The Best Albums, From All Genres, Of 1989
In 1989, the music industry was at a crossroads, characterised by a dynamic mix of genres and technological advancements that reshaped how music was created and consumed. The Compact Disc (CD) had firmly established itself as the dominant format, offering what was touted (and sometimes challenged) as superior sound quality and durability compared to vinyl records and cassette tapes. This transition to digital formats was accompanied by the continued rise, and importance of, music videos and television performances that continued to influence popular music trends by emphasising visual elements alongside exceptional music.
Speaking of trends, the period was notable for the blending of genres and the emergence of new musical styles. Hard rock and heavy metal bands enjoyed widespread popularity, while pop artists continued to dominate the charts with catchy, radio-friendly hits. The influence of funk, soul, and R&B was evident in many releases, and with such diversity in musical tastes, the rich tapestry of music released in 1989 catered to a broad audience.
Ranked from best to almost the best, but not quite. However, depending on your subjective preferences, you may prefer a different order, omit some, or even ponder some that are not included. Trust me, I’ve changed the order countless times because determining the best albums often depends on how one feels at any given moment. Either way, let’s simply enjoy the best music from 1989.
1. Mötley Crüe – Dr. Feelgood
Released on August 28, 1989, Dr. Feelgood marked a high point for the band, both creatively and commercially. With a polished production and hard-hitting tracks like Kickstart My Heart and the album's title track, Mötley Crüe showcased their ability to blend catchy melodies with a gritty rock sound. Add to that the sensational power ballad Without You and there is no doubt as to why Mötley Crüe is, and was, one of the leading acts in the glam metal genre; particularly in 1989.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Mötley Crüe’s Dr. Feelgood.
2. Billy Joel – Storm Front
Released on October 17, 1989, Storm Front features introspective and socially conscious lyrics. The album's combination of rock and pop elements, along with Joel's storytelling prowess, made it a critical and commercial success. With musical highlights, such as the lush and bluesy Shameless, the jazzy upbeat When In Rome, as well as the masterpiece that is Leningrad, there is little doubt as to why Storm Front is not only one of the best albums released in 1989, but one of Billy Joel’s greatest career releases. Oh, and I forgot to mention the hit single We Didn't Start The Fire. Storm Front, really, is an album experience without a dull moment to be heard.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Billy Joel’s Storm Front.
3. Aerosmith – Pump
Released on September 12, 1989, Pump continued the band's resurgence in the late ‘80s with hits such as Love In An Elevator, Janie's Got A Gun, and What It Takes. Pump further demonstrated Aerosmith's knack for combining bluesy rock riffs, with the occasional power ballad, and contemporary production values, all of which reaffirmed their status as rock icons.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Aerosmith’s Pump.
4. Bob Dylan – Oh Mercy
Released on September 12, 1989, Oh Mercy is amongst Bob Dylan’s greatest recordings, following a somewhat lacklustre series of releases throughout the 80s. Featuring a highly polished sound and the introspective lyrics that the singer/songwriter is renowned for, tracks like Most Of The Time and Man In The Long Black Coat are standouts that ensure Oh Mercy is an essential listen and one of the best albums from 1989.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Bob Dylan’s Oh Mercy.
5. Lenny Kravitz – Let Love Rule
Released on September 6, 1989, Let Love Rule, introduced Lenny Kravitz's eclectic mix of rock, funk, and soul. The album's title track along with songs like Mr. Cab Driver and I Build This Garden For Us showcased Kravitz's retro-inspired sound, with a modern and timeless twist, earning him a place as a distinctive new voice within the music industry.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Lenny Kravitz’s Let Love Rule.
6. Faith No More – The Real Thing
Released on June 20, 1989, The Real Thing was a groundbreaking work that blended metal, funk, and alternative rock. Featuring the hit single Epic, a song that became a defining track of the late 80s and early 90s, The Real Thing has it all with a selection of incredible songs, making it an essential listen for any music enthusiast.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Faith No More’s The Real Thing.
7. Electric Boys – Funk-O-Metal Carpet Ride (Re-Release)
Delivering a unique fusion of funk and metal, Funk-O-Metal Carpet Ride is an exceptional debut from Electric Boys that features a playful and energetic sound. Each track offers something unique, from high-energy anthems to soulful ballads, yet the album’s fluidity is to be praised as there isn’t a dull moment to be heard with its eclectic mix of funk, metal, and rock.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Electric Boys’ Funk-O-Metal Carpet Ride.
8. Alice Cooper – Trash
Released on July 25, 1989, Trash saw the shock-rock legend embracing a more mainstream, glam-metal sound. The album's lead single, Poison, became a major hit, introducing a new generation to Cooper's theatrical style. However, Trash is an album experience that goes beyond a single song. With songs such as the hard rocking Bed Of Nails and the exceptional power ballad, Only My Heart Talkin’, there is little doubt as to why Trash became a career comeback release for the shock rocker and is amongst the greatest albums of 1989.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Trash.
9. Michael Bolton – Soul Provider
Released on June 19, 1989, Soul Provider features a mix of pop, soft rock, and soul-styled songs that culminate in, arguably, Michael Bolton’s greatest release. Featuring the hits How Am I Supposed To Live Without You, How Can We Be Lovers, and From Now On, Soul Provider, as an album, encapsulates Michael Bolton's strengths as a vocalist and songwriter and is worthy of inclusion amongst the best recordings of 1989.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Michael Bolton’s Soul Provider.
10. Elton John – Sleeping With the Past
Released on August 29, 1989, Sleeping With The Past was a tribute to the rhythm and blues sounds of the '60s and ‘70s with a late-80s twist and high production values. Featuring hits like Sacrifice and Healing Hands, this exceptional release showcased John's ability to blend emotional depth with soulful melodies. The result is that Sleeping With The Past is another of John’s timeless classics.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Elton John’s Sleeping With The Past.
11. Cher – Heart Of Stone
Released on June 19, 1989, Heart Of Stone saw Cher achieve a successful career resurgence with a collection of powerful pop-rock ballads. While most casual fans will point to the iconic If I Could Turn Back Time, Cher's distinctive vocal and dramatic flair resonated throughout, ensuring that this release was one of her most successful.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Cher’s Heart Of Stone.
12. Nazareth – Snakes 'n' Ladders
Snakes 'N' Ladders continued the band's legacy with a mix of hard rock and blues influences and tunes. Although not as commercially successful as some of their earlier works, the album showcased the band's enduring talent and ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes and is a hidden gem, within their extensive back catalogue.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Nazareth’s Snakes 'n' Ladders.
13. Queen – The Miracle (Album Review)
Released on May 22, 1989, The Miracle is a remarkable, significant, and memorable musical achievement by Queen that includes the well-known hits I Want It All, Breakthru, and the hidden gem, Scandal. Whichever way you look at it, with a blend of rock, pop, and operatic influences, The Miracle is one of Queen’s greatest records and is a landmark release from the era.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Queen’s The Miracle.
14. Spandau Ballet – Heart Like A Sky
Released on September 18, 1989, Heart Like A Sky is an often-overlooked gem that encapsulates the band's sophisticated pop and new wave sound. Successfully blending these styles with smooth melodies and reflective lyrics, songs such as Be Free With Your Love and Raw add to the overall timeless appeal of the record.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Spandau Ballet’s Heart Like A Sky.
15. Tracy Chapman – Crossroads
Released on October 3, 1989, Crossroads followed Tracy Chapman’s successful debut with a collection of songs that delved into social issues and personal introspection, thereby making it not only an essential listen but a timeless one. Chapman's powerful vocal is most certainly a highlight, as are the production qualities and the backing band. When combined, it becomes one of the best albums from 1989 for Crossroads isn’t just a collection of songs, but an album experience; one that should be in every music lover’s collection.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Tracy Chapman’s Crossroads.
16. Chris Rea – The Road To Hell
Released on October 30, 1989, The Road To Hell combines Chris Rea's blues-influenced rock with insightful lyrics. The album's title track is one of Rea's most iconic songs, reflecting themes of societal disillusionment and introspection, but each track contributes to the album's cohesive narrative, making it a standout in Rea's career and one of the strongest releases from 1989.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Chris Rea’s The Road To Hell.
17. Belinda Carlisle – Runaway Horses
Released on October 3, 1989, Runaway Horses confirmed Belinda Carlisle’s successful transition from the lead singer of The Go-Go's to a well-respected solo artist. Featuring hits like Leave A Light On and Summer Rain, the blending of pop-rock sensibilities with Carlisle's distinctive vocal ensures that this quintessential 80s album is not only memorable but offers fans and newcomers a rewarding listening experience.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Belinda Carlisle’s Runaway Horses.
18. Resurrection Band – Innocent Blood
Resurrection Band's Innocent Blood is notable for its blend of blues-based rock and roll with deep, meaningful lyrics. The album's gritty sound and socially conscious themes set it apart in the rock landscape of the era. However, don’t let the lyrical direction and Christian rock values deter you for Innocent Blood represents some of the very best rock and roll you’re ever likely to hear.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of the Resurrection Band’s Innocent Blood.
19. Don Henley – The End of the Innocence
Released on June 27, 1989, The End Of The Innocence highlights Don Henley’s lyrical prowess, solo rock chops, and ability to address complex themes with sensitivity and depth. With memorable tunes such as New York Minute and the title track, amongst many others, this record stands out as not only a timeless work but one that offers a cohesive album experience from start to finish.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Don Henley’s The End Of The Innocence.
Honourable Mentions (In Alphabetical Order)
These are albums from 1989 that I appreciate but don’t feel are the best of the best. However, there’s some killer music to be heard here, so load up your favourite streaming service and give them a listen, for our music tastes are subjective and you may just come across an album that you consider a masterpiece.
