Essential 2010s adult contemporary music

The best Adult Contemporary Music albums of the 2010s.

Where to start with 2010–2019 adult contemporary music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 2010s — adult contemporary music

Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.

DNA

Backstreet Boys

DNA

A polished blend of contemporary pop and R&B harmonies that feels both nostalgic and fresh for a new generation.

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Rebel Heart

Madonna

Rebel Heart

A bold blend of pop, dance, and introspective lyrics that confronts societal norms with unapologetic confidence.

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MDNA

Madonna

MDNA

A pulsating blend of dance-pop and electronic beats reflects Madonna's unapologetic exploration of desire and self-empowerment.

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In a World Like This

Backstreet Boys

In a World Like This

Uplifting harmonies and polished production create a nostalgic yet fresh pop sound that echoes the group's enduring appeal.

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Detour

Cyndi Lauper

Detour

A vibrant blend of classic country and pop sensibilities, showcasing Lauper's playful yet heartfelt vocal delivery.

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Memphis Blues

Cyndi Lauper

Memphis Blues

A heartfelt blend of blues and rock, showcasing Lauper's soulful vocals against a backdrop of gritty instrumentation.

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Shine a Light

Bryan Adams

Shine a Light

A vibrant blend of rock and pop, infused with heartfelt lyrics and anthemic melodies that define Adams' enduring style.

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Tracks of My Years

Bryan Adams

Tracks of My Years

A heartfelt collection of classic covers, blending nostalgic melodies with Adams' signature rock-infused vocal style.

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Bionic

Christina Aguilera

Bionic

Futuristic synths and bold beats collide with Aguilera's powerful vocals in a daring exploration of self-empowerment and desire.

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Sans attendre

Céline Dion

Sans attendre

An emotionally rich blend of poignant lyrics and soaring melodies, anchored by Céline Dion's powerful vocal delivery.

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Encore un soir

Céline Dion

Encore un soir

A heartfelt blend of contemporary pop and classic chanson, infused with poignant lyrics and Dion's distinctive vocal power.

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Lotus

Christina Aguilera

Lotus

A vibrant blend of dance-pop and heartfelt ballads showcasing Aguilera's powerful vocals and emotional depth.

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Anti

Rihanna

Anti

Rihanna's Anti immerses listeners in a sultry blend of R&B, pop, and experimental sounds with bold vulnerability.

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Loud

Rihanna

Loud

A euphoric blend of dance-pop anthems and sultry R&B grooves that radiate confidence and empowerment.

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Chicago XXXIII – O Christmas Three

Chicago

Chicago XXXIII – O Christmas Three

A festive blend of classic holiday tunes infused with Chicago's signature horn arrangements and lush vocal harmonies.

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Chicago XXXVII: Chicago Christmas

Chicago

Chicago XXXVII: Chicago Christmas

A warm blend of festive pop-rock and smooth jazz, infused with heartfelt vocals and classic holiday cheer.

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Once Again It's Christmas

Kenny Rogers

Once Again It's Christmas

A warm blend of traditional holiday songs and new compositions, wrapped in Kenny Rogers' comforting vocals and rich arrangements.

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You Can't Make Old Friends

Kenny Rogers

You Can't Make Old Friends

'You Can't Make Old Friends' captures the essence of Kenny Rogers' storytelling ability while offering a mix of reflective and upbeat tracks. It's a well-rounded introduction to his artistry.

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Love, Marriage & Divorce

Toni Braxton

Love, Marriage & Divorce

A sultry blend of R&B and soul, exploring themes of love and heartbreak through rich vocal delivery and emotive songwriting.

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Sex & Cigarettes

Toni Braxton

Sex & Cigarettes

A sultry blend of contemporary R&B and soul, layered with poignant lyrics and intricate vocal arrangements.

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Heart and Soul

Kenny G

Heart and Soul

Smooth melodies intertwine with lush instrumentation, creating a serene soundscape that invites relaxation and introspection.

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Brazilian Nights

Kenny G

Brazilian Nights

A lush blend of smooth jazz and bossa nova, evoking the vibrant atmosphere of a Brazilian night.

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Wonderland

Sarah McLachlan

Wonderland

A warm collection of holiday classics reimagined with McLachlan's ethereal vocals and lush arrangements.

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A Holiday Carole

Carole King

A Holiday Carole

Classic holiday melodies are infused with Carole King's warm vocals and heartfelt arrangements, creating a nostalgic festive atmosphere.

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