This was released the previous year to mostly deafening silence here in Australia, likely because we Aussies weren't quite ready to allow Usher to make it big here given that Craig David was already the prince of RNB as far as we were concerned. Of course, Usher eventually made his case that he should be the prince of RNB with the singles from this album which of course allowed it to become a success this year.
Peak position #7
Hit singles
Pop ya collar #25
U remind me #4
U got it bad #3
U turn #7
(POPULAR IN 2002)
This looked like it was going to be a mere moderate success upon its initial release, likely due to the lead single already being part of a successful E.P thus negating any incentive for audiences to check out the band's debut album. Fortunately, they were given an incentive to do so when their cover of a Harry Chapin track became a huge hit for them, although it's worth noting how out of place this cover is on this album.
Peak position #7
Peak position #11 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Everything about you #4 (AMR #4)
Neighbour #28
Cats in the cradle #1 (AMR #1)
Busy bee #39
(POPULAR IN 1992, 1993)
This was another album that was very successful here in Australia that would've appeared much higher on this list had it been more of an immediate success rather than a sleeper hit, then again, the fact this debut album from Brendan Urie and company did managed to become a hit when it did is impressive considering how many of their contemporaries had to wait until the digital era began before they found success here.
Peak position #11
Hit singles
I write sins not tragedies #12
But it's better if you do #15
Lying is the most fun a girl can have without taking her clothes off #26
(POPULAR IN 2006)
This was the second greatest hits album that Cold chisel released following their breakup from seven years prior to its release, I never understood why labels would release greatest hits albums from bands and artist who haven't released any new material since their previous greatest hits album. I guess this was a success so here we are talking about it.
Peak position #3
Peak position #3 (AMR charts)
(POPULAR IN 1991, 1992)
This was more of a success the following year; however, it was a modest hit upon its initial release which makes it qualify for this list even if it's considered to be more of a 2010's release. This was mainly because its success didn't take off until "Sweet disposition" became a surprise hit in the UK as the decade was coming to an end, which in turn fuelled the success of his album back here for Temper trap.
Peak position #9
Hit singles
Love lost #42
Fader #47
Sweet disposition #14
(POPULAR IN 2009)
This was the magnum opus for Supertramp given how the lead single was a huge hit on Billboard for the prog band upon its initial release, this was also the penultimate album they released that achieved massive success for them worldwide as they sadly struggled to adapt into the MTV era with their subsequent releases.
Peak position #1x6
Hit singles
The logical song #16
(POPULAR IN 1979)
This was the biggest album to be released from Australian crawl following the huge splash they made the previous year with their album Boys light up, I'm guessing this was due to the band being huge in the pub rock genre which admittedly is the perfect setting for their music to shine in. The only complaint I and many have for these guys is that while he's a great vocalist, James Reyne really needed to learn how to enunciate in order for us to appreciate his lyrics.
Peak position #1x6
Hit singles
Things don't seem #11
Errol #18
(POPULAR IN 1981, 1982)
There didn't seem to be any signs of Michael Bublé slowing down in the mainstream as this was his fourth album in a row to achieve massive worldwide success for him, in fact this was so popular that it even spawned a genuine hit for the Canadian crooner in the form of its lead single which is something none of his other albums have done in his catalogue.
Peak position #1x6
Hit singles
Haven't met you yet #9
(POPULAR IN 2009)
As divisive as her first solo album was from her longtime fans, it no doubt won her a bunch of new fans who were likely the people who made her second album a success as the longtime fans (me included) really don't care much for this album due to her doubling down on its camp factor. Still, there's plenty to enjoy on this album which is why it was a massive hit for her, the same can't be said for her 2010's material.
Peak position #2
Hit singles
Wind it up #5
The sweet escape #2
4 in the morning #9
Now that you got it #37
(POPULAR IN 2006, 2007)
Enya had already achieved massive success with her previous four albums; however, this was her crowning achievement given how it remains her most successful album in her career despite coming out a bit late in the new age craze she kick started with her second album Watermark. Indeed, this was her last notable success in most parts of the world as the new age craze began to lose its momentum.
Peak position #1x4
Peak position #1x5 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Anywhere is #34
(POPULAR IN 1995, 1996)
While there wasn't any chance that this album would be as successful as Mariah's previous album Music box, it does have the consolation of spawning two of her biggest hits in her career worldwide, one of which even broke records on Billboard by staying at number one for sixteen weeks. I should also point out that the album is indeed structured to be like a daydream, much like her last album was meant to be seen as a music box.
Peak position #1x1
Peak position #1x1 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Fantasy #1 (AMR #2)
One sweet day #2 (AMR #3)
Always be my baby #17 (AMR #14)
Open arms #27
(POPULAR IN 1995, 1996)
Given how Kylie Minogue was still one of the most popular artists in the music industry by this point in time, it only makes sense that her greatest hits package would be a massive hit during the midpoint of the decade even if it proved to be a kiss of death to her popularity in the future.
Peak position #5
Hit singles
I believe in you #6
Giving you up #8
(POPULAR IN 2004, 2005, 2006)
After two highly successful nu metal albums under their belt, Linkin Park decided to expand on their sound with their third album which led to it not quite being as successful as their earlier efforts as it did alienate some of their fanbase, however it retained enough of them for it to still be a massive success for them. They would continue to experiment with their sound throughout the 2010's to mixed (and in one case fatal) results.
Peak position #1x1
Hit singles
What I've done #13
Bleed it out #24
Shadow of the day #15
Leave out all the rest #24
(POPULAR IN 2007, 2008)
This is another album that was released the previous year to deafening silence for the artist in question only to then gain a bunch of steam this year due to a popular single making it big, in this case we have the second album from Good Charlotte who scored a massive breakthrough here in Australia with the album's second single which allowed it to become a massive hit throughout the year for the punk band.
Peak position #9
Hit singles
Lifestyles of the rich and famous #17
The anthem #14
Girls and boys #33
(POPULAR IN 2003)
This was originally released the previous year to minimal success for the brother and sister duo Angus and Julia stone, this is after Triple J gave the duo heavy promotion given how well they were received by its listeners. It gained somewhat of a second wind this year likely due to a successful tour they embarked on which of course led to great things going into the 2010's for them.
Peak position #6
Hit singles
The beast #40
(POPULAR IN 2008)
If you're wondering why ELO decided to name this album what they did, that's because it's a pun because the band found themselves "discovering" disco with this release which means that this album was cashing in on the disco craze of the decade. Like many artists dipping their toes into the genre, they did so respectfully which is why the tracks on this album remain staples on oldies stations to this day.
Peak position #1x6
Hit singles
Shine a little love #14
Don't bring me down #6
Midnight blue #48
(POPULAR IN 1979, 1980)
While Kylie had plenty of success throughout the 90's here in Australia, many people felt this was a return to form given how she was best known for her bubblegum pop that made her famous in the late 80's. It was the album that finally resparked interest for her in America given how successful it was here and throughout Europe for the princess of pop, leading to her next album to finally get her out of the one hit wonder bin on Billboard.
Peak position #1x1
Hit singles
Spinning around #1
On a night like this #1
Kids #14
Please stay #15
Your disco needs you #20
(POPULAR IN 2000, 2001)
I'm guessing Matchbox 20 titled their greatest hits package this way due to them feeling like they were not welcome in the alternative scene throughout the decade, I guess there are enough scathing reviews of their albums from rock snobs to justify how they would feel this way especially given how inescapably popular they were throughout the decade both as a band and especially with Rob Thomas.
Peak position #1x3
Hit singles
How far we've come #7
All your reasons #34
(POPULAR IN 2007, 2008)
Well, they billed this as a once in a lifetime event, so of course the Brothers Gibb would see massive success with this live album given how they gave such a great show that audiences wanted whatever they could help them remember the great time they had. Sadly, this was their final successful album during their time together as Maurice would tragically pass away in 2003.
Peak position #1x6
(POPULAR IN 1999)
Although this album would be blasted by the internet if it were released nowadays, this was a huge success for Kevin "bloody" Wilson who made no attempt to hide how politically incorrect this album was (even back then) which nonetheless managed to find a massive audience who were laughing at his character rather than with him. It's certainly not for everyone, however it does tread the line of offensive humour while realising that this language isn't socially acceptable.
Peak position #8
(POPULAR IN 1986, 1987)
I'm not exactly sure how this album from Willie Nelson managed to find an audience in Australia two years after its initial release, after all it's not like he was among the more successful country stars outside his native America, nor was this album used to promote anything worthwhile (that I'm aware of that is.)
Peak position #5
(POPULAR IN 1980)
This was another successful album to come from Live in Australia, this time we have their second biggest album after Throwing copper which was able to pick up the lack of their previous album Secret samadhi just as the 90's were coming to an end. That said their popularity would slowly begin to dwindle as the 00's went on, not by a considerable margin but enough that it was noticeable.
Peak position #1x1
Hit singles
The dolphin's cry #25
Run to the water #34
(POPULAR IN 1999, 2000)
This was originally released to deafening silence in Australia, even though the Badloves did receive plenty of promotion on Triple J upon the albums initial release. Their fortunes changed when Jimmy Barnes convinced them to do a duet with him on his hit single "The weight" shortly after this came out, which resulted in this album being a massive success for the band following the success of that track.
Peak position #5
Peak position #7 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
I remember #48
Green limousine #35
(POPULAR IN 1994)
Things were looking good for George Michael following the success of his album Older when news broke out that he was a queer man, I'm not sure why this was a big deal, but it was for some reason as his public image took a hit as a result of this revelation. In any case, he released this greatest hits package to test the waters to see if his fans cared about his sexual identity, it turns out they didn't because it was a huge success for him.
Peak position #2
Peak position #2 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Outside #13 (AMR #10)
As #45
(POPULAR IN 1998, 1999)
This was Madonna's foray into country music, OK sort of as there were plenty of electronic elements to the song that technically makes it an EDM album even though there are plenty of straight forward country tracks on the album. It was a massive hit for the queen of pop and proof that she could do no wrong even going into the new millennium, although her next album was where things would come crashing down.
Peak position #2
Hit singles
American pie #1
Music #1
Don't tell me #7
What it feels like for a girl #6
(POPULAR IN 2000, 2001)
This was the second album to come from Alex Lloyd following the success of his debut album from the start of the decade, it was far more successful than his earlier entry thanks to spawning a huge hit in the form of its lead single that became an even bigger hit in NZ at the expense of the album's success over there. Sadly, this was his final successful album in his catalogue as his subsequent follow ups would flop later in the decade.
Peak position #2
Hit singles
Amazing #14
Green #25
Everybody's laughing #33
(POPULAR IN 2001, 2002)
It may have divided the fans upon its initial release, however it's clear that this follow up to Blood sugar sex magik wasn't a failure by any means for the band no matter how much the A.V club wanted us to believe otherwise when they (in my opinion) foolishly declared it as one of the least essential albums of the decade. Sure, the departure of John Frusciante did mean that the band had changed their sound, however it still managed to connect with audiences and still does to this day.
Peak position #1x2
Peak position #1x1 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Warped #12
My friends #15 (AMR #18)
Aeroplane #35
(POPULAR IN 1995, 1996)
It took a while for this debut album from Alicia Keys to make it big here in Australia, likely due to the lead single not being among the biggest of the decade like it was internationally as well as RNB albums in general not doing so well down under over the years. It was eventually a smash hit this year thanks to the radio overplaying her other singles from the album, making audiences want to check out what the fuss was about.
Peak position #3
Hit singles
Falling #7
A woman's worth #16
How come you don't call me #29
Girlfriend #13
(POPULAR IN 2002)
This was an album that really took its sweet time in becoming a success here in Australia, mainly because Janet wasn't among the most popular artists here prior to the release of her next album Janet. I guess we were eventually won over with "Black cat" as that was her rare rock song, however even then it wasn't until "Love will never do without you" that the album finally took off here.
Peak position #1x4
Peak position #1x5 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Miss you much #12 (AMR #10)
Escapade #25
Black cat #6 (AMR #9)
Love will never do #14 (AMR #11)
(POPULAR IN 1990, 1991)
Given the sudden rise in popularity that Elvis Presley was having between his songs being played in Ocean's eleven and Disney's Lilo and Stich, it only seems fitting that we have this greatest hits package which collects thirty of his biggest hits throughout his entire career and ends off with the remix that put his name back on the map.
Peak position #1x4
Hit singles
A little less conversation #1
Burning love (re release) #37
(POPULAR IN 2002, 2003)
Tom Jones had a massive comeback five years prior with his album the Lead and how to swing it, so naturally he was primed for another comeback with this album which is a covers album where he duets with some of the biggest names in music, much like Santana's album from earlier on this list. This didn't end up becoming a trend for artists who made it big in the twentieth century, but you'd think it would've.
Peak position #3
Hit singles
Burning down the house #8 (AMR #8)
Sex bomb #35
(POPULAR IN 1999)
Even though his debut album won album of the year at the Grammys, George Michael felt that he was little more than a shallow pop star which can only truthfully be said about his time with Wham as Faith did have some introspective tracks that resonated with more mature audiences. In any case, that was the premise for his first volume of Listen without prejudice which true to its title, is a song by a pop star looking to be taken more seriously in the music scene.
Peak position #2
Peak position #5 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Praying for time #16 (AMR #15)
Freedom #18 (AMR #17)
Waiting for that day #50
(POPULAR IN 1990, 1991)
This is often considered to be the magnum opus from Enya's discography, although it wasn't her most successful album as that honour goes to her next album she released later in the decade. This confirmed the new age trend to be legitimate as there were a ton of albums in this vein to make it big throughout the 90's.
Peak position #8
Peak position #9 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
How can I keep from singing #47
(POPULAR IN 1992)
This is an updated release of CCR's greatest hits album from the start of the decade, suffice to say that it took over from that album when it came to tracking the popularity of the band's legacy here in Australia since its release.
Peak position #10
Peak position #12 (AMR charts)
(POPULAR IN 1997, 1998)
This was arguably the biggest album to come from Hunters and collectors, mainly because it was already a success upon its initial as it as it rebounding on the charts due to the success of the second and third singles on the album. It allowed them to find success during a time where it was becoming increasingly difficult for Australian artists to do so, particularly those coming from the 80's.
Peak position #6
Peak position #5 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Where do you go #33
True tears of joy #14 (AMR #13)
Holy grail #20 (AMR #16)
(POPULAR IN 1992, 1993)
For whatever reason, the soundtrack to this cult classic was a modest success in Australia this year. Apparently, it took a while for it to become a box office success in America which likely means this was also the case here in Australia back in the day.
Peak position #22
(POPULAR IN 1977)
It's a bit of a shock to see how long it took for Prince to recapture the success he had with the soundtrack to his first theatrical film Purple rain in Australia, in fact this comeback of his remains his most successful album down under which should tell you how done dirty he was in our mainstream back in the day. This is the last album he released until he changed his name to an unpronounceable symbol as well as the first with his new band the New power generation.
Peak position #1x1
Peak position #2 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Gett off #8 (AMR #5)
Cream #2 (AMR #2)
Diamonds and pearls #13 (AMR #12)
Money don't matter 2 night #18 (AMR #12)
(POPULAR IN 1991, 1992)
Although 10-1 remains their most successful album here in Australia, there's a good chance that my non-Australian readers will recognise this album as their signature work as it contains their biggest hit in their catalogue. Continuing with the theme of exploring political topics with their music, here the band stand up for aboriginal rights in Australia which is perhaps why it's often labelled as the greatest Australian album of all time.
Peak position #1x6
Hit singles
The dead heart #4
Beds are burning #6
Put down that weapon #32
(POPULAR IN 1987, 1988)
This was the debut album for Toni Childs, another female singer/songwriter who scored massive success around this time albeit only in the southern hemisphere as she bombed both throughout Europe and in her native America with this album. Even though she never found success in the northern hemisphere, she would find success with her next album in Australia and NZ in the 90's.
Peak position #7
Peak position #8 (ARIA charts)
Hit singles
Stop your fussing #16 (ARIA #17)
Don't walk away #15 (ARIA #17)
(POPULAR IN 1988, 1989)
Their debut album Stoneage Romeos may remain a cult classic to this day, however it was the band's second album where they started seeing mainstream success likely due to how catchy the singles were as well as the charisma of lead singer Dave Faulkner on the record. This led to them sparking international interest in them which resulted in them developing a cult following internationally.
Peak position #5
Hit singles
Bittersweet #16
Like wow wipeout #15
Death defying #43
(POPULAR IN 1985, 1986)
Even though there was a perfectly acceptable reason as to why George Michael hadn't released a new album since the start of the decade, the fact that he was able to successfully return to the mainstream with this album that was initially proposed as a sequel to that album should tell you how loyal his fanbase was back in the day. Indeed, several of the tracks on here were meant for Listen without prejudice vol 2 but were recontextualised for this album as George no longer cared about his public image.
Peak position #1x1
Peak position #1x3 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Jesus to a child #1 (AMR #1)
Fastlove #1 (AMR #1)
The spinning wheel #14 (AMR #10)
(POPULAR IN 1996)
Even though her previous album remains her most successful to date, many critics felt that it was a crass display of Christina's public image which led to her rethinking how she was going to continue to mature away from her time with Disney. This led to her making a throwback double album which incorporates many styles from the first half of the twentieth century that led to her scoring a massive success with it.
Peak position #1x1
Hit singles
Ain't no other man #6
Hurt #9
Candyman #2
Slow down baby #21
(POPULAR IN 2006, 2007)
This was the third album to come from Silverchair, a band whose members were still teenagers by this stage and yet were among the most successful Australian bands of all time thanks to heavy endorsement from Triple J and other indie publications. Their popularity would continue to grow in the 00's, however the boys wouldn't be able to handle their fame very well which would result in a lot of personal turmoil.
Peak position #1x1
Hit singles
Anthem for the year 2000 #3 (AMR #2)
Ana's song #14 (AMR #12)
Miss you love #17
(POPULAR IN 1999)
These guys had really taken the world by storm when they released their debut album in the final year of the 90's, they copied the formula that made Aqua have the biggest EDM album of the decade and added an extra gimmick of having a bus that played their music as the coolest place on earth. Naturally this all combined for a highly successful album that I'm sure many kids back in the day loved.
Peak position #4
Hit singles
We like to party #2 (AMR #2)
Boom boom boom boom #2 (AMR #2)
We're going to Ibiza #26
Kiss #17 (AMR #13)
(POPULAR IN 1999)
Following the success of her debut album, Whitney felt she was confident enough to do away with all of the guest artists and such release an album where she was front and center all the way through. Though the album was a success, many audiences of colour complained she was selling out to a Caucasian crowd which affected her enough for her next album to be more urban oriented.
Peak position #1x3
Hit singles
I wanna dance with somebody #1
Didn't we almost have it all #27
So emotional #26
Where do broken hearts go #48
(POPULAR IN 1987, 1988)
They had two albums which didn't bring in much success for them, however when Spandau ballet released their third album their fortunes changed likely due to how the second British invasion in America made most British artists thrive internationally. Many people feel this album exemplifies the second British invasion as it has many of the qualities affiliated with the genre.
Peak position #4
Hit singles
Communication #24
True #4
Gold #9
(POPULAR IN 1983)
While Split enz had yet to call it quits by this point in time, that didn't prevent Tim Finn from releasing a solo album which went on to have massive success due to the popularity of his band. No doubt it was the success of this album which tanked the bands next album and eventually led to them breaking up, that wasn't necessarily for the worst as it led to his younger brother Neil forming Crowded house.
Peak position #8
Hit singles
Fraction too much friction #8
Made my day #22
Staring at the embers #34
(POPULAR IN 1983, 1984)
You have no idea how inescapable the Riverdance phenomenon was throughout the decade, I'm sure the Corrs owe all of their success here in Australia and eventually around the world to how popular this show was given how Celtic music had always struggled for mainstream popularity over the years. Leave it to Bill Whelan to create a show that was so adorned by audiences that it became synonymous with the decade.
Peak position #4
Peak position #3 (AMR charts)
(POPULAR IN 1996, 1997)
This was the debut album for one of the more prominent figures of sophistopop in the music industry Sade, a band led by their frontwoman Sade Adu who combined jazz with new wave for audiences of the day. This is another band I'm surprised didn't have a hit single in Australia considering how well loved their songs remain on oldies stations, although the albums were a success so maybe that's why their songs flopped here.
Peak position #6
Hit singles
Smooth operator #20
(POPULAR IN 1984, 1985, 1986)
There was no stopping RHCP throughout the 00's, so much so that their greatest hits album proved to be a massive success for the band upon its initial release given that it was sandwiched between their only two albums from the decade which were both nonetheless massive hits for the band.
Peak position #2
Hit singles
Fortune faded #16
(POPULAR IN 2003, 2004)
It took them five years to follow up their debut album Songs about Jane, OK technically it was only three years given how that album sat on shelves ignored for the first two years of its existence due to it not being promoted by their label initially. Even so, there was a bit of a wait for fans between the two projects which perhaps why this wasn't as inescapably popular as their earlier work.
Peak position #5
Hit singles
Makes me wonder #6
Wake up call #19
Won't go home without you #7
If I never see your face again #11
(POPULAR IN 2007, 2008)
Although he remains one of the most iconic singer/songwriters of all time, Neil Young didn't have that much success in Australia back in the day save for the occasional solo album as well as his magnum opus with Crosby Stills Nash and Young at the start of the decade. This would be a close second to his biggest album here after Deja vu from 1971, allowing him to bookmark both sides of the 70's with a successful album.
Peak position #6
(POPULAR IN 1978, 1979)
With an album title this uncreative, you'd think that Foreigner had run out of ideas which would be a bad assumption to make as this album was a huge success for them and also spawned (at the time) their biggest hit in the form of the second single. Even though this was a huge success for them, they took their time in following it up as their next album Agent provocatuer wouldn't come out for another three years.
Peak position #3
Hit singles
Urgent #24
Waiting for a girl like you #3
(POPULAR IN 1981, 1982)
This was the only notable success that Motley Crue had here in Australia, although the band members nowadays seem to be more famous than their music due to the antics that could take up an entire paragraph if I were to list them here (I won't.) It makes sense this was a success given how it was one of the last hair metal albums to be released in the 80's and that the songs on here still resonate with audiences to this day.
Peak position #7
Peak position #5 (ARIA charts)
Hit singles
Dr feelgood #28
Kickstart my fire #32
(POPULAR IN 1989, 1990)
It took him a while to follow up his comeback album Waking up the neighbours from earlier in the decade, however once he did, Bryan Adams found little issues with retaining his popularity with this album which proves just how well loved he was back in the day. That said, his popularity would quickly dwindle later in the decade and by the 00's, he would be yesterday's news.
Peak position #2
Peak position #6 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Have you ever really loved a woman #1 (AMR #1)
The only thing that looks good on me is you #19 (AMR #17)
Let's make a night to remember #7 (AMR #8)
(POPULAR IN 1996, 1997)
Cat Stevens hadn't had any success since the release of his previous greatest hits album in 1982, although I guess this was the first album of his to be released on CD which perhaps makes its success this decade more of us going digital (that's how the transition of vinyl to CD was referred to back in the day) rather than there being a recent uprise in appreciation of this man's music.
Peak position #6
Peak position #3 (AMR charts)
(POPULAR IN 1990, 1995)
This had a rather slow rise to its success here in Australia, I'm guessing because these guys weren't among the more popular Australian bands of the decade despite scoring a huge hit with their debut single "Great wall." Their fortunes changed for the better when the album became a huge success around the turn of the decade due to fan favourite "Dancing in the storm" taking over the airwaves.
Peak position #10
Peak position #10 (ARIA charts)
Hit singles
Onion skin #11 (ARIA #11)
Get out of the house #24
Dancing in the storm #19 (ARIA #21)
Talk about it #35
(POPULAR IN 1989, 1990)
This is the final album to come from Blink 182 during their first run together, they would go their separate ways later in the decade only to reunite for the 2010's where they struggled to find relevancy as did any band or artist that was from the rock genre. This had a bit of a climb to its success given how only the second single managed to become a hit for the band which was very different to the rest of their catalogue.
Peak position #7
Hit singles
Feeling this #20
I miss you #13
Down #35
Always #45
(POPULAR IN 2003, 2004)
This is one of three successful albums that Cat empire had here in Australia, it was mainly thanks to its lead single which I remember being played in every commercial available at the time as well as the band being heavily promoted on Triple J back in the day. I guess if it weren't for all of the digital piracy and Sony pushing every artist aside to give success to the contestants on Australian idol, then this album could've spawned a hit or two.
Peak position #15
Hit singles
Days like these #37
The chariot #34
(POPULAR IN 2004)
I'm not even sure what to make of this album's success here in Australia, mainly because it was originally released at the start of the decade here to deafening silence only to become a surprise sleeper hit eight years later despite sounding completely out of place with the rock opera and disco that was popular this year.
Peak position #23
(POPULAR IN 1978)
So, you know how there's the stereotype of certain types of music being described as elevator music? Well, no artist has that stereotype apply to them more applicably than Kenny G who makes the type of easy listening instrumentals that seem to be tailor made to be played whenever riding an elevator in a fancy building. I guess that would explain the overwhelming success of this album from him.
Peak position #1x1
Peak position #1x4 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Forever in love #49
(POPULAR IN 1993)
One of the more defining films of the decade was Pretty woman, a film which stars Julia Roberts as a sex worker hired by Richard Gere as his escort only for the two to eventually fall in love with each other. The story remains heartwarming to this day as does the soundtrack which is notable for taking a previously obscure Christmas track from Roxette and making it a huge worldwide success for them.
Peak position #1x4
Peak position #1x4 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Wild women do #37
It must have been love #1 (AMR #1)
The king of wishful thinking #6 (AMR #5)
(POPULAR IN 1990)
Given how he was arguably the most in demand producer of the decade, it only makes sense that the producer would release an album of his own where he fronts the mic while his clientele provide him with catchy choruses to connect his verses together. Despite how inescapable he was, it took a while for this album to take off, only doing so once his collaboration with Keri Hilson became a worldwide smash.
Peak position #1x5
Hit singles
Give it to me #16
Throw it on me #50
The way I are #1
Apologize #1
Scream #20
(POPULAR IN 2007, 2008)
This was the first album that Pink Floyd released without Roger Waters on lead vocals, let's just say that he was very wrong when he said that the band would crash and burn without him when he left the group earlier in the decade as his solo career tanked around the time this album came out. It turns out that David Gilmour was a great replacement for him once he called it quits.
Peak position #2
Hit singles
Learning to fly #34
On the turning away #48
(POPULAR IN 1987, 1988)
Although it wasn't technically an album from Australian idol given how Shannon Noll lost the first season of the series, this will forever be affiliated with the program given how it led off with the song that caused him to lose the series which ironically has retained its popularity over the years over Guy Sebastian's victory single. His next album is what fans consider to be his true debut album.
Peak position #1x4
Hit singles
What about me #1
Drive #4
Learn to fly #1
(POPULAR IN 2004)
Even though she saw massive success with her singles throughout the second half of the 80's, Belinda Carlisle didn't see much success with her albums in Australia until her third album became a surprise hit for her this year. I'm guessing this was due to the third single being a hit exclusively down under as the songs on here bombed in her native America, this led to her next album never being released over there.
Peak position #6
Peak position #6 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Leave a light on #5 (AMR #3)
La Luna #21 (AMR #18)
Summer rain #6 (AMR #7)
Runaway horses #44
(POPULAR IN 1990)
Chris Isaak hadn't troubled the charts since 1999 when "Baby did a bad bad thing" became a surprise hit due to it being chosen as the theme to Eyes wide shut, the success of this greatest hits album suggests that fans might not want new material from the crooner, however they still vibe to his older material, making him a legacy artist by this point in time.
Peak position #1x1
(POPULAR IN 2006)
It took a while for Missy Higgins to follow up her debut album, so much so that Delta Goodrem was in the process of releasing her third album when this finally saw the light of day which would explain why it wasn't nearly as successful as her main rival's discography. That said, it was still a massive hit for her given how much support she had from her fans and the radio.
Peak position #1x1
Hit singles
Steer #1
Where I stood #10
(POPULAR IN 2007)
Well, this was a bit of a surprise, I know Joe Cocker saw massive success with his involvement on the An officer and a gentleman soundtrack, however I don't think anyone was expecting this album to be so huge given how the last successful album he had was during the first half of the 70's. This album does contain some of his more iconic work, so I guess it makes sense why we Aussies gravitated towards it.
Peak position #9
Hit singles
Don't you love me anymore #11
You can leave your hat on #23
(POPULAR IN 1986)
This was the most successful album to come from Billy Idol in Australia, I'm guessing due to it being more in line with sophistopop compared to his earlier work despite it not quite being sophistopop. It's definitely more subdue compared to his earlier work which is perhaps why it found more success here than his earlier work. He would have further success throughout the rest of the decade and even into the 90's.
Peak position #6
Hit singles
To be a lover #3
Don't need a gun #22
Sweet sixteen #9
(POPULAR IN 1987)
It's been a while since we last looked at these guys on one of these lists, indeed their second and third albums didn't exactly bring in the numbers to be among the more successful albums of the decade like their debut and fourth album. Here Chrissie Hynde returns with a much more pop friendly album compared to her earlier work which while it alienated some of her older fans, brought in a bunch of new fans who were on board with a more mature side of her.
Peak position #12
Hit singles
Don't get me wrong #8
Hymn to her #7
(POPULAR IN 1987)
Following the eventual sleeper success of their debut album, Evermore managed to find little issues with finding a mainstream audience with their sophomore album even though they for some reason lost the support they had from Triple J when it was initially released. Although the album itself was a massive success here for the band, the singles were among the first to heavily benefit from digital sales which likely further fuelled its success.
Peak position #5
Hit singles
Running #5
Light surrounding you #1
Never let you go #29
(POPULAR IN 2006, 2007)
Whatever did happen to this Canadian singer/songwriter? Well from what I can gather, she did achieve further success in her homeland as the decade went on despite only finding success there on this album with its third single. Again, we have a Canadian artist only making it big internationally due to them having one of their songs make it big on Billboard as opposed to their homeland, strange how this was a thing.
Peak position #2
Peak position #3 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Love is #12 (AMR #10)
Black velvet #3 (AMR #3)
Lover of mine #47
(POPULAR IN 1990)
Jenny already had success earlier in the decade with her first solo album as well as the lead vocalist to the short-lived group QED, however it was her second album which finally made her a household name both here and in her native NZ largely thanks to the success of its second single. She released a new album in the 90's which while successful, wasn't well received critically which resulted in her becoming yesterday's news after its release.
Peak position #5
Peak position #5 (ARIA charts)
Hit singles
Saved me #23
She has to be loved #5 (ARIA #5)
(POPULAR IN 1989, 1990)
As you've probably noticed on these lists, we haven't seen many musicians of colour to make it big with their albums in Australia. One of the rare exceptions was Robert Cray who managed to score a massive hit this year with his first solo album likely due to how smooth the album is compared to everything else coming out at the time. I should point out that we were promoting our local talent over these artists more than anything.
Peak position #6
(POPULAR IN 1987)
One of the quirkier films from the 90's was the British flick Notting hill, a film which sees Hugh Grant who plays a bookstore owner fall in love with Julia Roberts who plays a fictional version of a Hollywood actress (that isn't herself.) The film was a critical and commercial success due to the British charm is showcases, and the soundtrack was also a huge success due to it matching the tone of the film.
Peak position #4
Hit singles
When you say nothing at all #3 (AMR #2)
You've got a way #28
(POPULAR IN 1999)
It had been a long while since Phil Collins troubled the charts here in Australia and an even longer while since he did so as a solo artist, however like many successful greatest hits packages this decade, he was able to find success with this album which I'm sure gave him great solace in knowing that his fans enjoyed his back catalogue from when he was scoring hit singles worldwide.
Peak position #2
Peak position #7 (AMR charts)
(POPULAR IN 1998, 1999)
This was another successful album to come from KD Lang here in Australia, it was released fairly late in the year, which means it wasn't a Mother's Day gift like many of her other albums.
Peak position #3
(POPULAR IN 2004, 2005)
Fleetwood mac had just lost Lindsey Buckingham as their lead vocalist around this time due to his complicated relationship with Stevie Nicks, as such the band decided to release a greatest hits package to help remind fans of the back catalogue he made with them and how they would struggle without him.
Peak position #4
Peak position #3 (ARIA charts)
Hit singles
As long as you follow #37
(POPULAR IN 1989)
This was the debut album from German duo Enigma, an album they named after the year they released it in albeit in roman numerals in order to make it come off as an intellectual album. This was the first of many successful new age albums to be released this decade, and it was the second to be released period following Enya's landmark album Watermark from two years prior.
Peak position #2
Peak position #3 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
Sadeness #2 (AMR #2)
(POPULAR IN 1991)
Well, this was an obvious attempt at Andrew Lloyd Weber cashing in on the success of his (then) most recent theatrical production Phantom of the opera by reminding his fans of all the other shows he's put on and their highlights. Naturally this was a huge success for him given how well loved his shows are specifically for the music.
Peak position #2
Peak position #1x1 (ARIA charts)
(POPULAR IN 1989)
This was a bit of a surprise hit for Roxy music given how this was a hit before their compelling tribute to John Lennon which became their first hit here in Australia, I'm guessing we suddenly remembered that Bryan Ferry was the lead singer of the band and that we wanted to hear more from him when this came out. In any case, their popularity exploded on their next album, which also happened to be their final album.
Peak position #10
Hit singles
Over you #45
Same old scene #35
(POPULAR IN 1980, 1981)
Given how Livie's popularity had slowed down here in Australia by the time she released this greatest hits package here, it only makes sense that it would've been a flop upon its initial release. It did rebound on our charts following the success of her film Grease from earlier on this list which allowed it to become a huge sleeper hit eventually.
Peak position #18
(POPULAR IN 1978, 1979)
Even though I'm a decently huge fan of Baz Lurhman's work, I have to say that I've never particularly cared for his adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. Something about the way he modernises it whilst saying faithful to the old English dialogue of the play just rubs me the wrong way for some reason. That's not to say I disklike everything about the film, indeed the soundtrack is one of the best to come from the decade thanks to how much shameless fun the tracks are.
Peak position #1x9
Peak position #1x7 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
I'm kissing you #17 (AMR #17)
Lovefool #11 (AMR #7)
Young hearts run free #12 (AMR #9)
(POPULAR IN 1997)
Following the success of his previous album Goodbye yellow brick road, Elton John released this follow up which was a massive commercial success for him at the cost of it spawning a huge hit like his previous efforts did here in Australia. People say that this is a massive disappointment compared to his previous efforts, although I and audiences back in the day disagree as this easily lived up to expectations.
Peak position #1x10
Hit singles
Don't let the sun go down on me #13
(POPULAR IN 1974, 1975)
This was the first of what was meant to be a trilogy of albums from the supergroup comprised of George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne and Bob Dylan. Sadly, due to the passing of Roy Orbison shortly after the album's release, the band cancelled volume two despite how successful this was back in the day. They did eventually release volume three which sadly bombed in 1990 which led to them cancelling this project.
Peak position #1x2
Peak position #1x2 (ARIA charts)
Hit singles
Handle with care #3 (ARIA #3)
End of the line #11 (ARIA #12)
(POPULAR IN 1989)
This was the solo debut from Kate Ceberano who had previously achieved success as the lead vocalist from the jazz pop band I'm talking as a child star, a pretty impressive transition to a solo career if you ask me. This was an album that promised her so much success going into the 90's, but alas she wasn't able to find a way to retain her audience despite her stellar vocals on her subsequent releases.
Peak position #2
Peak position #2 (ARIA charts)
Hit singles
Bedroom eyes #2 (ARIA #2)
Love dimension #12 (ARIA #14)
Brave #17 (ARIA #15)
That's what I call love #30
(POPULAR IN 1989, 1990)
8 mile is a film that was well received by critics and audiences alike as it was an autobiographical account at how Eminem came to be who he was as a person as well as his rise to stardom, basically it was a film that was the Purple rain of the 00's which led to many copycats throughout the decade (most notably from his protegee 50 cent.) The soundtrack was released during the album cycle of his earlier entry on this list.
Peak position #1x2
Hit singles
Lose yourself #1
(POPULAR IN 2002, 2003)
This was released five years into Elton John's career and suffice to say that given how quickly he rose to popularity in this time, it serves as the perfect recap of his career up until this point. It also kind of set him up for failure during the second half of the decade as he wouldn't reach the dizzying heights of his popularity again until almost a decade later.
Peak position #1x5
(POPULAR IN 1974, 1975)
The last time that these guys bothered the charts was at the start of the decade, so to see them back in the spotlight nearly ten years later was a bit of a surprise to say the least. This didn't spawn any hit singles for the band, however considering their existence was pushing forty years at this point, the fact they were able to have a bestselling album was impressive in of itself.
Peak position #1x1
(POPULAR IN 2008, 2009)
This was initially a flop for the Bangles, likely because the lead single was seen as a novelty despite it being written by Prince under a pseudonym. Fortunately, the album's actual novelty track helped it find an audience who realised that while the girls had their quirky side, they were for the most part a serious throwback band to the 60's jangle pop which allowed this album to be a huge success for them worldwide.
Peak position #2
Hit singles
Manic Monday #3
If she knew what she wants #31
Walk like an Egyptian #1
(POPULAR IN 1987)
Neil Diamond starred in a remake of the Jazz singer this year which led to him receiving a Razzie award for worst actor, I'd hate to know how bad his performance was if he was considered the worst actor over the likes of the lead actor from Xanadu, the guy from Flash Gordon and Caitlyn Jenner in You can't stop the music (pre transition that is.) At least the soundtrack was well received and even a huge success.
Peak position #10
Hit singles
Love on the rocks #23
(POPULAR IN 1981)
This was a big comeback for Silverchair, mainly because they had been on hiatus for five years so that Daniel Johns could work on his side project with the Dissosiactives which didn't yield much success for him. It was also their final album as they would go their separate ways in 2011 for good, likely to allow Daniel to stretch his creative wings which led to a bunch of unusual projects throughout the 2010's.
Peak position #1x4
Hit singles
Straight lines #1
If you keep losing sleep #16
(POPULAR IN 2007)
Although their previous album was a huge success here in Australia, it was this album that made Good Charlotte a household name given how they were able to thrive in the digital market that had cropped up and helped the likes of Fall out boy and My chemical romance. Indeed, this managed to spawn their biggest hits down under thanks to the format which their earlier work could've benefitted from.
Peak position #5
Hit singles
Keep your hands off my girl #5
Dance floor anthem #2
Misery #24
(POPULAR IN 2007)
There was little doubt that U2 would find success with this album regardless of what direction they took their sound in, however the fact that they went with ironic rockstars certainly helped it find an audience who were likely becoming fed up with how sincere their 80's work had become as well as it spawning multiple hit singles which lasted over a year after its initial release.
Peak position #1x1
Peak position #1x1 (AMR charts)
Hit singles
The fly #1 (AMR #1)
Mysterious ways #3 (AMR #4)
One #4 (AMR #3)
Even better than the real thing #11 (AMR #9)
Who's gonna ride your wild horses #9 (AMR #9)
(POPULAR IN 1991, 1992)
Following her recovery from her potentially life-threatening injury, Gloria Estefan wanted to make it clear that she didn't want to dwell over that part of her life by releasing this album whose title seems to drive that message home. She was coming out of a very dark place in her life and as such wanted to live the rest of her life without thinking about it.
Peak position #9
Peak position #6 (AMR charts)
(POPULAR IN 1991)
This is yet another greatest hits package from Abba that was released around this time, I guess this was to retire their previous album from ten years prior given how that refused to die on our charts even back in the day. Alas it didn't work as this has long since faded into obscurity in favour of that other album coming back every time something Abba related happens.
Peak position #10
(POPULAR IN 2002, 2003, 2004)
This was the debut album for a band that would eventually name themselves after said album, yes before they were Icehouse, Iva Davis and company were known as Flowers before they were forced to change it to avoid confusion with another band with that name who was also set to make it big internationally (wonder whatever happened to them.) This international interest led to their second album being a moderate success in the UK of all places.
Peak position #4
Hit singles
Can't help myself #10
We can get together #16
Walls #20
(POPULAR IN 1980, 1981)
Although these guys had been active in the industry for almost a decade by the time they released this album, they didn't achieve much success until they discovered that people had a nostalgia for the surf rock that was popular throughout the 50's and early 60's that they replicated on this album. The band achieved further success with their next album proving that this wasn't a fluke hit for them.
Peak position #2
Hit singles
Down down #4
(POPULAR IN 1975)
This was the final album to be released in John Lennon's lifetime, it's unfortunately impossible not to bring up how John Lennon's life ended when talking about this album as it was a large factor into its success despite there being plenty of evidence to suggest that it would've been decently successful had he lived to see the end of its album cycle. At the very least, it's grammy win for album of the year was understandable.
Peak position #1x10
Hit singles
Just like starting over #1
Woman #4
Walking on thin ice #18
Watching the wheels #45
(POPULAR IN 1980, 1981)
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