Feature Photo: Jaguar PS / Shutterstock.com
Complete List Of Ryan Adams Albums And Discography looks at a singer-songwriter born on November 5, 1974, in North Carolina. Adams gained his initial fame with the band Whiskeytown, which he founded in 1994. The band quickly gained critical acclaim with its blend of country, punk, and rock elements. However, it was his solo career, launched in 2000 with the album “Heartbreaker,” that would propel Adams to greater heights.
Early Life and Whiskeytown Years
Ryan Adams had a troubled upbringing that later influenced his songwriting. Abandoned by his father at an early age, Adams sought solace in music. He dropped out of high school to pursue his musical dreams and founded Whiskeytown at the age of 20. The band’s debut album, “Faithless Street,” was released in 1995 and gained immediate critical acclaim for its fusion of traditional country elements with punk and rock influences. Despite the critical success, the band was plagued by internal issues, including lineup changes and Adams’s erratic behavior. Whiskeytown disbanded in 2000, but not before releasing three studio albums that remain highly regarded in the alt-country genre.
Solo Career and Varied Musical Styles
Following the disbandment of Whiskeytown, Adams released his debut solo album, “Heartbreaker,” in 2000. The album was a commercial and critical success, establishing Adams as a formidable talent in the music industry. Over the years, he has showcased an uncanny ability to traverse various musical styles, from the pure country tones of his early works to the rock influences in albums like “Rock N Roll” (2003). His 2005 albums, “Cold Roses,” “Jacksonville City Nights,” and “29,” highlighted a prolific period and demonstrated Adams’s range and depth as a songwriter.
In terms of collaborations and contributions, Adams has worked with a multitude of artists, from country stars like Willie Nelson to rock icons like Elton John. His songwriting prowess has also been recognized through various nominations and awards, although a Grammy win has eluded him thus far.
RYAN ADAMS ALBUMS
Heartbreaker
Released: 2000
Ryan Adams’ solo debut, Heartbreaker, came after the dissolution of his previous band, Whiskeytown, and was met with critical acclaim. The album was rooted in country, folk, and rock influences, capturing the raw emotions of heartbreak and loss. Adams’ songwriting on Heartbreaker was praised for its emotional depth and musical versatility.
The album featured Ryan Adams on vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, harmonica, piano; Ethan Johns on drums, bass, glockenspiel; and David Rawlings on acoustic guitar. It also had guest appearances from Emmylou Harris and Kim Richey. Heartbreaker was produced by Ethan Johns and was released on Bloodshot Records. It was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, between September and October 1999.
CD Track Listings:
- “(Argument with David Rawlings Concerning Morrissey)” – 0:37
- “To Be Young (Is to Be Sad, Is to Be High)” – 3:04
- “My Winding Wheel” – 3:13
- “AMY” – 3:46
- “Oh My Sweet Carolina” – 4:57
- “Bartering Lines” – 3:59
- “Call Me On Your Way Back Home” – 3:09
- “Damn, Sam (I Love a Woman That Rains)” – 2:08
- “Come Pick Me Up” – 5:18
- “To Be the One” – 3:01
- “Why Do They Leave?” – 3:38
- “Shakedown on 9th Street” – 2:53
- “Don’t Ask for the Water” – 2:56
- “In My Time of Need” – 5:39
- “Sweet Lil Gal (23rd/1st)” – 3:39
Gold
Released: 2001
Gold was the follow-up to Adams’ critical darling Heartbreaker and was aimed at a broader audience. The album was more polished, expansive, and steeped in classic rock traditions. It also featured a wide range of musical styles, including folk, rock, and country.
The album was produced by Ethan Johns and featured a variety of musicians, including Adams himself, Benmont Tench, and Bucky Baxter. Gold was recorded at various locations including The Sound Factory and Sunset Sound in Hollywood, California between March and May 2001.
CD Track Listings:
- “New York, New York” – 3:47
- “Firecracker” – 2:51
- “Answering Bell” – 3:05
- “La Cienega Just Smiled” – 5:03
- “The Rescue Blues” – 3:38
- “Somehow, Someday” – 4:24
- “When the Stars Go Blue” – 3:31
- “Nobody Girl” – 9:40
- “Sylvia Plath” – 4:10
- “Enemy Fire” – 4:09
- “Gonna Make You Love Me” – 2:36
- “Wild Flowers” – 4:59
- “Harder Now That It’s Over” – 4:32
- “Touch, Feel and Lose” – 4:15
- “Tina Toledo’s Street Walkin’ Blues” – 6:10
- “Goodnight, Hollywood Blvd” – 3:25
Demolition
Released: 2002
Demolition was somewhat of a departure from his previous works. Comprising tracks from various recording sessions, it didn’t have the thematic unity of its predecessors. Yet, it contained some of Adams’ most hauntingly beautiful songs. The album was a mixed bag, capturing moments of raw brilliance alongside more experimental offerings.
Produced by multiple producers including Ethan Johns and Michael Blair, the album featured Ryan Adams on vocals and various instruments, along with a host of guest musicians. Demolition was recorded at different locations over an extended period, highlighting Adams’ prolific songwriting during that phase.
CD Track Listings:
- “Nuclear” – 3:02
- “Hallelujah” – 3:48
- “You Will Always Be the Same” – 2:39
- “Desire” – 3:42
- “Cry on Demand” – 3:56
- “Starting to Hurt” – 2:37
- “She Wants to Play Hearts” – 3:21
- “Tennessee Sucks” – 2:54
- “Dear Chicago” – 2:13
- “Gimme a Sign” – 2:51
- “Call Me on Your Way Back Home” – 5:06
- “Jesus (Don’t Touch My Baby)” – 4:16
Rock n Roll
Released: 2003
The Rock n Roll album was released as a departure from Adams’ earlier country-rock and folk stylings, presenting a straightforward rock album. It gained mixed reviews, with some critics welcoming the change while others were less impressed. Despite the divided opinions, it showcased Adams’ versatility as a musician.
The album was produced by James Barber and featured Ryan Adams on vocals, guitar, and piano. Several other musicians contributed to the project, including Johnny McNabb and Paul Garisto. Rock n Roll was recorded at Loho Studios in New York City, in early 2003.
CD Track Listings:
- “This Is It” – 3:19
- “Shallow” – 4:06
- “1974” – 3:08
- “Wish You Were Here” – 3:00
- “So Alive” – 3:58
- “Luminol” – 3:24
- “Burning Photographs” – 3:32
- “She’s Lost Total Control” – 2:54
- “Note to Self: Don’t Die” – 2:50
- “Rock n Roll” – 1:56
- “Anybody Wanna Take Me Home” – 5:31
- “Do Miss America” – 2:29
- “Boys” – 3:29
- “The Drugs Not Working” – 5:31
Love Is Hell
Released: 2004
Love Is Hell is an album that many fans and critics consider to be among Adams’ best works. Originally intended to be released as a single album, it was eventually split into two EPs due to its length. The album deals with themes of love, despair, and introspection.
Produced by John Porter, it featured Ryan Adams on vocals and multiple instruments. Guest musicians included Marianne Faithfull and Greg Leisz. Love Is Hell was recorded at Stratosphere Sound in New York, between 2002 and 2003.
CD Track Listings:
- “Political Scientist” – 4:33
- “Afraid Not Scared” – 4:13
- “This House Is Not for Sale” – 3:53
- “Anybody Wanna Take Me Home” – 5:31
- “Love Is Hell” – 3:19
- “Wonderwall” – 3:09
- “The Shadowlands” – 5:18
- “World War 24” – 4:17
- “Avalanche” – 5:09
- “My Blue Manhattan” – 2:23
- “Please Do Not Let Me Go” – 3:37
- “City Rain, City Streets” – 3:49
- “I See Monsters” – 3:57
- “English Girls Approximately” – 5:42
- “Thank You Louise” – 2:51
Cold Roses
Released: 2005
Cold Roses marked Adams’ first album with The Cardinals and his return to roots-rock, following the more rock-oriented Rock n Roll and Love Is Hell. The double album received widespread critical acclaim for its craftsmanship and authentic emotional depth.
Produced by Tom Schick, the album had contributions from various Cardinals members like J.P. Bowersock, Cindy Cashdollar, and Rachael Yamagata. Cold Roses was recorded at Loho Studios in New York City, in late 2004.
CD Track Listings:
- “Magnolia Mountain” – 5:53
- “Sweet Illusions” – 5:06
- “Meadowlake Street” – 4:39
- “When Will You Come Back Home” – 4:51
- “Beautiful Sorta” – 3:00
- “Now That You’re Gone” – 3:52
- “Cherry Lane” – 4:36
- “Mockingbirdsing” – 4:47
- “How Do You Keep Love Alive” – 3:12
- “Easy Plateau” – 5:11
- “Let It Ride” – 3:24
- “Rosebud” – 2:56
- “Cold Roses” – 4:36
- “If I Am a Stranger” – 4:39
- “Dance All Night” – 3:57
- “Blossom” – 3:16
- “Life Is Beautiful” – 4:27
- “Friends” – 2:35
Jacksonville City Nights
Released: 2005
Following the critically acclaimed Cold Roses, Jacksonville City Nights showcased a more country-oriented sound. Critics and fans alike praised the album for its authentic, heartfelt songs and Adams’ emotive vocals.
The album was produced by Tom Schick and featured various members of The Cardinals. It was recorded at Loho Studios in New York City, in 2005.
CD Track Listings:
- “A Kiss Before I Go” – 2:05
- “The End” – 3:44
- “Hard Way to Fall” – 4:01
- “Dear John” – 4:36
- “The Hardest Part” – 3:19
- “Games” – 2:01
- “Silver Bullets” – 2:52
- “Peaceful Valley” – 5:48
- “September” – 3:04
- “My Heart Is Broken” – 2:08
- “Trains” – 4:08
- “Pa” – 2:39
- “Withering Heights” – 2:53
- “Don’t Fail Me Now” – 4:08
29
Released: 2005
29 is Ryan Adams’ third album of 2005, released just months after Jacksonville City Nights and the double album Cold Roses. The album consists of nine tracks, each one based on the years of Adams’ twenties. The album received mixed reviews but has since been viewed as an essential part of Adams’ expansive catalog.
Produced by Ethan Johns, the album featured Ryan Adams handling most of the instrumentation, with Johns also contributing. It was recorded in New York City throughout 2005.
CD Track Listings:
- “29” – 5:49
- “Strawberry Wine” – 8:02
- “Night Birds” – 3:52
- “Blue Sky Blues” – 4:02
- “Carolina Rain” – 5:36
- “Starlite Diner” – 3:52
- “The Sadness” – 5:27
- “Elizabeth, You Were Born to Play That Part” – 5:07
- “Voices” – 2:27
Easy Tiger
Released: 2007
Easy Tiger saw Adams returning to a more straightforward, less experimental style. The album was met with positive reviews, and many critics noted its more polished, mature approach compared to some of Adams’ earlier, more erratic works.
The album was produced by Jamie Candiloro and featured contributions from The Cardinals. It was recorded in various studios, including Electric Lady Studios in New York City, in late 2006 and early 2007.
CD Track Listings:
- “Goodnight Rose” – 3:25
- “Two” – 2:39
- “Everybody Knows” – 2:26
- “Halloweenhead” – 3:24
- “Oh My God, Whatever, Etc.” – 2:33
- “Tears of Gold” – 2:55
- “The Sun Also Sets” – 4:11
- “Off Broadway” – 5:03
- “Pearls on a String” – 2:48
- “Rip Off” – 3:12
- “Two Hearts” – 3:03
- “These Girls” – 2:56
- “I Taught Myself How to Grow Old” – 3:21
Cardinology
Released: 2008
Cardinology continued Adams’ collaboration with The Cardinals and was generally well-received. The album was noted for its more focused approach, blending elements of rock, country, and folk into a coherent whole.
Produced by Tom Schick, the album included contributions from Neal Casal, Chris Feinstein, Jon Graboff, and Brad Pemberton. It was recorded at Electric Lady Studios in 2008.
CD Track Listings:
- “Born Into a Light” – 4:15
- “Go Easy” – 2:37
- “Fix It” – 3:00
- “Magick” – 2:17
- “Cobwebs” – 5:09
- “Let Us Down Easy” – 4:22
- “Crossed Out Name” – 2:44
- “Natural Ghost” – 4:37
- “Sink Ships” – 3:42
- “Evergreen” – 4:18
- “Like Yesterday” – 2:32
- “Stop” – 5:39
Orion
Released: 2010
Orion stands as Ryan Adams’ first fully realized sci-fi metal concept album. Initially available only through Adams’ website, it confused many fans while delighting others who appreciated its departure from his usual genre.
The album was produced by Jamie Candiloro and saw Adams experimenting with heavy metal aesthetics. It was recorded in Adams’ own recording studio, PAX AM Studio, in 2006 but remained unreleased until 2010.
CD Track Listings:
- “Signal Fade” – 4:57
- “Imminent Galactic War” – 2:02
- “Disappyramid” – 3:25
- “Fire Away” – 2:50
- “Defenders of the Galaxy” – 3:19
- “Firebird” – 2:45
- “Ghorgon, Master of War” – 2:14
- “Ariel” – 4:12
- “Electro Snake” – 3:14
- “Victims of the Ice Brigade” – 3:01
- “2,000 Ships” – 3:09
- “End of Days” – 6:49
III/IV
Released 2010
“III/IV” is a double album by Ryan Adams and The Cardinals, released on December 14, 2010. The album is a compilation of outtakes from the sessions of Adams’ previous albums, specifically “Easy Tiger” and “Cardinology.” It serves as a repository of tracks that didn’t make the cut for those albums but were deemed too good to be left in the vault. The album showcases Ryan Adams’ eclectic style, featuring elements of rock, country, and punk. While it did not make a significant impact on the charts, the album was received well by fans and critics alike for its variety and the high quality of the ‘leftover’ tracks.
The album features Ryan Adams on vocals, guitar, and piano, Neal Casal on guitar and vocals, Chris Feinstein on bass, Jon Graboff on pedal steel, and Brad Pemberton on drums. Jamie Candiloro acted as the producer for this album. The album was released under the PAX AM label. It was recorded at Electric Lady Studios, New York, during various sessions between 2007 and 2008 for “Easy Tiger” and “Cardinology.”
CD Track Listings:
- “Breakdown Into the Resolve” – 3:59
- “Dear Candy” – 2:23
- “Wasteland” – 2:46
- “Ultraviolet Light” – 3:03
- “Stop Playing With My Heart” – 3:02
- “Lovely and Blue” – 2:05
- “Happy Birthday” – 2:36
- “Kisses Start Wars” – 2:55
- “The Crystal Skull” – 2:55
- “Users” – 2:55
- “No” – 2:29
- “Numbers” – 3:09
- “Gracie” – 2:19
- “Icebreaker” – 2:39
- “Sewers at the Bottom of the Wishing Well” – 2:23
- “Typecast” – 3:16
- “Star Wars” – 3:06
- “My Favorite Song” – 3:08
- “P.S.” – 2:02
- “Death and Rats” – 2:21
- “Kill the Lights” – 2:02
Ashes & Fire
Released 2011
“Ashes & Fire” is a solo album by Ryan Adams, released on October 11, 2011. The album marked a return to the more acoustic, folk-oriented sound for which Adams is often praised. It features guest appearances from artists like Norah Jones and Benmont Tench. Produced by Glyn Johns, the album received favorable reviews from critics and debuted at number 7 on the Billboard 200 chart.
The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Factory in Hollywood, California, and it features Ryan Adams on vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, Norah Jones on backing vocals, and piano, and Benmont Tench on keyboards. The album was produced by Glyn Johns.
CD Track Listings:
- “Dirty Rain” – 4:44
- “Ashes & Fire” – 3:45
- “Come Home” – 4:53
- “Rocks” – 2:58
- “Do I Wait” – 3:46
- “Chains of Love” – 2:23
- “Invisible Riverside” – 4:49
- “Save Me” – 4:01
- “Kindness” – 4:31
- “Lucky Now” – 2:52
- “I Love You But I Don’t Know What to Say” – 4:10
Ryan Adams
Released 2014
“Ryan Adams” is a self-titled album by Ryan Adams, released on September 9, 2014. The album represents a shift into a more straightforward rock territory, veering away from his earlier country and folk influences. The album debuted at number 4 on the Billboard 200 and received wide acclaim from critics.
The album features Ryan Adams on vocals and guitars, Benmont Tench on keyboards, Jeremy Stacey on drums, and Tal Wilkenfeld on bass. The album was produced by Ryan Adams himself.
CD Track Listings:
- “Gimme Something Good” – 3:56
- “Kim” – 3:00
- “Trouble” – 3:48
- “Am I Safe” – 4:25
- “My Wrecking Ball” – 3:05
- “Stay with Me” – 3:04
- “Shadows” – 4:53
- “Feels Like Fire” – 2:53
- “I Just Might” – 4:23
- “Tired of Giving Up” – 3:35
- “Let Go” – 3:19
1989
Released 2015
“1989” is an album by Ryan Adams, released on September 21, 2015. It’s a track-by-track cover of Taylor Swift’s 2014 album of the same name. Despite being a cover album, Ryan Adams’ “1989” garnered critical acclaim and debuted at number 7 on the US Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Welcome to New York” – 3:18
- “Blank Space” – 3:19
- “Style” – 2:44
- “Out of the Woods” – 6:07
- “All You Had to Do Was Stay” – 3:13
- “Shake It Off” – 4:05
- “I Wish You Would” – 3:45
- “Bad Blood” – 3:55
- “Wildest Dreams” – 5:18
- “How You Get the Girl” – 3:41
- “This Love” – 4:46
- “I Know Places” – 5:15
- “Clean” – 4:25
Prisoner
Released 2017
“Prisoner” is a solo album by Ryan Adams, released on February 17, 2017. The album delves into themes of heartbreak and struggle, reflective of Adams’ own experiences. The album received positive reviews and debuted at number 8 on the US Billboard 200.
The album features Ryan Adams on vocals and guitars, and was produced by Adams himself. It was recorded at his studio, PAX AM.
CD Track Listings:
- “Do You Still Love Me?” – 3:59
- “Prisoner” – 2:50
- “Doomsday” – 3:01
- “Haunted House” – 2:42
- “Shiver and Shake” – 2:06
- “To Be Without You” – 3:21
- “Anything I Say to You Now” – 4:50
- “Breakdown” – 4:00
- “Outbound Train” – 4:21
- “Broken Anyway” – 2:43
- “Tightrope” – 3:56
- “We Disappear” – 2:49
Wednesdays
Released 2021
“Wednesdays” is an album by Ryan Adams, released on December 11, 2020. The album has a melancholic tone and is deeply introspective, exploring themes of loss and reflection. Despite a quieter release, the album was welcomed by fans for its emotional depth.
The album features Ryan Adams on vocals, guitars, harmonica, piano, and was produced by Adams himself.
CD Track Listings:
- “I’m Sorry and I Love You” – 3:21
- “Who Is Going to Love Me Now, If Not You” – 4:53
- “When You Cross Over” – 4:20
- “Walk in the Dark” – 3:04
- “Poison & Pain” – 3:28
- “Wednesdays” – 3:01
- “Birmingham” – 4:03
- “So, Anyways” – 2:41
- “Mamma” – 2:58
- “Lost in Time” – 4:00
- “Dreaming You Backwards” – 4:05
Big Colors
Released 2022
“Big Colors” is an album by Ryan Adams, released in 2022. The album is a return to a more upbeat sound for Adams, featuring a blend of rock, pop, and folk influences.The album features Ryan Adams on vocals and various instruments, and it was produced by Adams himself.
CD Track Listings:
1. Big Colors
2. Do Not Disturb
3. It’s So Quiet, It’s Loud
4. Fu*k the Rain
5. Manchester
6. What Am I
7. Power
8. I Surrender
9 Showtime
10. In It for the Pleasure
11. Middle of the Line
12. Summer Rain
ONLINE ONLY ALBUMS
Chris
Released 2022
Romeo & Juliet
Released 2022
FM
Released 2022
Devolver
Released 2022
Nebraska
Released 2022
Blood on the Tracks
Released 2022
Morning Glory
Released 2023
Complete List Of Ryan Adams Albums And Discography article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
Classicrockhistory.com claims ownership of all its original content and Intellectual property under United States Copyright laws and those of all other foreign countries. No one person, business, or organization is allowed to re-publish any of our original content anywhere on the web or in print without our permission. All photos used are either public domain Creative Commons photos or licensed officially from Shutterstock under license with ClassicRockHistory.com. All photo credits have been placed at the end of the article. Album Cover Photos are affiliate links and the property of Amazon and are stored on the Amazon server. Any theft of our content will be met with swift legal action against the infringing websites.