247 Album Verdict
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Soul & R&B · 1980s

The Best Soul & R&B Albums of the 1980s

Our pick of the essential soul & r&b records released in the 1980s, ranked.

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  1. 1
    Diamond LifeSade

    Diamond Life

    Sade · 1984 · Soul & R&B

    Cool, sophisticated sophisti-pop and soul, defined by Sade Adu's restrained voice and 'Smooth Operator'. Timeless and elegant. A perfect debut.

  2. 2
    Midnight LoveMarvin Gaye

    Midnight Love

    Marvin Gaye · 1982 · Soul & R&B

    A smooth, comeback peak, home to 'Sexual Healing'. Sleek and beloved. A late high.

  3. 3
    RaptureAnita Baker

    Rapture

    Anita Baker · 1986 · Soul & R&B

    A smooth, sophisticated quiet-storm peak, home to 'Sweet Love'. Lush and huge. A genre cornerstone.

  4. 4
    Stronger Than PrideSade

    Stronger Than Pride

    Sade · 1988 · Soul & R&B

    A cool, sophisticated soul peak. Smooth and beloved. A high point.