40 of the Best Albums from 2004 That Defined the Decade

2004 was a defining year in music history, with a slew of iconic and unforgettable albums that continue to shape the industry today. From soulful classics to experimental masterpieces, the music of 2004 had something for everyone.

Indie Rock: The Rise of the Underdogs

• Franz Ferdinand's "Franz Ferdinand": This debut album catapulted the Scottish band into mainstream success with their catchy indie rock anthems. Notable tracks: "Take Me Out," "The Dark of the Matinée."
• The Killers' "Hot Fuss": With an irresistible blend of post-punk and new wave, The Killers made a grand entrance with this album that spawned hits like "Mr. Brightside" and "Somebody Told Me."
• Modest Mouse's "Good News for People Who Love Bad News": This critically acclaimed album showcases Modest Mouse's signature melancholic lyrics and eclectic sound. Key songs: "Float On," "Ocean Breathes Salty."

Pop: From Britney to Beyoncé

• Britney Spears' "Toxic": One of the most iconic pop songs of all time, "Toxic" is a testament to Spears' reign as the Princess of Pop.
• Beyoncé's "Dangerously in Love": Beyoncé's solo debut album was a commercial and critical triumph that solidified her status as a global superstar. Highlights: "Crazy in Love," "Baby Boy."
• Usher's "Confessions": With hits like "Yeah!" and "Burn," Usher's "Confessions" dominated the charts and sold over 10 million copies worldwide.

Hip-Hop: A Year of Innovation

• Kanye West's "The College Dropout": West's debut album revolutionized hip-hop by blending soul, gospel, and rap. Classic tracks: "Through the Wire," "Jesus Walks."
• Jay-Z's "The Black Album": Widely considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever created, "The Black Album" features Jay-Z at the height of his powers. Must-listen songs: "99 Problems," "Dirt Off Your Shoulder."
• OutKast's "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below": OutKast's double album showcased their genre-bending eclecticism, with Big Boi's rap anthems on "Speakerboxxx" and André 3000's soulful adventures on "The Love Below."

Rock Revival: The Return of the Legends

• Green Day's "American Idiot": Green Day's seventh album was a politically charged rock opera that resonated with the post-9/11 world. Key songs: "Holiday," "Boulevard of Broken Dreams."
• Bruce Springsteen's "Devils & Dust": With this introspective acoustic album, Springsteen explored themes of loss and resilience. Standout tracks: "Devils & Dust," "Long Time Comin'."
• The Strokes' "Room on Fire": The follow-up to their debut, The Strokes' "Room on Fire" maintained their raw and energetic garage rock sound. Essential songs: "Reptilia," "The End Has No End."

Electronic Music: Pushing Boundaries

• Radiohead's "Hail to the Thief": Radiohead's sixth album experimented with electronic sounds and political commentary, creating a complex and thought-provoking masterpiece. Highlights: "2+2=5," "There There."
• Moby's "Hotel": Known for its atmospheric and uplifting electronic textures, Moby's "Hotel" was a global success that defied genres. Noteworthy tracks: "Extreme Ways," "Porcelain."
• LCD Soundsystem's "LCD Soundsystem": This debut album introduced LCD Soundsystem's unique blend of dance, electro, and punk that would shape the future of electronic music. Key songs: "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House," "Losing My Edge."

Fusion Genres: Blending Influences

• Damien Rice's "O": Rice's debut album showcased his unique blend of folk, rock, and classical elements. Key songs: "Cannonball," "Volcano."
• Norah Jones' "Feels Like Home": With her sultry vocals and jazzy influences, Norah Jones' second album was a critical and commercial sensation. Highlights: "Sunrise," "Don't Know Why."
• Jack Johnson's "On and On": Jack Johnson's laid-back folk-pop sound found a huge audience with this album, featuring songs like "Upside Down," "Sitting, Waiting, Wishing."

Global Rhythms: Expanding Horizons

• Buena Vista Social Club's "Buena Vista Social Club Presents Ibrahim Ferrer": This album showcased the resurgence of Cuba's traditional music, featuring the captivating vocals of Ibrahim Ferrer. Notable tracks: "Dos Gardenias," "El Carretero."
• Ali Farka Touré & Toumani Diabaté's "In the Heart of the Moon": This collaboration between Malian musicians Ali Farka Touré and Toumani Diabaté blended traditional African music with elements of blues and jazz. Key songs: "Cigarette Abana," "Souvenir 24th Janvier."
• Baaba Maal's "Missing You (Mi Yeewnii)": Senegalese musician Baaba Maal's album fused West African rhythms with contemporary sounds, creating a vibrant and infectious blend. Standout tracks: "Missing You," "Bamba."

Legacy and Impact

The albums released in 2004 have had a profound and lasting impact on the music industry. Many of these albums became critical and commercial successes, reshaping the musical landscape. Their influence can still be felt in contemporary music, inspiring artists and shaping the sound of generations to come.