• Natural High (1978) – #3 on the Billboard 200. Notable Singles: “Three Times a Lady”. This album was a major hit and features their biggest single, “Three Times a Lady,” which topped the charts. It went multi-platinum.
• Commodores (1977) – #3 on the Billboard 200. Notable Singles: “Easy,” “Brick House”. This self-titled album was highly successful, featuring two of their most iconic songs, “Easy” and “Brick House.” It became a platinum-selling album.
• Midnight Magic (1979) – #3 on the Billboard 200.  Notable Singles: “Still,” “Sail On”. Another big hit, this album produced the chart-topping ballad “Still” and the successful single “Sail On.”
• Nightshift (1985) –  #12 on the Billboard 200. Notable Singles: “Nightshift”. This album marked their transition after Lionel Richie’s departure, with the title track “Nightshift” becoming a huge hit, winning a Grammy Award.
• Heroes (1980) – #7 on the Billboard 200. Notable Singles: “Old-Fashion Love”.  While not as commercially successful as their earlier albums, Heroes still did well and featured the popular single “Old-Fashion Love.”

1. Natural High (1978)

Natural High is one of the Commodores’ most successful albums, blending their signature funk and soul sound with smooth ballads. The standout track, “Three Times a Lady,” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and the R&B charts. The song’s crossover appeal helped Natural High achieve multi-platinum status and solidify the Commodores as a leading force in late 1970s R&B and funk music.

Alongside “Three Times a Lady,” the album showcases the Commodores’ ability to craft energetic funk grooves and heartfelt slow jams. Natural High peaked the band’s commercial success, continuing the momentum from their earlier albums like Commodores (1977) and Movin’ On (1975). The album played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of soul music during the late 1970s and further established the Commodores as Motown legends. It remains a classic in funk and soul history.

2. Commodores (1977)

The Commodores (1977) album is a pivotal release in the career of the legendary funk and soul group, solidifying their status in the music industry. Featuring two of their most iconic hits, “Easy” and “Brick House,” the album showcases the band’s versatility, blending smooth R&B ballads with funky, danceable tracks. “Easy,” written and sung by Lionel Richie, became a crossover hit, appealing to both pop and R&B audiences, while “Brick House” remains a timeless funk anthem, driven by its powerful bassline and catchy hooks.

This self-titled album highlights the Commodores’ ability to produce chart-topping hits while staying true to their funk roots. Released under Motown Records, Commodores achieved platinum status and peaked high on the Billboard charts, solidifying the group’s position as one of the leading acts in late 1970s R&B and funk. With its mix of soulful ballads and energetic funk tunes, Commodores remains a staple in classic funk and soul music collections.

3. Midnight Magic (1979)

Midnight Magic (1979) by the Commodores is one of their most successful albums, blending smooth soul and funk with heartfelt ballads. Released under Motown Records, the album produced the chart-topping hit “Still,” a soulful ballad that reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Another standout track, “Sail On,” became a major crossover hit, reflecting the group’s ability to merge pop and R&B sounds effortlessly.

This album highlights the Commodores’ signature mix of funk rhythms and emotive slow jams, solidifying their place as leading figures in late 1970s R&B. Midnight Magic received widespread commercial success, earning platinum certification and climbing high on the charts. It helped to cement the band’s legacy in the music world, following the successes of earlier releases like Natural High (1978) and Commodores (1977). Midnight Magic remains a defining album for the Commodores, combining their dynamic funk style with memorable ballads that resonated with a broad audience.

4. Nightshift (1985)

Nightshift (1985) marked a significant chapter for the Commodores as their first major release without Lionel Richie. The album showcased the group’s ability to evolve, with the title track “Nightshift” becoming one of their biggest hits. A tribute to soul legends Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson, “Nightshift” reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and won a Grammy Award for Best Vocal R&B Performance by a Duo or Group. The track’s smooth blend of R&B and pop resonated with a broad audience, securing the Commodores’ continued success despite the departure of their lead vocalist.

The Nightshift album demonstrated the Commodores’ ability to thrive during a transitional period, maintaining their presence in the 1980s music scene. The band’s refined production and matured sound set this album apart from their earlier funk-driven releases. Its success reaffirmed the Commodores as enduring figures in R&B, proving they could adapt and thrive in the evolving landscape of contemporary music.

5. Heroes (1980)

Heroes (1980) by the Commodores is a defining album that showcases their blend of funk and soulful ballads. Released under Motown Records, this album came when the group was at the peak of their creative powers. The lead single, “Old-Fashion Love,” became a fan favorite, highlighting their ability to craft smooth, romantic ballads alongside their signature upbeat funk tracks. The album also reflects Lionel Richie’s growing influence as a songwriter, with a more mature and refined sound compared with their earlier work.

Heroes enjoyed commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the R&B album charts and solidifying the Commodores’ presence in the 1980s music landscape. The balance of funky grooves and emotional slow jams helped this album resonate with loyal fans and new listeners. Heroes continues to be remembered for its soulful depth and the Commodores’ ability to seamlessly blend R&B and funk, maintaining their status as one of the top bands of the era.