Greatest Hits (Ten Years and Change 1979–1991) cover

Greatest Hits (Ten Years and Change 1979–1991)

Starship · 1991

53 min · 12 tracks · new wave

A polished blend of rock and new wave, punctuated by soaring melodies and anthemic choruses that define the era.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    We Built This City — This track became an anthem for the disillusionment of the music industry in the 80s, addressing commercialization while still maintaining a catchy hook.
  • →
    Sara — With its emotive lyrics and sweeping melody, this song showcases the band's softer side, highlighting their range beyond rock anthems.
  • →
    Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now — This powerful ballad encapsulates themes of resilience and hope, becoming synonymous with empowerment and frequently featured in films and media.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

42 /100
Lowland
Higher than 1% of albums we've rated

The compilation showcases Starship's mainstream rock evolution but lacks cohesion and depth in later tracks.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of synthesizers and electric guitars, creating a polished sound typical of early '90s new wave.
  • Each track is structured around anthemic choruses that are repeated multiple times, making them memorable and singable.
  • The sequencing includes several of the band's biggest hits in the first half, with a noticeable dip in energy towards the latter tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • nostalgic reflective moments
  • sing-along anthem vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
This compilation album marked a definitive moment in Starship's career, released at a time when they were transitioning from their earlier psychedelic roots to mainstream rock successes. Following their commercial peak with hits like We Built This City, this collection reflects a decade of evolution and the band's ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes.
Stylistic neighbors
Journey· Foreigner· REO Speedwagon

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Jane 4:11
  • 2 Find Your Way Back 4:14
  • 3 Stranger 4:45
  • 4 No Way Out 4:24
  • 5 Layin' It on the Line 4:10
  • 6 Don't Lose Any Sleep 4:22
  • 7 We Built This City 4:39
  • 8 Sara 4:53
  • 9 Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now 4:31
  • 10 It's Not Over ('til It's Over) 4:17
  • 11 It's Not Enough 4:47
  • 12 Good Heart 4:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata