The Crate
Duran Duran
Notorious
Notorious, Duran Duran’s fourth studio album, arrived on 24 November 1986. Co-produced by the band and Nile Rodgers, it marks a stylistic shift toward a funkier, dance-oriented sound and features the hits "Notorious," "Skin Trade," and "Meet El Presidente." It also stands as the first Duran Duran album released after significant lineup changes. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Notorious_%28Duran_Duran_album%29))
Recording History
Recordings took place June–September 1986 at West Side (London), AIR (London), Abbey Road (London), and Skyline (New York City). The project was produced by Duran Duran with Nile Rodgers. By the time of recording, Roger Taylor had left the band and Andy Taylor’s departure followed; Steve Ferrone played drums, and Warren Cuccurullo contributed on several tracks. The release date and sessions reflect a period of transition for the group. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Notorious_%28Duran_Duran_album%29))
Chart Performance & Recognition
Notorious peaked at #16 on the UK Albums Chart and #12 on the US Billboard 200. It was certified Gold in the UK and Platinum in the United States. The lead single “Notorious” reached #7 in the UK and #2 in the US; “Skin Trade” and “Meet El Presidente” charted lower but still reinforced the album’s mature, club-friendly direction. Critical reception was positive about the band’s evolution. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Notorious_%28Duran_Duran_album%29)) ([riaa.com](https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/?ar=duran+duran&tab_active=default-award&ti=notorious&utm_source=openai))
Cultural Impact & Legacy
The collaboration with Nile Rodgers shaped a lasting funk/disco-inflected arc in Duran Duran’s sound. The title track’s video and MTV rotation helped cement their late-1980s image. Notably, Duran Duran’s “Notorious” has been sampled and referenced in later works, including its influence on artists like Notorious B.I.G. and later remixes/covers. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Notorious_%28Duran_Duran_album%29)).