Through her many critiques and aesthetics, Lana Del Rey managed to become a star of the 2010s by shaping modern pop. This ranking takes a perspective into the mind of Lana as seen in her seven distinct records.

1. Norman F***ing Rockwell is Lana’s greatest record to date, tying her best lyricism with enchanting production. From the elegant piano ballads “Cinnamon Girl” and title track “Norman F***ing Rockwell,” to the alluring electric guitar in “The Greatest” and the swooning 9-minute track “Venice B****,” NFR flawlessly combines each song with utmost emotion and thought.
2. Ultraviolence, a record jammed with psychedelic rock and pop, is full of dreamy songs for any occasion. Tracks like “Brooklyn Baby” prove this with dashing guitar riffs while referencing an expected collaboration with Lou Reed until his passing. Other highlights include “West Coast,” with its striking instrumentals and “Shades Of Cool” with the bridge’s unforgettable guitar solo. The album concludes with a delightful cover of Nina Simone’s “The Other Woman.”
3. Blue Banisters, Lana’s most recent record to date, is her most laid back and conciliating. From the momentous screams on “Dealer” to the previously unreleased songs “Thunder” and “Cherry Blossom” which fans have cherished for years, this album showcases Lana’s lyrical talents. Other tracks such as “Sweet Carolina” and “Living Legend” display the rawness used throughout the album.
4. Born To Die is unapologetic and glamorous, introducing Lana as an artist. Filled with pop classics such as her charming hit “Video Games,” and the sad girl anthem “Summertime Sadness,” BTD is the record to blast during hot summer days. Though lyricism was on the weaker side in this debut, songs including “Radio,” “Diet Mountain Dew,” and “Off To The Races” strengthen this pop album, proving its deserving status as one of the longest charting albums on the Billboard 200.
5. Chemtrails Over The Country Club, released with many delays amidst the pandemic, still manages to carry on the melancholic legacy NFR left with stripped back production. Songs that stand out include “Dark But Just A Game,” “Yosemite,” and “Chemtrails Over The Country Club.” Though the delayed release in quarantine weakened the record as a whole, some of her best work appears in this album, such as “White Dress,” where Lana reflects on her past life as a waitress.
6. Honeymoon, Lana’s fourth studio album, is full of silky instrumentals with cheeky lyrics to fall in love with. Although a few tracks feel monotonous, some of her discography’s best bridges are found on “The Blackest Day” and “Terrence Loves You.” She also reveals the more delicate side to her voice with iridescent vocals on “Honeymoon” and “Salvatore.”
7. Lust for Life is the most experimental record of Lana’s discography, blending different genres such as pop, hip-hop, trap, and folk. This album also has a range of collaborations, from The Weeknd to Stevie Nicks. Although there are many highlights off the album, including “Love,” “Cherry,” and “Get Free,” the record lacked cohesiveness from track to track. However, Lust for Life successfully expanded her artistry and attracted new audiences as it inspired the legendary NFR.

This piece also appears in our September 2022 print edition.