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So (album)

by Peter Gabriel

Released: May 19, 1986

Pop, art pop, art rock, progressive pop, worldbeat

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"So" is the fifth studio album by the English musician Peter Gabriel, released in 1986. It represents a significant commercial breakthrough for Gabriel, propelled by the success of several hit singles and innovative music videos. The album features tracks such as "Sledgehammer," "Big Time," and "In Your Eyes," each showcasing Gabriel's eclectic blend of art rock, pop, and world music influences.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

The album explores themes of love, longing, and…

The album explores themes of love, longing, and social commentary, with Gabriel's distinctive voice and emotive delivery anchoring each track.

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Essential Tracks

Big Time

The album features tracks such as "Sledgehammer," "Big Time," and "In Your Eyes," each showcasing Gabriel's eclectic blend of art rock, pop, and world music influences.

In Your Eyes

The album features tracks such as "Sledgehammer," "Big Time," and "In Your Eyes," each showcasing Gabriel's eclectic blend of art rock, pop, and world music influences.

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Peter Gabriel - So (album)

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Then

Reception

"Sledgehammer" in particular became a smash hit, topping the charts in multiple countries and earning widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking music video. "So" received critical acclaim upon its release and was a commercial success, reaching multi-platinum status in several countries.

Now

Legacy

With its richly layered production, inventive arrangements, and thought-provoking lyrics, "So" is regarded as one of Gabriel's finest works. It remains a landmark album in Gabriel's career, solidifying his status as a pioneering artist and cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in rock music.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

The album features tracks such as "Sledgehammer," "Big Time," and "In Your Eyes," each showcasing Gabriel's eclectic blend of art rock, pop, and world music influences. "Sledgehammer" in particular became a smash hit, topping the charts in multiple countries and earning widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking music video.

With its richly layered production, inventive arrangements, and thought-provoking lyrics, "So" is regarded as one of Gabriel's finest works. The album explores themes of love, longing, and social commentary, with Gabriel's distinctive voice and emotive delivery anchoring each track.

"So" received critical acclaim upon its release and was a commercial success, reaching multi-platinum status in several countries. It remains a landmark album in Gabriel's career, solidifying his status as a pioneering artist and cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in rock music.