Suddenly, but let me ask: are you familiar with the music genre called “AOR”? Gaining huge momentum from the late 1970s through the 1980s, AOR—known as an abbreviation for “Adult-Oriented Rock”—is a genre that has maintained strong popularity in Japan as music for grown-ups.
However, it’s actually a Japanese-coined usage; overseas, AOR refers to “Album-oriented rock.” In this article, we’ve researched classic albums from across the broad spectrum of what’s called “AOR,” gathering highly regarded works that are considered “AOR-like,” ranging from soft rock to harder-leaning sounds and even fusion.
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AOR classics. Recommended albums you should listen to at least once (1–10)
PegSteely Dan
A refined masterpiece of jazz-rock—that’s Steely Dan’s Aja.
Centered around Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, this work was crafted with a lineup of top-tier session musicians.
Since its 1977 release, its meticulous arrangements and advanced musicianship have continued to captivate listeners.
The album achieved both critical and commercial success, including winning the Grammy Award for Best Engineered Recording.
Its seven tracks, woven with complex harmonies and sophisticated melodies, are truly music for grown-ups.
It’s a must-listen not only for fans of jazz and rock, but for anyone seeking high-quality music.
LowdownBoz Scaggs
A masterpiece that defined the career of blue-eyed soul virtuoso Boz Scaggs.
Released in 1976, this album was a massive hit, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard 200 and earning 5x Platinum certification.
Its polished, urbane sound and exquisitely blended mix of pop, R&B, disco, and soul are endlessly captivating.
Featuring musicians who would later become members of TOTO, it still enjoys high acclaim as a landmark of 1970s AOR.
Highly recommended for anyone seeking sophisticated, adult-oriented music.
What You Won’t Do for LoveBobby Caldwell
The so-called AOR sound is appealing for its sophisticated, urban, and mature vibe.
A quintessential figure in the genre, Bobby Caldwell released his debut album “Bobby Caldwell” in 1978.
It’s a polished record that shines with elements of R&B, jazz, and soul.
In particular, the track “What You Won’t Do for Love” was a major hit and has remained a beloved classic ever since.
He enjoys enduring popularity in Japan as well, where he’s affectionately known as “Mr.
AOR,” and this album is filled with his charm.
It’s highly recommended for anyone seeking grown-up music that perfectly suits the sentimental mood at summer’s end.
SailingChristopher Cross
Speaking of Christopher Cross, he’s an American singer-songwriter who shot to stardom with his debut album released in 1979.
His self-titled work, Christopher Cross, is widely known as a quintessential masterpiece of the AOR genre.
Achieving the remarkable feat of sweeping the four major Grammy categories, the album includes massive hits like “Sailing” and “Ride Like the Wind.” Cross’s clear, pure vocals and refined sound are truly exquisite.
It’s a must-listen for those who enjoy a mature, laid-back atmosphere or who want to be soothed by comfortable, relaxing music.
I.G.Y.Donald Fagen
Donald Fagen is known as a highly accomplished musician and the cofounder of Steely Dan.
His first solo album, The Nightfly, released in 1982, has been acclaimed as a masterpiece featuring meticulously crafted pop songs.
Nominated for seven Grammy Awards, the album blends elements of jazz rock and soft rock, characterized by a warm sound that evokes nostalgia for America of the 1950s and 1960s.
As a pioneering work in full digital recording, it’s a must-listen not only for music fans but also for audiophiles.
Take Me To Your HeavenWilson Bros.
Wilson Bros is a musical duo consisting of brothers Steve and Kelly Wilson.
They released their only album, Another Night, in 1979, which has been highly acclaimed among AOR fans.
Recorded mainly in Nashville, the album features renowned musicians including Steve Lukather.
It contains 10 tracks characterized by beautiful melodies, sophisticated vocal harmonies, and elements of blue-eyed soul.
Although it unfortunately has not received major awards, it remains essential listening for fans of AOR and West Coast music—a classic recommended for those who enjoy refined pop/rock.
More Than a FeelingBoston
Boston, a rock band from Boston, Massachusetts, released their self-titled debut album in 1976.
The album sold over 17 million copies in the United States alone and stands as a masterpiece of historic success.
Formed around Tom Scholz, Boston crafted songs that exquisitely blended pop and rock, with a sound drawing from album rock and arena rock.
Notably, Scholz recorded most of the tracks in his home studio—a testament to his meticulous approach.
The innovative sound that resulted has continued to influence many artists.
Packed with powerful, melodic tracks, this is an essential listen for any rock fan.