The Works cover

The Works

Queen · 1984

55 min · 12 tracks · hard rock · heavy metal · pop rock

A dynamic blend of rock anthems and synth-driven pop, showcasing Queen's theatricality and innovation.

Why this album works

Best for
dynamic emotional journeys long, immersive listening sessions energetic workout motivation
Context
Released on February 27, 1984, 'The Works' marked Queen's return to the studio following their successful 'Hot Space' album. At this point in their career, they were navigating a shift towards more radio-friendly sounds, while still embracing their signature flamboyant style. This album served as a pivotal moment as Queen sought to reclaim their status in the changing musical landscape of the 1980s.
If you like
hard rock, heavy metal, pop rock

The Works is an album by Queen, released in 1984. A dynamic blend of rock anthems and synth-driven pop, showcasing Queen's theatricality and innovation. 'The Works' produced several hits, including 'Radio Ga Ga' and 'I Want to Break Free', both of which became staples in Queen's catalog. The album reached No. 1 in multiple countries and solidified Queen's popularity during the MTV era, notably influencing the visual presentation of rock music videos. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Works sound like?

A dynamic blend of rock anthems and synth-driven pop, showcasing Queen's theatricality and innovation. Rooted in hard rock and heavy metal.

What makes The Works by Queen notable?

'The Works' produced several hits, including 'Radio Ga Ga' and 'I Want to Break Free', both of which became staples in Queen's catalog. The album reached No. 1 in multiple countries and solidified Queen's popularity during the MTV era, notably influencing the visual presentation of rock music videos. Released on February 27, 1984, 'The Works' marked Queen's return to the studio following their successful 'Hot Space' album. At this point in their career, they were navigating a shift towards more radio-friendly sounds, while still embracing their signature flamboyant style. This album served as a pivotal moment as Queen sought to reclaim their status in the changing musical landscape of the 1980s.

Who is The Works for?

The Works works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long, immersive listening sessions and energetic workout motivation.

How many songs are on The Works?

The Works has 12 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·55:21

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

  • 1 Radio Ga Ga Standout 5:48
  • 2 Tear It Up 3:26
  • 3 It’s a Hard Life 4:09
  • 4 Man on the Prowl 3:27
  • 5 Machines (or ‘Back to Humans’) 5:10
  • 6 I Want to Break Free Standout 3:20
  • 7 Keep Passing the Open Windows 5:23
  • 8 Hammer to Fall Standout 4:28
  • 9 Is This the World We Created…? 2:17
  • 10 I Go Crazy 3:43
  • 11 Radio Ga Ga (extended version) 6:52
  • 12 I Want to Break Free (extended mix) 7:12

Release Date

February 27, 1984

Genre

hard rock, heavy metal, pop rock

More albums in hard rock

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

55 min 21 sec