1987 was a landmark year in rock music, blending the raw energy of classic rock with emerging sounds that would shape the future of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new listener exploring the roots of modern rock, this list highlights the most influential and critically acclaimed albums from that pivotal year. Dive into these records to understand the soundscape of 1987 and discover timeless classics that still resonate today.
U2 – The Joshua Tree
U2’s “The Joshua Tree” stands as one of the band’s most iconic works, blending spiritual themes with expansive soundscapes. Released in 1987, it features hits like “With Or Without You” and “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” which showcase Bono’s soaring vocals and The Edge’s atmospheric guitar work. The album’s fusion of rock, folk, and gospel influences made it a critical and commercial success, earning the Grammy for Album of the Year and cementing U2’s place in rock history.
Guns N’ Roses – Appetite for Destruction
Debuting in 1987, Guns N’ Roses’ “Appetite for Destruction” is often heralded as one of the greatest debut albums in rock. Its gritty, rebellious attitude combined with a mix of hard rock and punk energy, producing classics like “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” “Welcome to the Jungle,” and “Paradise City.” The album’s raw sound and intense lyrics captured the frustration and excess of the era, making it a defining record of late 80s rock.
The Smiths – The Queen Is Dead
Though released in 1986, The Smiths’ “The Queen Is Dead” gained significant traction in 1987, influencing countless bands. Morrissey’s witty, often sardonic lyrics paired with Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar created a distinctive sound that combined indie rock with punk sensibilities. Tracks like “Frankly, Mr. Shankly” and the title track exemplify the band’s sharp social commentary and melodic craftsmanship, making it a cornerstone of British alternative rock.
Metallica – The Justice Tour (Live Album)
While Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” was released in 1986, their 1987 live recordings from the Justice Tour captured the band at a peak, showcasing their thrash metal prowess. These performances helped solidify Metallica’s reputation for aggressive riffs and complex compositions, influencing a new wave of metal bands. The energy and precision of their 1987 shows contributed to metal’s rising popularity in the late 80s.
The Cult – Electric
“Electric,” released in 1987, marked The Cult’s transition from post-punk to a more hard rock and glam metal sound. With hits like “Love” and “Wild Flower,” the album features a gritty, energetic style that combines melodic hooks with heavy guitar riffs. Its polished production and anthemic songs made it a commercial success, establishing The Cult as major players in the rock scene of the late 80s.
Hüsker Dü – Warehouse: Songs and Stories
Hüsker Dü’s “Warehouse: Songs and Stories” offered a more polished, melodic approach compared to their earlier hardcore punk style. Released in 1987, it includes standout tracks like “Sorry Somehow” and “Charity, Chastity, Prudence, and Hope,” blending punk energy with alternative rock sensibilities. The album demonstrated the band’s evolution and influenced the alternative rock movement that would explode in the 90s.
David Bowie – Never Let Me Down
Though initially met with mixed reviews, David Bowie’s “Never Let Me Down” (1987) remains notable for its ambitious production and Bowie’s continued reinvention. Featuring collaborations with Nile Rodgers and Carlos Alomar, the album includes tracks like “Time Will Crawl” and “Day-In Day-Out.” It reflects Bowie’s willingness to experiment with contemporary sounds while maintaining his unique artistic voice.
Jane’s Addiction – Nothing’s Shocking
Jane’s Addiction’s debut album, “Nothing’s Shocking,” released in 1988 but recorded in 1987, captured the raw, rebellious spirit of alternative rock. The album’s provocative cover and tracks like “Jane Says” and “Mountain Song” showcase a mix of punk, metal, and psychedelic influences. Its innovative sound and dark lyrical themes made it a cult classic that helped define the alternative scene of the late 80s.
Bon Jovi – Slippery When Wet
Although technically released in 1986, Bon Jovi’s “Slippery When Wet” dominated the charts into 1987, with hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “You Give Love a Bad Name.” Its catchy melodies, anthemic choruses, and polished production typify 80s rock’s mainstream appeal. The album’s success helped propel hard rock into the pop mainstream, influencing countless bands and artists.
How to Choose
When selecting among these classic 1987 rock albums, consider what aspects of rock music resonate most with you. Do you prefer the anthemic, polished sound of U2 or Bon Jovi? Or are you drawn to the raw energy of Guns N’ Roses or Hüsker Dü? Pay attention to the production style, lyrical themes, and the influence each album had on their respective genres. Personal taste, historical significance, and the album’s lasting impact should guide your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the biggest rock album of 1987? U2’s “The Joshua Tree” is often regarded as the biggest and most influential rock album of that year.
- Which 1987 album influenced future genres? Hüsker Dü’s “Warehouse” and Guns N’ Roses’ “Appetite for Destruction” heavily influenced alternative rock and metal subgenres.
- Are these albums still worth listening to today? Absolutely. Many of these records are considered timeless classics that continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
- Which album best represents the sound of 1987? “The Joshua Tree” and “Slippery When Wet” both capture the sound and spirit of 1987’s rock scene, blending mainstream appeal with artistic depth.
- Should I listen to the albums in order of release? Not necessarily. Instead, focus on the style and influence that appeals most to your taste. Exploring from different subgenres can give a broader understanding of 1987’s diversity.
Final Thoughts
1987 was a pivotal year in rock music, marked by albums that pushed boundaries, defined genres, and captured the cultural zeitgeist. Whether you’re drawn to the anthems of U2 and Bon Jovi, the raw energy of Guns N’ Roses, or the innovative sounds of Hüsker Dü and Jane’s Addiction, these records offer a rich tapestry of the era’s musical landscape. Exploring these albums not only provides a nostalgic journey but also a deeper appreciation for the roots of modern rock. Dive in and discover why 1987’s rock scene remains influential and endlessly fascinating.
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