The best Swing albums
of the 1980s.
Where to start with 1980–1989 swing — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1980s — swing
Top picks from 1980–1989, ranked by where we would start.
Frank Sinatra
Screen Sinatra
A nostalgic collection of cinematic ballads, where Sinatra's velvet voice weaves through lush orchestral arrangements.
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Ella Fitzgerald
Nice Work If You Can Get It – Ella Fitzgerald & Andre Previn Do Gershwin
A sophisticated blend of jazz elegance and orchestral flair, showcasing timeless Gershwin compositions through Fitzgerald's iconic vocals.
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Ella Fitzgerald
Speak Love
A warm collection of timeless ballads delivered with Fitzgerald's signature elegance and emotive vocal phrasing.
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Frank Sinatra
L.A. Is My Lady
A smooth blend of orchestral jazz and romantic ballads, rich with Sinatra's signature vocal warmth.
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Quincy Jones
The Dude
'The Dude' captures Quincy's genius in blending various sounds while highlighting his skills as a producer. The album provides a comprehensive view of Quincy's artistry, making it accessible for those unfamiliar with his work.
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Quincy Jones
Back on the Block
A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and soul that showcases Quincy Jones' visionary collaboration with diverse artists.
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Dexter Gordon
Landslide
A vibrant blend of hard bop and swinging melodies, showcasing deep improvisational flair and rich emotional expression.
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Dexter Gordon
Gotham City
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Sun Ra
Reflections in Blue
An expansive fusion of avant-garde jazz and cosmic exploration, weaving intricate rhythms with ethereal melodies.
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Sun Ra
Sunrise in Different Dimensions
A cosmic exploration of sound, blending avant-garde jazz with unexpected textures and improvisational freedom.
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Sammy Davis Jr.
Closest of Friends
A warm blend of traditional pop and jazz that showcases Davis's rich vocal textures and charming storytelling.
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Nina Hagen
Nina Hagen
A vibrant fusion of punk rock energy and theatrical performance, laced with eclectic pop sensibilities and bold social commentary.
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Adriano Celentano
Un po' artista un po' no
A vibrant blend of light pop and rock with playful lyrics that capture the essence of Italian artistry and charisma.
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Adriano Celentano
I miei americani (tre puntini) 2
A vibrant blend of playful melodies and heartfelt lyrics that captures the essence of Italian pop in the mid-80s.
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Nina Hagen
Angstlos
A vibrant fusion of punk energy and eclectic pop sensibilities, marked by theatrical vocals and bold lyrical themes.
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John Surman
Private City
A seamless blend of jazz improvisation and experimental rock, creating an evocative soundscape that transports listeners to a dreamlike urban environment.
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Bobby Hutcherson
Oblique
A blend of complex rhythms and rich harmonies that navigates the boundaries of jazz fusion and progressive soundscapes.
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Bobby Hutcherson
Cruisin' the 'Bird
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John Surman
Such Winters of Memory
A contemplative blend of jazz and experimental rock that evokes nostalgia through intricate melodies and rich textures.
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Junior Mance
Junior Mance Special
A vibrant blend of jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing intricate piano work and soulful improvisation.
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Clark Terry
Memories of Duke
A vibrant homage blending intricate trumpet melodies and lush arrangements, capturing the essence of classic jazz standards.
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Brian Setzer
The Knife Feels Like Justice
A gritty fusion of rockabilly grooves and alternative rock energy, infused with storytelling that evokes the American landscape.
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Joe Williams
Nothin' but the Blues
A seamless blend of classic blues and swing, showcasing rich vocals over intricate instrumentation.
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Cedar Walton
Cedar Walton
A rich tapestry of intricate melodies and dynamic improvisation that exemplifies the essence of modern jazz.
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