: Ahh . . . The Name Is Bootsy, Baby! (1977, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • John Coltrane: Olé Coltrane (1961, Atlantic) [jazz-40s]
  • John Coltrane: Ballads (1962 [1995], Impulse) [jazz-40s]
  • John Coltrane: Coltrane Live at Birdland (1963, Impulse) [jazz-40s]
  • John Coltrane: A Love Supreme (1964, Impulse) [jazz-40s]
  • The Comedian Harmonists: The Comedian Harmonists ([1999], Hannibal) [vocal-20s]
  • Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen: Too Much Fun: The Best of Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen ([1990], MCA) [rock-70s]
  • Sam Cooke: The Man and His Music (1957-64 [1986], RCA) [rock-50s]
  • Alice Cooper: Greatest Hits (1971-73 [1974], Warner Brothers) [rock-60s]
  • Cornershop: When I Was Born for the Seventh Time (1997, Warner Brothers) [rock-90s]
  • Cornershop: Handcream for a Generation (2002, Beggars Banquet) [rock-90s]
  • Elvis Costello: Armed Forces (1979, Rykodisc) [rock-70s]
  • Elvis Costello: Trust (1981, Rykodisc) [rock-70s]
  • The Coup: Party Music (2001, 75 Ark) [rap]
  • The Coup: Pick a Bigger Weapon (2006, Epitaph) [rap]
  • Coupé Cloué: Maximum Compas From Haiti (1992, Earthworks) [zouk]
  • Cream: Disraeli Gears (1967, Polydor) [rock-60s]
  • Creedence Clearwater Revival: Willy and the Poor Boys (1969, Fantasy) [rock-60s]
  • Creedence Clearwater Revival: Cosmo's Factory (1970, Fantasy) [rock-60s]
  • Marshall Crenshaw: Downtown (1985, Warner Brothers) [rock-80s]
  • The Cucumbers: The Cucumbers (1987, Profile) [rock-80s]
  • Culture: Two Sevens Clash (30th Anniversary Edition) (1977 [2007], Shanachie) [reggae]
  • James Dapogny: Original Jelly Roll Blues (1993, Discovery) [jazz-80s]
  • Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis/Buddy Tate/Coleman Hawkins/Arnett Cobb: Very Saxy (1959, Prestige) [jazz-40s]
  • Reverend Gary Davis: Pure Religion and Bad Company (1957, Smithsonian/Folkways): blues
  • Miles Davis: 'Round About Midnight (1955 [1956], Columbia) [jazz-40s]
  • Miles Davis: Kind of Blue (1959 [1997], Columbia) [jazz-40s]
  • Miles Davis: A Tribute to Jack Johnson (1970 [2005], Columbia/Legacy) [jazz-40s]
  • Miles Davis: Dark Magus: Live at Carnegie Hall (1974, Columbia) [jazz-40s]
  • The Dead Milkmen: Big Lizard in My Backyard (1985, Enigma) [rock-80s]
  • The Deighton Family: Mama Was Right (1990, Philo) [folk]
  • Desmond Dekker: Rockin' Steady: The Best of Desmond Dekker (1963-73 [1992], Rhino) [reggae]
  • Delaney and Bonnie: The Best of Delaney and Bonnie (1969-72 [1990], Rhino) [rock-60s]
  • De La Soul: Timeless: The Singles Collection (1988-2001 [2003], Tommy Boy/Rhino) [rap]
  • Iris Dement: My Life (1994, Warner Brothers) [folk]
  • Iris Dement: The Way I Should (1996, Warner Brothers) [folk]
  • Derek and the Dominos: Layla (1970, Polydor) [rock-70s]
  • Paul Desmond/Gerry Mulligan: Two of a Mind (1962 [2003], Bluebird) [jazz-40s]
  • Robert Dick: Jazz Standards on Mars (1998, Enja) [jazz-80s]
  • Hazel Dickens/Alice Gerrard: Hazel and Alice (1973, Rounder) [bluegrass]
  • Vic Dickenson: Nice Work (1953-54 [1999], Vanguard) [jazz-40s]
  • The Dictators: Go Girl Crazy (1975, Epic) [rock-70s]
  • Bo Diddley: The Chess Box (1955-74 [1990], Chess, 2CD) [rock-50s]
  • Ani DiFranco: So Much Shouting, So Much Laughter (2002, Righteous Babe, 2CD) [rock-90s]
  • Leonard Dillon: On the Road Again (1991, Heartbeat) [reggae]
  • Dion DiMucci: Dion Hits (1958-63 [1986], Ace) [rock-50s]
  • Dion DiMucci: Bronx Blues: The Columbia Recordings (1962-1965) (1962-65 [1991], Columbia) [rock-50s]
  • The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy: Hypocrisy Is the Greatest Luxury (1992, 4th & Broadway) [rap]
  • DJ Shadow: Endtroducing (1996, Mo Wax) [techno]
  • DJ Shadow: The Private Press (2002, MCA) [techno]
  • Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band: Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band (1976, RCA) [rock-70s]
  • Eric Dolphy: Out to Lunch! (1964 [1987], Blue Note) [jazz-60s]
  • Fats Domino: My Blue Heaven: The Best of Fats Domino (1949-61 [1990]): rock-50s [EMI]
  • The Doors: The Very Best of the Doors (1967-71 [2001]): rock-60s [Rhino]
  • Lee Dorsey: Wheelin' and Dealin': The Definitive Collection (1961-69 [1997], Arista) [rock-60s]
  • Dave Douglas: Constellations (1995, Hat Art) [jazz-80s]
  • Downtown Science: Downtown Science (1991, Def Jam) [rap]
  • Dr. John: Dr. John's Gumbo (1972, Atco) [rock-60s]
  • The Drifters: The Very Best of the Drifters ([1993], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Ducks Deluxe: Ducks Deluxe / Taxi to the Terminal Zone (1974-75, Edsel) [rock-70s]
  • Champion Jack Dupree: Forever and Ever (1991, Bullseye) [blues]
  • Ian Dury: Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll: The Best of Ian Dury and the Blockheads ([1992], Rhino) [rock-70s]
  • Bob Dylan: Bringing It All Back Home (1965, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Bob Dylan: Highway 61 Revisited (1965, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Bob Dylan: John Wesley Harding (1968, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Bob Dylan: Love and Theft (2001, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Steve Earle: The Essential Steve Earle (1986-91 [1993], MCA) [country]
  • Earth, Wind and Fire: Greatest Hits (1974-81 [1998], Columbia) [rock-70s]
  • Eastern Rebellion: Eastern Rebellion (1975, Timeless) [jazz-60s]
  • Dave Edmunds: From Small Things: The Best of Dave Edmunds (1970-2002 [2004], Columbia/Legacy) [rock-70s]
  • Stoney Edwards: Poor Folks Stick Together: The Best of Stoney Edwards ([1998], Razor & Tie) [country]
  • Elastica: The Menace (2000, Atlantic) [rock-90s]
  • Roy Eldridge: Little Jazz (1935-40 [1989], Columbia) [jazz-20s]
  • Roy Eldridge: Little Jazz: The Best of the Verve Years (1951-60 [1994], Verve) [jazz-20s]
  • Eliane Elias: Sings Jobim (1997, Blue Note) [jazz-80s]
  • Duke Ellington: The Bubber Miley Era: 1924-1929 (1924-29 [2003], Jazz Legends): jazz-20s
  • Duke Ellington: Never No Lament: The Blanton-Webster Band (1940-42 [2003]): jazz-20s [Bluebird, 3CD]
  • Duke Ellington: Ellington at Newport 1956 (Complete) (1956 [1999], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Duke Ellington/Johnny Hodges: Back to Back / Side by Side (1958-59, Verve, 2CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Duke Ellington/Coleman Hawkins: Duke Ellington Meets Coleman Hawkins (1962 [1995], Impulse) [jazz-20s]
  • Duke Ellington: The Far East Suite: Special Mix (1966 [1995], RCA) [jazz-20s]
  • Duke Ellington: His Mother Called Him Bill (1967 [1987], RCA) [jazz-20s]
  • Herb Ellis: Nothing but the Blues (1957-58 [1994], Verve) [jazz-40s]
  • Joe Ely: Honky Tonk Masquerade (1978, MCA) [country]
  • Eminem: The Marshall Mathers LP (2000, Interscope) [rap]
  • The English Beat: Special Beat Service (1982, IRS) [rock-80s]
  • Brian Eno: Taking Tiger Mountain (By Strategy) (1974, EG) [rock-70s]
  • Brian Eno: Another Green World (1975, EG) [rock-70s]
  • Etoile de Dakar: Once Upon a Time in Senegal: The Birth of Mbalax 1979-1981 (1979-81 [2010], Sterns) [african] +
  • Bill Evans: Sunday at the Village Vanguard (1961 [2008], Riverside) [jazz-40s]
  • The Everly Brothers: Cadence Classics: Their 20 Greatest Hits (1957-60 [1985], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • The Ex: Singles, Period: The Vinyl Years 1980-1990 (1980-90 [2005], Ex, 2CD) [rock-80s]
  • The Ex: 27 Passports (2018, Ex) [rock-80s] +
  • Eyuphuro: Mama Mosambiki (1990, Real World) [african]
  • Jon Faddis: Teranga (2005 [2006], Koch) [jazz-80s]
  • Chaba Fadela: You Are Mine (1988, Mango) [mideast]
  • Donald Fagen: The Nightfly (1982, Warner Brothers) [rock-80s]
  • John Fahey: Of Rivers and Religion (1972 [2001], Collectors' Choice) [folk]
  • John Fahey: After the Ball (1973 [2001], Collectors' Choice) [folk]
  • Marianne Faithfull: Broken English (1979, Island) [rock-60s]
  • The Fall: 458489 A-Sides (1984-89 [1990], Beggars Banquet) [rock-70s]
  • Charlie Feathers: Charlie Feathers (1991, Elektra) [country]
  • The Feelies: Time for a Witness (1991, A&M) [rock-80s]
  • Freddy Fender: Lone Star: The Best of Freddy Fender ([1999], Music Club) [country]
  • Bryan Ferry: These Foolish Things (1973, Reprise) [rock-70s]
  • Fine Young Cannibals: The Raw and the Cooked (1989, IRS) [rock-80s]
  • Ella Fitzgerald/Louis Armstrong: Ella and Louis / Ella and Louis Again (1956-57, Verve, 2CD) [vocal-20]
  • Ella Fitzgerald: The Best of Ella Fitzgerald: First Lady of Song (1956-63 [1994], Verve, 3CD) [vocal-20]
  • The "5" Royales: Monkey Hips and Rice (1952-62 [1994], Rhino, 2CD) [rock-50s]
  • The Flamin' Groovies: Supersnazz (1969, Epic) [rock-60s]
  • Fleetwood Mac: Rumours (1977, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Flipper: Album: Generic Flipper (1982, Def American) [rock-80s]
  • The Flying Burrito Brothers: The Gilded Palace of Sin (1969, A&M) [rock-60s]
  • John Fogerty: Revival (2007, Fantasy) [rock-70s]
  • Sue Foley: Without a Warning (1993, Antone's) [blues]
  • Franco/Tabu Ley Rocherau: Omona Wapi (1984, Shanachie) [african]
  • Franco: The Very Best of the Rumba Giant of Zaire (1956-87 [2000], Manteca) [african]
  • Aretha Franklin: 30 Greatest Hits (1967-73 [1985], Atlantic, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Bud Freeman: Chicago / Austin High School Jazz in Hi-Fi (1957 [2007], Mosaic) [jazz-20s]
  • Lefty Frizzell: Look What Thoughts Will Do (1950-63 [1997], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) [country]
  • Funkadelic: Music for Your Mother: Funkadelic 45s (1970-76 [1993], Westbound, 2CD) [rock-70s]
  • Slim Gaillard: Laughing in Rhythm: The Best of the Verve Years (1946-54 [1994], Verve) [vocal-20]
  • Eddie Gale: Eddie Gale's Ghetto Music (1968 [2003], Water) [jazz-60s]
  • Gang of Four: Entertainment! (1979, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • The Gap Band: The 12" Collection (1979-83 [1986], Mercury) [rock-70s]
  • Jan Garbarek/Bobo Stenson: Witchi-Tai-To (1973 [1974], ECM) [jazz-60s]
  • Marvin Gaye: Anthology (1961-77 [1986], Motown) [rock-60s]
  • Marvin Gaye: Midnight Love (1982, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • Stan Getz: West Coast Jazz (1955 [1999], Verve) [jazz-40s]
  • Stan Getz: Focus (1965 [1984], Verve) [jazz-40s]
  • Stan Getz/Kenny Barron: People Time (1991 [1992], Verve Gitanes, 2CD) [jazz-40s]
  • Ghostface Killah: Fishscale (2006, Def Jam) [rap]
  • Don Gibson: All-Time Greatest Hits ([1990], RCA) [country]
  • Gilberto Gil: Um Banda Um (1982, WEA Latina) [brazil]
  • Dizzy Gillespie: Night in Tunisia: The Very Best of Dizzy Gillespie (1946-49 [2006], Bluebird/Legacy) [jazz-40s]
  • Dizzy Gillespie/Sonny Rollins/Sonny Stitt: Duets (1958 [1988], Verve) [jazz-40s]
  • Jimmie Dale Gilmore: Jimmie Dale Gilmore (1989, Hightone) [country]
  • Jimmie Dale Gilmore: Spinning Around the Sun (1993, Elektra) [country]
  • Jimmie Dale Gilmore: One Endless Night (2000, Rounder) [country]
  • Girls Against Boys: House of GVSB (1996, Touch & Go) [rock-80s]
  • The Go-Betweens: 1978-1990 (1978-90, Beggars Banquet) [rock-70s]
  • Gogol Bordello: Super Taranta! (2007, Side One Dummy) [rock-00s]
  • Vinny Golia: Regards From Norma Desmond (1986, Fresh Sound) [jazz-60s]
  • Dennis Gonzalez: Idle Wild (2004 [2005], Clean Feed) [jazz-80s]
  • Benny Goodman: B.G. in Hi-Fi (1954 [1989], Capitol) [jazz-20s]
  • The Grateful Dead: Live / Dead (1969, Warner Brothers) [rock-60s]
  • Al Green: I'm Still in Love With You (1972 [2003], Right Stuff/Hi) [rock-60s]
  • Al Green: Call Me (1973 [2004], The Right Stuff/Hi) [rock-60s]
  • Al Green: The Belle Album (1977, Motown) [rock-60s]
  • Lars Gullin: Lars Gullin Vol. 4 1959/60: Stockholm Street (1959-60 [1998], Dragon) [jazz-40s]
  • Woody Guthrie: This Land Is Your Land: The Asch Recordings, Vol. 1 ([1997], Smithsonian/Folkways) [folk]
  • Oruç Guvenç and Tümata: Ocean of Remembrance (1995, Interworld) [mideast]
  • Charlie Haden: Haunted Heart (1992, Verve) [jazz-60s]
  • Charlie Haden: Land of the Sun (2004, Verve) [jazz-60s]
  • Merle Haggard: Hag: The Best of Merle Haggard (1966-2005 [2007], Capitol) [country]
  • Half Japanese: Greatest Hits ([1995], Safe House, 2CD) [rock-80s]
  • Tom T. Hall: The Essential Tom T. Hall: The Story Songs (1968-84 [1998], Mercury) [country]
  • Rich Halley/Dan Raphael/Carson Halley: Children of the Blue Supermarket (2009, Pine Eagle) [jazz-80s] +
  • Lionel Hampton: Hot Mallets Vol. 1 (1937-39 [1987], RCA Bluebird) [jazz-20s]
  • Lionel Hampton: Flying Home (1942-45 [1990], Decca) [jazz-20s]
  • Handsome Boy Modeling School: So . . . How's Your Girl? (1999, Tommy Boy) [rap]
  • Handsome Family: Last Days of Wonder (2006, Carrot Top) [rock-90s]
  • Kip Hanrahan: Conjure: Music for the Texts of Ishmael Reed (1983 [1985], American Clavé) [jazz-80s]
  • Billy Harper: Live on Tour in the Far East, Volume 2 (1991, Steeplechase) [jazz-60s]
  • Joe Harriott: Free Form (1960, Redial) [jazz-40s]
  • Eddie Harris: There Was a Time (Echo of Harlem) (1990, Enja) [jazz-60s]
  • P.J. Harvey: To Bring You My Love (1995, Island) [rock-90s]
  • Michael Hashim: Green Up Time (2001, Hep) [jazz-80s]
  • Coleman Hawkins: The Bebop Years (1939-49 [2000], Proper, 4CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Coleman Hawkins/Ben Webster: Coleman Hawkins Encounters Ben Webster (1957, Verve) [jazz-20s]
  • Coleman Hawkins: Soul (1958, Prestige) [jazz-20s]
  • Coleman Hawkins: Today and Now (1962, Impulse) [jazz-20s]
  • Hawkwind: Quark, Strangeness and Charm (1977, Sire) [rock-70s]
  • The Heartbreakers: L.A.M.F. (1977, Track Record) [rock-70s]
  • Fletcher Henderson: A Study in Frustration (1923-38 [1994], Columbia, 3CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Joe Henderson: The State of the Tenor (1985, Blue Note, 2CD) [jazz-60s]
  • Jimi Hendrix: Electric Ladyland (1968, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Benjamin Herman: Hypo Christmas Treefuzz: More Mengelberg [Special Edition] (2008-09 [2010], Dox) [jazz-80s] +
  • Heroes Are Gang Leaders: The Amiri Baraka Sessions (2014-15 (2019), Flat Langston's Arkeyes) [jazz-00s]
  • John Hiatt: Overcoats (1975, Epic) [rock-70s]
  • Joe Higgs: Triumph (1985, Alligator) [reggae]
  • The Highlife Allstars: Sankofa (2001, Network) [african]
  • Andrew Hill: Andrew!!! (1964 [2005], Blue Note) [jazz-60s]
  • Z.Z. Hill: Greatest Hits (1981-84 [1986], Malaco) [blues]
  • Earl Hines: Up to Date (1964 [1988], RCA Bluebird) [jazz-20s]
  • Earl Hines: Live at the Village Vanguard (1965 [1988], Columbia) [jazz-20s]
  • Earl Hines: Tour de Force (1972 [1989], Black Lion) [jazz-20s]
  • Johnny Hodges: Passion Flower (1940-46 [1995], RCA) [jazz-20s]
  • Johnny Hodges: Everybody Knows Johnny Hodges (1964-65 [1992], Impulse) [jazz-20s]
  • Johnny Hodges: Triple Play (1967 [1995], RCA) [jazz-20s]
  • The Hold Steady: Boys and Girls in America (2006, Vagrant) [rock-00s]
  • Billie Holiday: Lady Day: The Master Takes and Singles (1935-42 [2007], Columbia/Legacy, 4CD) [vocal-20]
  • Billie Holiday: All or Nothing at All (1956-57 [1995], Verve) [vocal-20]
  • Dave Holland: Conference of the Birds (1972, ECM) [jazz-60s]
  • Buddy Holly: The Buddy Holly Collection: 50 Classic Recordings (1954-59 [1993], MCA, 2CD) [rock-50s]
  • Holy Modal Rounders: Holy Modal Rounders 1 & 2 (1964 [1999], Fantasy) [folk]
  • Holy Modal Rounders: I Make a Wish for a Potato (1975-99 [2001], Rounder) [folk]
  • John Lee Hooker: The Ultimate Collection (1948-1990) (1948-90 [1991], Rhino) [blues]
  • Lightnin' Hopkins: Jake Head Boogie (1951-54 [1999], Ace) [blues]
  • Lightnin' Hopkins: Blues Masters: The Very Best of Lightnin' Hopkins (1947-61 [2000], Rhino) [blues]
  • Hot Chocolate: Every 1's a Winner: The Very Best of Hot Chocolate (1974-82 [1993], EMI) [rock-70s]
  • The Housemartins: London 0 Hull 4 (1986, Elektra) [rock-80s]
  • The Housemartins: The People Who Grinned Themselves to Death (1987, Elektra) [rock-80s]
  • Joe Houston: Cornbread and Cabbage Greens (1952-56 [1992], Specialty) [rock-50s]
  • Howlin' Wolf: The Chess Box (1951-73 [1991], Chess, 3CD) [blues]
  • Freddie Hubbard: Straight Life (1970 [1997], CTI) [jazz-60s]
  • Alberta Hunter: Amtrak Blues (1980, Columbia) [blues]
  • Michael Hurley/Unholy Modal Rounders/Jeffrey Frederick and the Clamtones: Have Moicy! (1976 [1991], Rounder) [folk]
  • Mississippi John Hurt: Avalon Blues: The Complete 1928 Okeh Recordings (1928 [1996], Columbia/Legacy) [blues]
  • Mississippi John Hurt: Rediscovered ([1998], Vanguard) [blues]
  • Hüsker Dü: New Day Rising (1985, SST) [rock-80s]
  • Abdullah Ibrahim: Ekaya (1983 [1986], Ekapa) [jazz-60s]
  • Ice-T: O.G. Original Gangster (1991, Sire) [rap]
  • Imperial Teen: On (2002, Merge) [rock-90s]
  • Gregory Isaacs: All I Have Is Love: Anthology 1968-1995 (1968-95 [2002], Sanctuary/Trojan, 2CD) [reggae]
  • The Isley Brothers: The Isley Brothers Story, Vol. 1: Rockin' Soul (1959-68 [1991], Rhino) [ock-50s]
  • Michael Jackson: Off the Wall (1979, Epic) [rock-70s]
  • Illinois Jacquet: Jumpin' at Apollo (1945-47 [2002], Delmark) [jazz-40s]
  • Elmore James: The Sky Is Crying: The History of Elmore James (1951-61 [1993], Rhino) [blues]
  • Etta James: The Definitive Collection (1954-2004 [2006], Geffen/Chronicles) [blues]
  • Jan and Dean: Gotta Take That One Last Ride ([1974], United Artists) [rock-60s]
  • Keith Jarrett: Belonging (1974, ECM) [jazz-60s]
  • Jazz at the Philharmonic: The First Concert (1944 [1994], Verve) [jazz-40s]
  • Blind Lemon Jefferson: King of the Country Blues (1926-29 [1985], Yazoo) [blues]
  • Billy Jenkins: True Love Collection (1998, Babel) [jazz-80s]
  • Jesus and Mary Chain: Automatic (1989, Warner Brothers) [rock-80s]
  • Jesus H Christ and the Four Hornsmen of the Apocalypse: Jesus H Christ and the Four Hornsmen of the Apocalypse (2006, Jesus Christ Rocks) [rock-00s]
  • Joan Jett: Fit to Be Tied: Great Hits by Joan Jett ([1997], Mercury) [rock-80s]
  • Jewels and Binoculars: Ships With Tattooed Sails (2006 [2007], Upshot): jazz-80s
  • David Johansen: Sweet Revenge (1984, Passport) [rock-70s]
  • Little Willie John: Fever: The Best of Little Willie John ([1993], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Budd Johnson: Let's Swing (1960 [1992], Prestige) [jazz-40s]
  • J.J. Johnson: The Eminent Jay Jay Johnson, Vol. 1 (1954 [1989], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Linton Kwesi Johnson: Forces of Victory (1979, Mango) [reggae]
  • Linton Kwesi Johnson: Making History (1984, Mango) [reggae]
  • Linton Kwesi Johnson: Tings An' Times (1991, Shanachie) [reggae]
  • Lonnie Johnson: Steppin' on the Blues (1925-32 [1991], Columbia) [blues]
  • Robert Johnson: King of the Delta Blues (1936-37 [1997], Columbia/Legacy) [blues]
  • Tom Johnson: An Hour for Piano (1979 [2000], Lovely Music) [avant]
  • Freedy Johnston: This Perfect World (1994, Elektra) [rock-90s]
  • George Jones: Cup of Loneliness: The Classic Mercury Years (1955-59 [1994], Mercury, 2CD) [country]
  • George Jones: The Spirit of Country: The Essential George Jones (1955-88 [1994], Epic/Legacy, 2CD) [country]
  • Hank Jones: Upon Reflection: The Music of Thad Jones (1993, Verve) [jazz-40s]
  • Janis Joplin: Janis (1962-70 [1993], Columbia, 3CD) [rock-60s]
  • Louis Jordan: The Best of Louis Jordan (1942-45 [1975], MCA) [vocal-20]
  • Louis Jordan: Five Guys Named Moe: Vol. 2 (1939-55 [1992], MCA) [vocal-20]
  • Sheila Jordan/Cameron Brown: Celebration (2004 [2005], High Note) [vocal-50]
  • Joy of Cooking: Joy of Cooking (1970, Capitol) [rock-70s]
  • Ernie K-Doe: Burn, K-Doe, Burn! (1959-63 [1990], Charly) [rock-60s]
  • Aly Keïta/Jan Galega Brönnimann/Lucas Niggli: Kalo-Yele (2015 [2016], Intakt) [african] +
  • Cheb Khaled: N'ssi N'ssi (1994, Mango) [mideast]
  • Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan: Intoxicated Spirit (1996, Shanachie) [asian]
  • Kid Creole and the Coconuts: Off the Coast of Me (1980 [2003], Rainman) [rock-80s]
  • Kid Creole and the Coconuts: Fresh Fruit in Foreign Places (1981, Sire/ZE) [rock-80s]
  • Kid Creole and the Coconuts: Wise Guy (1982, Sire/ZE) [rock-80s]
  • Kid Creole and the Coconuts: You Shoulda Told Me You Were . . . (1991, Columbia) [rock-80s]
  • B.B. King: Blues Kingpins (1951-62 [2003], Virgin/The Right Stuff) [blues]
  • The Kinks: Greatest Hits (1964-66 [1989], Rhino) [rock-60s]
  • The Kinks: Kink Kronikles (1966-70 [1972], Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Rahsaan Roland Kirk: We Free Kings (1961, Mercury) [jazz-60s]
  • Rahsaan Roland Kirk: Rip, Rig and Panic / Now Please Don't You Cry, Beautiful Edith (1965-67, Emarcy) [jazz-60s]
  • Rahsaan Roland Kirk/Al Hibbler: A Meeting of the Times (1966-72, Warner Jazz) [jazz-60s]
  • The Klezmatics: Wonder Wheel: Lyrics by Woody Guthrie (2006, JMG) [klezmer]
  • The KLF: The White Room (1991, Arista) [techno]
  • K'Naan: The Dusty Foot Philosopher (2003-05 [2008], IM Culture) [rap]
  • Chris Knight: Little Victories (2012, Drifter's Church) [country] +
  • Krzysztof Komeda: Astigmatic (1965, Power Bros) [jazz-60s]
  • Lee Konitz: Subconscious-Lee (1949-50 [1991], Prestige) [jazz-40s]
  • Lee Konitz: Motion (1961 [2003], Verve) [jazz-40s]
  • Lee Konitz: Jazz Nocturne (1992, Evidence) [jazz-40s]
  • Kool Moe Dee: The Jive Collection, Volume 2 ([1995], Jive) [rap]
  • Kraftwerk: Trans-Europe Express (1977, Capitol) [rock-70s]
  • KRS-One: A Retrospective (1987-97 [2000], Jive) [rap]
  • Fela Anikulapo Kuti: The Best Best of Fela Kuti (1972-89 [1999], MCA, 2CD) [african]
  • Steve Lacy/Roswell Rudd: School Days (1963 [1994], Hat Art) [jazz-40s]
  • Steve Lacy: Morning Joy: Live at Sunset Paris (1986, Hat Art) [jazz-40s]
  • Ladysmith Black Mambazo: Classic Tracks ([1990], Shanachie) [african]
  • Adam Lane: New Magical Kingdom (2001-04 [2006], Clean Feed) [jazz-80s]
  • Ronnie Lane: One for the Road (1976 [1995], Edsel) [rock-70s]
  • Yusef Lateef/Archie Shepp: Tenors of Yusef Lateef and Archie Shepp (1992, YAL) [jazz-40s]
  • Cyndi Lauper: She's So Unusual (1983, Portrait) [rock-80s]
  • Bettye Lavette: Things Have Changed (2018, Verve) [rock-60s] +
  • Le Tigre: This Island (2004, Island) [rock-90s]
  • Leadbelly: Where Did You Sleep Last Night (Leadbelly Legacy, Vol. 1) (1941-47 [1996], Smithsonian/Folkways) [blues]
  • Led Zeppelin: Led Zeppelin III (1970, Atlantic) [rock-60s]
  • Led Zeppelin: Led Zeppelin IV (1971, Atlantic) [rock-60s]
  • Steve Lehman: Mise en Abîme (2014, Pi) [jazz-00s] +
  • Steve Lehman/Craig Taborn: The People I Love (2018 [2019], Pi) [jazz-00s] +
  • Lene Lovich: Stateless . . . Plus (1979 [1991], Rhino) [rock-70s]
  • John Lennon: John Lennon / Plastic Ono Band (1970, Capitol) [rock-70s]
  • John Lennon: Imagine (1971, Capitol) [rock-70s]
  • John Lennon: The U.S. Vs. John Lennon (Music From the Motion Picture) (1969-80 [2006], Capitol) [rock-70s]
  • Lotte Lenya: The Lotte Lenya Album (1955-57, Columbia) [europe]
  • Larry Levan: Journey Into Paradise: The Larry Levan Story (1978-86 [2006], Rhino) [techno]
  • George Lewis: The Beverley Caverns Sessions (1953, Good Time Jazz) [jazz-20s]
  • Jerry Lee Lewis: Original Sun Greatest Hits (1956-63 [1984], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Jerry Lee Lewis: Rockin' My Life Away (1989, Tomato) [rock-50s]
  • Joe Liggins: Joe Liggins and the Honeydrippers (1950-54 [1992], Specialty) [rock-50s]
  • Liliput: LiLiPUT (1980-83 [1993], Off Course, 2CD) [rock-80s]
  • David Lindley: El Rayo-X (1981, Asylum) [rock-80s]
  • Arto Lindsay: Greed (1988, Virgin) [rock-80s]
  • Little Richard: The Georgia Peach ([1991], Specialty) [rock-50s]
  • Little Walter: The Essential Little Walter (1952-60 [1993], Chess, 2CD) [blues]
  • L.L. Cool J: Mama Said Knock You Out (1990, Def Jam) [rap]
  • Mark Lomax, II & the Urban Art Ensemble: 400 Years Suite (2020, CFG Multimedia) [jazz-00s] +
  • Orlando Cachaito Lopez: Cachaito (2001, World Circuit/Nonesuch) [latin]
  • Lord Kitchener: Klassic Kitchener, Volume One ([1993], Ice) [carib]
  • Los Lobos: How Will the Wolf Survive? (1984, Slash/Warner Brothers) [rock-80s]
  • Los Lobos: Colossal Head (1996, Warner Brothers) [rock-80s]
  • Louisiana Repertory Jazz Ensemble: Hot and Sweet Sounds of Lost New Orleans (1986, Stomp Off) [jazz-80s]
  • The Louvin Brothers: Tragic Songs of Life (1955-56 [1996], Capitol) [country]
  • Joe Lovano: From the Soul (1991, Blue Note) [jazz-80s]
  • Nick Lowe: Jesus of Cool (1975-78 [2008], Yep Roc) [rock-70s]
  • L7: Bricks Are Heavy (1992, Slash) [rock-90s]
  • L7: Hungry for Stink (1994, Slash/Reprise) [rock-90s]
  • Luna: Best of Luna (1992-2004 [2006], Elektra/Rhino) [rock-90s]
  • Jimmie Lunceford: For Dancers Only (1935-37 [1994], Decca) [jazz-20s]
  • Frankie Lymon: The Best of Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers ([1989], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Loretta Lynn: 20 Greatest Hits (1965-81 [1987], MCA) [country]
  • Lyrics Born: Later That Day . . . (2003, Quannum Projects) [rap]
  • Lyrics Born: Real People (2015, Mobile Home) [rap] +
  • M People: Elegant Slumming (1994, Epic) [rock-90s]
  • Baaba Maal/Mansour Seck: Djam Leelii (1989, Mango) [african]
  • Machito: Mambo Mucho Mambo: The Complete Columbia Masters (1951-57 [2002], Columbia/Legacy) [jazz-latin]
  • Maddox Brothers and Rose: A Proper Introduction to Maddox Brothers and Rose: That'll Learn Ya Durn Ya (1948-53 [2004], Proper) [country]
  • Madonna: You Can Dance (1987, Sire) [rock-80s]
  • Madonna: I'm Breathless (1990, Sire) [rock-80s]
  • Madonna: The Imaculate Collection (1983-90 [1990], Sire) [rock-80s]
  • Taj Mahal: The Best of Taj Mahal (1967-74 [2000], Columbia/Legacy) [blues]
  • Rudresh Mahanthappa & Steve Lehman: Dual Identity (2009 [2010], Clean Feed) [jazz-80s] +
  • Mahavishnu Orchestra: The Inner Mounting Flame (1971, Columbia) [jazz-60s]
  • Mahlathini/Mahotella Queens: Thokozile (1988, Earthworks) [african]
  • Manfred Mann: Manfred Mann's Earth Band (1972, Polydor) [rock-60s]
  • Michael Mantler/Robert Wyatt: The Hapless Child and Other Inscrutable Stories (1975 [1976], Watt) [jazz-60s]
  • Thomas Mapfumo: Ndangariro (1984, Carthage) [african]
  • Bob Marley: Legend (1972-80 [1984], Tuff Gong) [reggae]
  • Bruno Mars: Doo-Wops and Hooligans (2010, Elektra) [rock-10s] +
  • Dean Martin: Dino: The Essential Dean Martin (1949-69 [2004], Capitol) [vocal-50]
  • Jimmy Martin: You Don't Know My Mind (1956-66 [1990], Rounder) [bluegrass]
  • Hirth Martinez: Hirth from Earth (1975, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Hirth Martinez: Big Bright Street (1977, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • The Marvelettes: Deliver: The Singles (1961-71 [1993], Motown, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Nick Mason: Nick Mason's Fictitious Sports (1981, Sony) [rock-80s]
  • Curtis Mayfield/The Impressions: The Anthology (1961-77 [1993], MCA, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Mzwakhe Mbuli: Resistance Is Defence (1992, Earthworks) [african]
  • Les McCann/Eddie Harris: Swiss Movement (1969 [1996], Rhino) [jazz-60s]
  • Mary McCaslin: Things We Said Today: The Best of Mary McCaslin ([1992], Philo) [folk]
  • Mississippi Fred McDowell: You Gotta Move (1964-65 [1993], Arhoolie) [blues]
  • Kate and Anna McGarrigle: Kate and Anna McGarrigle (1976, Hannibal) [folk]
  • Kate and Anna McGarrigle: Dancer With Bruised Knees (1977, Hannibal) [folk]
  • McKinney's Cotton Pickers: The Band Don Redman Built (1928-1930) (1928-30, RCA Bluebird) [jazz-20s]
  • Jackie McLean: New Soil (1959 [1988], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Jackie McLean: Swing Swang Swingin' (1959 [1997], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Jackie McLean: Let Freedom Ring (1962 [1987], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Marian McPartland/Jimmy McPartland: A Sentimental Journey (1972 [1973], Jazz Alliance) [jazz-40s]
  • Marian McPartland: Plays the Benny Carter Songbook (1990, Concord) [jazz-40s]
  • Clyde McPhatter: Deep Sea Ball: The Best of Clyde McPhatter (1956-59 [1991], Atlantic) [rock-50s]
  • Joe McPhee: Nation Time (1970 [2018], Corbett vs. Dempsey) [jazz-60s] +
  • Charles McPherson: Beautiful! (1975, Xanadu) [jazz-60s]
  • Mekons: Fear and Whiskey (1985, Sin) [rock-70s]
  • Mekons: Rock 'n' Roll (1989, A&M) [rock-70s]
  • Mekons: The Curse of the Mekons (1991, Blast First) [rock-70s]
  • Mekons: OOOH! (Out of Our Heads) (2002, Quarterstick) [rock-70s]
  • Pat Metheny/Ornette Coleman: Song X: Twentieth Anniversary (1985 [2005], Nonesuch) [jazz-60s]
  • M.I.A.: Kala (2007, Interscope) [techno]
  • Ras Michael: Rally Round (1985, Shanachie) [reggae]
  • Bette Midler: The Divine Miss M (1972, Atlantic) [rock-70s]
  • Mighty Sparrow: Volume One/Volume Two ([1992], Ice, 2CD) [carib]
  • Emmett Miller: Minstrel Man From Georgia ([1996], Columbia/Legacy) [oldtime]
  • Roger Miller: King of the Road: The Genius of Roger Miller (1957-86 [1995], Mercury, 3CD) [country]
  • Charles Mingus: Pithecanthropus Erectus (1956, Atlantic) [jazz-40s]
  • Charles Mingus: Blues and Roots (1959, Atlantic) [jazz-40s]
  • Charles Mingus: Mingus Ah Um (1959, Columbia) [jazz-40s]
  • Charles Mingus: Mingus at Antibes (1960 [1994], Atlantic) [jazz-40s]
  • Charles Mingus: Mingus at Carnegie Hall (1974 [1996], Rhino) [jazz-40s]
  • Charles Mingus: Changes One / Changes Two (1974 [1975], Rhino, 2CD) [jazz-40s]
  • The Minutemen: Double Nickels on the Dime (1984, SST) [rock-80s]
  • The Minutemen: 3-Way Tie (For Last) (1985, SST) [rock-80s]
  • The Miracles: City of Angels (1975, Motown) [rock-70s]
  • Joni Mitchell: Court and Spark (1974, Asylum) [rock-60s]
  • Mi3 [Pandelis Karayorgis]: Free Advice (2004 [2007], Clean Feed) [jazz-80s]
  • Hank Mobley: Soul Station (1960 [1987], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Moby: Play (1999, V2) [techno]
  • The Modern Lovers: The Modern Lovers (1971 [1976], Rhino) [rock-70s]
  • Nils Petter Molvaer: Solid Ether (1999 [2000], ECM) [jazz-80s]
  • Nils Petter Molvaer: ER (2005 [2006], Thirsty Ear) [jazz-80s]
  • Thelonious Monk/Sonny Rollins: Thelonious Monk/Sonny Rollins (1953-54 [1987], Prestige) [jazz-40s]
  • Thelonious Monk: Brilliant Corners (1956 [2008], Riverside) [jazz-40s]
  • Thelonious Monk/John Coltrane: At Carnegie Hall (1957 [2005], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Thelonious Monk: The Thelonious Monk Orchestra at Town Hall (1959 [1989], Riverside) [jazz-40s]
  • Thelonious Monk: It's Monk's Time (1964 [2003], Columbia/Legacy) [jazz-40s]
  • Bill Monroe: The Essential Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys (1945-49 [1992], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) [bluegrass]
  • Bill Monroe: Anthology (1950-81 [2003], MCA Nashville/Decca, 2CD) [bluegrass]
  • Wes Montgomery: Impressions: The Verve Jazz Sides (1964-66 [1995], Verve, 2CD) [jazz-40s]
  • Benny Moré/Pérez Prado: Mambos by Benny Moré: El Barbaro del Ritmo (1948-50 [1995], Tumbao) [latin]
  • Lee Morgan: Search for the New Land (1964 [1988], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Van Morrison: Moondance (1970, Warner Brothers) [rock-60s]
  • Van Morrison: Into the Music (1979, Warner Brothers) [rock-60s]
  • Van Morrison: Beautiful Vision (1982, Warner Brothers) [rock-60s]
  • Van Morrison: Down the Road (2002, Universal) [rock-60s]
  • Van Morrison: Born to Sing: No Plan B (2012, Blue Note) [rock-60s] +
  • Jelly Roll Morton: The Pearls (1926-39 [1988], RCA) [jazz-20s]
  • Pablo Moses: In the Future (1983, Alligator) [reggae]
  • Mostly Other People Do the Killing: Shamokin!!! (2006 [2007], Hot Cup) [jazz-00s]
  • Mott the Hoople: The Ballad of Mott: A Retrospective (1972-75 [1993], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Mr. Lif: I Phantom (2002, Definitive Jux) [rap]
  • Maria Muldaur: Richland Woman Blues (2001, Stony Plain) [rock-70s]
  • Maria Muldaur and Her Garden of Joy: Good Time Music for Hard Times (2009, Stony Plain) [rock-70s] +
  • Gerry Mulligan: Jeru (1962 [2005], Columbia/Legacy) [jazz-40s]
  • David Murray: Ming (1980, Black Saint) [jazz-60s]
  • David Murray: Deep River (1988, DIW) [jazz-60s]
  • David Murray/George Arvanitas: Tea for Two (1990, Fresh Sound) [jazz-60s]
  • David Murray: Shakill's Warrior (1991, DIW/Columbia) [jazz-60s]
  • David Murray: Long Goodbye: A Tribute to Don Pullen (1996 [1997], DIW) [jazz-60s]
  • David Murray: Creole (1998, Justin Time) [jazz-60s]
  • David Murray: Like a Kiss That Never Ends (2001, Justin Time) [jazz-60s]
  • Wolfgang Muthspiel: Black and Blue (1992, Amadeo) [jazz-80s]
  • Wolfgang Muthspiel: Bright Side (2005 [2006], Material) [jazz-80s]
  • Mystikal: Prince of the South . . . the Hits (1995-2004, Jive/Zomba) [rap]
  • Septeto Nacional de Ignacio Piñeiro: Ignacio Piñeiro and His Septeto Nacional (1928-30 [1992], Tumbao) [latin]
  • Youssou N'Dour: The Rough Guide to Youssou N'Dour and Etoile de Dakar (1979-82 [2002], World Music Network) [african]
  • Youssou N'Dour: Nothing's in Vain (2002, Nonesuch) [african]
  • Youssou N'Dour: Rokku Mi Rokka (2007, Nonesuch) [african]
  • Nelly: Country Grammar (2000, Universal) [rap]
  • Oliver Nelson: Blues and the Abstract Truth (1961 [1995], Impulse) [jazz-60s]
  • Rick Nelson: Greatest Hits (1957-72 [2005], Capitol) [rock-50s]
  • Tracy Nelson: Mother Earth Presents Tracy Nelson Country (1970, Warner Brothers) [blues]
  • Willie Nelson: Nite Life: Greatest Hits and Rare Tracks (1959-71 [1990], Rhino) [country]
  • Willie Nelson: Stardust (1978 [1999], Columbia/Legacy) [country]
  • Willie Nelson/Hank Snow: Brand on My Heart (1985, Columbia) [country]
  • NERD: In Search of . . . (2002, Virgin) [rap]
  • Neville Brothers: Yellow Moon (1989, A&M) [rock-70s]
  • The New Lost City Ramblers: The Early Years 1958-1962 (1958-62 [1991], Smithsonian/Folkways) [folk]
  • New Order: Brotherhood (1986, Qwest) [rock-80s]
  • New Order: Substance 1987 (1982-87 [1987], Qwest, 2CD) [rock-80s]
  • New York Dolls: New York Dolls (1973, Mercury) [rock-70s]
  • New York Dolls: In Too Much, Too Soon (1974, Mercury) [rock-70s]
  • Randy Newman: 12 Songs (1970, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Randy Newman: Good Old Boys (1974, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Randy Newman: Harps and Angels (2008, Nonesuch) [rock-60s] +
  • Herbie Nichols: The Complete Blue Note Recordings (1955-56, Blue Note, 3CD) [jazz-40s]
  • Harry Nilsson: Everybody's Talkin': The Very Best of Harry Nilsson (1967-77 [2006], RCA/Legacy) [rock-60s]
  • Niney and Friends: Blood and Fire (1971-72 [1998], Trojan) [reggae]
  • Nitty Gritty Dirt Band: Will the Circle Be Unbroken (1972, EMI, 2CD) [folk]
  • Mojo Nixon/Skid Roper: Root Hog or Die (1989, Enigma) [rock-80s]
  • West Nkosi: Rhythm of Healing (1992, Earthworks) [african]
  • Ohio Players: The Best of Ohio Players (20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection) (1974-77 [2000], Polygram) [rock-60s]
  • Roy Orbison: For the Lonely: 18 Greatest Hits (1956-65 [1988], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Orchestra Baobab: Pirates Choice (1982 [2001], World Circuit/Nonesuch) [african]
  • Orchestra Baobab: Specialist in All Styles (2002, Nonesuch) [african]
  • Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark: The Best of OMD (1979-88 [1988], A&M) [rock-80s]
  • Dr. Sir Warrior and the Oriental Brothers International: Heavy on the Highlife! (1990, Original Music) [african]
  • K.T. Oslin: Love in a Small Town (1990, RCA) [country]
  • Johnny Otis: Cold Shot / Snatch and the Poontangs (1969 [2002], Ace) [blues]
  • OutKast: Stankonia (2000, LaFace) [rap]
  • Buck Owens: 21 #1 Hits: The Ultimate Collection (1963-88 [2006], Rhino) [country]
  • Augustus Pablo: East of the River Nile (1977 [2002], Shanachie) [reggae]
  • Charlie Parker: Yardbird Suite: The Ultimate Collection (1945-52 [1997], Rhino, 2CD) [jazz-40s]
  • Graham Parker: Howlin' Wind (1976, Mercury) [rock-70s]
  • Graham Parker: Heat Treatment (1976, Mercury) [rock-70s]
  • William Parker: Raining on the Moon (2001 [2002], Thirsty Ear) [jazz-60s]
  • William Parker: Scrapbook (2002 [2003], Thirsty Ear) [jazz-60s]
  • William Parker: Sound Unity (2004 [2005], AUM Fidelity) [jazz-60s]
  • William Parker: Double Sunrise Over Neptune (2007 [2008], AUM Fidelity) [jazz-60s]
  • Parliament: Tear the Roof Off (1974-80 [1993], Casablanca, 2CD) [rock-70s]
  • Gram Parsons: G.P. / Grievous Angel (1972-73, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Pavement: Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain (1993 [1994], Matador) [rock-90s]
  • Annette Peacock: Mama Never Taught Me How to Cook: The Aura Years (1978-82 [2004], Castle) [vocal-50]
  • Ann Peebles: Greatest Hits (1969-77 [1988], MCA) [rock-70s]
  • Art Pepper: Meets the Rhythm Section (1957, Contemporary) [jazz-40s]
  • Art Pepper: Living Legend (1975 [1989], Contemporary) [jazz-40s]
  • Art Pepper: The Complete Galaxy Recordings (1977-82, Galaxy, 16CD) [jazz-40s]
  • The Perceptionists: Black Dialogue (2005, Definitive Jux) [rap]
  • Pere Ubu: The Modern Dance (1978, Blank) [rock-70s]
  • Pere Ubu: Dub Housing (1979, Chrysalis) [rock-70s]
  • Pere Ubu: The Tenement Year (1988, Capitol) [rock-70s]
  • Pere Ubu: Cloudland (1989, Fontana) [rock-70s]
  • Perfect Disaster: Up (1989, Fire) [rock-80s]
  • Carl Perkins: Original Sun Greatest Hits (1954-57 [1986], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Lee Scratch Perry: Arkology ([1997], Island, 3CD) [reggae]
  • Houston Person/Ron Carter: Chemistry (2015 [2016], HighNote) [jazz-60s] +
  • Pet Shop Boys: Discography: The Complete Singles Collection (1985-91, EMI America) [rock-80s]
  • Pet Shop Boys: Very (1993, Capitol) [rock-80s]
  • Oscar Peterson/Clark Terry: Oscar Peterson Trio + One: Clark Terry (1964 [1984], Emarcy) [jazz-40s]
  • Liz Phair: Exile in Guyville (1993, Matador) [rock-90s]
  • Astor Piazzolla: Tango: Zero Hour (1986, Pangaea) [latin]
  • Astor Piazzolla: The Rough Guide to Astor Piazzolla (1957-88 [2005], World Music Network) [latin]
  • Wilson Pickett: A Man and a Half: The Best of Wilson Pickett (1961-71 [1992], Rhino, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Pink Floyd: The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (1967 [1994], Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • Pink Floyd: The Dark Side of the Moon (1973 [1994], Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • Pink Floyd: Wish You Were Here (1975 [1992], Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • The Plastic People of the Universe: 1997 (1997, Globus International) [rock-70s]
  • P.M. Dawn: Of the Heart, of the Soul, and of the Cross: The Utopian Experience (1991, Gee Street) [rap]
  • The Pogues: Rum Sodomy and the Lash (1985, MCA) [rock-80s]
  • The Police: Every Breath You Take: The Singles (1978-86 [1986], A&M) [rock-70s]
  • Charlie Poole: You Ain't Talkin' to Me: Charlie Poole and the Roots of Country Music (1902-40 [2005], Columbia/Legacy, 3CD) [oldtime]
  • Iggy Pop: A Million in Prizes: The Anthology (1969-2003 [2005], Virgin) [rock-70s]
  • Bud Powell: The Amazing Bud Powell, Vol. 1 (1949-53 [1989], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Pérez Prado: The Best of Pérez Prado: The Original Mambo No. 5 (1949-59 [2006], RCA/Legacy) [latin]
  • Elvis Presley: The Sun Sessions CD (1954-56 [1987], RCA) [rock-50s]
  • Elvis Presley: Tiger Man (1968 [1998], RCA) [rock-50s]
  • Elvis Presley: The Top Ten Hits (1956-72 [1987], RCA, 2CD) [rock-50s]
  • Pretenders: The Singles ([1987], Sire) [rock-80s]
  • Lloyd Price: Greatest Hits: The Original ABC-Paramount Recordings (1956-60 [1994], MCA) [rock-50s]
  • Louis Prima: The Capitol Collector's Series (1956-62 [1991], Capitol) [vocal-20]
  • Prince: Dirty Mind (1980, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Prince: Purple Rain (1984, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Prince: Sign of the Times (1987, Paisley Park) [rock-70s]
  • John Prine: Great Days: The John Prine Anthology (1971-91 [1993], Rhino) [folk]
  • John Prine: Lost Dogs and Mixed Blessings (1995, Oh Boy) [folk]
  • John Prine: In Spite of Ourselves (1999, Oh Boy) [folk]
  • Professor Longhair: 'Fess: The Professor Longhair Anthology (1949-78 [1993], Rhino, 2CD) [blues]
  • Professor Longhair: Crawfish Fiesta (1980, Alligator): blues
  • The Psychedelic Furs: All of This and Nothing ([1988], Columbia) [rock-80s]
  • Public Enemy: It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back (1988, Def Jam) [rap]
  • Public Enemy: Fear of a Black Planet (1990, Def Jam) [rap]
  • Public Enemy: Rebirth of a Nation (2006, Guerrilla Funk) [rap]
  • Dudu Pukwana: In the Townships (1973 [1988], Earthworks) [jazz-60s]
  • Don Pullen/George Adams: Breakthrough (1986, Blue Note) [jazz-60s]
  • Don Pullen: New Beginnings (1988 [1989], Blue Note) [jazz-60s]
  • Don Pullen: Ode to Life (1993, Blue Note) [jazz-60s]
  • Pulnoc: City of Hysteria (1991, Arista) [rock-90s]
  • Ma Rainey: Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (1924-28, Yazoo) [blues]
  • Bonnie Raitt: Give It Up (1972, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • The Ramones: The Ramones (1976, Sire) [rock-70s]
  • The Ramones: Rocket to Russia (1977, Sire) [rock-70s]
  • The Ramones: Too Tough to Die (1984, Sire) [rock-70s]
  • Rank and File: Long Gone Dead (1984 [2005], Collectors' Choice) [rock-80s]
  • The Raspberries: Starting Over (1974, Capitol) [rock-70s]
  • The Ravens: Old Man River (1947-50 [1994], Savoy) [rock-50s]
  • Otis Redding: The Otis Redding Story (1962-67 [1989], Atlantic, 3CD) [rock-60s]
  • Don Redman: Doin' What I Please (1925-38 [1993], ASV) [jazz-20s]
  • Jimmy Reed: Blues Masters: The Very Best of Jimmy Reed (1953-63 [2000], Rhino) [blues]
  • Lou Reed: Berlin (1973, RCA) [rock-70s]
  • Lou Reed: The Blue Mask (1982, RCA) [rock-70s]
  • Lou Reed: Legendary Hearts (1983, RCA) [rock-70s]
  • The Regrettes: Further Joy (2022, Warner) [rock-10s] +
  • Django Reinhardt/Stéphane Grappelli: Swing from Paris (1935-39, ASV) [jazz-20s]
  • R.E.M.: Out of Time (1991, Warner Brothers) [rock-80s]
  • The Replacements: Let It Be (1984, Twin/Tone) [rock-80s]
  • The Replacements: Tim (1985, Sire) [rock-80s]
  • Marc Ribot: Marc Ribot y Los Cubanos Postizos (The Prosthetic Cubans) (1998, Atlantic) [jazz-80s]
  • Marc Ribot: Spiritual Unity (2005, Pi) [jazz-80s]
  • Jonathan Richman: Jonathan Sings! (1983, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Lesley Riddle: Step by Step: Lesley Riddle Meets the Carter Family: Blues, Country and Sacred Songs (1965-78, Rounder) [oldtime]
  • Amy Rigby: Diary of a Mod Housewife (1996, Koch) [rock-90s]
  • Amy Rigby: Middlescence (1998, Koch) [rock-90s]
  • Amy Rigby: Little Fugitive (2005, Signature Sounds) [rock-90s]
  • Terry Riley: A Rainbow in Curved Air (1971, Columbia) [avant]
  • Rilo Kiley: More Adventurous (2004, Brute/Beaute) [rock-00s]
  • Sam Rivers: Fuschia Swing Song (1964 [2003], Blue Note) [jazz-60s]
  • Max Roach: We Insist! Freedom Now Suite (1960, Candid) [jazz-40s]
  • Smokey Robinson & the Miracles: Anthology (1958-75 [1995], Motown, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Robyn: Body Talk (2010, Konichiwa/Cherrytree/Interscope) [rock-90s] +
  • Tom Robinson: Power in the Darkness (1978, Razor & Tie) [rock-70s]
  • Tabu Ley Rochereau: The Voice of Lightness: Congo Classics 1961-1977 (1961-77 [2007], Stern's Africa, 2CD) [african]
  • Tabu Ley Rochereau: The Voice of Lightness Vol. 2: Congo Classics 1977-1993 (1977-93 [2010], Stern's Africa) [african] +
  • The Roches: A Dove (1992, MCA) [rock-70s]
  • Jimmie Rodgers: RCA Country Legends (1927-33 [2002], RCA) [oldtime]
  • Arsenio Rodriguez: Montuneando (1946-50 [1993], Tumbao) [latin]
  • Roberto Juan Rodriguez: El Danzon de Moises (2002, Tzadik) [jazz-latin]
  • The Rolling Stones: Singles Collection: The London Years (1963-69 [1989], Abkco, 3CD) [rock-60s]
  • The Rolling Stones: Exile on Main Street (1972, Virgin) [rock-60s]
  • The Rolling Stones: Some Girls (1978, Virgin) [rock-60s]
  • Sonny Rollins: Saxophone Colossus (1956 [1985], Prestige) [jazz-40s]
  • Sonny Rollins: Way Out West (1957 [1988], Contemporary) [jazz-40s]
  • Sonny Rollins: Alfie (1966, Impulse) [jazz-40s]
  • Sonny Rollins: Plays G-Man (1986, Milestone) [jazz-40s]
  • Sonny Rollins: Silver City (1972-95 [1996], Milestone, 2CD) [jazz-40s]
  • Sonny Rollins: This Is What I Do (2000, Milestone) [jazz-40s]
  • The Roots: Rising Down (2008, Def Jam) [rap]
  • The Roots: How I Got Over (2010, Def Jam) [rap] +
  • Diana Ross/The Supremes: Anthology: The Best of Diana Ross and the Supremes (1961-76 [1995], Motown, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Roxy Music: Stranded (1974, Reprise) [rock-70s]
  • Roxy Music: Country Life (1974, Reprise) [rock-70s]
  • Roxy Music: Avalon (1982, Reprise) [rock-70s]
  • Roswell Rudd: Flexible Flyer (1974 [1995], Black Lion) [jazz-60s]
  • Roswell Rudd: Regeneration (1982 [1983], Soul Note) [jazz-60s]
  • Roswell Rudd: Trombone for Lovers (2013, Sunnyside) [jazz-60s] +
  • Todd Rundgren: Something / Anything? (1972, Bearsville, 2CD) [rock-70s]
  • Run-DMC: Greatest Hits (1983-93 [2002], Arista/BMG Heritage) [rap]
  • Jimmy Rushing: Cat Meets Chick / The Jazz Odyssey of James Rushing Esq. (1955-56 [2002], Collectables) [vocal-20]
  • Jimmy Rushing: Rushing Lullabies (1958-59 [1997], Columbia) [vocal-20]
  • Jimmy Rushing: The You and Me That Used to Be (1971 [1988], RCA) [vocal-20]
  • George Russell: Jazz Workshop (1956 [1987], RCA Bluebird) [jazz-40s]
  • Leon Russell: Leon Russell (1970, Capitol) [rock-70s]
  • Salt-N-Pepa: Black's Magic (1990, London): rap
  • Dino Saluzzi: Responsorium (2001 [2003], ECM) [jazz-80s]
  • David Sanchez: Obsesion (1998, Columbia) [jazz-80s]
  • Pharoah Sanders: Welcome to Love (1990, Timeless) [jazz-60s]
  • Oumou Sangare: Oumou (1989-2003 [2004], World Circuit/Nonesuch, 2CD) [african]
  • Alex Von Schlippenbach/Axel Dörner/Rudi Mahall/Jan Roder/Uli Jennessen: Monk's Casino: The Complete Works of Thelonious Monk (2003-04 [2005], Intakt, 3CD) [jazz-60s]
  • Brinsley Schwarz: Nervous on the Road / The New Favourites of Brinsley Schwarz (1972-74 [1995], Beat Goes On) [rock-70s]
  • Irène Schweizer: Portrait (1984-2004 [2006], Intakt, 2CD) [jazz-60s]
  • Stephen Scott: Aminah's Dream (1993, Verve) [jazz-80s]
  • Pete Seeger: The Essential Pete Seeger (1941-66 [2005], Columbia/Legacy) [folk]
  • Bob Seger: Night Moves (1976, Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • Sex Pistols: Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols (1977, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Shakira: Laundry Service (2001, Epic) [latin]
  • Shalamar: Anthology (1977-87 [2004], The Right Stuff/Solar) [rock-70s]
  • Bud Shank: Lost in the Stars (1990, Fresh Sound) [jazz-40s]
  • Roxanne Shanté: Bad Sister (1989, Cold Chillin') [rap]
  • Sonny Sharrock: Highlife (1990, Enemy) [jazz-60s]
  • Artie Shaw: The Essential Artie Shaw (1936-53 [2005], Bluebird/Legacy, 2CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Archie Shepp: Fire Music (1965 [1995], Impulse) [jazz-60s]
  • Archie Shepp/Horace Parlan: Goin' Home (1977 [1985], Steeplechase) [jazz-60s]
  • Matthew Shipp: Harmony and Abyss (2004, Thirsty Ear) [jazz-80s]
  • East Axis [Matthew Shipp/Allen Lowe/Gerald Cleaver/Kevin Ray]: Cool With That (2021, ESP-Disk) [jazz-80s]
  • The Shirelles: The Very Best of the Shirelles (1958-63 [1994], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Wayne Shorter: The Classic Blue Note Recordings (1960-89 [2002], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Silver Convention: Love in a Sleeper (1978, MCA) [rock-70s]
  • Horace Silver: The Jody Grind (1966 [1991], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Horace Silver: The Very Best (1954-66 [2005], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Silver Leaf Jazz Band: New Orleans Wiggle (1999, GHB) [jazz-80s]
  • Paul Simon: Paul Simon (1972, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Paul Simon: Graceland (1986, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Zoot Sims: Zoot Sims and the Gershwin Brothers (1975, Pablo) [jazz-40s]
  • Frank Sinatra: Songs for Swingin' Lovers (1956 [1987], Capitol) [vocal-20]
  • Frank Sinatra: Strangers in the Night (1966, Reprise) [vocal-20]
  • Pipi Skid: Funny Farm (2004, Peanuts & Corn) [rap]
  • The Skillet Lickers: Old Time Fiddle Tunes and Songs from North Georgia (1926-31 [1996], County) [oldtime]
  • Percy Sledge: The Ultimate Collection (1966-69, Atlantic) [rock-60s]
  • The Slits: Cut (1979, Antilles) [rock-70s]
  • Sly and Robbie: Rhythm Killers (1987, Island) [reggae]
  • Sly and the Family Stone: Greatest Hits (1967-69 [2007], Epic/Legacy) [rock-60s]
  • Sly and the Family Stone: There's a Riot Goin' On (1971 [2007], Epic/Legacy) [rock-60s]
  • Bessie Smith: The Essential Bessie Smith (1923-33 [1997], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) [blues]
  • Huey "Piano" Smith: This Is . . . Huey "Piano" Smith (1956-62 [1998], Music Club) [rock-50s]
  • Jimmy Smith: Back at the Chicken Shack (1960, Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Jimmy Smith/Stanley Turrentine: Prayer Meetin' (1960-63 [1988], Blue Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Patti Smith: Horses (1975, Arista) [rock-70s]
  • Patti Smith: Dream of Life (1988, Arista) [rock-70s]
  • Tommy Smith/Brian Kellock: Symbiosis (2004 [2005], Spartacus) [jazz-80s]
  • Todd Snider: East Nashville Skyline (2004, Oh Boy) [folk]
  • Todd Snider: The Devil You Know (2006, New Door) [folk]
  • Todd Snider: Live: The Storyteller (2010 [2011], Aimless) [folk] +
  • Hank Snow: The Essential Hank Snow (1950-74 [1997], RCA) [country]
  • Sonic Liberation Front: Ashé a Go-Go (2004, High Two) [jazz-00s]
  • Sonic Youth: Daydream Nation (1988, DGC) [rock-80s]
  • Sonic Youth: Daydream Nation (Deluxe Edition) (1988-89 [2007], Geffen, 2CD) [rock-80s]
  • Sonic Youth: Dirty (1992, DGC) [rock-80s]
  • Sonic Youth: Experimental Jet Set, Trash and No Star (1994, DGC) [rock-80s]
  • Tyshawn Sorey Trio + 1 [With Greg Osby]: The Off-Off Broadway Guide to Synergism (2022, Pi) [jazz-00s] +
  • Muggsy Spanier: The "Ragtime Band" Sessions (1939 [1995], RCA Bluebird) [jazz-20s]
  • Otis Spann: Walking the Blues (1960, Candid) [blues]
  • Spoon: Kill the Moonlight (2002, Merge) [rock-90s]
  • Dusty Springfield: Dusty in Memphis (1969, Rhino) [rock-60s]
  • Bruce Springsteen: Born in the USA (1984, Columbia) [rock-70s]
  • Bruce Springsteen: Tunnel of Love (1987, Columbia) [rock-70s]
  • Wild Jimmy Spruill: Scratchin': The Wild Jimmy Spruill Story (1956-63 [2014], GVC) [blues] +
  • Squeeze: Singles -- 45's and Under (1978-82, A&M) [rock-70s]
  • Peter Stampfel: You Must Remember This (1995, Gert Town) [folk]
  • Tomasz Stanko: Leosia (1996, ECM) [jazz-60s]
  • The Stanley Brothers: The Complete Mercury Recordings (1953-58 [2003], Mercury/Chronicles) [bluegrass]
  • Ralph Stanley: Bound to Ride: Vintage Mountain Bluegrass (1971-76 [1991], Rebel) [bluegrass]
  • Mavis Staples: We'll Never Turn Back (2007, Anti-) [rock-60s]
  • Steely Dan: Pretzel Logic (1974, MCA) [rock-70s]
  • Steely Dan: Katy Lied (1975, MCA) [rock-70s]
  • Steinski: What Does It All Mean? 1983-2006 Retrospective (1983-2006 [2008], Illegal Art, 2CD) [techno]
  • Sufjan Stevens: Illinois (2005, Asthmatic Kitty) [rock-00s]
  • Gary Stewart: Out of Hand (1975 [1991], Hightone) [country]
  • Rod Stewart: Every Picture Tells a Story (1971, Mercury) [rock-60s]
  • Sonny Stitt: Tune-Up! (1972 [1983], Muse) [jazz-40s]
  • Ion Petre Stoican: Sounds From a Bygone Age Vol. 1 (1966-77 [2005], Asphalt Tango) [europe]
  • The Stooges: The Stooges (1969, Elektra) [rock-60s]
  • The Stooges: Raw Power (1973, Columbia) [rock-60s]
  • The Streets: Original Pirate Material (2002, Vice/Atlantic) [rap]
  • Donna Summer: Bad Girls (Deluxe Edition) (1977-80 [2003], Mercury/Chronicles, 2CD) [rock-70s]
  • Donna Summer: She Works Hard for the Money (1983, Mercury) [rock-70s]
  • Sun Ra: Jazz in Silhouette (1958 [1991], Evidence) [jazz-40s]
  • Swamp Dogg: Total Destruction to Your Mind (1970, Canyon) [rock-60s]
  • Swamp Dogg: Best of 25 Years: F*** the Bomb, Stop the Drugs ([1996], Virgin) [rock-60s]
  • Swan Silvertones: Get Your Soul Right ([1986], New Cross) [gospel]
  • Rachid Taha: Made in Medina (2001, Ark 21) [mideast]
  • Talking Heads: More Songs About Buildings and Food (1978, Sire) [rock-70s]
  • Talking Heads: Remain in Light (1980, Sire) [rock-70s]
  • Talking Heads: Little Creatures (1985, Sire) [rock-70s]
  • James Talley: Got No Bread, No Milk, No Money, But We Sure Got a Lot of Love (1975, Capitol) [country]
  • Tampa Red: The Bluebird Recordings 1934-1936 (1934-36 [1997], RCA, 2CD) [blues]
  • Horace Tapscott: The Dark Tree: 1 (1989, Hat Art) [jazz-60s]
  • Howard Tate: Get It While You Can (1966-67 [1995], Mercury) [rock-60s]
  • Art Tatum: 20th Century Piano Genius (1950-55 [1996], Verve, 2CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Art Tatum: The Tatum Group Masterpieces, Vols. 2, 7, 8 (1955-56, Pablo, 3CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Cecil Taylor: The World of Cecil Taylor (1960, Candid) [jazz-40s]
  • Cecil Taylor: One Too Many Salty Swift and Not Goodbye (1978, Hat Art, 2CD) [jazz-40s]
  • Hound Dog Taylor: Deluxe Edition (1971-74 [1999], Alligator) [blues]
  • Koko Taylor: Deluxe Edition (1975-99 [2002], Alligator) [blues]
  • Jack Teagarden/Pee Wee Russell: Jack Teagarden's Big Eight / Pee Wee Russell's Rhythmakers (1938-40, Riverside) [jazz-20s]
  • Television: Marquee Moon (1977 [2003], Elektra/Rhino) [rock-70s]
  • Kate Tempest: Everybody Down (2014, Big Dada) [rap] +
  • The Temptations: Anthology (1964-86 [1995], Motown, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Sonny Terry/Brownie McGhee: Backwater Blues ([1999], Fantasy) [blues]
  • Texas Tornados: The Best of Texas Tornados ([1993], Reprise) [country]
  • They Might Be Giants: They Might Be Giants (1986, Restless) [rock-80s]
  • Hank Thompson: Vintage Collections (1947-61 [1996], Capitol) [country]
  • Lucky Thompson: Accent on Tenor Sax (1954, Fresh Sound) [jazz-40s]
  • Lucky Thompson: Tricotism (1956, Impulse) [jazz-40s]
  • Richard & Linda Thompson: Shoot Out the Lights (1982, Hannibal) [celtic]
  • The Three Johns: The World By Storm (1986, Abstract) [rock-80s]
  • Johnny Thunders: So Alone (1978, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]
  • Floyd Tillman: The Best of Floyd Tillman ([1999], Collector's Choice) [country]
  • Timbuk 3: Greetings from Timbuk 3 (1986, IRS) [rock-80s]
  • Toots and the Maytals: Funky Kingston (1973, Mango) [reggae]
  • Pete Townshend/Ronnie Lane: Rough Mix (1977, Atco) [rock-70s]
  • Transplants: Transplants (2002, Hellcat) [rock-00s]
  • Merle Travis: Folksongs of the Hills / Back Home / Songs of the Coalmines (1946-1963 [1993], Bear Family) [country]
  • Merle Travis: The Best of Merle Travis (1946-68 [1990], Rhino) [country]
  • Randy Travis: Trail of Memories: The Randy Travis Anthology (1985-99 [2002], Rhino, 2CD) [country]
  • Triage: American Mythology (2004, Okka Disk) [jazz-00s]
  • A Tribe Called Quest: The Anthology ([1999], Jive) [rap]
  • Tricky: A Ruff Guide (1994-99 [2002], Island) [techno]
  • Triple R: Friends (2002, Kompakt) [techno]
  • Ernest Tubb: The Definitive Collection (1941-66 [2006], MCA Nashville/Chronicles) [country]
  • Big Joe Turner: Greatest Hits (1951-58 [1989], Atlantic) [rock-50s]
  • Ike Turner: I Like Ike: The Best of Ike Turner (1951-72 [1994], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Ike and Tina Turner: Proud Mary: The Best of Ike and Tina Turner ([1991], EMI America) [rock-50s]
  • UB40: 1980-83 (1980-83, A&M) [reggae]
  • UB40: Labour of Love (1983, A&M) [reggae]
  • James Blood Ulmer: Odyssey (1983, Columbia) [jazz-60s]
  • Massimo Urbani: The Blessing (1993, Red) [jazz-80s]
  • Warren Vaché/Bill Charlap: 2gether (2000, Nagel-Heyer) [jazz-60s]
  • Bebo Valdés/Dieguito El Cigala: Lágrimas Negras (2002, Calle 54, 2CD) [jazz-latin]
  • Chucho Valdés: Briyumba Palo Congo (1999, Blue Note) [jazz-latin]
  • Kid Thomas Valentine/George Lewis: Kid Thomas-George Lewis Ragtime Stompers (1961 [1999], GHB) [azz-20s]
  • Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons: The Definitive Pop Collection (1962-78 [2006], Rhino, 2CD) [rock-60s]
  • Ken Vandermark [Vandermark Five]: Target or Flag (1997 [1998], Atavistic) [jazz-80s]
  • Ken Vandermark [Vandermark Five]: Elements of Style . . . Exercises in Surprise (2003 [2004], Atavistic) [jazz-80s]
  • Ken Vandermark [Vandermark 5]: Free Jazz Classics Vols. 3 & 4 (2003-04 [2006], Atavistic, 2CD) [jazz-80s]
  • The Velvet Underground: The Velvet Underground and Nico (1967, Verve) [rock-60s]
  • The Velvet Underground: White Light, White Heat (1968, Verve) [rock-60s]
  • The Velvet Underground: The Velvet Underground (1969, Verve) [rock-60s]
  • The Velvet Underground: Loaded (1970, Warner Brothers) [rock-60s]
  • The Vibrators: Pure Mania (1977, Columbia) [rock-70s]
  • Vienna Art Orchestra: From No Time to Rag Time (1982, Hat Art) [jazz-80s]
  • Gene Vincent: The Screaming End: The Best of Gene Vincent and His Blue Caps ([1997], Razor & Tie) [rock-50s]
  • Bobby Vinton: The Best of Bobby Vinton (1962-72 [2004], Epic/Legacy) [rock-60s]
  • Violent Femmes: Add It Up (1981-93, Warner Brothers) [rock-80s]
  • Miroslav Vitous: Universal Syncopations (2002-03 [2003], ECM) [jazz-60s]
  • Voice of the Beehive: Honey Lingers (1991, London) [rock-80s]
  • Bunny Wailer: Crucial! Roots Classics (1979-82 [1994], Shanachie) [reggae]
  • Bunny Wailer: Retrospective: Classic Tracks From a Legendary Artist (1985-92 [1995], Shanachie) [reggae]
  • Loudon Wainwright III: Unrequited (1975 [1998], Columbia/Legacy) [folk]
  • Loudon Wainwright III: Career Moves (1993, Virgin) [folk]
  • Loudon Wainwright III: High Wide and Handsome: The Charlie Poole Project (2008-09 [2009], 161) [folk] +
  • The Waitresses: The Best of the Waitresses (1982-83 [1990], Polydor) [rock-80s]
  • Tom Waits: Beautiful Maladies: The Island Years ([1998], Island) [rock-70s]
  • Tom Waits: Orphans: Brawlers, Bawlers & Bastards (2006, Anti-, 3CD) [rock-70s]
  • Mal Waldron/Jackie McLean: Left Alone '86 (1986, Evidence) [jazz-40s]
  • Mal Waldron: Crowd Scene (1989, Soul Note) [jazz-40s]
  • Bennie Wallace: Someone to Watch Over Me (1999, Enja) [jazz-60s]
  • Fats Waller: If You Got to Ask, You Ain't Got It (1926-43 [2006], Bluebird/Legacy, 3CD) [jazz-20s]
  • David S. Ware: Corridors and Parallels (2001, AUM Fidelity) [jazz-80s]
  • David S. Ware: Live in the World (1998-2003 [2005], Thirsty Ear, 3CD) [jazz-80s]
  • Justin Warfield: My Field Trip to Planet 9 (1993, Warner Brothers) [rap]
  • Dinah Washington: The Dinah Washington Story (1943-61 [1993], Mercury, 2CD) [vocal-20]
  • Ethel Waters: The Incomparable Ethel Waters (1925-40 [2003], Columbia/Legacy) [vocal-20]
  • Muddy Waters: The Chess Box (1947-72 [1991], Chess, 3CD) [blues]
  • Muddy Waters: Hard Again (1977, Blue Sky) [blues]
  • Bobby Watson: Love Remains (1986, Red) [jazz-60s]
  • Doc Watson: Doc Watson (1964, Vanguard) [folk]
  • Doc Watson/Clarence Ashley: The Original Folkways Recordings of Doc Watson and Clarence Ashley (1960-67, Smithsonian/Folkways, 2CD) [folk]
  • Leo Watson: The Original Scat Man ([1999], Indigo) [vocal-20]
  • Chick Webb: Spinnin' the Webb (1929-39, Decca) [jazz-20s]
  • Ben Webster: Cottontail: The Best of Ben Webster 1931-1944 (1931-44 [1995], ASV) [jazz-20s]
  • Ben Webster: King of the Tenors (1953 [1993], Verve) [jazz-20s]
  • Ben Webster: Soulville (1957 [2003], Verve) [jazz-20s]
  • Ben Webster: The Soul of Ben Webster (1957-58 [1995], Verve, 2CD) [jazz-20s]
  • Ben Webster/Harry Eddison: Ben and Sweets (1962 [1987], Columbia) [jazz-20s]
  • Kurt Weill: Threepenny Opera: Original Cast Recording -- New York Shakespeare Festival Production (1976, Columbia) [classical]
  • Kitty Wells: Country Music Hall of Fame Series (1952-65 [1991], MCA) [country]
  • Mary Wells: The Best of Mary Wells (20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection) (1961-64 [1999], Motown) [rock-60s]
  • Papa Wemba: L'Esclave (1986, Gitta) [african]
  • Papa Wemba: 1977-1997 (1977-97 [2004], Stern's Africa, 2CD) [african]
  • Kanye West: Late Registration (2005, Roc-A-Fella) [rap]
  • Kanye West: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010, Roc-A-Fella) [rap] +
  • Randy Weston: The Spirits of Our Ancestors (1991 [1992], Antilles, 2CD) [jazz-40s]
  • Barry White: All-Time Greatest Hits (1973-78 [1995], Mercury) [rock-70s]
  • Keith Whitley: I Wonder Do You Think of Me (1989, RCA) [country]
  • The Who: Meaty, Beaty, Big and Bouncy (1965-68 [1971], MCA) [rock-60s]
  • The Who: Who's Next (1971, MCA) [rock-60s]
  • Bob Wilber: Dancing on a Rainbow (1989, Circle) [jazz-40s]
  • The Wild Magnolias: The Wild Magnolias / They Call Us Wild (1974-75, Sunnyside) [rock-70s]
  • The Wild Tchoupitoulas: The Wild Tchoupitoulas (1976, Island) [rock-70s]
  • Barney Wilen: Wild Dogs of the Ruwenzori (1988, Ida) [jazz-40s]
  • Barney Wilen: New York Romance (1994, Sunnyside) [jazz-40s]
  • Ernie Wilkins: K.a.l.e.i.d.o.d.u.k.e. (1990 [1994], Birdology) [jazz-40s]
  • Don Williams: The Definitive Collection (1973-86 [2004], MCA Nashville/Chronicles) [country]
  • Hank Williams: The Original Singles Collection (1942-52 [1990], Polydor, 3CD) [country]
  • Lucinda Williams: Lucinda Williams (1988, Rough Trade) [rock-70s]
  • Lucinda Williams: Sweet Old World (1992, Chameleon) [rock-70s]
  • Lucinda Williams: Car Wheels on a Gravel Road (1998, Polygram) [rock-70s]
  • Lucinda Williams: Essence (2001, Lost Highway) [rock-70s]
  • Mary Lou Williams: A Grand Night for Swinging (1976 [2008], High Note) [jazz-20s]
  • Sonny Boy Williamson: King Biscuit Time (1951 [1989], Arhoolie) [blues]
  • Sonny Boy Williamson: The Essential Sonny Boy Williamson (1955-64 [1993], Chess, 2CD) [blues]
  • Chuck Willis: Let's Jump Tonight! The Best of Chuck Willis (1951-56 [1994], Columbia/Legacy) [rock-50s]
  • Hal Willner: Lost in the Stars: The Music of Kurt Weill (1985, A&M) [jazz-80s]
  • Bob Wills: Anthology 1935-1973 (1935-73 [1991], Rhino, 2CD) [oldtime]
  • Brian Wilson: Presents Smile (2004, Nonesuch) [rock-80s]
  • Delroy Wilson: The Best of Delroy Wilson: Original Eighteen Deluxe Edition (1964-70 [2006], Heartbeat) [reggae]
  • Jackie Wilson: The Very Best of Jackie Wilson (1957-67 [1987], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • Tony Wilson: I Like Your Style (1976, Bearsville) [rock-70s]
  • Wire: On Returning (1977-1979) (1977-79 [1992], Enigma) [rock-70s]
  • Bill Withers: Still Bill (1972 [2003], Columbia/Legacy) [rock-70s]
  • Stevie Wonder: Greatest Hits (1963-67 [1968], Motown) [rock-60s]
  • Stevie Wonder: Innervisions (1973, Motown) [rock-60s]
  • Stevie Wonder: Fulfillingness' First Finale (1974, Motown) [rock-60s]
  • Stevie Wonder: Characters (1987, Motown) [rock-60s]
  • Stevie Wonder: Conversation Peace (1995, Motown) [rock-60s]
  • World Saxophone Quartet: Political Blues (2006, Justin Time) [jazz-60s]
  • Charles Wright: Express Yourself: The Best of Charles Wright and the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band (1967-74 [1993], Warner Brothers) [rock-60s]
  • Wussy: Buckeye (2005-11 [2012], Damnably) [rock-00s] +
  • Wussy: Attica! (2014, Shake It) [rock-00s] +
  • Wu-Tang Clan: Legend of the Wu-Tang: Wu-Tang Clan's Greatest Hits (1993-2001 [2004], BMG Heritage) [rap]
  • Robert Wyatt: Ruth Is Stranger than Richard (1975, Caroline) [rock-70s]
  • Tammy Wynette: Anniversary: Twenty Years of Hits ([1987], Epic) [country]
  • X-Ray Spex: The Anthology (1977-78 [2002], Sanctuary/Castle) [rock-70s]
  • The Yardbirds: Having a Rave-Up with the Yardbirds (1966, Epic) [rock-60s]
  • Faron Young: Live Fast, Love Hard (1952-62 [1995], Country Music Foundation) [country]
  • Larry Young: Unity (1965, Blue Note) [jazz-60s]
  • Lester Young: Lester Leaps In: His Greatest Recordings 1936-1944 (1936-44 [1995], ASV) [jazz-20s]
  • Lester Young: The Essential Keynote Collection 1: The Complete Lester Young (1944 [1987], Mercury) [jazz-20s]
  • Lester Young: The President Plays with the Oscar Peterson Trio (1952 [1959], Verve) [jazz-20s]
  • Lester Young/Teddy Wilson: Pres and Teddy (1956 [1986], Verve) [jazz-20s]
  • Neil Young: Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere (1969, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Neil Young: After the Goldrush (1970, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Neil Young: On the Beach (1974 [2003], Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Neil Young: Tonight's the Night (1975, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Neil Young: Comes a Time (1978, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Neil Young: Rust Never Sleeps (1979, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Neil Young: Reactor (1981 [2003], Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Neil Young: Freedom (1989, Reprise) [rock-60s]
  • Warren Zevon: Genius: The Best of Warren Zevon (1976-2002 [2002], Elektra/Rhino) [rock-70s]
  • John Zorn: News for Lulu (1987, Hat Art) [jazz-60s]
  • Zu/Spaceways Inc.: Radiale (2003 [2004], Atavistic) [jazz-80s]
  • ZZ Top: Deguello (1979, Warner Brothers) [rock-70s]

Various artists compilations:

  • [VA]: Africa Dances ([1972], Original) [african]
  • [VA]: African Connection, Vol. 1: Zaire Choc! ([1988], Celluloid) [african]
  • [VA]: African Pearls 1: Congo: Rumba on the River (1954-69 [2006], Syllart, 2CD) [african]
  • [VA]: American Pop: An Audio History from Minstrel to Mojo on Record, 1893-1946 (1893-46 [1998], West Hill, 9CD) [jazz-20s]
  • [VA]: Anthology of American Folk Music ([1997], Smithsonian Folkways, 6CD) [folk]
  • [VA]: Authenticité: The Syliphone Years (1965-80 [2007], Sterns, 2CD) [african]
  • [VA]: The Best of Ace Records, Vol. 2: The R&B Hits ([1993], Scotti Brothers) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: The Best of Doo Wop Ballads ([1989], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: The Best of Doo Wop Uptempo ([1989], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: The Best of Excello Records, Vol. 2: Southern Rhythm 'n' Rock (1954-66 [1990]): rock-50s [Rhino]
  • [VA]: The Best of New Orleans Rhythm and Blues, Volume 1 ([1988], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: The Best of New Orleans Rhythm and Blues, Volume 2 ([1988], Rhino) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: The Best of the Girl Groups, Volume 1 & 2 ([1990], Rhino) [rock-60s]
  • [VA]: Black Power: Music of a Revolution (1968-79 [2004], Shout Factory) [rock-70s]
  • [VA]: The Blues: A Smithsonian Collection of Classic Blues Singers (1923-85 [1993], Smithsonian, 4CD) [blues]
  • [VA]: Blues Masters Volume 5: Jump Blues Classics ([1992], Rhino) [blues]
  • [VA]: Blues Masters Volume 14: More Jump Blues ([1993], Rhino) [blues]
  • [VA]: Brazil Classics 2: O Samba ([1989], Luaka Bop) [brazil]
  • [VA]: The Bristol Sessions ([1991], Country Music Foundation, 2CD) [oldtime]
  • [VA]: Creole Kings of New Orleans (1950-58 [1992], Specialty) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: The Daisy Age (1989-94 [2018]): rap [Ace]
  • [VA]: Dance Floor Divas: The '70s (1974-82 [1996]) [Rhino]
  • [VA]: Dazed and Confused ([1993], Warner Brothers) [sound]
  • [VA]: Dope and Glory: Reefer Songs der 30er und 40er Jahre (1925-47 [2002], Trikont, 2CD) [jazz-20s]
  • [VA]: Down in the Basement: Joe Bussard's Treasure Trove of Vintage 78s (1926-37 [2003], Old Hat) [vocal-20]
  • [VA]: Electric Highlife: Sessions From the Bokoor Studios (1978-89 [2002], Naxos World) [african]
  • [VA]: Estrellas de Arieto: Los Heroes (1979 [1998], World Circuit, 2CD) [latin]
  • [VA]: Finger Poppin' and Stompin' Feet: 20 Classic Allen Toussaint Productions for Minit Records 1960-1962 (1960-62 [2002], Capitol) [rock-60s]
  • [VA]: Flowers in the Wildwood: Women in Early Country Music (1923-39 [2003], Trikont) [oldtime]
  • [VA]: Girl Group Greats (1960-65 [2001], Rhino) [rock-60s]
  • [VA]: Golden Afrique Vol. 1 (1971-83 [2005], Network, 2CD) [african]
  • [VA]: Golden Afrique Vol. 2 (1956-82 [2005], Network, 2CD) [african]
  • [VA]: Good for What Ails You: Music of the Medicine Shows (1926-37 [2005], Old Hat, 2CD) [oldtime]
  • [VA]: The Guitar and Gun: Highlife Music From Ghana (1981-84 [2003], Stern's/Earthworks) [african]
  • [VA]: Guitar Paradise of East Africa ([1991], Earthworks) [african]
  • [VA]: Guitar Player Presents Legends of Guitar: Electric Blues, Vol. 1 ([1990], Rhino) [blues]
  • [VA]: Hairspray ([1988], MCA) [sound]
  • [VA]: The Heartbeat of Soweto ([1988], Shanachie) [african]
  • [VA]: Hillbilly Boogie (1939-51 [2002], Proper, 4CD) [country]
  • [VA]: Hurricane Zouk ([1988], Earthworks/Virgin) [zouk]
  • [VA]: The Indestructible Beat of Soweto ([1986], Shanachie) [african]
  • [VA]: Jubilation! Great Gospel Performances, Vol. 3: Country Gospel ([1992], Rhino) [gospel]
  • [VA]: The Kings and Queens of Township Jive: Modern Roots of the Indestructible Beat of Soweto ([1991], Earthworks) [african]
  • [VA]: The Kings of Highlife: The Vibrant Music of West Africa ([2003], Wrasse) [african]
  • [VA]: Kwaito: South African Hip Hop ([2000], Stern's/Earthworks) [african]
  • [VA]: Let Them Eat Jellybeans! 17 Extracts from America's Darker Side (1982, Alternative Tentacles) [rock-80s]
  • [VA]: Mbuki Mvuki (1957-84 [1993], Original Music) [african]
  • [VA]: Motown: The Classic Years (1960-72 [2000]): rock-60s [UTV]
  • [VA]: Mr. Magic's Rap Attack, Vol. 4 ([1988], Profile) [rap]
  • [VA]: The Music in My Head ([1998], Sterns) [african]
  • [VA]: New Millennium Doo Wop Party (1954-61 [2000], Rhino) [rock-50s] +
  • [VA]: Nuggets: Original Artyfacts from the First Psychedelic Era (1965-68 [1972], Sire) [rock-60s]
  • [VA]: The Perfect Beats: New York Electro Hip-Hop + Underground Dance Classics 1980-1985, Volume 4 (1971-90 [1998], Timber) [techno]
  • [VA]: The R&B Box: 30 Years of Rhythm and Blues (1944-74 [1994], Rhino, 6CD) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: The Roots of British Rock (1956-62 [1975], Sire) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: The Roots of Rock 'n' Roll 1946-1954 (1946-54 [2004], Hip-O, 3CD) [rock-50s]
  • [VA]: Rough and Tough: The Story of Ska 1960-1966 (1960-66 [2002], Sanctuary/Trojan) [reggae]
  • [VA]: Harry Smith's Anthology of American Folk Music, Volume 4 (1928-40 [2000], Revenant, 2CD) [folk]
  • [VA]: Something Got a Hold of Me: A Treasury of Sacred Music ([1990], RCA) [gospel]
  • [VA]: Soweto Never Sleeps ([1986], Shanachie) [african]
  • [VA]: Tea in Marrakech ([2001], Earthworks) [mideast]
  • [VA]: That Devilin' Tune: A Jazz History [1895-1950]: Volumes 1-4 (1895-1951 [2007], WHRA, 36CD) [jazz-20s]
  • [VA]: Tougher than Tough: The Story of Jamaican Music (1959-93 [1993], Island, 4CD) [reggae]
  • [VA]: Township Jazz 'n' Jive (1939-65 [1997], Music Club) [african]
  • [VA]: Violin, Sing the Blues for Me: African-American Fiddlers 1926-1949 (1926-49 [1999], Old Hat) [blues]
  • [VA]: Wall of Sound: The Very Best of Phil Spector 1961-1966 (1961-66 [2011], Phil Spector/Legacy) [rock-60s] +
  • [VA]: When the Sun Goes Down, Vol. 6: Poor Man's Heaven (1928-40 [2003], Bluebird) [blues]
  • [VA]: White Country Blues: A Lighter Shade of Blue (1926-38 [1993], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) [blues]
  • [VA]: Wild About My Lovin', Beale Street Blues (1928-30 [1991], RCA) [blues]

Total number of albums listed: 1066.

Notes

This started off as a reaction to Tom Moon's book, 1,000 Recordings to Hear Before You Die: A Listener's Life List. It's part of a series of books with similarly annoying titles, which compete with another series where the relevant title is Robert Dinney, ed, 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. The Moon book was brought to my attention by Robert Christgau, who is writing something on it for his first new Rock&Roll& column since leaving the Village Voice -- link here.

I compiled this in December 2008, then added a couple 2009 albums, and let it sit. I made some minor revisions in July 2020, and may make more going forward, but such lists are difficult and probably impossible to maintain over time. In particular, the following numbers reflect the original composition of the list. No effort has been made to update them to dynamically reflect any changes (e.g., database size in July 2020 is over 33,000 records).

I have a database with about 15,000 rated albums, so it was pretty easy to scrape off a list of all of the albums rated A- or above, then start picking and choosing from them. That got me down to 4,882 -- it's not so much that I'm an easy grader as that I've systematically sought out good records for most of the last 35 years. My first pass came out slightly over 1,000, so I need to go back and prune a bit. No doubt I also missed a few things I shouldn't along the way -- seems possible that I loosened up a bit midway through, having cautiously skipped over flat-A records like Rubber Soul and Revolver early on. I need to revisit some choices between compilations and original albums. And I may have to let some personal favorites go to work in items of greater historical import.

I haven't shied away from multiple-disc sets, which is the most obvious way to get extra mileage out of a fixed list. That 16-CD Art Pepper box may seem like the most extreme example, but I've gone for long stretches playing something or other from it every night. It's pretty essential in my book, but for what it's worth, Winter Moon is the crème de la crème, perhaps the most sheerly beautiful piece of jazz ever recorded. For things like that I'll need to add some notes, which will give me a chance to sneak some more things into the margins.

One thing worth noting is that 1,000 albums -- unlike, say, 1,000 vacation spots -- is something quite a few people can do without a lot of stress. It basically works out to 25 records per year for 40 years. I think if you have pretty varied tastes a reasonable collection is more like 2,000 titles -- something that can easily be done without getting into arcana or merely good product. My own tastes exclude classical music, which is the reason why, for example, last time I checked John Rockwell has twice as many records as Robert Christgau. Moon lists a lot of classical records, but I still have no interest in going there. You may feel the same about jazz or country or hip-hop, but they are all integral parts of my experience.

One curious thing about the following list is the bracketed genre notes, like [jazz-20s]. These correspond to the source files I keep the ratings data in, and provide some rough sense of genre breakdown -- for context, you can look at the files here. For whatever it's worth, the current breakdown is: rock: 407 (incl r&b, but excl rap and techno -- 50s: 53, 60s: 120, 70s: 135, 80s: 69, 90s: 24, 00s: 6); jazz: 283 (20s: 60, 40s: 102, 60s: 72, 80s: 40, 00s: 5, latin: 4); world 70 (african: 43; latin: 10, mideast: 5, europe: 5, zouk: 2, brazil: 2, klezmer: 1, cajun: 1, asian: 1); country: 62 (incl oldtime: 10, bluegrass: 6); blues: 47; rap: 42; reggae: 31 (incl caribbean [calypso]: 3); folk: 28 (incl celtic: 1); vocal: 27 (20s: 22, 50s: 4, 80s: 1); techno: 10; avant-garde: 3; gospel: 3; soundtracks: 2; classical: 1 (Kurt Weill). There are a couple of other data files that didn't show up here (most obviously new age).

Posted: 2008-12-11
Last revised: 2020-07-16