The Best Albums of the Decade, Ranked

2. Adele, 21, (2011)

Upon the release of her second album, Adele sealed her place in the musical history books, shifting the paradigm of the entire music industry in the process. Exploring themes such as heartbreak, forgiveness, and self-reflection, Adele received widespread praise not only for her soothing and soulful yet emotive voice but also for her remarkable songwriting ability. The fact that she was only 21 at the time of writing this album’s singles makes this feat all the more impressive.

Masterpieces such as Rolling in the Deep, Set Fire to the Rain, and Someone Like You helped make this the world’s bestselling album of the year for 2011 and 2012, as well as the United Kingdom’s bestselling album of the 21^st century. Adele consequently won six Grammy Awards, including the coveted trifecta (Album, Record, and Song of the Year).