See also: 1991 in music, other events of 1992, 1993 in music, 1990s in music and the list of 'years in music'

Table of contents
1 Events
2 Albums released
3 Top hits on record
4 Musical theater
5 Musical films
6 Births
7 Deaths
8 Awards

Events

1992 was a pivotal year in the development of music. Perhaps the most notable event was the release of The Chronic by Dr. Dre. Though other artists (including Dr. Dre as a member of N.W.A, and Public Enemy, LL Cool J and Kurtis Blow) had achieved some mainstream success, The Chronic was the first real blockbuster hip hop album. It presaged the future mainstream dominance of hip hop, as well as the beginning of G funk-West Coast rap's rule as the most popular and influential type of hip hop.

Thrash metal began moving in a more swiftly-paced direction, strongly influenced by hip hop and other musical trends with the release of Countdown to Extinction (Megadeth) and Vulgar Display of Power (Pantera). Both albums were well-received by heavy metal fans, though popular success was scarce.

The Spin Doctors' Pocket Full of Kryptonite spawned three huge hits this year. Though the band was never able to recreate this success, it foreshadowed the future rise of popular jam bands like Phish and Dave Matthews Band.

Albums released

Top hits on record

Musical theater

  • Crazy For You     Broadway production
  • Falsettoes     Broadway production
  • Guys and Dolls     Broadway revival
  • Jelly's Last Jam     Broadway production
  • The Most Happy Fella     Broadway revival

Musical films

Births

Deaths

Awards