Classic Albums Celebrating 40th & 50th Anniversaries in 2019

Some of culture’s most beloved albums are seeing milestone anniversaries in 2019. Whether they were released 10, 20 or even 50 years ago, these albums have left a lasting impression on music and culture that can still be felt all these years later.

Last week, Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, took a look back at some influential albums celebrating milestone 10^th, 20^th and 30^th anniversaries in 2019. This week, we bring you the second half of that list, this time featuring iconic albums turning 40 and 50 this year. Here are just a few titles that have continued to leave their mark nearly half-a-century after their initial release.

Forty Years:

1.       Pink Floyd, ‘The Wall’: Helmed by Roger Waters, ‘The Wall’ was one of Pink Floyd’s most ambitious and successful albums. A concept album dealing with Waters’ deep-seeded feelings of isolation and abandonment, the passion put into the project gave it wide-reaching appeal. Upon its release, it spent 15 weeks at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and produced their only number one single, “Another Brick In The Wall Pt. 2.” It has sold more than 30 million copies worldwide, making it the best-selling double LP of all. The album It also inspired a cult-classic film just a few short years later.

2.       AC/DC, ‘Highway to Hell’: After five albums, AC/DC finally broke through in the US with their sixth release, ‘Highway to Hell,’ in 1979. The title track became an instant classic upon release and drew new fans into the band’s fanbase. Unfortunately, ‘Highway’ would also become their last to feature Bon Scott on vocals.

Fifty Years:

1.       The Beatles, ‘Abbey Road’: ‘Abbey Road’ was one of The Beatles’ most iconic albums, featuring some of the band’s most important late-career work. Tracks like the George Harrison-penned “Something” and “Here Comes The Sun,” and John Lennon’s “Come Together,” became indisputable hits, propelling the album to the top of the charts in several countries.

2.       The Who, ‘Tommy’: When you think of rock operas, the first album that comes to mind is The Who’s groundbreaking 1969 release, ‘Tommy.’ The story of a child who becomes deaf, blind and dumb after witnessing a tragedy, the album stunned fans and critics alike, launching The Who to even higher points of popularity. The album sold more than 20 million copies as of 2015 and remains the ultimate rock opera.

3.       Led Zeppelin, ‘Led Zeppelin I’ & ‘Led Zeppelin II’: Led Zeppelin’s debut album was unlike anything music had heard prior to 1969. While rock at the time was beginning to focus more on fast and loud, ‘Led Zeppelin I’ focused on creating compositions that combined blues and heavy rock guitars, regardless of length. The sound became a precursor to heavier ones, especially heavy metal. But the band didn’t stop there. By the end of the year they released a second album, which was heavier than the first and more-well received by critics. ‘Led Zeppelin II’ is also considered by many publications to be one of the most influential albums of all time.

From bands nearing the end of their run to those who were just getting started, some of rock’s most influential and iconic albums are celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2019. These albums continue to be remembered fondly decades after their initial success, withstanding the test of time and being passed on for rediscovery by newer generations.

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Rediscover these classic albums and more at Vinyl Bay 777. As Long Island’s top new independent record shop, we have thousands of titles to choose from in an array of genres to suit the tastes of most music fans. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, music memorabilia and more in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Woodstock at 49: Six Iconic Festival Performances

Woodstock poster. Found on Wikimedia
Commons.

It has been 49 years since the Woodstock Music & Art Fair took place on the grounds of Max Yasgur’s farm in Bethel, NY. For four days starting August 15, 1969, more than 30 bands and fans gathered together to connect on a greater level through music. The result became one of the most iconic shows in music history, exemplifying the “peace and love” vibes of the 1960s counterculture. And though many a festival has tried to replicate its success and vibe, few have come close.

Of course, within the bounds of the mud-soaked fields, Woodstock had its fair share of iconic performances. From artists who already had a huge following to artists who made their first big impact on that stage, these are the sets that helped make the festival what it was.

In honor of the festival’s 49^th anniversary, Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, is taking a look back at some of the most iconic performances from the original Woodstock festival. Here are six that left an impact on music forever.

1.       Richie Havens: The first artist to grace the Woodstock stage, Richie Havens’ nearly three-hour performance was one of the highlights of the entire festival. And it wasn’t even his main set list that got him there. According to the Woodstock website, his improvised performance of “Motherless Child,” which he later recorded as “Freedom,” during the final of his many encores stole the show. Havens career would become so entwined with the festival that upon his passing in 2013 his ashes were scattered at the original site.

2.       Santana: Another band that was taken from virtual unknown to overnight sensation by the festival was Santana. Now one of the best-selling bands of all time, the Latin-rock band had just released their debut album that month. But festival goers loved it and their local following became a global one with their song “Soul Sacrifice” becoming a hit.

3.       Joe Cocker: A virtual unknown when he hit the Woodstock Stage, Joe Cocker owes his success to the festival. His gritty, soulful performance of the Beatles’ “With A Little Help From My Friends” became his signature hit and his performance of it the break-out moment of his career.

4.       Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young: Woodstock helped introduce the world to the collective known as Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Though they had each been performing for years, this was the second time David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash and Neil Young performed on stage together. Young didn’t play the entire set, electing only to play during the electronic portion and the encore.

5.       Sly & the Family Stone: Coming at the height of their career, Sly & the Family Stone’s performance at the festival has been credited as one of the band’s best. Despite the early hour that they performed, Ultimate Classic Rock described it as “a bit sloppy, but the blurry-eyed delivery digs into the dirty, nasty pull of the music.”

6.       Jimi Hendrix: The final artist to play on what became the fourth day (rain delays had him playing at 9 AM on the 18^th) of the festival, Hendrix had what became the single-most iconic moment of the entire weekend. Towards the end of his set, the guitarist broke-out into a noodle-y and buzzed-out rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner.” His guitar work was said to have emulated the feel of bombs dropping and machine guns firing, an impassioned addition to the patriotism of our national anthem.

The Woodstock Music & Art Fair has been one of the most influential festivals in the history of music. Boasting many iconic performances, it helped to launch the careers of many artists who would become icons themselves, as well as served as an outlet for more well-known artists to reach a new audience. With “Peace & Music” as its premise, the festival defined the counterculture of the era, a shining example of what a little “peace and love” could do.

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Find music from Woodstock’s iconic performers and more at Vinyl Bay 777. Long Island’s favorite new independent record shop has thousands of titles in a variety of genres to choose from. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CD, cassettes, music DVDs and memorabilia in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Albums Celebrating 30, 40 & 50-Year Anniversaries in 2018

There are a lot of albums that are celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2018. This year marks the 30^th and 40^th anniversaries of debut albums from the likes of Soundgarden, NWA, Van Halen and The Cars. Iconic albums from The Beatles, Blondie, Jimi Hendrix and more are also being fondly remembered and celebrated 40 and 50 years later.

Last week, Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, took a look at albums celebrating 10^th and 20^th anniversaries in 2018. Today, we return to the nostalgia rabbit hole to look at albums turning 30, 40 and 50 this year.

30 Years

1.       Metallica, ‘…And Justice for All’: Metallica’s fourth studio album and first without bassist Cliff Burton, ‘…And Justice for All’ saw the band release some of their most complex songs ever. The album was also one of their most popular, peaking at number six on the Billboard 200.

2.       Soundgarden, ‘Ultramega OK’: Though not originally a hit, Soundgarden’s debut album, ‘Ultramega OK,’ laid the groundwork for grunge and the sound that was about to come out of the Seattle scene. Ahead of this year’s anniversary, the album was reissued, this time taking its rightful place within the top 10 on Billboard’s Vinyl Albums and Tastemaker Albums charts.

3.       NWA, ‘Straight Outta Compton’: One of the defining albums of the late 80s hip-hop scene, ‘Straight Outta Compton’ helped give rise to west coast “gangsta” rap. It’s influence remains apparent three decades later, being included into the National Recording Registry last year, as well as inspiring the title of an award-winning biopic about NWA in 2015.

4.       R.E.M., ‘Green’: R.E.M. made their major label debut in 1988, releasing their sixth album, ‘Green,’ on Warner Bros. Records. Opting for more major-key tracks and the inclusion of mandolin, lap steel guitar, accordion and cello, the album saw the band expanding their sound and creating one of their most well-received albums of all time.

40 Years

1.       Blondie, ‘Parallel Lines’: The second of two albums released in 1978, ‘Parallel Lines’ became Blondie’s most iconic album. A step away from the band’s punk and new wave roots, singles like “Heart of Glass” and “One Way or Another” took on more of a pop and disco sound, giving them crossover pop fame.

2.       The Who, ‘Who Are You’: The Who were already big stars when they released ‘Who Are You,’ their eighth studio album and last to feature Keith Moon on drums. The title track became a hit for the band, leading the album to reach number two on the Billboard Pop Albums chart.

3.       Van Halen, ‘Van Halen’: Van Halen’s self-titled debut album was a huge hit upon its release in 1978. Featuring several singles that would become rock radio staples, including “Runnin’ with the Devil” and “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love,” the album reached number 19 on Billboard’s pop albums chart and continues to be a best-seller decades later.

4.       The Cars, ‘The Cars’: The Cars released their self-titled album in 1978 to critical and commercial success. “Just What I Needed” became a rock radio staple, while the album itself peaked on the Billboard Charts at number 18.

50 Years

(Note: Yes, Led Zeppelin is turning 50 this year. However, their debut album came out in 1969, and therefore will not be 50 until January 2019.)

1.       Velvet Underground, ‘White Light/White Heat’: The follow-up to their groundbreaking debut album, ‘White Light/White Heat’ found the Velvet Underground headed in a new direction with their sound. Without influence from Andy Warhol or Nico, the band got more aggressive with their sound and content, writing about unsavory subjects like sex and drugs. The album can be seen as a step towards punk before punk was even a conscious thing.

2.       Big Brother & the Holding Company, ‘Cheap Thrills’: ‘Cheap Thrills’ saw Big Brother & the Holding Company earn their biggest success yet. Their second (and last) album with Janis Joplin as frontwoman, the album reached number one on the Billboard Top LPs chart with single “Piece of My Heart” becoming a classic rock track. It would be the last time the band would see that kind of success.

3.       Jimi Hendrix Experience, ‘Electric Ladyland’: Noted by many as one of the greatest albums of all time, ‘Electric Ladyland’ became the Jimi Hendrix Experience’s best-selling album ever. The album topped the Billboard album chart for two weeks with their cover of “All Along the Watchtower” becoming their highest-charting single and arguably more iconic than the original.

4.       The Beatles, ‘The Beatles (The White Album)’: Released near the end of The Beatles’ career together, their self-titled album features some of the band’s most iconic and eclectic songs. Songs like “Back in the U.S.S.R.” and “Revolution” were more upbeat while “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” “Blackbird” and “Don’t Pass Me By” are some of the most beautiful melodies the band has ever recorded.

5.       Rolling Stones, ‘Beggars Banquet’: The Rolling Stones’ ninth album, ‘Beggars Banquet’ found the band hitting out with a harder edge than their previous album. Leading off with “Sympathy for the Devil,” the album reached number five on the Billboard 200 upon release.

In 2018, there are a lot of iconic albums that are celebrating milestone anniversaries. Go back in time by checking out some of those turning 30, 40 and 50 this year, and let us know what albums you’re nostalgic for.

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Rediscover and celebrate iconic albums and more at Vinyl Bay 777. Long Island’s favorite new independent record shop has thousands of titles to choose from in a variety of genres sure to satisfy any music lover. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs and memorabilia in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added to our selection all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.

Albums Celebrating 10 and 20-Year Anniversaries in 2018

There is nothing more popular than nostalgia. In our current collective culture, we delight in celebrating the music that we love. And when it comes to big anniversaries, we love to look back and celebrate it even more.

A lot has happened in music in the last 10 to 20 years. Pop and rock continued to shift and evolve into include new and different aspects. Over the last two decades, we’ve seen the rise of both bubble-gum and electronic pop. Nu metal broke out, followed by pop punk, indie rock and other genres. We’ve also seen albums become classics of R&B, pop and rock.

Vinyl Bay 777, Long Island’s music outlet, is taking a look at just a few of the albums celebrating tenth and twentieth anniversaries in 2018. Here are ten that will get you feeling all nostalgic for the “good old days.”

(Note: For this article, we’ve chosen to look at albums released in 2008 and 1998. Another article with albums turning 30, 40 and 50 will be released soon.)

10 Years

1.       Vampire Weekend, ‘Vampire Weekend’: Vampire Weekend broke out in 2008 with their self-titled, self-produced debut album. Their sound borrowed from African music, combining that with punk and airy indie-rock, which gave the band a unique niche that no one has been able to replicate yet. The album was ranked as one of the best albums of the year, as well as of the last decade.

2.       Coldplay, ‘Viva La Vida’: While Coldplay had their initial success in the early 2000s, the band had a real pop breakthrough with their fourth album, ‘Viva La Vida,’ in 2008. The album debuted a new, more pop-rock influenced sound for the band, which both fans and critics loved. Its title track earned the band its first number one hit in the US and UK, as well as a Grammy for Best Rock Album.

3.       The Gaslight Anthem, ‘The ‘59 Sound’: The Gaslight Anthem became punk’s breakout band in 2018, releasing their sophomore album, ‘The ’59 Sound,’ to critical acclaim. The album led to tours with Social Distortion, as well as Bruce Springsteen, an artist the band would find themselves compared to until their break-up in 2015.

4.       Adele, ‘19’: In 2008, Adele was a fresh-faced pop singer-songwriter just hitting the pop charts. Releasing her debut album, ‘19,’ that January, it quickly rose to the top of the charts, hitting number one in her native UK and four in the US. “Chasing Pavements” was a modest hit, but it got Adele recognized by VH1, who featured the singer as one of their “You Outta Know” artists.

5.       Lady Gaga, ‘The Fame’: When Lady Gaga released her debut album, ‘The Fame,’ in 2008, it blew up. The album topped the charts all over the world for nearly two years and became one of the best-selling albums of the last decade. The singer’s electronic pop helping to usher in a more dance-centric new era of pop music.

20 Years

1.       Korn, ‘Follow the Leader’: In 1998, nu metal was coming into its own and Korn were at the forefront of the new genre. Their third album, ‘Follow the Leader’ became one of the genre’s cornerstones, producing hits “Got the Life” and “Freak on a Leash” that dominated airplay on MTV.

2.       Destiny’s Child, ‘Destiny’s Child’: Before Beyonce became one of the biggest names in pop music, she was a member of the ultra-successful girl group Destiny’s Child. In 1998, the group released their eponymous debut album introduced the world to their sweet harmonies and laid the groundwork for their later success.

3.       Lauryn Hill, ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’: Following her time with The Fugees, Lauryn Hill released her only solo album, ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.’ The album received a lot of praise, even being called one of the greatest albums of all time. In fact, the album was so highly regarded that it was included in the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry. Following the album’s success, Hill virtually disappeared from the public eye, though people are still raving about it two decades later.

4.       Hole, ‘Celebrity Skin’: Hole hit their stride in 1998, releasing their third and most commercially popular album, ‘Celebrity Skin.’ Led by the success of the album’s title track, ‘Celebrity Skin’ went platinum multiple times and became the band’s first album to chart in the top ten of the Billboard 200.

5.       The Offspring, ‘Americana’: Before ‘Americana’ was released, The Offspring had already gained a big commercial following. However, post-‘Americana,’ that following grew. “Pretty Fly for a White Guy,” “The Kids Aren’t Alright” and “Why Don’t You Get A Job” played in heavy rotation on MTV. The album remains the band’s second-best-selling album, going more than 10 million copies over the last two decades.

There are a lot of great albums that are celebrating 10 and 20 year anniversaries in 2018.  For a trip down memory lane, check out the albums above and let us know what albums you’re nostalgic for.

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Feed your nostalgia by picking up music from these artists and more at Vinyl Bay 777. Long Island’s favorite new independent record shop has thousands of titles to choose from in an array of genres. Browse our wide selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs and memorabilia in store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles being added all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.