Having sold over 100 million records worldwide, Scorpions are one of the best-selling hard rock and heavy metal bands in the history of music, The band have released 19 studio albums, six live albums, 13 video albums, 29 compilation albums, one cover album, 92 singles and 43 music videos.
Scorpions are inarguably the most influential German hard-rock band of all time. The Hanover-formed group have earned this tag from sheer longevity—guitarist/vocalist Rudolf Schenker founded the troupe in 1965, with vocalist Klaus Meine joining five years later—and for cementing heavy metal’s global popularity with incisive songwriting. The fist-pumping 1984 anthem “Rock You Like a Hurricane” was a dramatic antidote to sleazy hard rock, while the 1991 worldwide hit “Wind of Change” is a towering power ballad inspired by the major political shifts happening in the soon-to-be-former Soviet Union that also resonated with other seismic movements, including the fall of the Berlin Wall. Scorpions’ initial attention came mainly in Germany, but support from MTV led to U.S. success starting in the early ’80s, as LPs such as 1982’s Blackout and 1984’s Love at First Sting (thanks to unrelenting singles like “No One Like You” and “Big City Nights”) connected with heavy-music fans.
Although the band’s lineup experienced many changes over the years, Meine and Schenker have been steady presences, steering Scorpions through world tours and studio albums while preserving the group’s ability to tap into deeper wells of emotion, as on 2020’s stripped-down, inspirational “Sign Of Hope.” So, if you are a die heart fan of Scorpions Albums then check out here we have list of Scorpions albums in order of release so far.
All Scorpions Albums Available on: Apple Music
List of Scorpions Studio Albums in Order of Release Date
1. Lonesome Crow (1972)
Scorpions’ debut studio album, “Lonesome Crow,” released in 1972, showcases the German rock band’s early experimental and psychedelic sound. The album features a unique blend of bluesy hard rock and progressive elements, making it a distinctive addition to the band’s discography.
“Lonesome Crow” presents a dark and introspective atmosphere through its hypnotic and intricate compositions. The title track, “Lonesome Crow,” sets the tone with its haunting guitar riffs and brooding vocals, while tracks like “In Search of the Peace of Mind” and “Action” display the band’s energetic and dynamic performance.
With its raw and organic production, the album captures Scorpions’ youthful creativity and ambition. Although it did not achieve significant commercial success upon its release, “Lonesome Crow” laid the foundation for the band’s future musical endeavors and showcased their potential as innovative rock musicians.
Overall, “Lonesome Crow” remains an intriguing and essential piece of Scorpions’ history, providing a glimpse into their early artistic vision and the development of their signature sound.
2. Fly to the Rainbow (1974)
“Fly to the Rainbow” is the second studio album released by the German rock band Scorpions in 1974. This album marked a significant evolution in the band’s sound and showcased their transition from their early psychedelic rock roots to a more refined hard rock style.
The album features a combination of powerful guitar-driven tracks and melodic ballads, demonstrating the band’s versatility and musical growth. Tracks like “Speedy’s Coming” and “Fly People Fly” showcase the band’s energetic and infectious guitar riffs, while songs like “This Is My Song” and “They Need a Million” display their ability to create memorable melodies and emotional depth.
“Fly to the Rainbow” also introduces the distinctive vocals of Klaus Meine, whose soaring voice adds an extra layer of intensity and emotion to the album. The lyrics touch on themes of love, freedom, and self-discovery, resonating with listeners and establishing Scorpions as a force to be reckoned with in the rock music scene.
Overall, “Fly to the Rainbow” is a powerful and influential album that solidified Scorpions’ place in the annals of rock history, paving the way for their future success and leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
3. In Trance (1975)
Scorpions’ “In Trance” album, released in 1975, solidified the band’s position as one of the pioneers of German heavy metal. This masterpiece captures the essence of their early sound, blending raw energy with melodic hooks and captivating songwriting.
From the opening track, “Dark Lady,” the album sets a mesmerizing tone with its haunting guitar riffs and Klaus Meine’s distinctive vocals. The title track, “In Trance,” is a standout with its hypnotic guitar solos and powerful rhythm section, showcasing the band’s musical prowess.
The album also features gems like “Life’s Like a River” and “Top of the Bill,” both displaying Scorpions’ ability to create memorable and anthemic songs. The guitar work of Rudolf Schenker and Uli Jon Roth is exemplary, effortlessly shifting between blistering solos and intricate harmonies.
“In Trance” exudes a sense of urgency and passion that defines Scorpions’ early work. With its dynamic compositions and intense performances, the album remains a cornerstone of the band’s discography and a classic of the heavy metal genre.
4. Virgin Killer (1976)
Scorpions’ “Virgin Killer,” released in 1976, is an iconic album that showcases the German rock band at the peak of their musical prowess. With its controversial album cover, depicting a naked young girl, the record immediately sparked controversy and censorship debates. However, beneath the provocative artwork lies a collection of powerful and memorable songs.
The album delivers a heavy dose of hard rock and showcases the band’s signature guitar-driven sound. Tracks like “Pictured Life,” “Catch Your Train,” and the instrumental masterpiece “Coast to Coast” highlight the band’s impeccable musicianship and energetic performances. Lead vocalist Klaus Meine’s distinct voice soars above the vibrant guitar riffs and thunderous rhythm section, creating an electrifying atmosphere throughout.
“Virgin Killer” solidified Scorpions’ reputation as one of the pioneers of the heavy metal genre. It remains a testament to their ability to create anthemic songs with catchy melodies and explosive guitar solos. Despite the controversy surrounding its cover, the album stands as a classic in the band’s discography, leaving an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
5. Taken by Force (1977)
Scorpions’ “Taken by Force” album, released in 1977, solidified the German rock band’s position as a force to be reckoned with in the hard rock and heavy metal genre. This album showcases the band’s signature blend of melodic hooks, powerful guitar riffs, and dynamic vocals.
“Taken by Force” features a collection of hard-hitting tracks that captivate listeners from start to finish. The opening track, “Steamrock Fever,” sets the tone with its energetic guitar-driven sound. The album also includes standout songs like “We’ll Burn the Sky,” which showcases the band’s ability to craft emotionally charged ballads.
One of the highlights of the album is the instrumental piece titled “Sails of Charon,” which features captivating guitar work by Uli Jon Roth, displaying his exceptional skills and contributing to the album’s overall brilliance.
With “Taken by Force,” Scorpions proved their prowess as musicians and songwriters, delivering a raw and intense musical experience that remains influential in the rock and metal scene to this day. It solidifies the album as an essential piece in Scorpions’ discography and a classic representation of their early sound.
6. Lovedrive (1979)
Scorpions’ “Lovedrive,” released in 1979, is a remarkable album that solidified the band’s position in the hard rock and heavy metal genre. It showcases the German rockers’ ability to craft infectious melodies and powerful guitar-driven anthems. The album presents a perfect blend of energetic and melodic tracks, captivating listeners with its raw intensity and catchy hooks.
“Lovedrive” features some of Scorpions’ most iconic songs, including the hard-hitting opener “Loving You Sunday Morning” and the electrifying “Holiday.” The album also showcases the band’s versatility with the emotionally charged ballad “Is There Anybody There?” and the bluesy groove of “Coast to Coast.” The powerful guitar work of Rudolf Schenker and the soaring vocals of Klaus Meine are at the forefront, backed by a tight rhythm section consisting of Francis Buchholz on bass and Herman Rarebell on drums.
With its captivating songwriting, memorable melodies, and impressive musicianship, “Lovedrive” remains a timeless classic in Scorpions’ discography. It stands as a testament to the band’s talent and their ability to create hard-hitting rock music that resonates with fans around the world.
7. Animal Magnetism (1980)
Scorpions’ “Animal Magnetism,” released in 1980, is a powerful rock album that showcases the band’s signature sound and captures the essence of the era. The album is a masterful blend of hard-hitting riffs, infectious melodies, and emotionally charged lyrics.
“Animal Magnetism” opens with the iconic track “Make It Real,” a high-energy anthem that sets the tone for the album. The band’s exceptional musicianship shines through each song, with Rudolf Schenker and Matthias Jabs delivering memorable guitar solos and Klaus Meine’s distinct vocals soaring above the instrumentation.
The album explores a variety of themes, from love and desire in tracks like “Lady Starlight” and “Falling in Love” to social commentary in “The Zoo” and “Animal Magnetism.” Scorpions’ songwriting prowess is evident throughout, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience.
With its bold sound, memorable hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics, “Animal Magnetism” solidified Scorpions’ status as one of the leading forces in hard rock. The album remains a classic in their discography, capturing the band at the height of their creative powers and leaving a lasting impact on the rock music scene.
8. Blackout (1982)
Scorpions’ “Blackout” is a seminal rock album released in 1982 that solidified the band’s place in music history. With its distinctive blend of heavy metal and melodic hard rock, “Blackout” showcases the band’s immense talent and creativity. The album opens with the iconic anthem “Blackout,” featuring a driving rhythm section and powerful vocals by Klaus Meine. The title track is followed by memorable hits like “No One Like You” and “Dynamite,” which demonstrate Scorpions’ ability to craft catchy hooks and deliver electrifying guitar solos. The album also delves into deeper, introspective themes with songs like “When the Smoke is Going Down” and “China White,” showcasing the band’s lyrical depth. With its energetic sound, passionate performances, and well-crafted songs, “Blackout” remains a timeless classic and a testament to Scorpions’ musical prowess.
9. Love at First Sting (1984)
Scorpions’ “Love at First Sting” is a rock masterpiece that was released in 1984. This iconic album showcases the band at the peak of their creative powers, delivering an electrifying blend of hard rock and melodic metal. From the moment the first note hits, it captivates listeners with its high-energy anthems and infectious hooks.
The album features some of Scorpions’ biggest hits, including the timeless ballad “Still Loving You” and the adrenaline-fueled rocker “Rock You Like a Hurricane.” These songs have become synonymous with the band’s sound and have left an indelible mark on rock music history.
“Love at First Sting” is characterized by its powerful guitar riffs, dynamic solos, and Klaus Meine’s distinctively raspy vocals. The band’s songwriting prowess is on full display, as they effortlessly transition between hard-hitting tracks like “Big City Nights” and the more introspective moments found in “Coming Home.“
This album solidified Scorpions’ status as one of the most influential rock bands of the ’80s and remains a cornerstone of their discography. With its memorable songs and passionate performances, “Love at First Sting” continues to resonate with rock fans around the world, proving that true love can indeed strike at first listen.
10. Savage Amusement (1988)
Scorpions’ album “Savage Amusement,” released in 1988, showcases the band’s evolution towards a more polished and melodic sound while still retaining their hard rock roots. With a perfect blend of powerful guitar riffs, memorable hooks, and Klaus Meine’s distinctive vocals, the album delivers a collection of anthemic songs that captivate listeners.
The album kicks off with the energetic and infectious “Don’t Stop at the Top,” setting the tone for the rest of the record. Tracks like “Rhythm of Love” and “Passion Rules the Game” exemplify Scorpions’ ability to craft catchy and radio-friendly tunes without sacrificing their trademark intensity.
“Savage Amusement” also delves into more introspective territory with songs like “Believe in Love” and the emotive power ballad “When the Smoke is Going Down,” showcasing the band’s lyrical depth and their ability to evoke strong emotions through their music.
Overall, “Savage Amusement” is a testament to Scorpions’ songwriting prowess and their ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their hard rock roots. It remains a beloved album among fans and a significant milestone in the band’s discography.
11. Crazy World (1990)
Scorpions’ “Crazy World” album, released in 1990, is a captivating blend of melodic hard rock and power ballads that solidified the band’s status as one of the leading forces in the genre. The album showcases the band’s distinctive sound and their ability to craft memorable hooks and anthemic choruses.
“Crazy World” is best known for its iconic hit single, “Wind of Change,” a timeless ballad that became an anthem of hope and unity during a period of political and social change in Europe. The album also features other standout tracks like “Tease Me, Please Me” and “Don’t Believe Her,” which showcase the band’s energetic and powerful rock sound.
Lyrically, “Crazy World” explores themes of love, loss, and the challenges of navigating an ever-changing world. The album’s production is polished and showcases the band’s musical prowess, with the guitar work of Rudolf Schenker and Matthias Jabs shining throughout.
Overall, “Crazy World” is a testament to Scorpions’ ability to create captivating rock music that resonates with listeners. It remains one of their most successful and beloved albums, cementing their place as one of the most influential bands in the history of hard rock.
12. Face the Heat (1993)
Released in 1993, Scorpions’ “Face the Heat” album solidified their reputation as one of the most influential and enduring rock bands of all time. With a mix of hard-hitting riffs, powerful vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics, the album showcases the band’s evolution while staying true to their signature sound.
“Face the Heat” dives deep into themes of personal introspection and societal challenges, addressing topics such as war, political unrest, and the struggle for survival in a rapidly changing world. Tracks like “Alien Nation” and “Under the Same Sun” deliver a potent blend of melodic hooks and hard-edged guitar work, while songs like “Woman” and “Lonely Nights” showcase the band’s ability to craft emotionally resonant ballads.
The album’s production is polished yet retains an authentic rawness, allowing the band’s energy and passion to shine through. Scorpions’ “Face the Heat” is a testament to their artistic maturity and ability to create music that resonates with listeners on both an emotional and intellectual level. It remains a staple in the band’s discography and a must-listen for fans of hard rock and heavy metal.
13. Pure Instinct (1996)
Scorpions’ “Pure Instinct” album, released in 1996, showcases the band’s ability to evolve and adapt while maintaining their signature hard rock sound. The album demonstrates a more mature and introspective approach to their music, reflecting the band’s growth and experiences over the years.
“Pure Instinct” blends heavy guitar riffs, melodic hooks, and powerful vocals to create a dynamic and captivating listening experience. The album features a diverse range of songs, from the energetic and anthemic tracks like “Wild Child” and “You and I” to the emotionally charged ballads such as “Where the River Flows” and “A Moment in a Million Years.”
Lyrically, “Pure Instinct” explores themes of love, relationships, self-reflection, and the complexities of human nature. The band’s craftsmanship and musicianship shine through each song, with memorable guitar solos and tight-knit rhythm sections.
Overall, Scorpions’ “Pure Instinct” album demonstrates their ability to deliver powerful and heartfelt rock music while pushing boundaries and embracing a more mature sound. It remains a standout release in the band’s extensive discography.
14. Eye II Eye (1999)
Scorpions’ “Eye II Eye” is a studio album released in 1999. The album showcases a significant departure from the band’s classic hard rock sound, as they experiment with a more contemporary and commercial approach. “Eye II Eye” features a diverse range of musical styles, incorporating elements of pop, electronic, and even R&B into their signature rock sound.
The album’s production is polished and sleek, with a focus on catchy hooks and melodic choruses. It includes tracks like “Mysterious,” which combines infectious pop sensibilities with the band’s trademark guitar-driven sound. Other standout songs include the emotionally charged ballad “10 Light Years Away” and the anthemic “A Moment in a Million Years.”
Although “Eye II Eye” received mixed reviews upon its release, it remains an interesting chapter in Scorpions’ discography. The album reflects the band’s willingness to explore new musical territories and adapt to the evolving trends of the late ’90s. Despite the departure from their classic sound, Scorpions’ passion and musicianship shine through, making “Eye II Eye” an intriguing addition to their catalog.
15. Unbreakable (2004)
Scorpions’ “Unbreakable” album, released in 2004, showcases the enduring power and creativity of this legendary rock band. With a career spanning several decades, the band proved that they were far from fading into obscurity. The album is a testament to their ability to consistently deliver hard-hitting rock anthems that resonate with fans old and new.
“Unbreakable” captures the essence of Scorpions’ signature sound, combining heavy guitar riffs, infectious melodies, and powerful vocals. The album features a perfect blend of energetic tracks like “New Generation” and “Love ’em or Leave ’em,” alongside heartfelt ballads such as “The Best Is Yet to Come” and “Maybe I Maybe You.” Scorpions’ lyrical themes touch upon love, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams, resonating with listeners on a profound level.
Overall, “Unbreakable” is a compelling and invigorating album that showcases Scorpions’ musical prowess and their ability to create timeless rock music that transcends generations. It stands as a testament to the band’s enduring legacy and their ability to stay true to their roots while evolving with the times.
16. Humanity: Hour I (2007)
Scorpions’ album “Humanity: Hour I” released in 2007 is a powerful and thought-provoking rock masterpiece. With their signature hard-hitting sound and melodic hooks, the band delivers a collection of songs that delve into the human condition and societal issues. The album opens with the epic title track, setting the tone for the album’s exploration of themes like war, religion, and the struggle for freedom. Tracks like “The Game of Life” and “We Were Born to Fly” showcase the band’s ability to craft anthemic rock tunes that resonate with listeners. “Humanity: Hour I” not only showcases Scorpions’ musical prowess but also offers a reflective look at the state of the world. With its rich production and powerful lyrical content, this album stands as a testament to the band’s enduring legacy in the rock genre.
17. Sting in the Tail (2010)
“Sting in the Tail” is the electrifying 2010 album by the iconic German rock band Scorpions. Packed with raw energy and melodic hooks, this album showcases the band’s timeless sound and songwriting prowess. From the opening track “Raised on Rock,” the album grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go until the final note of the epic title track. With its infectious riffs, soaring vocals, and powerful rhythm section, “Sting in the Tail” is a testament to the band’s ability to craft hard-hitting rock anthems. The album seamlessly blends classic rock elements with a contemporary edge, resulting in a collection of tracks that resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners. Whether it’s the adrenaline-fueled “No Limit,” the heartfelt ballad “The Good Die Young,” or the infectious “Rock Zone,” Scorpions deliver a masterclass in rock and roll on “Sting in the Tail,” solidifying their place as one of the genre’s most enduring acts.
18. Return to Forever (2015)
Scorpions’ “Return to Forever” is a captivating album that showcases the iconic band’s ability to deliver powerful and melodic rock music. Released in 2015, this album marks their 18th studio release and exhibits a perfect blend of the band’s signature sound with a modern twist. “Return to Forever” features an array of well-crafted songs that range from hard-hitting rock anthems to emotionally charged ballads.
The album captures the essence of Scorpions’ sound, with soaring guitar solos, infectious hooks, and Klaus Meine’s distinctive vocals taking center stage. Tracks like “We Built This House” and “Rock My Car” embody the band’s classic energy, while songs like “Eye of the Storm” and “House of Cards” delve into deeper introspection.
The album not only pays homage to Scorpions’ legacy but also reveals their ongoing relevance in the rock music scene. With a perfect balance of nostalgia and contemporary elements, “Return to Forever” solidifies Scorpions’ position as one of the most influential and enduring rock bands of all time.
19. Rock Believer (2022)
Scorpions’ “Rock Believer” album, released in 2022, is a stunning showcase of the band’s enduring talent and their unwavering dedication to the rock genre. With this album, Scorpions prove once again why they are regarded as one of the pioneers of hard rock.
“Rock Believer” features a collection of powerful and anthemic tracks that capture the essence of Scorpions’ signature sound. The album seamlessly blends heavy guitar riffs, infectious melodies, and Klaus Meine’s distinct vocals, creating a perfect balance between aggression and catchiness.
The songs on “Rock Believer” exhibit a renewed energy and a sense of maturity, showcasing the band’s growth while staying true to their roots. From the hard-hitting opener to the emotionally charged ballads, the album takes listeners on a dynamic journey, leaving no stone unturned. Scorpions’ mastery of songwriting is evident in the lyrical depth and themes explored on “Rock Believer.” The band delves into introspective topics, societal issues, and personal experiences, delivering a message that resonates with their devoted fanbase.
“Rock Believer” is a testament to Scorpions’ enduring legacy and their ability to create music that stands the test of time. With this album, they continue to inspire and solidify their status as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.
How many albums does Scorpions have?
The following is a comprehensive discography of Scorpions, a German rock band. The band have released NINETEEN studio albums, SIX live albums, THIRTEEN video albums, TWENTY-NINE compilation albums, ONE cover album, NINETY-TWO singles and FOURTY-THREE music videos.
All Scorpions Albums in Order of Release Date
Here is the list of Scorpions Album in Order of Release Date:
1. Lonesome Crow — 9 February 1972
2. Fly to the Rainbow — 1 November 1974
3. In Trance — 17 September 1975
4. Virgin Killer — 9 October 1976
5. Taken by Force — 4 December 1977
6. Lovedrive — 25 February 1979
7. Animal Magnetism — 31 March 1980
8. Blackout — 29 March 1982
9. Love at First Sting — 27 March 1984
10. Savage Amusement — 18 April 1988
11. Crazy World — 6 November 1990
12. Face the Heat — 21 September 1993
13. Pure Instinct — 21 May 1996
14. Eye II Eye — 9 March 1999
15. Unbreakable — 22 June 2004
16. Humanity: Hour I — 14 May 2007
17. Sting in the Tail — 19 March 2010
18. Return to Forever — 20 February 2015
19. Rock Believer — 25 February 2022
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the journey through the Scorpions’ albums is a testament to their enduring musical legacy. From their early releases like “Lonesome Crow” and “Fly to the Rainbow,” the band showcased their raw energy and creative potential. As they evolved, albums like “Lovedrive” and “Blackout” solidified their status as hard rock icons, featuring anthems that defined a generation. The power ballads of “Love at First Sting” and the melodic hooks of “Crazy World” demonstrated their versatility and songwriting prowess. Ultimately, the Scorpions’ discography culminated in “Return to Forever,” a nostalgic tribute to their rich history, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the future holds for this legendary band.
