Apple Music launches inaugural 100 Best Albums List

A ten-day countdown kicks off with the reveal of albums 100-91

Apple Music announces the release of its 100 Best Albums of All Time, a celebratory list of the greatest records ever made, crafted by Apple Music’s team of experts alongside a select group of artists, including Maren Morris, Pharrell Williams, J Balvin, Charli XCX, Mark Hoppus, Honey Dijon, and Nia Archives, as well as songwriters, producers, and industry professionals. The list is an editorial statement — fully independent of any streaming numbers on Apple Music, a love letter to the records that have shaped the world we live and listen in.

Apple Music is bringing its 100 Best Albums to life with a countdown celebration beginning today (Tues, May 14th), revealing ten albums each day for the next ten days, along with a new 100 Best microsite, new and exclusive content, dedicated Apple Music radio episodes, and so much more. The countdown will culminate on the final day with the reveal of Apple Music’s top ten albums during a broadcast radio special.

The first ten albums offer a glimpse into Apple Music’s unique approach with 100 Best. With seven of the ten records hailing from the 21st century, two from the 90s, only one from the 70s, and various genres represented, the list spotlights contemporary artists like Tyler, The Creator; Robyn; Lorde; Travis Scott; Solange; Burial; and more who have helped define this century through their music and its influence on others.

To accompany the list, Apple Music has also revealed a dedicated microsite that will update every day of the countdown, making it easy for listeners to follow along. Available now at 100best.music.apple.com, the new 100 Best microsite spotlights in-depth analysis of each album, archival interviews, and more, and makes it easy for fans to share their favorite albums with friends and on their social channels.

Fans will also be treated to a full 100 Best Albums Radio takeover on Apple Music Hits, broadcasting round-the-clock specials with Apple Music Radio hosts, daily specials at noon ET, plus exclusive content dropping every day on demand on Apple Music and Apple Podcasts.

The last ten albums will be revealed on Wednesday, May 22nd, with a special roundtable discussion broadcasting globally on Apple Music that features guest artists Nile Rodgers and Maggie Rogers reflecting on the list alongside Apple Music’s own Zane Lowe and Ebro Darden. Lowe will also curate a special mashup-style DJ mix featuring songs from all 100 Best Albums.

Apple Music will keep the momentum going after the countdown ends with an additional week of 100 Best Albums Radio takeover on Apple Music Hits.

All 100 Best Album recipients will be given an award comprised of blasted anodized aluminum, sourced entirely from recycled Apple products, in a unique polished PVD gold. The design on the back of the award takes its cues from a vinyl LP record and is inscribed with the artist’s name, the album’s title, and the album’s year of release.

100.  Body Talk – Robyn
99. Hotel California – Eagles
98. Astroworld – Travis Scott
97. Rage Against the Machine – Rage Against the Machine
96. Pure Heroine – Lorde
95. Confessions – Usher
94. Untrue – Burial
93. A Seat at the Table – Solange
92. Flower Boy, Tyler – The Creator
91. Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 – George Michael

Buddy Iahn
Buddy Iahn