We all know that vinyl collecting is a deeply personal journey — shaped by taste, memories, and a little bit of nostalgia. But let’s be honest: there are some records that just belong in every collection. Whether you're a seasoned crate-digger or just setting the needle down for the first time, these 20 iconic albums are essentials. They’ve stood the test of time, sound incredible on wax, and bring that unmistakable analogue magic to any listening session. Ready to drop the needle?

1. Fleetwood Mac – Rumours

A timeless favourite shaped by heartbreak and harmony, Fleetwood Mac's Rumours remains one of the most celebrated albums in music history. Tracks like “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams,” and “The Chain” blend layered vocals with rich, analogue warmth. On vinyl, every emotional detail feels closer — a record that truly belongs in every collection.

2. The Cranberries – Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?

A dreamy, understated debut that still resonates. “Linger” and “Dreams” feel nostalgic yet fresh, especially on vinyl, where Dolores O’Riordan’s vocals take on added warmth. It's an album that quietly fills a room and stays with you long after the last track fades.

3. Amy Winehouse - Back to Black

Full of emotion and timeless style, Back to Black pairs Amy Winehouse’s distinct voice with throwback production and soul-inspired grooves. On vinyl, tracks like “Rehab” and “Back to Black” carry even more weight — textured, powerful, and deeply personal.

4. Oasis – Definitely Maybe

Oasis burst onto the scene with swagger and anthems to match. Definitely Maybe captures that raw energy from start to finish. “Supersonic” and “Live Forever” are standout moments that sound especially bold and authentic on vinyl.

5. Nirvana – Nevermind

A defining moment in 90s rock, Nirvana's Nevermind brought grunge to the mainstream with unfiltered emotion. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Come As You Are” still pack a punch, and on vinyl, the album’s balance of grit and melody feels especially alive and honest.

6. ABBA – Gold

Pop that stands the test of time. Gold brings together ABBA’s biggest hits — “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” and more — in one joyful collection. The vinyl version lets every harmony and beat shine with colour and warmth.

7. The Beatles – Abbey Road

A polished, confident farewell from a band at their creative peak. “Here Comes the Sun” and the seamless Side B medley showcase The Beatles’ brilliance. On vinyl, the production feels immersive, detailed, and endlessly replayable.

8. Bob Marley – Legend

A gateway into reggae and a celebration of peace and positivity. Legend brings together Bob Marley’s most iconic songs, including “One Love,” “Redemption Song,” and “Three Little Birds.” On vinyl, it radiates calm, joy, and soul.

9. Arctic Monkeys – AM

Stylish and self-assured, Arctic Monkey's AM is full of nocturnal charm and punchy riffs. “Do I Wanna Know?” and “R U Mine?” have a depth and swagger that vinyl only enhances — making this a must for any modern rock shelf.

10. Joy Division – Unknown Pleasures

Haunting and quietly powerful, Joy Division's Unknown Pleasures set the tone for post-punk. Tracks like “Disorder” and “She’s Lost Control” feel stark and immediate on vinyl, drawing you into the mood and mystery of the album.

11. Taylor Swift – Folklore

An introspective, folk-inspired departure for Taylor Swift. “Cardigan,” “Exile,” and “August” blend delicate storytelling with subtle instrumentation. Pressed on vinyl, the album’s softness and space are given room to breathe — perfect for slow, thoughtful listens.

12. Queen – Greatest Hits

A showcase of Queen’s incredible range and showmanship. From the operatic brilliance of “Bohemian Rhapsody” to the irresistible energy of “Don’t Stop Me Now,” every track sounds bold and dynamic on vinyl — exactly how it was meant to be heard.

13. U2 - U218 Singles

A powerful snapshot of U2’s journey from post-punk beginnings to global stage. U218 Singles brings together their most iconic moments, from the emotional depth of “With or Without You” to the anthemic lift of “Beautiful Day.” On vinyl, these tracks take on added warmth and clarity, capturing the band’s signature sound with depth and scale.

14. Elton John - Diamonds

A timeless collection of Elton John’s most beloved songs, Diamonds showcases the heart of his musical legacy. From the gentle charm of “Your Song” to the sweeping melodies of “Tiny Dancer” and “Rocket Man,” each track feels right at home on vinyl. The warmth of analogue brings out the richness in his piano work and the emotion behind every lyric.

15. David Bowie - Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders from Mars

Glam, grit, and intergalactic vibes. This isn’t just another Davie Bowie album — it’s an experience. “Starman” and “Moonage Daydream” sound like transmissions from another planet when they spin through your speakers.

16. Pink Floyd - Dark Side of the Moon

A landmark in sonic storytelling, Pink Floyds The Dark Side of the Moon is as immersive now as it was on first release. From the steady build of “Time” to the quiet reflection of “Us and Them,” each track flows seamlessly into the next. On vinyl, the album’s subtle details and atmospheric transitions shine, offering a listening experience that’s as rich as it is timeless.

17. Hozier - Hozier 

It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years since Hozier first stepped into the spotlight with this soulful, gospel-tinged debut. Released in 2014, and now celebrating Hozier 10th anniversary with a special vinyl reissue, this album still feels as powerful and poetic as ever. “Take Me to Church” delivers that spine-tingling intensity, while quieter tracks like “Cherry Wine” shine with raw intimacy. On vinyl, every note feels even more heartfelt — the kind of album you return to again and again.

18. The Stone Roses - The Stone Roses 

The Stone Roses come with a Manchester groove with a psychedelic twist. “I Wanna Be Adored” and “Waterfall” swirl and shimmer with that warm, analogue reverb — tailor-made for a late-night spin.

19. Gun’s ‘N’ Roses - Appetite for Destruction 

A landmark debut that brought a gritty edge back to rock and roll. With tracks like “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” Gun's 'N' Roses Appetite for Destruction delivers attitude, energy, and unforgettable riffs. On vinyl, the rawness of the guitars and the punch of the rhythm section come through with added depth — a must for any classic rock fan’s collection.

20. The Verve - Urban Hymns

A standout of the Britpop era, The Verve's Urban Hymns blends soaring strings with reflective song-writing. Tracks like “Bitter Sweet Symphony” and “The Drugs Don’t Work” carry a quiet emotional weight, made even more resonant on vinyl. With its layered production and lush arrangements, this is a record that rewards a full, uninterrupted listen.

Add to Your Vinyl Collection with The Record Hub 

Whether you’re building your dream setup one record at a time or finally picking up that classic you’ve been eyeing, there’s no better time to grow your collection. These 20 albums are more than just iconic — they’re the kind of records that deserve pride of place on your shelf (and regular spins on your turntable).

From timeless greats to modern legends, we’ve got everything you need to keep the good vibes going. So go on — browse the collection, cue up your next listen, and bring a little extra magic to your vinyl journey.

Shop the full range now at The Record Hub