Despite their legendary status and ability to churn out hit songs and albums, even icons like John Lennon, The Rolling Stones, Guns N’ Roses, and Bruce Springsteen have had their share of missteps. Rolling Stone magazine recently published its list of “The 50 Most Disappointing Albums of All Time,” highlighting several of those less celebrated efforts.
Topping the list is John Lennon’s 1972 album, Some Time in New York City. Rolling Stone writer Andy Greene describes it as “as disposable as the newspapers on the cover.” He did note that Lennon quickly rebounded with Mind Games in 1973.
Following closely at number two is The Rolling Stones’ 1967 album, Their Satanic Majesties Request. Mick Jagger admitted in 1995 that the album wasn’t their best work, describing it as more of a “sound experience” than a collection of solid songs, with only “She’s a Rainbow” and “2000 Light Years From Home” standing out. Jagger attributed the album’s lack of success to the band’s excessive use of acid at the time.
Rounding out the top ten are other notable releases, including Bob Dylan’s Self Portrait, which Dylan himself claimed was intentionally bad to alienate fans, and David Bowie’s Tonight, criticized for feeling rushed and losing the momentum gained from Let’s Dance. Guns N’ Roses’ Chinese Democracy was deemed overcooked and disappointing, while Bruce Springsteen’s Human Touch was a rare miss in his career.
The list also includes albums by the Beach Boys, Stevie Wonder, Yes, and Michael Jackson.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]