Feature Photo: MPH Photos / Shutterstock.com
The concept of MTV Unplugged emerged as a groundbreaking series in the world of music television, offering a unique stage for artists to reimagine their songs in stripped-down, acoustic performances. Launched in 1989, this series became a defining platform for showcasing musicians’ raw talent, often revealing new depths to their artistry. At its heart, Unplugged presented a simple but transformative idea: to remove the studio polish and electrified embellishments of modern music, leaving only the core of the song and the power of the performance. This approach resonated deeply with audiences, creating some of the most iconic moments in music history.
The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, hosting a diverse range of artists, from legends like Eric Clapton, whose Unplugged session revitalized his career and earned him six Grammy Awards, to emerging talents who used the platform to cement their place in the industry. Nirvana’s 1993 Unplugged in New York set became one of the most celebrated live albums of all time, blending haunting renditions of their own hits with covers that showcased their influences. Similarly, artists like Tony Bennett and 10,000 Maniacs used their Unplugged sessions to reconnect with existing fans and reach new audiences, proving the series’ versatility across genres.
What made Unplugged so impactful was its ability to bridge generations and musical tastes, inviting both rock stars and pop icons to embrace a more intimate and vulnerable style of performance. This format often highlighted their lyrical depth and musical craftsmanship in ways that electrified productions couldn’t. Whether reviving careers, creating new classics, or redefining how live performances could be experienced, Unplugged became a defining chapter in the evolution of modern music, solidifying its legacy as a timeless showcase of artistry.
# 10 – MTV Unplugged – 10,000 Maniacs
Released 1993
10,000 Maniacs’ MTV Unplugged captures the band at a significant crossroads in their career, presenting a raw and intimate acoustic set that would mark lead vocalist Natalie Merchant’s final performance with the group before embarking on her solo career. Recorded live on April 21, 1993, at the Sony Music Studios in New York City, the album showcases the band’s ability to strip down their lush, alternative rock arrangements while retaining the emotional resonance of their music. Produced by Paul Fox, the session highlighted the band’s dynamic interplay and Merchant’s poignant vocal delivery.
The album includes reimagined versions of fan favorites like “These Are Days” and “Because the Night,” the latter of which was originally co-written by Patti Smith and Bruce Springsteen. The acoustic setting breathes new life into these tracks, revealing the subtle complexities of their arrangements. Alongside Merchant, the band lineup featured Rob Buck on guitar, Dennis Drew on keyboards, Steve Gustafson on bass, and Jerome Augustyniak on drums, with guest musicians adding depth to the acoustic palette.
Critically acclaimed, MTV Unplugged became one of the band’s most successful releases, peaking at number thirteen on the Billboard 200 chart. The album’s rendition of “Because the Night” achieved widespread acclaim, bringing a new audience to the band’s work. This release cemented 10,000 Maniacs’ legacy as one of the most innovative and emotionally compelling bands of the era.
CD Track Listings:
- “These Are Days” – 4:21
- “Eat for Two” – 4:12
- “Candy Everybody Wants” – 3:19
- “I’m Not the Man” – 3:46
- “Don’t Talk” – 4:23
- “Hey Jack Kerouac” – 3:27
- “What’s the Matter Here?” – 4:50
- “Gold Rush Brides” – 4:14
- “Like the Weather” – 4:15
- “Trouble Me” – 4:45
- “Jezebel” – 4:12
- “Because the Night” – 3:44
Read More: 10 Best 10,000 Maniacs Songs
# 9 – MTV Unplugged – Alanis Morissette
Released 1999
Alanis Morissette’s MTV Unplugged captures the emotional depth and raw vulnerability that catapulted her into the limelight during the 1990s. Recorded on September 18, 1999, at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York City, this album strips away the electric guitar crunch and polished production of her earlier work, revealing the core of her artistry. Produced by Morissette and Scott Welch, the album features acoustic reinterpretations of her most iconic hits alongside a few surprises that showcase her versatility as a performer and songwriter.
The album presents a mix of her well-loved tracks such as “You Learn” and “Ironic,” alongside lesser-known songs like “No Pressure Over Cappuccino” and “Princes Familiar,” which highlight her introspective lyricism. The arrangements are enriched by a talented band, including Joel Shearer on guitar, Deron Johnson on keyboards, and Gary Novak on drums, with a string section adding lush textures to several tracks. Notably, Morissette’s poignant vocal delivery shines throughout the performance, further enhancing the emotional resonance of her lyrics.
Critically, MTV Unplugged was praised for its intimate atmosphere and artistic reinterpretations, though some fans yearned for more of her signature angsty edge. The album performed well commercially, reaching the top ten on several international charts and further cementing Morissette’s reputation as one of her generation’s most compelling singer-songwriters.
CD Track Listings:
- “You Learn” – 4:22
- “Joining You” – 5:08
- “No Pressure Over Cappuccino” – 4:41
- “That I Would Be Good” – 4:14
- “Head Over Feet” – 4:24
- “Princes Familiar” – 4:37
- “Ironic” – 4:38
- “These R the Thoughts” – 3:25
- “King of Pain” – 4:05
- “You Oughta Know” – 4:59
- “Uninvited” – 4:37
Read More: Top 10 Alanis Morissette Cover Songs
# 8 -In Concert/MTV Plugged – Bruce Springsteen
Released 1993
Bruce Springsteen’s In Concert/MTV Plugged stands out as one of the most rebellious entries in the MTV Unplugged series. Defying the series’ acoustic concept, Springsteen performed nearly the entire set with his electric guitar plugged in, an approach acknowledged right in the album’s title. Recorded on September 22, 1992, at the Warner Hollywood Studios in Los Angeles, the album captures Springsteen’s fiery passion as he reimagines his catalog with a raw, electrified intensity. Produced by Springsteen himself along with Chuck Plotkin, In Concert/MTV Plugged showcases the artist’s ability to command attention with or without the trappings of acoustic convention.
This album marks a unique period in Springsteen’s career, as he performed with a new backing band rather than the legendary E Street Band. The lineup included Shane Fontayne on guitar, Tommy Sims on bass, Zachary Alford on drums, and Roy Bittan on keyboards, among others. The setlist leaned heavily on material from his Human Touch and Lucky Town albums, with electrifying performances of tracks like “Better Days” and “Lucky Town.” However, it also featured a gripping rendition of “Atlantic City,” which harked back to his earlier Nebraska era, reminding listeners of his storytelling prowess.
Critically, the album received a mixed reception, with some praising its energetic reinterpretations and others lamenting the deviation from the Unplugged ethos. Despite this, In Concert/MTV Plugged resonated with fans, charting at number 4 on the UK Albums Chart and making a notable impact worldwide. It remains one of two unconventional Unplugged entries on this list, the other being Paul McCartney’s Unplugged (The Official Bootleg), which also bent the rules by featuring amplified instruments.
CD Track Listings:
- “Red Headed Woman” – 2:51
- “Better Days” – 4:29
- “Atlantic City” – 5:38
- “Darkness on the Edge of Town” – 4:40
- “Man’s Job” – 5:43
- “Human Touch” – 7:30
- “Lucky Town” – 5:08
- “I Wish I Were Blind” – 5:14
- “Thunder Road” – 5:28
- “Light of Day” – 8:16
- “If I Should Fall Behind” – 4:44
- “Living Proof” – 6:05
- “My Beautiful Reward” – 5:57
Read More: Top 10 Bruce Springsteen Albums
# 7 – Unplugged – Alice In Chains
Released 1996
Alice In Chains’ Unplugged captures the raw vulnerability and intensity of one of grunge’s most iconic bands as they stripped down their sound for an acoustic setting. Recorded on April 10, 1996, at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York, the performance was part of MTV’s renowned Unplugged series. The album features the band’s core members—Layne Staley on vocals, Jerry Cantrell on guitar and vocals, Mike Inez on bass, and Sean Kinney on drums. Additionally, Scott Olson provided rhythm guitar, adding depth to the acoustic arrangements. Produced by Toby Wright and the band, Unplugged offers a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Alice In Chains’ most beloved songs.
This album serves as a poignant snapshot of the band’s career, particularly as it marks one of Layne Staley’s last major public performances before his untimely death in 2002. Songs like “Nutshell,” “Down in a Hole,” and “Would?” take on a new dimension in this stripped-down format, highlighting the emotional depth of the lyrics and the band’s intricate musicality. The performance also includes a stirring version of “Got Me Wrong,” which had gained popularity from its inclusion in the Clerks soundtrack, as well as the rare live debut of “Killer Is Me.” The interplay between Cantrell’s masterful guitar work and Staley’s soulful voice creates an atmosphere both intimate and powerful.
Critically acclaimed upon its release, Unplugged debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 and earned widespread praise for its authenticity and emotional resonance. The album was certified platinum and continues to be celebrated as one of the finest entries in the Unplugged series, often compared favorably to Nirvana’s equally iconic acoustic session.
CD Track Listings:
- “Nutshell” – 4:58
- “Brother” – 5:27
- “No Excuses” – 4:57
- “Sludge Factory” – 4:36
- “Down in a Hole” – 5:46
- “Angry Chair” – 4:36
- “Rooster” – 6:41
- “Got Me Wrong” – 4:59
- “Heaven Beside You” – 5:38
- “Would?” – 3:43
- “Frogs” – 7:30
- “Over Now” – 7:12
- “Killer Is Me” – 5:23
Read More: Alice In Chains Best Song On Each Of Their Studio Albums
# 6 – No Quarter: Jimmy Page and Robert Plant Unledded
Released 1994
No Quarter: Jimmy Page and Robert Plant Unledded is a remarkable reunion album that brought together the iconic Led Zeppelin duo of Jimmy Page and Robert Plant for an adventurous and genre-blending project. Recorded between August and September 1994, the album combines live performances and studio recordings, with sessions taking place in multiple locations, including London, Wales, and Morocco. Produced by Page and Plant alongside Steve Albini, this album showcases the duo’s willingness to experiment, blending rock, folk, world music, and orchestral elements.
The album features reimagined versions of classic Led Zeppelin tracks, such as “Kashmir,” “Gallows Pole,” and “No Quarter,” as well as original compositions like “Yallah” and “City Don’t Cry.” These reinterpretations highlight the pair’s creative chemistry, fusing the raw power of their rock roots with intricate acoustic arrangements and traditional Moroccan instrumentation. The album enlists the talents of an Egyptian orchestra, showcasing Middle Eastern influences, along with a variety of other musicians, including Charlie Jones on bass and Michael Lee on drums.
Critically acclaimed for its innovation and artistic ambition, No Quarter: Jimmy Page and Robert Plant Unledded reached number 4 on the Billboard 200 and received significant airplay on rock radio. The accompanying MTV special was equally praised, offering fans an immersive experience that combined stunning visuals with the duo’s iconic sound. The album stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Led Zeppelin, proving that Page and Plant could evolve their music while staying true to their roots.
CD Track Listings:
- “Nobody’s Fault but Mine” – 4:06
- “Thank You” – 5:47
- “No Quarter” – 3:45
- “Friends” – 4:39
- “Kashmir” – 8:49
- “Yallah” (also known as “The Truth Explodes”) – 4:59
- “The Rain Song” – 7:29
- “City Don’t Cry” – 5:41
- “Since I’ve Been Loving You” – 7:29
- “Battle of Evermore” – 7:41
- “Wonderful One” – 4:03
- “Wah Wah” – 3:36
Read More: Top 10 Jimmy Page Projects Post Led Zeppelin
# 5 – Unplugged (The Official Bootleg) – Paul McCartney
Released 1991
Unplugged (The Official Bootleg) by Paul McCartney captures the former Beatle in a refreshingly intimate and raw setting. Recorded on January 25, 1991, at Limehouse Studios in Wembley, London, this album was part of MTV’s groundbreaking Unplugged series, which saw artists stripping down their arrangements to emphasize acoustic instrumentation. McCartney’s decision to release this recording as an official bootleg added a charming sense of authenticity to the project. Produced by McCartney himself, the album showcases a mix of Beatles classics, early rock ‘n’ roll covers, and selections from his solo career.
The musicianship on the album is as exceptional as one would expect from McCartney’s band, which included Linda McCartney on keyboards and backing vocals, Hamish Stuart on guitar and bass, Robbie McIntosh on guitar, Paul Wickens on keyboards, and Blair Cunningham on drums. Highlights of the performance include stripped-down renditions of Beatles classics like “We Can Work It Out” and “And I Love Her,” as well as covers of rock ‘n’ roll staples like “Be-Bop-A-Lula” and “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” The warmth of McCartney’s voice and the simplicity of the arrangements lend a timeless quality to the album, reminding listeners of his enduring musical genius.
The album achieved significant success, becoming a collector’s item due to its limited release. Unplugged (The Official Bootleg) marked one of the first mainstream acknowledgments of the Unplugged format’s appeal, paving the way for other artists to explore acoustic reinterpretations of their music. The project serves as a delightful reminder of McCartney’s ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level, even in an unplugged setting.
CD Track Listings:
- “Be-Bop-A-Lula” – 4:01
- “I Lost My Little Girl” – 1:45
- “Here, There and Everywhere” – 3:17
- “Blue Moon of Kentucky” – 4:21
- “We Can Work It Out” – 2:50
- “San Francisco Bay Blues” – 3:29
- “I’ve Just Seen a Face” – 2:11
- “Every Night” – 3:24
- “She’s a Woman” – 3:39
- “Hi-Heel Sneakers” – 4:08
- “And I Love Her” – 4:17
- “That Would Be Something” – 4:02
- “Blackbird” – 2:09
- “Ain’t No Sunshine” – 4:05
- “Good Rockin’ Tonight” – 3:42
- “Singing the Blues” – 3:46
- “Junk” – 2:25
Read More: Complete List Of Paul McCartney Albums In Order
# 4 – Unplugged…and Seated – Rod Stewart
Released 1993
Rod Stewart’s Unplugged…and Seated captures the legendary rock singer in an intimate and reflective setting that showcases his vocal prowess and charm. Recorded on February 5, 1993, at Universal Studios in Los Angeles, the album was part of MTV’s acclaimed Unplugged series. The performance reunited Stewart with longtime collaborator and former Faces bandmate Ronnie Wood, whose presence added a nostalgic and soulful dimension to the set. Produced by Stewart himself alongside Patrick Leonard, the album revisits some of Stewart’s most iconic songs while blending acoustic arrangements with heartfelt performances.
The musicianship on the album is stellar, with Ronnie Wood on guitar, Charles Kentiss on piano, Carmine Rojas on bass, and David Palmer on drums. Highlights include acoustic renditions of classics like “Maggie May” and “Reason to Believe,” as well as the heartfelt “Have I Told You Lately,” which won Stewart a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male. The stripped-down arrangements bring a raw and emotional quality to the tracks, allowing Stewart’s raspy voice to take center stage.
Unplugged…and Seated received critical acclaim for its authenticity and became a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart and achieving multi-platinum status. The album marked a pivotal moment in Stewart’s career, proving that his talent transcended decades and trends.
CD Track Listings:
- “Hot Legs” – 4:25
- “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” – 4:13
- “Handbags and Gladrags” – 4:25
- “Cut Across Shorty” – 4:58
- “Every Picture Tells a Story” – 4:45
- “Maggie May” – 5:45
- “Reason to Believe” – 4:07
- “People Get Ready” – 4:59
- “Have I Told You Lately” – 4:05
- “Tom Traubert’s Blues (Waltzing Matilda)” – 4:40
- “The First Cut Is the Deepest” – 4:15
- “Mandolin Wind” – 5:23
- “Highgate Shuffle” – 4:00
- “Stay with Me” – 5:09
- “Having a Party” – 4:46
Read More: Top 10 Rod Stewart 80s Songs
# 3 – Unplugged – Eric Clapton
Released 1992
Eric Clapton’s Unplugged is a landmark album that redefined the power of acoustic performance in rock and blues music. Recorded live on January 16, 1992, at Bray Studios in Windsor, England, as part of the MTV Unplugged series, the album captures Clapton at a vulnerable and introspective moment in his career. Produced by Russ Titelman, this stripped-down performance features a blend of reimagined classics and blues standards, creating an intimate atmosphere that resonated with audiences worldwide. The album showcases Clapton’s masterful guitar work and heartfelt vocals, cementing his legacy as a musician deeply connected to the roots of his craft.
The album features a stellar lineup, including Andy Fairweather Low on guitar, Chuck Leavell on keyboards, Nathan East on bass, Steve Ferrone on drums, and Ray Cooper on percussion. Unplugged is perhaps best known for its acoustic rendition of “Layla,” which offered a hauntingly beautiful contrast to the electric original. The deeply personal “Tears in Heaven,” written in memory of Clapton’s son, became a centerpiece of the album, touching millions with its emotional depth and simplicity. This performance also includes a variety of blues standards such as “Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out” and “Malted Milk,” paying homage to the genre that shaped Clapton’s artistry.
Unplugged achieved extraordinary success, earning six Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Male Rock Vocal Performance. The album topped charts globally and has sold over 26 million copies, making it one of Clapton’s most successful releases. Its critical acclaim and commercial success helped solidify the popularity of the MTV Unplugged series and underscored the timeless appeal of acoustic music.
CD Track Listings:
- “Signe” – 3:14
- “Before You Accuse Me” – 3:44
- “Hey Hey” – 3:16
- “Tears in Heaven” – 4:36
- “Lonely Stranger” – 5:27
- “Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out” – 3:49
- “Layla” – 4:46
- “Running on Faith” – 6:30
- “Walkin’ Blues” – 3:37
- “Alberta” – 3:42
- “San Francisco Bay Blues” – 3:23
- “Malted Milk” – 3:36
- “Old Love” – 7:52
- “Rollin’ and Tumblin’” – 4:12
Read More: 11 Incredible Eric Clapton Guitar Solos
# 2 – MTV Unplugged in New York – Nirvana
Released 1994
MTV Unplugged in New York by Nirvana is a hauntingly beautiful testament to the band’s artistry and Kurt Cobain’s raw vulnerability. Recorded on November 18, 1993, at Sony Music Studios in New York City, the performance stands as one of the most memorable installments of the MTV Unplugged series. Produced by Scott Litt and Nirvana, the session showcases the band’s willingness to diverge from their grunge roots and embrace a more subdued, acoustic style. Released on November 1, 1994, nearly a year after the performance and six months after Cobain’s tragic death, the album is both a celebration of Nirvana’s talent and a poignant reminder of what was lost.
The performance featured Kurt Cobain on vocals and guitar, Krist Novoselic on bass and accordion, and Dave Grohl on drums, alongside guest musicians including Pat Smear on guitar and members of the Meat Puppets. Nirvana’s setlist departed from their usual high-energy anthems, focusing instead on rare tracks, deep cuts, and covers. Highlights include their rendition of “The Man Who Sold the World” by David Bowie and covers of three Meat Puppets songs: “Plateau,” “Oh, Me,” and “Lake of Fire.” The album’s centerpiece, “Where Did You Sleep Last Night,” a traditional folk song popularized by Lead Belly, closes the performance with a chilling and unforgettable intensity.
The album received widespread critical acclaim and topped the Billboard 200 chart upon its release. It won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album in 1996 and has since been regarded as one of the greatest live albums of all time. MTV Unplugged in New York not only highlights Nirvana’s versatility but also cements their legacy as a band capable of transcending genre and expectation.
CD Track Listings:
- “About a Girl” – 3:37
- “Come as You Are” – 4:14
- “Jesus Doesn’t Want Me for a Sunbeam” – 4:37
- “The Man Who Sold the World” – 4:20
- “Pennyroyal Tea” – 3:40
- “Dumb” – 2:52
- “Polly” – 3:16
- “On a Plain” – 3:44
- “Something in the Way” – 4:01
- “Plateau” – 3:38
- “Oh, Me” – 3:26
- “Lake of Fire” – 2:56
- “All Apologies” – 4:23
- “Where Did You Sleep Last Night” – 5:08
Read More: Top 10 Nirvana Love Songs
# 1 – MTV Unplugged – Tony Bennett
Released 1994
When Tony Bennett says, “Let’s do this without a microphone,” just him and the piano, he defines the whole point of what the MTV Unplugged series was always supposed to be about.
Tony Bennett’s MTV Unplugged is a timeless masterpiece that bridges generations, blending the elegance of traditional pop with the raw intimacy of live performance. Recorded on April 12, 1994, at Sony Studios in New York City, this album features Bennett performing some of his most beloved classics in an acoustic setting. The performance was part of MTV’s celebrated Unplugged series, and it played a significant role in revitalizing Bennett’s career, introducing his music to a younger audience. The album was produced by David Kahne and featured Bennett’s longtime collaborators Ralph Sharon on piano, Doug Richeson on bass, and Clayton Cameron on drums.
This stripped-down format highlights Bennett’s impeccable vocal artistry and charisma, creating an intimate connection with the audience. Iconic tracks like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” and “Fly Me to the Moon” are reimagined with a warmth and immediacy that underscore Bennett’s enduring appeal. The setlist also includes charming duets with k.d. lang on “Moonglow” and Elvis Costello on “They Can’t Take That Away from Me,” adding variety and star power to the performance.
The album received widespread critical acclaim and achieved commercial success, earning Bennett two Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance. It peaked at number 48 on the Billboard 200, a testament to its cross-generational impact. MTV Unplugged not only cemented Tony Bennett’s legacy but also demonstrated the timeless nature of his music.
CD Track Listings:
- “Old Devil Moon” – 2:48
- “Speak Low” – 3:10
- “It Had to Be You” – 3:13
- “I Love a Piano” – 1:35
- “It Amazes Me” – 3:12
- “The Girl I Love” – 3:54
- “Fly Me to the Moon” – 2:54
- “You’re All the World to Me” – 2:15
- “Rags to Riches” – 2:10
- “When Joanna Loved Me” – 3:14
- “The Good Life/I Wanna Be Around” – 3:21
- “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” – 2:37
- “Steppin’ Out with My Baby” – 2:54
- “Moonglow” (with k.d. lang) – 3:10
- “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” (with Elvis Costello) – 3:05
- “A Foggy Day” – 2:18
- “All of You” – 1:41
- “Body and Soul” – 3:19
- “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” – 3:10
Read More: Top 10 Tony Bennett Albums
Read More: Artists’ Interviews Directory At ClassicRockHistory.com
Read More: ’10 Albums That Changed My Life’ Interview Series
Read More: Classic Rock Bands List And Directory
Top 10 MTV Unplugged Albums article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
