The albums that define
worldbeat.
Our picks for where to start with worldbeat — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top worldbeat artists
Start with one of these.
The worldbeat essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Peter Gabriel
Scratch My Back
A haunting collection of reimagined songs, blending orchestral arrangements with Gabriel's evocative vocals.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
OVO
A haunting fusion of worldbeat rhythms and art rock textures that narrate a profound, mythical journey.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Up
A contemplative exploration of human emotions layered with atmospheric instrumentation and Gabriel's distinctive vocal phrasing.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
New Blood
Orchestral arrangements intertwine with Gabriel's ethereal vocals, creating a hauntingly immersive soundscape.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
So
A vibrant fusion of art rock and pop that melds introspective lyrics with innovative production techniques.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
i/o
A kaleidoscopic blend of ethereal melodies and intricate rhythms that redefine art rock for a new era.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Flotsam and Jetsam
An eclectic tapestry of remixes and live performances that showcase Gabriel's innovative artistry and emotional depth.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A fusion of art rock and worldbeat, layered with introspective lyrics and eclectic instrumentation.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Birdy
A haunting blend of ethereal soundscapes and introspective melodies that evoke deep emotional reflection.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Passion: Music for The Last Temptation of Christ
A haunting blend of world music rhythms and ethereal melodies evokes the emotional journey of faith and sacrifice.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Deutsches Album
A fusion of worldbeat rhythms and art rock experimentation, evoking a vivid cultural tapestry.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Us
A rich tapestry of emotional depth, layered instrumentation, and world influences that captures the complexities of human relationships.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
An adventurous blend of art rock and worldbeat, intertwining rhythmic complexity with evocative storytelling.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Plays Live
An electrifying blend of art rock and worldbeat, infused with Gabriel's theatrical vocal delivery.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A kaleidoscopic blend of art rock and new wave, marked by introspective lyrics and experimental soundscapes.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A kaleidoscopic blend of art rock and world influences, illustrating Gabriel's eclectic vision and emotional depth.
Start here
Amadou & Mariam
Dimanche à Bamako
A vibrant fusion of Malian rhythms and global influences, capturing the essence of joy and resilience.
Start here
Amadou & Mariam
Sou Ni Tilé
A vibrant fusion of traditional Malian rhythms and contemporary melodies that invites listeners to dance and reflect.
Start here
Amadou & Mariam
Welcome to Mali
A vibrant fusion of Malian rhythms and contemporary styles, inviting listeners to dance and reflect on African identity.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Back to Front: Live in London
A vibrant blend of Peter Gabriel's eclectic influences, merging art rock and worldbeat into a captivating live experience.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Hit
A vibrant collection of hits blending art rock with pop sensibilities and socially conscious lyrics.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel Revisited
A reflective compilation blending art rock and worldbeat, showcasing Gabriel's lyrical depth and eclectic sound.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Long Walk Home: Music from the Rabbit-Proof Fence
A haunting blend of orchestral textures and indigenous Australian influences that evoke deep emotional resonance.
Start here
Peter Gabriel
Live at WOMAD 1982
An exhilarating blend of worldbeat rhythms and art rock sensibilities, pulsating with Gabriel's theatrical charisma.
Start here