10 Rock Albums from 80s That Marked the Beginning of Decline for Big Bands

The 1980s brought significant changes to the music scene, with new genres and styles emerging. Many bands that had achieved great success in the ’60s and ’70s faced challenges adapting to these shifts. Here are ten albums from the ’80s that signaled a downturn for these iconic groups.

1. The Rolling Stones – Dirty Work (1986)

The Rolling Stones, celebrated for their dynamic rock sound, released Dirty Work in 1986. The album was produced during a period of internal strife, with tensions between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. Critics noted that the music lacked the cohesion and energy of their earlier work. The album’s reception was lukewarm, and it did not produce enduring hits. This release marked a challenging phase for the band, reflecting the difficulties they faced in maintaining their earlier momentum.

2. The Who – It’s Hard (1982)

The Who, known for their powerful performances, released It’s Hard in 1982. This album came after drummer Keith Moon’s death, with Kenney Jones stepping in. The songs received mixed reviews, with some critics feeling that the band’s signature energy was missing. The album did not achieve the commercial success of their previous records. Following this release, the band announced a farewell tour, signaling a decline in their prominence.

3. Jefferson Starship – Nuclear Furniture (1984)

Originally known as Jefferson Airplane, the band evolved into Jefferson Starship and released Nuclear Furniture in 1984. The album featured a more polished, radio-friendly sound, which differed from their earlier psychedelic style. While it included the hit “No Way Out,” some fans felt the band had strayed too far from their roots. Internal disagreements over the band’s direction led to key members departing, contributing to their decline.

4. Yes – Big Generator (1987)

Yes, pioneers of progressive rock, released Big Generator in 1987. The album attempted to blend their complex musical style with the more mainstream sounds of the ’80s. Despite the success of the single “Love Will Find a Way,” the album received mixed reviews. Some longtime fans were disappointed by the band’s shift towards a more commercial approach. This release marked a period of lineup changes and uncertainty for the group.

5. The Kinks – Think Visual (1986)

The Kinks, influential in the British Invasion, released Think Visual in 1986. The album did not resonate strongly with audiences or critics, lacking standout tracks. It struggled to chart, reflecting the band’s declining commercial appeal during this period. The release highlighted the challenges they faced in staying relevant amid the evolving musical landscape.

6. The Moody Blues – The Other Side of Life (1986)

The Moody Blues, known for their symphonic rock, released The Other Side of Life in 1986. The album embraced a more synthesized, pop-oriented sound, a departure from their earlier style. While the single “Your Wildest Dreams” achieved success, some longtime fans were disappointed by the band’s shift towards mainstream pop. The album’s commercial approach signaled a move away from the innovative compositions that had defined their earlier work.

7. Genesis – Abacab (1981)

Genesis, originally known for their progressive rock sound, released Abacab in 1981. The album marked a significant shift towards a more pop-oriented style. While it achieved commercial success, some longtime fans were disillusioned by the change in direction. The release signaled the band’s move away from their earlier, more experimental work.

8. Jethro Tull – Under Wraps (1984)

Jethro Tull, famous for blending rock with folk influences, released Under Wraps in 1984. The album featured a heavy use of synthesizers and electronic drums, a stark contrast to their traditional sound. Critics and fans were largely unimpressed, and the album did not perform well commercially. This period marked a decline in the band’s popularity.

9. Deep Purple – The House of Blue Light (1987)

Deep Purple, pioneers of hard rock, released The House of Blue Light in 1987. Despite reuniting their classic lineup, the album failed to capture the energy of their earlier work. Critics noted that the songs lacked the innovation that had characterized the band’s peak years. The album’s lukewarm reception highlighted the challenges they faced in recapturing their former glory.

10. Aerosmith – Done with Mirrors (1985)

Aerosmith, known for their blues-infused hard rock, released Done with Mirrors in 1985. This album marked the return of guitarist Joe Perry, but it failed to make a significant impact. The songs did not resonate with audiences, and the album sold poorly. It wasn’t until their next release, Permanent Vacation, that the band experienced a resurgence.