What does Planet Rock: The Album sound like?

A groundbreaking fusion of electro beats and hip-hop rhythms that redefined dance music in the mid-1980s. Rooted in hip-hop and rapping. Start with "Planet Rock (original twelve‐inch version)".

Is Planet Rock: The Album a good place to start with Afrika Bambaataa?

Yes, Planet Rock: The Album is recommended as a starting point for new Afrika Bambaataa listeners. A groundbreaking fusion of electro beats and hip-hop rhythms that redefined dance music in the mid-1980s. Released in 1986, Planet Rock: The Album was Afrika Bambaataa's first full-length studio album after a series of influential singles. This album followed his seminal track 'Planet Rock' from 1982, which helped establish him as a pivotal figure in the development of hip-hop and electronic music. At this point in his career, Bambaataa was transitioning from a local DJ to an international music innovator.

Who is Planet Rock: The Album for?

Planet Rock: The Album works well if you're into steady rhythmic dance journey, energetic party atmosphere and nostalgic throwback vibes.

How many songs are on Planet Rock: The Album?

Planet Rock: The Album has 7 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Planet Rock: The Album

Afrika Bambaataa · 1986

43 min · 7 tracks · hip-hop

A groundbreaking fusion of electro beats and hip-hop rhythms that redefined dance music in the mid-1980s.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Planet Rock (original twelve‐inch version) Start here — This track is foundational to the electro genre, featuring innovative use of synthesizers and drum machines that set a benchmark for future dance music.
→
Looking for the Perfect Beat (original twelve‐inch version) — This song exemplifies Bambaataa's ability to blend funk grooves with electronic elements, creating a compelling anthem that resonates with club culture.
→
Renegades of Funk (remix) — The remix showcases Bambaataa's knack for reinterpreting classic funk into fresh, vibrant soundscapes while addressing themes of rebellion and empowerment.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

76 /100

Alpine

Higher than 98% of albums we've rated

This album is a key work in hip-hop history, blending genres and influencing future artists.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. 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 rhythmic dance journey
energetic party atmosphere
nostalgic throwback vibes
engaging groove for movement

Maybe skip if you

prefer slower, introspective tracks
seek standalone single experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album established Bambaataa's reputation and popularized electro and breakbeat genres.
Career context: Released in 1986, Planet Rock: The Album was Afrika Bambaataa's first full-length studio album after a series of influential singles. This album followed his seminal track 'Planet Rock' from 1982, which helped establish him as a pivotal figure in the development of hip-hop and electronic music. At this point in his career, Bambaataa was transitioning from a local DJ to an international music innovator.
Stylistic neighbors: Grandmaster Flash· Kraftwerk· Soulsonic Force