What makes Heartbreaker by Pat Benatar notable?

'Heartbreaker' not only secured Pat Benatar's place in rock history but also became an anthem for female empowerment in music. It reached number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helped pave the way for women in rock during a time when the genre was male-dominated. When 'Heartbreaker' was released in 1979, Pat Benatar was establishing her presence in the music scene, following her debut album 'In the Heat of the Night' released just a year prior. This album marked her transition into mainstream success, showcasing her powerful voice and rock appeal that would define her career.

How many songs are on Heartbreaker?

Heartbreaker has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Released 47 years ago this October

Heartbreaker

Pat Benatar · 1979

6 min · 2 tracks · hard rock

A dynamic fusion of hard rock and pop sensibilities, driven by powerful vocals and infectious melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Heartbreaker (remastered) — The title track features a soaring vocal performance and catchy hooks that exemplify Benatar's ability to blend emotional depth with rock energy.
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Hit Me With Your Best Shot (remastered) — This track became one of Benatar's signature songs, showcasing her assertive lyrical style and solidifying her role as a powerful female figure in rock music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases solid songwriting and performance but lacks depth for long-term engagement.

What we noticed

The title track features a driving guitar riff that is consistent throughout, with dynamic shifts in vocal intensity.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Helped establish Pat Benatar's presence and recognition in rock music.
Career context: When 'Heartbreaker' was released in 1979, Pat Benatar was establishing her presence in the music scene, following her debut album 'In the Heat of the Night' released just a year prior. This album marked her transition into mainstream success, showcasing her powerful voice and rock appeal that would define her career.
Stylistic neighbors: Heart· Joan Jett & the Blackhearts· Lita Ford