Albums from iconic artists such as Elton John, Miles Davis, Tracy Chapman, Mary J. Blige, and the cast of “Hamilton” have been officially recognized as part of America’s rich audio heritage. The National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress has announced its latest inductees, which include a diverse array of recordings that reflect the cultural tapestry of the nation.
Celebrating Cultural Significance
Among the 25 recordings entering the archive for the class of 2025, notable entries include:
- Davis’ revolutionary 1970 album, “Bitches Brew,” a landmark fusion of jazz and rock.
- John’s 1973 classic, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” brimming with hits.
- Chapman’s self-titled 1988 album featuring the beloved track “Fast Car.”
- Blige’s poignant 1994 work, “My Life.”
- The original Broadway cast album of “Hamilton,” released in 2015.
Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden emphasized the importance of these recordings, stating, “These are the sounds of America — our wide-ranging history and culture. The National Recording Registry is our evolving nation’s playlist.”
In addition to albums, the registry is also welcoming significant singles, including:
- Helen Reddy’s empowering anthem “I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar” from 1972.
- Celine Dion’s iconic “My Heart Will Go On” from the film “Titanic,” released in 1997.
Among the more unconventional selections is the original music for the video game Minecraft, composed by German producer Daniel Rosenfeld and featured in the 2011 album “Minecraft: Volume Alpha.” Additionally, the reboot sound for Microsoft’s Windows 95 operating system, crafted by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Brian Eno, has also found its place in the registry.
Another noteworthy inclusion is the radio broadcast of the 1960 World Series, narrated by announcer Chuck Thompson, which captured the excitement of the decisive Game 7 home run by Bill Mazeroski of the Pittsburgh Pirates. The oldest recording in this year’s class is the 1913 rendition of “Aloha ’Oe” by the Hawaiian Quintette, while the most recent is the 2015 “Hamilton” album, featuring music by Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Other celebrated albums making their debut in the registry include:
- “Hello Dummy” (1968) by insult comic Don Rickles.
- “Chicago Transit Authority” (1969) by the band Chicago.
- “I’ve Got the Music in Me” (1975) by Thelma Houston & Pressure Cooker.
- “Fly Like an Eagle” (1976) from the Steve Miller Band.
- Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” (2006).
Career-defining singles from other legendary artists are also joining the ranks, including:
- “Happy Trails” (1952) by Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.
- Freddy Fender’s “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” (1975).
- “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’” (1971) from trailblazing Black country artist Charley Pride.
