4 of the Best Double Albums in Rock Music History

Double albums are always a treat when your favorite artists drop them; they’re certainly rare nowadays. These four double albums, in particular, are considered a few of the best in rock history. And despite being released decades ago, they still have major listening power today. Let’s take a look!

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1. ‘White Album’ by The Beatles

The Beatles’ White Album could very well be the most famous of all double albums in rock history. However, that depends on your taste. Regardless of taste, though, one can’t deny that this is one of the most influential pieces of work in the history of music. 

It’s an amazing double album. So amazing, that it’s surprising that The Beatles were falling apart around the time it was recorded and released. The varying, creative tone of this record oddly works quite well.

2. ‘The Wall’ by Pink Floyd

One of the most recognizable double albums in rock history, Pink Floyd’s The Wall broke a lot of barriers when it was released in 1979. It closed out the 1970s with a bang, and many consider it to be the band’s greatest achievement. Though, as always, that depends on your taste.

“Another Brick In The Wall Part II” and “Comfortably Numb” are still huge classic rock radio hits today. And the film based on the album is a much-watch for even the most casual fans of Pink Floyd.

3. ‘Physical Graffiti’ by Led Zeppelin

When the time came for Physical Graffiti’s recording sessions, Led Zeppelin had a ton of songs that they wanted to add to the record. Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough room. So, they made the smart move to make a double album, though that required them to record even more music. Those outtakes and the original set of songs are absolute magic together on this double album.

4. ‘Quadrophenia’ by The Who

Many diehard The Who fans will say Who’s Next is their magnum opus, but one can’t deny that Quadrophenia is an incredible piece of work. It’s Pete Townshend’s most ambitious project, and that ambition really paid off. The narrative is pretty simple to follow and aligned with the angsty youth of the late 1970s. We’d be bold enough to say it was ahead of its time.

Photo by David Redfern/Redferns

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