Kate Bush, the enigmatic British singer-songwriter, has captivated audiences for decades with her ethereal voice, experimental sound, and poetic lyrics. From her groundbreaking debut in the late ’70s to her genre-defying works in the 21st century, Bush has always defied musical convention.
Here are her five best albums — essential listens for both long-time fans and curious newcomers alike.
1. Hounds of Love (1985)
Essential track: Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)
Considered by many as her magnum opus, Hounds of Love represents the perfect blend of Bush’s artistic ambition and mainstream accessibility. The album is divided into two parts: the first half contains polished pop gems, while the second — entitled The Ninth Wave — is a conceptual suite about a woman drifting alone at sea.
The album’s lead single, Running Up That Hill, recently found renewed popularity thanks to its use in the Netflix series Stranger Things, introducing Bush’s genius to a whole new generation.
2. The Dreaming (1982)
Essential track: Suspended in Gaffa
The Dreaming is often described as Bush’s most experimental and challenging work — and that’s exactly what makes it so fascinating. Self-produced and densely layered, the album explores a vast array of musical styles and themes, from Irish folklore to political commentary.
It was a commercial risk, but one that paid off creatively. The production is wild and unpredictable, full of unconventional instrumentation, shifting rhythms, and complex vocal arrangements. It’s a richly rewarding experience and a key precursor to the innovations of Hounds of Love.
3. Never for Ever (1980)
Essential track: Babooshka
With Never for Ever, Bush became the first British female solo artist to top the UK album charts. This record marked a significant transition in her career: it was the first time she had access to digital synthesizers and the Fairlight CMI, allowing her to broaden her sonic palette dramatically.
She balances theatrical storytelling with musical innovation. Songs like Babooshka and Army Dreamers show her knack for writing compelling narratives, while Breathing dives into Cold War anxieties and nuclear fallout.
4. Aerial (2005)
Essential track: King of the Mountain
After a 12-year hiatus from music, Bush returned with Aerial, a double album that reflects a more mature and serene side of her artistry. The first disc, A Sea of Honey, features introspective and personal songs, while the second, A Sky of Honey, is a seamless suite inspired by the rhythms of a single day and the beauty of nature.
Aerial is less about hooks and more about atmosphere, showing Bush as a composer deeply in tune with texture and subtle emotion. It’s a meditative and richly layered work that stands as one of the most underrated gems in her discography.
5. The Kick Inside (1978)
Essential track: Wuthering Heights
Kate Bush’s debut album remains one of the most astonishing musical debuts in pop history. Written mostly in her teens, The Kick Inside introduces the world to her otherworldly voice and deeply imaginative songwriting.
With the release of Wuthering Heights, Bush became the first woman to reach number one in the UK with a self-written song. Though less sonically adventurous than her later work, it showcases a young artist with a fully formed vision.
Conclusion
Kate Bush’s discography is a treasure trove of innovation, emotion, and storytelling. Whether you’re drawn to the polished pop of Hounds of Love or the avant-garde depths of The Dreaming, her albums offer a unique and timeless listening experience.
These five records stand as a testament to her enduring genius — and continue to inspire artists and fans across generations.