Music Albums That Tell a Story: Beyond Individual Tracks

Music albums are often celebrated for their individual tracks, each offering its unique flavor and vibe. However, beyond these singular tracks, some albums are more than the sum of their parts. They tell a sequential story, weaving an overarching narrative through the sequencing and lyrical content of multiple songs.

Common Thread: Full-Length Narrative

The common thread among these albums is their use of the full-length format to weave an overarching story or thematic journey rather than just a collection of individual songs. The sequencing and lyrical content work together to drive the narrative forward, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.

Disco Albums from the Late 1970s

While stories in music are not a new concept, there are several notable albums that stand out for their ability to tell a sequential story. Two examples come from the disco era of the late 1970s:

The Donna Summer Album: Once Upon a Time

Donna Summer's two-LP album Once Upon a Time is a perfect example of a story told through music. The songs on this album seamlessly segue into each other, telling the story of a girl's journey as she searches for something meaningful in her life. One of the album's biggest hits is "I Love You," capturing a moment of romantic contemplation in the story.

The Dee D Jackson Album: Cosmic Curves

The album Cosmic Curves by Dee D Jackson is a concept album about a 21st-century woman's journey through the cosmos. Her encounter with a 'Meteor Man' offers a poignant and imaginative narrative. One of the album's most profound hits is the opener, "Automatic Lover," which sets the stage for the woman's quest and eventual downfall due to forbidden love.

Renaissance-Style Albums with Surreal Themes

Other notable albums that tell a sequential story include:

Genesis' The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway

Genesis' album The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway is a surreal narrative of Pink's journey through various experiences and personal challenges. It tells a cohesive story from birth to madness and beyond, with Pink confronting his inner demons and societal pressures.

Contemporary Examples

Joining these classic albums, recent examples that continue to captivate listeners with their sequential storytelling are:

Kendrick Lamar's good kid, m.A.A.d city

Kendrick Lamar's good kid, m.A.A.d city is a powerful narrative that delves into the life of a young man in Los Angeles. The album chronicles his day-to-day struggles and his journey to becoming a rapper while navigating the complexities of his environment.

The Pink Floyd Album: The Wall

Another iconic album that weaves a profound narrative is Pink Floyd's The Wall. This album was later adapted to a film due to its thematic depth and complexity. It tells the story of Pink, a recluse who constructs a wall to isolate himself from the world. The narrative is divided into chapters, offering a comprehensive look at personal isolation and societal conflicts.