Apple Music has unveiled its 100 Best Albums list, culminating in the announcement of the top 10 greatest albums of all time. Leading the list is Lauryn Hill’s iconic 1998 album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. This album has been celebrated for its profound impact and timeless relevance.
To commemorate this achievement, Apple Music’s Zane Lowe and Ebro Darden hosted a special roundtable discussion with legendary artists Nile Rodgers and Maggie Rogers. The conversation delved into the significance of the list and the enduring legacy of the top albums. The full roundtable is available to watch on Apple Music.
Lauryn Hill’s Emotional Acceptance
Upon receiving the award, Lauryn Hill expressed her gratitude, stating, “This is my award, but it’s a rich, deep narrative and involves so many people, and so much sacrifice, and so much time, and so much collective love.” The award itself is crafted from recycled Apple products, symbolizing sustainability and innovation.
The Top 10 Albums on Apple Music’s 100 Best List
- The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998) – Lauryn Hill
- Thriller (1982) – Michael Jackson
- Abbey Road (1969) – The Beatles
- Purple Rain (1984) – Prince & The Revolution
- Blonde (2016) – Frank Ocean
- Songs in the Key of Life (1976) – Stevie Wonder
- good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012) – Kendrick Lamar
- Back to Black (2006) – Amy Winehouse
- Nevermind (1991) – Nirvana
- Lemonade (2016) – Beyoncé
Insights from the Roundtable Discussion
Nile Rodgers highlighted Beyoncé’s Lemonade, praising its groundbreaking approach and powerful narrative. Zane Lowe and Maggie Rogers echoed these sentiments, noting the album’s impact and vulnerability.
For Nirvana’s Nevermind, Lowe remarked on its cultural revolution, while Ebro Darden emphasized the band’s desire to connect deeply with their audience.
Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black was celebrated for its timeless vocals and emotional depth. Rodgers and Rogers appreciated how Winehouse honored musical traditions while adding her unique touch.
Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city was praised for its storytelling and consciousness, capturing the essence of Compton and hip-hop. Stevie Wonder’s Songs in the Key of Life was revered for its melodic brilliance and cultural impact.
Frank Ocean’s Blonde was described as a multi-layered masterpiece, continuously revealing new depths upon each listen.
Prince’s Purple Rain was honored for its revolutionary mix of genres and cultural influence, with Darden highlighting Prince’s unparalleled artistry.
The Beatles’ Abbey Road was noted for its timeless appeal and comprehensive songbook of human experiences. Michael Jackson’s Thriller was recognized for its monumental impact on the music industry and its ongoing influence.
A Tribute to Music Lovers
Apple Music’s 100 Best Albums list is described as a modern love letter to the records that have shaped the world of music. The list was curated by Apple Music’s team of experts alongside artists, songwriters, producers, and industry professionals. The ranking is independent of streaming numbers, focusing purely on artistic and cultural significance.
Explore the full list and watch the roundtable discussion on Apple Music. Additionally, music lovers can enjoy 100 audio vignettes on Apple Podcasts, offering insights into each album’s story and legacy. Special content is also available across the Apple ecosystem, including the App Store, Apple News, Apple Books, and more.
Honoring Music’s Legacy
Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill not only topped the list but also highlighted the profound influence of female artists in music. This celebration extends beyond rankings, reflecting the collective love and dedication of the music community.
View this post on Instagram
Advertisement
