May 2nd
Iron Maiden – Piece of Mind (1983)
Iron Maiden’s fourth studio album, Piece of Mind, was released on May 2, 1983. It was the first album to feature drummer Nicko McBrain. With tracks like “The Trooper” and “Revelations,” the album solidified Iron Maiden’s place in heavy metal history and showcased their evolving sound and intricate storytelling.
May 3rd
Dio – Holy Diver (1983)
On May 3, 1983, Ronnie James Dio released his debut solo album, Holy Diver. This album is revered as a cornerstone of heavy metal, featuring iconic tracks like “Holy Diver” and “Rainbow in the Dark.” Dio’s powerful vocals and the album’s fantasy-themed lyrics contributed to its legendary status.
May 4th
Queensrÿche – Operation: Mindcrime (1988)
Released on May 4, 1988, Operation: Mindcrime is a concept album by Queensrÿche that tells a compelling story of political intrigue and personal struggle. Known for its complex narrative and musical sophistication, the album features standout tracks such as “Revolution Calling” and “Eyes of a Stranger.”
May 5th
The Kinks – Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire) (1969)
On May 5, 1969, The Kinks released Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire), a concept album that critiques British society and politics. The album is hailed for its storytelling and musical innovation, including tracks such as “Victoria” and “Shangri-La.”
May 6th
Motörhead – Overkill (1979)
Released on May 6, 1979, Overkill is the second studio album by Motörhead. It is celebrated for its fast-paced and aggressive sound, setting the stage for the speed metal genre. The title track “Overkill” and “No Class” are standout songs that continue to influence rock and metal bands.
May 7th
Judas Priest – British Steel (1980)
Judas Priest released their sixth studio album, British Steel, on May 7, 1980. Known for its anthemic tracks like “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight,” the album helped define the sound of British heavy metal. Its accessible yet powerful sound made it a commercial success.
May 8th
Rush – Fly by Night (1975)
On May 8, 1975, Canadian rock band Rush released their second album, Fly by Night. This album marked the debut of drummer Neil Peart, whose lyrical and musical contributions became central to the band’s identity. The album features tracks like “Anthem” and the title track “Fly by Night.”
May 9th
Def Leppard – High ‘n’ Dry (1981)
Released on May 9, 1981, High ‘n’ Dry is the second studio album by Def Leppard. Known for its powerful rock anthems and polished production, it includes fan favorites such as “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak” and “Let It Go.” This album played a significant role in Def Leppard’s rise to fame.
May 10th
Skid Row – Slave to the Grind (1991)
On May 10, 1991, Skid Row released their second album, Slave to the Grind. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing a heavier sound than its predecessor. Tracks like “Monkey Business” and the title track “Slave to the Grind” highlight the band’s aggressive style and lyrical depth.
May 11th
Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here (1975)
Released on May 11, 1975, Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here is a poignant album that explores themes of absence and the music industry. Featuring the monumental track “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” and the titular “Wish You Were Here,” the album is a quintessential piece of progressive rock.
May 12th
Alice Cooper – Love It to Death (1971)
On May 12, 1971, Alice Cooper released Love It to Death, an album that helped shape the shock rock genre. With tracks like “I’m Eighteen” and “Is It My Body,” the album captured the rebellious spirit and theatricality that Alice Cooper became known for.
May 13th
Deep Purple – Machine Head (1972)
Released on May 13, 1972, Machine Head is a landmark album by Deep Purple. Known for its driving guitar riffs and powerful vocals, the album includes seminal tracks like “Smoke on the Water” and “Highway Star.” It remains a defining work in the hard rock genre.
May 14th
Metallica – Master of Puppets (1986)
On May 14, 1986, Metallica released Master of Puppets, an album that is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time. Featuring complex compositions and thought-provoking lyrics, tracks like “Battery” and the title track “Master of Puppets” showcase the band’s musical prowess and thematic depth.
May 15th
Van Halen – 1984 (1984)
Released on May 15, 1984, 1984 is a pivotal album by Van Halen that features a blend of hard rock and pop elements. The album includes iconic tracks such as “Jump” and “Panama,” cementing Van Halen’s legacy as one of the most influential rock bands of the 1980s.
May 16th
AC/DC – Back in Black (1980)
On May 16, 1980, AC/DC released Back in Black, an album that became one of the best-selling records of all time. Featuring high-energy tracks like “Hells Bells” and “You Shook Me All Night Long,” the album is a tribute to their late lead singer Bon Scott and a testament to the band’s enduring appeal.
May 17th
Guns N’ Roses – Appetite for Destruction (1987)
Released on May 17, 1987, Appetite for Destruction is the debut album by Guns N’ Roses. The album’s raw energy and rebellious spirit are captured in tracks like “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” which helped establish the band as rock icons.
May 18th
Soundgarden – Superunknown (1994)
On May 18, 1994, Soundgarden released Superunknown, an album that marked the band’s commercial breakthrough. Known for its grunge sound and introspective lyrics, the album features hits like “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman,” showcasing the band’s versatility and creativity.
May 19th
Led Zeppelin – Physical Graffiti (1975)
Released on May 19, 1975, Physical Graffiti is a double album by Led Zeppelin that demonstrates the band’s musical range and depth. With tracks like “Kashmir” and “Trampled Under Foot,” the album is a masterpiece of rock music that continues to influence artists across genres.
May 20th
The Who – Who’s Next (1971)
On May 20, 1971, The Who released Who’s Next, an album that features some of the band’s most enduring songs, including “Baba O’Riley” and “Behind Blue Eyes.” Known for its innovative use of synthesizers and powerful rock sound, the album is a cornerstone of classic rock.
May 21st
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Blood Sugar Sex Magik (1991)
Released on May 21, 1991, Blood Sugar Sex Magik is a breakthrough album for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The album blends funk, rock, and alternative elements, featuring hits like “Under the Bridge” and “Give It Away.” It remains a defining album of the early ’90s alternative rock scene.
May 22nd
Megadeth – Rust in Peace (1990)
On May 22, 1990, Megadeth released Rust in Peace, an album that is celebrated for its technical proficiency and intricate compositions. With tracks like “Holy Wars… The Punishment Due” and “Hangar 18,” the album is regarded as a classic in the thrash metal genre.
May 23rd
Queen – A Night at the Opera (1975)
Released on May 23, 1975, Queen’s A Night at the Opera is a landmark album that includes the iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Known for its diverse musical styles and ambitious production, the album is a testament to Queen’s creativity and innovation in rock music.
May 24th
The Rolling Stones – Exile on Main St. (1972)
On May 24, 1972, The Rolling Stones released Exile on Main St., an album that captures the band’s raw energy and eclectic style. With tracks like “Tumbling Dice” and “Rocks Off,” the album is considered one of the greatest rock records of all time.
May 25th
Ozzy Osbourne – Blizzard of Ozz (1980)
Released on May 25, 1980, Blizzard of Ozz is Ozzy Osbourne’s debut solo album. Featuring guitar virtuoso Randy Rhoads, the album includes classic tracks like “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley.” It is a defining album in Osbourne’s career and a staple in the heavy metal genre.
May 26th
Black Sabbath – Paranoid (1970)
On May 26, 1970, Black Sabbath released Paranoid, an album that features some of the band’s most iconic songs, including “Iron Man” and the title track “Paranoid.” Known for its dark themes and heavy riffs, the album is a cornerstone of heavy metal music.
May 27th
Nirvana – Nevermind (1991)
Released on May 27, 1991, Nevermind is Nirvana’s breakthrough album that brought grunge to the mainstream. With tracks like “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Come as You Are,” the album captured the angst of a generation and remains an influential work in alternative rock.
May 28th
The Doors – L.A. Woman (1971)
On May 28, 1971, The Doors released L.A. Woman, an album that is celebrated for its blues-influenced rock sound. Featuring tracks like “Riders on the Storm” and the title track “L.A. Woman,” the album is a testament to the band’s enduring legacy.
May 29th
Pantera – Cowboys from Hell (1990)
Released on May 29, 1990, Cowboys from Hell is a pivotal album by Pantera that introduced their groove metal sound. With tracks like “Cemetery Gates” and the title track “Cowboys from Hell,” the album established Pantera as a key player in the metal scene.
May 30th
Tool – Ænima (1996)
On May 30, 1996, Tool released Ænima, an album known for its complex compositions and philosophical lyrics. Featuring tracks like “Stinkfist” and “Forty Six & 2,” the album is a critical and commercial success, solidifying Tool’s reputation as a progressive metal powerhouse.
May 31st
Jimi Hendrix – Are You Experienced (1967)
Released on May 31, 1967, Jimi Hendrix’s debut album Are You Experienced is a groundbreaking work that showcases his innovative guitar techniques and psychedelic sound. With tracks like “Purple Haze” and “Hey Joe,” the album is a cornerstone of rock music history.