The albums that define
pop music.
Our picks for where to start with pop music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top pop music artists
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The pop music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
ABBA
Arrival
A vibrant blend of disco rhythms and catchy melodies that captures the exuberance of the mid-70s pop landscape.
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ABBA
Waterloo
A vibrant tapestry of catchy melodies and shimmering harmonies that defined the early sounds of disco-pop.
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Stevie Wonder
With a Song in My Heart
A vibrant blend of jazz standards and pop-infused melodies that showcases youthful exuberance and emotional depth.
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Stevie Wonder
Up Tight
A vibrant blend of soul and pop, marked by infectious melodies and rhythmic grooves that showcase Wonder's early musical genius.
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Sarah Connor
Soulicious
A vibrant blend of soul classics reimagined with contemporary pop sensibilities and Sarah Connor's powerful vocals.
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Sarah Connor
Christmas in My Heart
A contemporary pop-infused collection of holiday classics layered with lush arrangements and heartfelt vocals that evoke seasonal warmth.
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Lily Allen
It's Not Me, It's You
A sharp blend of pop hooks and biting lyrics wrapped in an upbeat, synth-driven soundscape.
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Lily Allen
F.U.E.P.
A sharp blend of pop and social commentary wrapped in catchy melodies and provocative lyrics.
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Sakis Rouvas
Live Ballads
A captivating blend of emotive ballads infused with soulful melodies and heartfelt performances that resonate deeply with listeners.
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Jolin Tsai
Pleasure
A vibrant fusion of electronic and pop elements, layered with Jolin Tsai's dynamic vocals and infectious energy.
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Jolin Tsai
Play
An electrifying blend of dance-pop and electronic beats, showcasing Jolin's dynamic vocal prowess and bold thematic explorations.
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Culture Club
From Luxury to Heartache
A vibrant pop tapestry woven with catchy hooks and introspective lyrics, echoing the struggles of fame and personal identity.
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Culture Club
Colour by Numbers
'Colour by Numbers' showcases the band's eclectic style and lyrical depth, presenting a balance between mainstream appeal and artistic expression. It features some of their most recognizable tracks while still inviting deeper reflection on personal and societal themes.
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David Bowie
Baal
A theatrical exploration of longing and despair, weaving haunting melodies with Bowie's distinct vocal stylings.
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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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Anna Tatangelo
Attimo x attimo
A vibrant blend of contemporary pop melodies infused with heartfelt lyrics and catchy hooks, epitomizing early 2000s Italian pop music.
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Carly Rae Jepsen
Tug of War
A vibrant blend of pop melodies and folk-inspired storytelling, infused with youthful energy and catchy hooks.
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David Bowie
Diamond Dogs
A theatrical blend of glam rock and dystopian themes enveloped in rich, cinematic soundscapes.
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Carly Rae Jepsen
Kiss
An effervescent pop collection that marries infectious melodies with a playful exploration of youthful romance and heartbreak.
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Céline Dion
Les chemins de ma maison
A tender blend of soft rock and chanson, showcasing early glimpses of Dion's emotive vocal prowess.
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Anna Tatangelo
Progetto B
A vibrant fusion of contemporary pop melodies with heartfelt lyrics that explore love, loss, and personal growth.
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Enrique Iglesias
Quizás
A passionate blend of romantic ballads and rhythmic pop, showcasing Iglesias' emotive vocals against lush instrumentation.
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Enrique Iglesias
7
A dynamic blend of pop and R&B infused with Enrique's signature romantic flair and emotive vocal delivery.
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Robbie Williams
The Christmas Present
A festive blend of classic holiday tunes and original compositions, wrapped in Robbie Williams' signature playful charm.
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By decade
Where pop music landed in each era.