Complete List Of The B-52's Albums And Songs

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The B-52’s were formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1976. The original lineup consisted of Fred Schneider (vocals), Kate Pierson (vocals, keyboards), Cindy Wilson (vocals), Ricky Wilson (guitar), and Keith Strickland (drums). Known for their quirky style, eclectic sound, and energetic performances, the band quickly gained popularity. They released their self-titled debut album in 1979, which included the hit single “Rock Lobster.” Over the years, The B-52s have released a total of seven studio albums: The B-52’s (1979), Wild Planet (1980), Whammy! (1983), Bouncing Off the Satellites (1986), Cosmic Thing (1989), Good Stuff (1992), and Funplex (2008). Additionally, they have put out several live albums and compilations, showcasing their enduring appeal and versatility.

The B-52s experienced significant chart success, particularly with their fifth studio album, Cosmic Thing, which reached number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart. This album featured some of their most famous singles, such as “Love Shack” and “Roam.” “Love Shack” became a cultural phenomenon, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and cementing the band’s place in pop culture. The band continued to release successful albums, with Good Stuff reaching number 16 on the Billboard 200 and Funplex peaking at number 11. Throughout their career, The B-52s have been nominated for multiple awards, including MTV Video Music Awards and Grammy Awards, and have maintained a loyal fan base.

In addition to their studio work, The B-52s have released live albums like With the Wild Crowd! (2012) and compilations such as Time Capsule: Songs for a Future Generation (1998). Their innovative blend of new wave, punk, and dance music, along with their flamboyant stage presence, has left a lasting impact on the music industry. The band’s ability to evolve while retaining their signature sound has ensured their longevity and continued relevance in the ever-changing musical landscape.

The B-52s STUDIO ALBUMS

The B-52’s

Released: July 6, 1979

The B-52’s is the debut studio album by the American new wave band The B-52s. It was recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, from October 1978 to February 1979. The album was produced by Chris Blackwell and reached number 59 on the Billboard 200 chart. This album includes the iconic single “Rock Lobster,” which became a defining song of the new wave genre.

CD Track Listings:

“Planet Claire” – 4:35
“52 Girls” – 3:34
“Dance This Mess Around” – 4:36
“Rock Lobster” – 6:49
“Lava” – 4:54
“There’s a Moon in the Sky (Called the Moon)” – 4:54
“Hero Worship” – 4:07
“6060-842” – 2:50
“Downtown” – 2:57

Wild Planet

Released: August 27, 1980

Wild Planet is the second studio album by The B-52s, recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, in April 1980. The album was produced by Rhett Davies and reached number 18 on the Billboard 200 chart. This album continued the band’s success with singles like “Private Idaho.”

CD Track Listings:

“Party Out of Bounds” – 3:21
“Dirty Back Road” – 3:21
“Runnin’ Around” – 3:09
“Give Me Back My Man” – 4:00
“Private Idaho” – 3:35
“Devil in My Car” – 4:28
“Quiche Lorraine” – 3:58
“Strobe Light” – 4:00
“53 Miles West of Venus” – 4:54

Whammy!

Released: April 27, 1983

Whammy! is the third studio album by The B-52s, recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, and released by Warner Bros. Records. The album was produced by Steven Stanley and reached number 29 on the Billboard 200 chart. This album featured more electronic instrumentation compared to their earlier work.

CD Track Listings:

“Legal Tender” – 3:40
“Whammy Kiss” – 5:20
“Song for a Future Generation” – 4:00
“Butterbean” – 4:14
“Trism” – 3:22
“Queen of Las Vegas” – 4:42
“Moon 83” – 4:00
“Big Bird” – 4:12
“Work That Skirt” – 3:50

Bouncing Off the Satellites

Released: September 8, 1986

Bouncing Off the Satellites is the fourth studio album by The B-52s, recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, and released by Warner Bros. Records. The album was produced by Tony Mansfield and reached number 85 on the Billboard 200 chart. This album was recorded during a difficult period for the band following the death of guitarist Ricky Wilson.

CD Track Listings:

“Summer of Love” – 4:02
“Girl from Ipanema Goes to Greenland” – 4:22
“Housework” – 4:06
“Detour Thru Your Mind” – 5:06
“Wig” – 4:22
“Theme for a Nude Beach” – 4:54
“Ain’t It a Shame” – 5:30
“Juicy Jungle” – 4:50
“Communicate” – 4:07
“She Brakes for Rainbows” – 4:40

Cosmic Thing

Released: June 27, 1989

Cosmic Thing is the fifth studio album by The B-52s, recorded at Dreamland Recording Studio in Woodstock, New York, and released by Reprise Records. The album was produced by Nile Rodgers and Don Was and reached number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart. It includes the hit singles “Love Shack” and “Roam.”

CD Track Listings:

“Cosmic Thing” – 3:50
“Dry County” – 4:55
“Deadbeat Club” – 4:45
“Love Shack” – 5:21
“Junebug” – 5:04
“Roam” – 4:54
“Bushfire” – 4:58
“Channel Z” – 4:49
“Topaz” – 4:20
“Follow Your Bliss” – 4:09

Good Stuff

Released: June 23, 1992

Good Stuff is the sixth studio album by The B-52s, recorded at Bearsville Studios in Woodstock, New York, and released by Reprise Records. The album was produced by Nile Rodgers and reached number 16 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album’s title track became a top 40 hit.

CD Track Listings:

“Tell It Like It T-I-Is” – 5:13
“Hot Pants Explosion” – 4:55
“Good Stuff” – 5:58
“Revolution Earth” – 5:49
“Dreamland” – 7:35
“Is That You Mo-Dean?” – 5:32
“The World’s Green Laughter” – 4:04
“Vision of a Kiss” – 5:56
“Breezin'” – 5:21
“Bad Influence” – 5:43

Funplex

Released: March 25, 2008

Funplex is the seventh studio album by The B-52s, recorded at The Treefort in Los Angeles, California, and released by Astralwerks. The album was produced by Steve Osborne and reached number 11 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album marked a return to the band’s energetic new wave roots.