Top 20 MTV ‘Unplugged’ Albums

The Ultimate Acoustic Extravaganza: Top 20 MTV ‘Unplugged’ Albums

In the fall of 1989, MTV introduced “Unplugged,” a seemingly quiet acoustic showcase designed for serious musicians steering clear of the glitz and glam associated with the network. Little did they know, it would become a prestigious platform for artists eager to prove their musical prowess. Fast forward, and “Unplugged” has given birth to some of the greatest live albums ever, capturing iconic performances that define an era.

1. Nirvana – “MTV Unplugged in New York” (1993)

Nirvana’s iconic performance on November 18, 1993, stands as a testament to Kurt Cobain’s genius. Recorded five months before his tragic death, the setlist includes emotionally charged renditions of classics like “Come as You Are” and “All Apologies.” With additional instrumentation by Pat Smear and others, this unplugged masterpiece is a haunting farewell.

2. Rod Stewart – “Unplugged…and Seated” (1993)

Rod Stewart, briefly escaping the world of Adult Contemporary pop, reunited with Faces bandmate Ronnie Wood for a rocking set. Classics like “Stay with Me” and “Every Picture Tells a Story” took on new life. Fun fact: “Handbags and Gladrags” from this performance became the theme song for the U.K. version of “The Office.”

3. Paul McCartney – “Unplugged (The Official Bootleg)” (1991)

Paul McCartney’s unplugged session is a crowd-pleasing journey through 17 songs, including surprising covers like Gene Vincent’s “Be-Bop-A-Lula” and Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine.” A wish arises that McCartney would bless us with an “Unplugged” album annually.

4. Shakira – “MTV Unplugged” (1999)

Shakira’s scorching 1999 acoustic set marked her crossover to the U.S. Top 40 radio with the ecstatic closer “Ojos Asi.” A moment where a young Shakira claims her global stardom, showcasing her virtuoso performance.

5. Tony Bennett – “MTV Unplugged” (1994)

Tony Bennett, a spry 68 at the time, made a delightful comeback with pop standards. His renditions of classics like “It Had to Be You” and “Fly Me to the Moon” showcase Bennett’s timeless voice. The lively collaboration with Elvis Costello on the Gershwins’ “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” is a highlight.

6. Jay-Z – “MTV Unplugged” with The Roots (2001)

Jay-Z’s 2001 session with The Roots is a hip-hop party from start to finish. With electrifying performances like “Izzo (H.O.V.A.),” Jay-Z proves he’s ready to spit hot fire. Mary J. Blige’s appearance for “Can’t Knock the Hustle/Family Affair” adds to the celebratory vibe.

7. Eric Clapton – “Unplugged” (1992)

Eric Clapton’s 1992 “Unplugged” set is among the top-selling live albums of all time. The rearranged “Layla” and heartfelt “Tears in Heaven” stand out, but it’s the blues tracks like “Before You Accuse Me” that truly shine.

8. Neil Young – “Unplugged” (1993)

Neil Young’s 1993 acoustic set follows his return to the folk-country sound with “Harvest Moon.” Accompanied by old friends Nils Lofgren and Spooner Oldham, Young delivers a standout performance, including a pump organ rendition of “Like a Hurricane.”

9. Alice in Chains – “MTV Unplugged” (1996)

Alice in Chains’ 1996 “MTV Unplugged” marks their first concert in over two years and sadly, their last with lead singer Layne Staley. Despite signs of rust, tracks like “Nutshell,” “Rooster,” and “Would?” showcase Staley’s dedication despite personal struggles.

10. Kiss – “MTV Unplugged” (1996)

Kiss surprised everyone in 1996, shedding their theatricality for an energetic set that affirmed their rock ‘n’ roll prowess. The return of lead guitarist Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss, especially Criss’s performance of “Beth,” makes this live set memorable.

11. Page and Plant – “No Quarter” (1994)

Jimmy Page and Robert Plant’s 1994 “Unplugged” concert felt like the start of a new chapter in Led Zeppelin’s history. While absent bassist John Paul Jones, the resulting LP, “No Quarter,” builds to a rousing conclusion with Plant tearing into “Kashmir.”

12. Mariah Carey – “MTV Unplugged” (1992)

Mariah Carey’s 1992 “Unplugged” performance, though more like a promotional EP, features precise arrangements and polished renditions. While sticking to hits like “Emotions” and “Someday,” Carey surprises with a virtuoso rendition of the Jackson 5’s “I’ll Be There.”

13. R.E.M. – “Unplugged: The Complete 1991 and 2001 Sessions” (2014)

Released posthumously, this 2014 compilation features R.E.M.’s 1991 commercial prime and their 2001 session. With hits from “Out of Time” and “Reveal,” it’s a feast for fans. The highlight is “So. Central Rain (I’m Sorry)” from their 1984 album “Reckoning.”

14. Bob Dylan – “MTV Unplugged” (1994)

Bob Dylan’s 1994 performance feels like an introductory course for young music fans. While conventional with classics like “All Along the Watchtower,” “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,” and “Like a Rolling Stone,” Dylan delights hardcore fans with the rarely performed “With God on Our Side.”

15. Alicia Keys – “MTV Unplugged” (2005)

Alicia Keys’ exceptional 2005 “Unplugged” set showcases her vocal and instrumental talents. While the duet with Adam Levine falls flat, her renditions of The Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses” and her hit “Fallin'” captivate. The hip-hop finale with Mos Def, Common, and others adds a rowdy high.

16. Bruce Springsteen – “MTV Unplugged” (1992)

Bruce Springsteen, breaking the rules and plugging in, delivered a 1992 set heavy on singles from his recent LPs. Despite this, stellar performances of “Atlantic City,” “Thunder Road,” and “Light of Day” showcase The Boss’s undeniable prowess.

17. “Uptown MTV Unplugged” (1993)

A savvy piece of promotion, this 1993 LP showcases Uptown Records’ top artists. Jodeci’s soulful performance of “Forever My Lady” is captivating, but Mary J. Blige steals the show with scorching renditions of “Sweet Thing,” “Reminisce,” and “I Don’t Want to Do Anything.”

18. Maxwell – “MTV Unplugged” (1997)

Newcomer Maxwell’s 1997 “Unplugged” set is a brief yet shattering rendition of Kate Bush’s “This Woman’s Work.” His delicate yet impassioned vocals leave an indelible mark, making it one of the greatest soul performances.

19. 10,000 Maniacs – “MTV Unplugged” (1993)

Natalie Merchant and 10,000 Maniacs showcased their acoustic brilliance in 1993. The intimate set features hits like “These Are Days” and “Because the Night.” Merchant’s captivating vocals make it a memorable “Unplugged” experience.

20. Hootie & the Blowfish – “MTV Unplugged” (1996)

Hootie & the Blowfish’s 1996 “Unplugged” performance follows their breakthrough success. With acoustic renditions of hits like “Hold My Hand” and “Let Her Cry,” the band showcases their raw talent in an intimate setting.

In the realm of MTV “Unplugged,” these 20 albums reign supreme, offering an acoustic journey through the musical prowess of legendary artists across genres. Each performance is a unique snapshot, capturing the essence of the artists and the magic of live, unplugged music.