1996
in MusicAlbums
27
Artists
20
Milestones
29
Notable Releases
The Preacher's Wife Soundtrack
Kirk FranklinBest-selling gospel album of all time featuring Franklin's composition 'Joy' performed by Whitney Houston and Georgia Mass Choir, produced by Houston and Mervyn Warren.
Tha Doggfather
Snoop DoggSnoop Dogg's second album that debuted atop the Billboard 200 and received double platinum certification, marking continued commercial success after his debut.
Stand
Donnie McClurkinHis breakthrough hit single from his self-titled debut album that became perennially popular and was played in heavy rotation on Gospel and Urban radio.
Donnie McClurkin (Self-titled)
Donnie McClurkinHis debut album that went gold after being publicly lauded by Oprah Winfrey, establishing him as a major gospel artist.
Gombo Salsa
Tabu LeyCollaborative album with Africando salsa project, featuring remake of late 1960s African Fiesta song 'Paquita'
The Score
Lauryn HillThe Fugees' second album that peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, sold over 20 million copies worldwide, and won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. Featured the breakout hit 'Killing Me Softly' and established Hill as a major force in hip-hop.
Killing Me Softly
Lauryn HillA Bob Marley cover by The Fugees that became the best-selling single of 1996 in multiple regions including the UK. Won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
Karen Carpenter
Karen CarpenterKaren's unreleased 1979 solo album finally released posthumously in complete form
Hyperballad
BjorkA landmark electronic art-pop song exploring themes of love, risk, and personal transformation. Considered one of her most significant and emotionally resonant compositions.
Older
George MichaelThird studio album producing six top-three hit singles over two years; dedicated to his late partner Anselmo Feleppa who died of AIDS-related complications.
Un-Break My Heart
Toni BraxtonDiane Warren-penned ballad that spent 11 consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Braxton's biggest hit and one of the most iconic R&B breakup songs ever recorded.
Secrets
Toni BraxtonSecond album featuring hits 'You're Makin' Me High' and 'Un-Break My Heart,' certified 8× platinum with over 15 million copies sold internationally.
One in a Million
AaliyahCollaboration with Timbaland and Missy Elliott; sold 3 million US copies and over 8 million worldwide; pioneered electronic R&B production style.
Change the World
Eric ClaptonGrammy Award-winning acoustic track; demonstrated Clapton's continued ability to produce commercially successful and artistically respected work.
Hit 'Em Up
Tupac ShakurDiss track targeting the Notorious B.I.G., Sean Combs, and East Coast rappers
All Eyez on Me
Tupac ShakurFirst hip-hop double album, rap's most successful album of that era
Significant Milestones
First Grammy Award
Grammy WinFranklin won his first Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album for 'Whatcha Lookin' 4,' establishing him as an award-winning artist.
First Production Credit
DebutWest received his first official production credits at age 19, producing eight tracks on Grav's debut album Down to Earth.
Murder Trial Acquittal
DebutAfter being charged with first-degree murder in 1993, Snoop Dogg was acquitted on February 20, 1996, with Johnnie Cochran as his defense attorney. This legal victory was significant in his career continuation.
Debut Album Release and Grammy Nomination
DebutReleased his self-titled debut album on Warner Alliance that went gold and established him as a major gospel artist in the industry.
Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
Grammy WinGaye posthumously received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1996, cementing his legacy as one of music's most important artists.
The Score Released and Debuts at No. 1
Grammy WinThe Fugees' second album topped the Billboard 200 and sold over 20 million copies worldwide. Hill became the first woman to win a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, marking a historic breakthrough for female rappers in hip-hop.
Ozzfest Launch
DebutWife Sharon created Ozzfest music festival, first held September 20, 1996, in York, Pennsylvania, becoming metal's premier festival
