Backstage Pass

4. Amy Winehouse, “Back to Black” (Universal): Tabloid-ready exploits aside, Amy Winehouse proves she is a major talent on “Back to Black.” With the help of producer Mark Ronson, she modernizes ‘60s soul with her lyrics and themes and then sells them with her gorgeous voice. The ballads, especially the title track and “Love Is a Losing Game,” become even more heartbreaking in light of her recent troubles.

Amy Winehouse, "Back to Black"

3. Bruce Springsteen, “Magic” (Columbia): Springsteen uses a masterful bit of songwriting hocus-pocus here, using big, broad rock anthems to point out the uncertainties of today’s world. His protests – “Long Walk Home,” “Livin’ in the Future” or even “I’ll Work for Your Love” – are personal ones, but when a stadium full of fans are singing along, they become much, much bigger.

Bruce Springsteen, "Long Walk Home"

2. Stars, “In Our Bedroom After the War” (Arts & Crafts): Sometimes, the Canadian orchestral-popsters Stars use love songs to sing about the war. Sometimes, they use wartime anthems to sing about love. In either case, the rousing title track and the giddy “Take Me to the Riot” are among the year’s brainiest and catchiest pop songs.

Stars, "Take Me to the Riot"

1. Jay-Z, “American Gangster” (Roc-a-Fella): In the film “American Gangster,” Jay-Z found a muse that let him channel feelings that were deeper than popular hip-hop generally allows and a character that could discuss self-doubt, paranoia and possible failure. Put that together with stylish, throwback soul samples and you get the triumphant “Roc Boys,” the brash “Ignorant ----“ and an album that will stand as a classic.

Jay-Z, "Roc Boys"