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Today I’m going to give examples of modern and older albums that have great sequencing. Something that the new musical era is losing. A Thread, by Imani. Part 1.
Before starting, all of the albums I list will pertain to my personal opinion only. If you disagree with any of the album choices that’s fine. But this is my space to say what I think. You all are free to refute on your own account and not mine. Peace and blessings. Let’s begin.
The first album that comes to mind with great album sequencing is The Velvet Rope by Janet Jackson (1997). This album is undoubtedly a classic and rightfully so. Her introduction, interludes and upbeat songs are infectious. Giving you details about herself and her life. A gem.
(Cont.) Not only is the album sequenced well, she gives the listener substance, a story, and a message. From self worth, self realization, a message to stop the hatred and a message of sexual liberation, it’s undeniably one of the best albums with impeccable sequencing.
The second album that comes to mind is Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder (1976). This album is a staple for Black culture and a staple in musical perfection I would say. There isn’t a day that goes by where I don’t think to myself how beautifully constructed this album is
(Cont.) Stevie has a way with words and we all know that, but this album put things into perspective the way you would never normally think of them. ‘Loves in need of love today’. Something so simple yet so controversial and true still to this very day 44 years later.
(Cont. 2) Not only is the sequencing on this album perfect, we should also discuss just how many people reference this album when looking for samples and topics they want to discuss again simply because Stevie said it. That’s the power in real music.
3rd on the List is Lemonade by Beyoncé (2016). This modern day album imho is one of the best albums to ever be made. Period. Though the circumstances in which this album was made was unfortunate, it gave Beyoncé one of the best albums she’s ever created.
(Cont.) The sequencing of this album very much resembles Janets album (see above) heartbreak, neglect, upbringing, self worth and realization. All of the elements of the rollercoaster in which albums are made up of.
Next up we have, and I know you’ve been waiting for it Thriller by Michael Jackson (1982). This is the epitome of perfection when it comes to albums, sequencing, rhythm, sonics, short track list. All the components that spectacular albums have.
(Cont.)This album exuded the gift that many great artists have where they’re able to catch ur attention through melodies and harmonies and simple beats without even starting the song yet. Or being able to have the beginning of their songs play and you automatically know it’s them
Next we have Sign O’ The Times by Prince (1987) This along with Thriller and Marvin Gaye’s, What’s Going On has been proclaimed to be one of the best albums ever made. And also rightfully so! Not only is it sequenced beautifully but it also contains many messages.
(Cont.) Many of the messages are political, some spiritual, some just regular things the listeners can relate to. I believe that if you even wanted to rearrange the tracks on this album it would still be sequenced beautifully and still make sense.
Next we have A Seat at the Table by Solange (2016) an (imo) underrated modern day masterpiece for the Black community. This album is so beautifully sequenced and timed just right and everything fits right into its place. This album made me view Solange in a brand new light.
(Cont.) I had already respected Solange and her craft for music but actually listening to her work made me love her even more. She truly gave what I believe is a household classic for Black women around the world. Making political and spiritual statements. Her baby. Her album.
Next we have a very modern album that I believe is one of the best albums to come out this year. Ungodly Hour by Chloe X Halle (2020) I don’t want to call the album nostalgic but it’s the simple fact that for the past few years listeners have been deprived of real albums!
(Cont.) To create an album with a message for women, and their introduction to womanhood is a very amazing thing to witness from new artists from this day and age. The sequencing of this album is very good. It’s a very engaging album and I can’t wait to hear more from them.
Coming up next with the queen of Neo-Soul herself we have Baduizm by Erykah Badu (1997). This album is so enchanting I can play it for hours on end and not be tired of hearing it. Here we have another woman who is allowing us to enter in and beat a perspective of her life.
(Cont.) Most people believe that she is some godly being that is above all of us but the truth is she is more spiritually in tune with herself because she is honest with herself. And it shows through her music. The sequencing of this album is what makes it so melodic.
Up Next we have a modern day album with a seasoned soul artist and that is B7 by Brandy (2020) this album is such a refreshing listen to listeners that actually indulge into music and dive in and dissect what they’re hearing rather than casually listening.
(Cont.) This album is sequenced so gracefully while reminding you that Brandy is a legend for a reason. Reminding you that her technique and vocals ability is what artists are studying today all while humbling accepting the legacy she’s creating.
To end part 1 of this thread I had to include one of the most infamous albums of all time which is In a Special Way by DeBarge (1983) not only is this album delightfully sequenced, it is one of the most sampled albums of all time! That proves something while saying nothing
All of these albums are sequenced in a way that only true musicians can do. It’s easy to grab someone’s attention through song, but to keep it there,that takes skill, hard work and talent. If you liked this and want part 2 please let me know!
