Nick Cave, renowned for his poetic lyrics and haunting musical presence, has long been admired for his discerning taste and artistic depth. In a handwritten list shared some time ago, Cave offered fans a rare glimpse into the music that has profoundly influenced him, revealing his 11 favourite albums. Describing them with personal insights, Cave’s choices not only showcase his eclectic musical taste but also underline his reverence for exceptional artistry and production.
Among the albums Cave highlighted, one stood out as the pinnacle of production: “The Best of Percy Sledge”. Labeling it “the best production I’ve ever heard,” Cave revealed his appreciation for the classic soul recordings, which carry an emotional depth that transcends time. Sledge’s velvet voice, combined with the rich instrumentation, clearly left a significant impression on Cave’s artistic sensibilities.
Another striking entry is Bob Dylan’s “Blood on the Tracks”. Often cited as one of Dylan’s finest works, the album’s raw emotionality and introspective storytelling resonate deeply with Cave’s own songwriting ethos. Dylan’s influence on Cave is no secret, and this inclusion reaffirms the bond between the two lyrical powerhouses.
Leonard Cohen, another poet-turned-musician whom Cave has often acknowledged as a major influence, makes an appearance with “Songs of Leonard Cohen”. Cohen’s debut is a masterclass in understated beauty, combining minimalist arrangements with poetic lyrics. For Cave, this album represents the bridge between literature and music—a balance he has strived to achieve throughout his career.
Other notable mentions on the list include Van Morrison’s “Astral Weeks” and David Bowie’s “Low”, both of which showcase artists unafraid to push boundaries. Morrison’s ethereal, genre-defying opus is praised for its spiritual intensity, while Bowie’s avant-garde experimentation on “Low” likely aligns with Cave’s appreciation for innovation in music.
Cave’s selections also delve into diverse genres, including John Coltrane’s transcendent “A Love Supreme” and The Velvet Underground’s ground-breaking “The Velvet Underground & Nico”. Each choice speaks to his admiration for bold, transformative artistry that reshapes musical landscapes.
By sharing this list, Nick Cave offers fans a window into the albums that shaped his creative world. Whether it’s the production brilliance of Percy Sledge or the lyrical genius of Dylan and Cohen, Cave’s favourites echo the values he holds most dear in his own craft: authenticity, emotional depth, and a relentless pursuit of the sublime.