1986
in MusicAlbums
10
Artists
20
Milestones
23
Notable Releases
Living in America
James BrownHis final Top-Ten pop hit and first Top-40 entry since 1974, featured prominently in Rocky IV, earning him a 1987 Grammy Award.
Break Every Rule
Tina TurnerHer sixth solo album that reached No. 1 in four countries and sold over five million copies worldwide. The album featured major hits including 'Typical Male' and established her sustained commercial success.
Higher Love
Chaka KhanCollaboration with Steve Winwood that reached No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100, marking another major peak of her solo career.
Control
Janet JacksonHer breakthrough third studio album that established Jackson as an independent artist, spawning five top-five singles and introducing her innovative fusion of dance-pop, industrial music, and hip-hop that influenced the new jack swing genre.
Significant Milestones
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
DebutInducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on January 23, 1986, as one of the first ten inductees, recognizing his foundational influence on multiple music genres.
Living in America Success
DebutReleased "Living in America," his final Top-Ten pop hit and first since 1974, featured in Rocky IV film, earning a 1987 Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
Daughter Jenifer's Tragic Death
DeathStrait's 13-year-old daughter Jenifer was killed in a one-car accident, causing George to greatly limit his contact with the media and stop doing interviews for many years. The family established the Jenifer Lyn Strait Foundation to support children's charities.
No Doubt Formation
DeathGwen's brother Eric invited her to provide vocals for No Doubt, a ska band he was forming. She became the sole lead singer after the previous vocalist's death in December 1987.
Amnesty International A Conspiracy of Hope Concert
TourPerformed at Giants Stadium in New Jersey alongside Bono, Carlos Santana, and the Neville Brothers for Amnesty International's A Conspiracy of Hope concert.
