19 (2008)
Adele burst onto the music scene with her smash debut album “19” in 2008. Named after her age at the time she began writing it, 19 introduced the world to Adele’s powerful vocals and vulnerable songwriting style.
Standout tracks included her breakthrough hit single “Chasing Pavements” along with “Hometown Glory” and “Crazy For You.” With nostalgic soul-pop production and lyrics exploring youth, heartbreak, and inner reflection, 19 earned Adele wide acclaim including the Grammy for Best New Artist.
21 (2011)
Firmly establishing herself as a global pop superstar, Adele’s career reached new heights with her diamond-certified sophomore record 21. Expanding her retro soul sound to incorporate more instruments and themes of inner strength, iconic singles like “Rolling In The Deep,” “Set Fire to the Rain,” and “Someone Like You” topped charts worldwide.
The intensely emotional album inspired multiple record-breaking runs at #1. By reflecting universal themes of relationships, nostalgia, and inner resolve, 21 resonated strongly with listeners everywhere on the way to selling over 30 million copies.
25 (2015)
After vocal surgery and a few years away from music focused on motherhood, Adele made her triumphant return in late 2015 with the release of 25. Fueled by the blockbuster first single “Hello,” 25 broke first-week sales records worldwide and debuted at #1 in over 30 countries.
Often considered her most mature album yet, standouts included the cathartic “Water Under the Bridge”, sweeping ballad “When We Were Young”, and the introspective “Million Years Ago.” By age 25, Adele further cemented herself as the premier voice of her generation with huge critical and commercial success.
30 (2021)
Marking another significant shift in her personal life and career, Adele explored self-reflection, divorce, and motherhood on her fourth studio album 30 released in late 2021. Preceded by the comeback smash “Easy On Me”, 30 saw Adele craft her most vulnerable collection of songs yet with a diverse mix of soul, piano ballads, horns, and rich instrumental textures.
Chart-toppers like “Oh My God” and “I Drink Wine” drove it to record-breaking debuts on the way towards universal acclaim. Now preparing for her first full tour since 2017, 30 affirms Adele as one of music’s most compelling album artists with her songwriting as sharp as ever. More iconic songs surely lie ahead from one of pop’s true generational talents.