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Albums First Released in 1982

Polished pop and music television shaped 1982, but hardcore punk, goth and electronic dance music were also developing quickly. Standout albums from 1982 include Thriller by Michael Jackson, Rio by Duran Duran, Avalon by Roxy Music and The Number of the Beast by Iron Maiden.

Thriller showed the scale pop could reach, while Rio and Avalon defined different versions of sleek 1980s production. At the same time, the Cure, Bad Brains and Iron Maiden served audiences outside mainstream pop.

Browse new vinyl editions alongside second-hand copies.

Our Pick of the Year: Thriller by Michael Jackson

Thriller joined pop, R&B and rock with producer Quincy Jones's precise arrangements. Billie Jean, Beat It and the title track each target a different part of the audience, but Jackson's voice and the album's rhythm keep the set coherent. Its videos expanded the reach of the songs, while the LP remained the centre of the project.

Explore the year before or after

1981 Vinyl Records  |  1983 Vinyl Records  |  All years