5 classic albums that redefined rock 'n' roll, pt. 3

For the most part, rock 'n' roll has always been a genre of innovation and rebellion, pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. Throughout its history, certain albums have not just followed trends but have redefined the very essence of rock music. These records broke new ground, blending styles, exploring new sounds, and addressing themes that were previously untouched.

In this article, we explore five classic albums that changed the landscape of rock 'n' roll forever, each leaving a permanent mark on music history. From the electrifying guitar work of Jimi Hendrix to the genre-defying experimentation of Radiohead, these albums have shaped and reshaped the world of rock as we know it. Here are five more classic albums that redefined rock 'n' roll.

1. Jimi Hendrix Experience - Are You Experienced (1967)

This debut album by the Jimi Hendrix Experience is widely regarded as one of the most groundbreaking records in the history of rock music. It introduced the world to Hendrix's innovative guitar and studio techniques, including his use of feedback and distortion, and whammy bar theatrics. It's as if Hendrix saw the "Clapton is God" graffiti on the wall and said, "Here, hold my beer..."

Tracks like "Purple Haze" and "Hey Joe" showcased his raw-yet-virtuosic playing and set a new standard for electric guitarists. Of course, this album was a great collaboration, too, with Noel Redding on bass and Mitch Mitchell on drums.

Granted, this album does not contain all of the best Hendrix tracks, but what a start! Hendrix was obviously a huge influence on individual musicians, such as AC/DC's Angus Young. However, he also had an iconic look, and he really demonstrated how one could be a rock star and a visionary artist. Hendrix embodies the rock 'n' roll spirit about as well as anyone in history.

Rock 'n' roll songs about heroin and fetishes? What?!

2. The Velvet Underground - The Velvet Underground & Nico (1967)

Produced by Andy Warhol, this album didn't achieve commercial success upon its release, but its influence has been immense, and it's an album for those who refuse to resign to normalcy. The Velvet Underground & Nico is noted for its avant-garde approach, combining rock and roll with experimental sounds and lyrics.

There are dirge-like songs here, including "All Tomorrow's Parties," "Heroin," and "Venus in Furs," and many of the songs tackled dark and taboo subjects, pushing the boundaries of what rock music could address.

Lou Reed apparentlu once stated: "People say rock & roll is constricting, but you can do anything you want, any way you want." Amen! There's no sense in letting Lou Reed and Nico hog all the credit: John Cale, Sterling Morrison, and Maureen Tucker all helped make this a hugely memorable album.

Also, it seems one needs to comment on the album cover, which is so Andy Warhol! It's ironic that a cover that practically begs to be joked about has not only become iconic, but is tied to an album that was quite serious in tone.

3. The Doors - The Doors (1967)

The Doors' self-titled debut album brought a unique blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia. Jim Morrison's charismatic and enigmatic persona, along with the band's distinctive sound, created an immense legacy. Tracks like "Light My Fire" and "Break On Through (To the Other Side)" became anthems of the counterculture and remain relevant beyond the 1960s ("Break on Through" was sort of the original "Born to Be Wild").

Again, lead singer Jim Morrison gets much of the attention, but The Doors wouldn't be the same without Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger.

An album that changed popular music and possibly killed "pop metal."

4. Nirvana - Nevermind (1991)

If someone asks you what the biggest album of the 1990s was, you could understandably say "Nevermind." Then the flustered person who asked might say, "No! I asked you what the best album of the '90s was!" Rinse and repeat, comedy gold.

Anyway, this album is credited with bringing grunge music and alternative rock into the mainstream, and all but killing so-called "hair metal" or "pop metal" (though Beavis & Butthead played a major role in that as well).

Nirvana, led by Kurt Cobain, delivered raw and powerful music that resonated with a disenchanted youth. The album's success, driven by the iconic single "Smells Like Teen Spirit," marked a shift in the music industry and popularized the Seattle music scene.

Want an idea of how big the song is? The YouTube video below had 1,874,062,482 views as of 7-29-24. Now, in August, it has
1,881,726,770. That's right: This song is getting closer and closer to the 2 billion views mark.

That being said, don't shy away from tracks like "In Bloom,"" Come as You Are," "Lounge Act," and "Polly." Well, okay...all the tracks are good! Fortunately, even though Kurt Cobain is still largely remembered, people at least remember the other 2 main members. Dave Grohl went on to pioneer the Foo Fighters and Krist Novoselic...well, okay, people don't talk about him quite as much, but he was still in Nirvana!

5. Radiohead - OK Computer (1997)

OK Computer is often hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time, comparable to Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon. Indeed, Radiohead's third album signaled a departure from their earlier, more conventional rock sound, incorporating electronic elements, complex arrangements, and themes of modern alienation and technology.

Tracks like "Paranoid Android" and "Karma Police" showcased the band's innovation and ambition (though "The Bends" is a great album, too). Here's one of the semi-neglected, rather gloomy tracks from this album.

These albums not only redefined rock 'n' roll but also influenced countless artists and genres, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry. They also hold up today, so give 'em a listen!