3 Famous Albums From Legendary Artists that Are Disliked Before Release

Sometimes fans don’t even need to hear a single note before getting fired up about an album. Whether it’s the timing, the artist’s personal drama, or just a cover that rubs people the wrong way, a few records have sparked outrage before they ever hit the shelves. Here are three albums that had fans mad on day one—long before anyone pressed play.

Two Virgins by John Lennon and Yoko Ono
Today, album covers can get pretty wild, but back in the late ’60s, full-on nudity was way out of bounds—unless you were John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Their Two Virgins album featured both of them completely naked on the cover, and fans were stunned. The Beatles were still together, so seeing Lennon so boldly veer off course had many longtime fans clutching their pearls. The music itself was just as experimental, but honestly, the cover got most of the attention. Love it or hate it, Lennon and Ono weren’t trying to shock for shock’s sake—they were simply being raw, open, and madly in love. For them, baring it all was just another form of expression.

The Dark Side of the Moon Redux by Roger Waters
Some albums feel untouchable—and The Dark Side of the Moon is definitely one of them. But in 2023, Roger Waters decided it was time for a fresh take, releasing a completely reimagined version of the Pink Floyd classic. “This record actually deserves a reimagining,” he said. Rogers also added, “Simply because the message has stood the test of time, the concept has stood the test of time and it’s a really important thing.”

Fans were caught off guard—how do you improve on perfection? Once the Redux dropped, reactions were mixed. Some appreciated the new interpretation, while others stuck firmly with the original version. Let’s be real: it’s hard to top one of the most iconic albums in rock history. Still, Waters wasn’t trying to replace it—he was adding a new perspective to a timeless piece of art. Whether you’re team original or team redux, there’s no denying Dark Side still hits deep, no matter the version.

HIStory – Michael Jackson
HIStory dropped during a tough chapter in Michael Jackson’s career. Once seen as a flawless icon, his legacy took a hit in the ’90s after serious allegations surfaced. In response, Jackson released HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I—half greatest hits, half new material. Some fans were confused by the mix, especially since his catalog already spoke volumes. But looking back, the album was packed with powerful songs that reflected Jackson’s anger, pain, and resilience. Tracks like “Scream” and “They Don’t Care About Us” were personal messages. At the time, the controversy overshadowed the music, but HIStory now stands as one of his boldest statements, both musically and emotionally.