The Most Popular Album of All Time, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the album you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 9, 2024 06:29
Music fans often hold passionate debates about which album should be crowned the most popular of all time. Ranking these albums isn't just about seeing which artist tops the chart; it's about sharing individual experiences and memories associated with those iconic tunes. Each vote cast is a reflection of personal taste, cultural impact, and perhaps a moment in time that defines someone's musical journey.
By participating in this ranking, voters contribute to a broader narrative of musical history. The live results not only show which albums are resonating with audiences today but also track changing trends in music appreciation over time. This dynamic scoring allows new fans and seasoned listeners alike to see how their favorite albums stack up in the wider community.
What Is the Most Popular Album of All Time?
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164votes
Thriller by Michael Jackson
Michael JacksonWith over 110 million copies sold worldwide, Thriller remains the best-selling album of all time. Its iconic songs and music videos, including "Beat It" and "Thriller," revolutionized the music industry and cemented Michael Jackson's status as the King of Pop.Thriller is the sixth studio album by American singer Michael Jackson, released on November 30, 1982. It is widely regarded as the best-selling album of all time, having sold over 66 million copies worldwide. Thriller incorporates a mix of pop, R&B, funk, rock, and post-disco genres, making it a groundbreaking and influential record. The album features production from Quincy Jones and showcases Jackson's exceptional vocal range and dance-oriented musical style. Thriller produced a record-breaking seven top 10 hits, including iconic tracks like 'Billie Jean,' 'Beat It,' and the title track 'Thriller.' It revolutionized the music video industry through Jackson's visually stunning and highly choreographed videos, most notably the 14-minute-long 'Thriller' short film. The album's success not only elevated Jackson to the status of pop icon but also established him as an innovative and trendsetting artist.- Release Date: November 30, 1982
- Genre(s): Pop, R&B, Funk, Rock, Post-disco
- Record Label: Epic
- Producer: Quincy Jones
- Sales: Over 66 million copies worldwide
Thriller by Michael Jackson in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most successful pop album
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular cassette tape
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225votes
Back in Black by AC/DC
AC/DCReleased in 1980, Back in Black is the second best-selling album of all time, with more than 50 million copies sold worldwide. Its hard-hitting rock anthems, such as "Hells Bells" and "Back in Black," continue to inspire generations of music fans.Back in Black is the seventh studio album by Australian rock band AC/DC, released in 1980. It is one of the most popular and influential albums of all time, considered a landmark in hard rock and heavy metal music.- Genre: Hard rock, heavy metal
- Release Date: July 25, 1980
- Recorded: April-May 1980
- Label: Atlantic Records
- Producer: Robert John 'Mutt' Lange
Back in Black by AC/DC in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most successful pop album
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315votes
Pink Floyd / Reproduction : Kilyann Le Hen · Public domainThe Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd
Pink FloydConsidered one of the greatest albums of all time, The Dark Side of the Moon has sold over 45 million copies worldwide. Its psychedelic rock sound and thought-provoking lyrics have made it a timeless classic.The Dark Side of the Moon is a progressive rock album by the English band Pink Floyd. It was released on March 1, 1973, and quickly became one of the most popular albums of all time. The album explores various themes such as mental health, fame, and the human condition, and is known for its innovative use of sound effects, elaborate instrumental compositions, and thought-provoking lyrics. Its seamless blending of different musical styles and genres, including rock, jazz, and electronic elements, contributed to its lasting impact in the music industry.- Release Date: March 1, 1973
- Genre: Progressive rock
- Record Label: Harvest
- Total Length: 42:49
- Number of Tracks: 10
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418votes
The Eagles Greatest Hits (1971-1975)
The EaglesWith over 42 million copies sold worldwide, The Eagles Greatest Hits is the best-selling greatest hits album of all time. Featuring classic rock hits such as "Hotel California" and "Take it Easy," it remains a fan favorite decades after its release.The Eagles Greatest Hits (1971-1975) is a compilation album by the American rock band The Eagles. It was released in 1976 and quickly became one of the most popular albums of all time. The album includes some of the band's biggest hits from their early years, providing a comprehensive overview of their sound and success during that period.- Release Date: 1976
- Genre: Rock
- Length: 43:08
- Label: Asylum
- Certifications: 29x Platinum (RIAA)
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520votes
Led Zeppelin IV by Led Zeppelin
Led ZeppelinReleased in 1971, Led Zeppelin IV is one of the most influential and best-selling albums of all time, with over 37 million copies sold worldwide. Its hard rock sound and iconic songs, such as "Stairway to Heaven," have made it a timeless classic.Led Zeppelin IV is the fourth studio album by the English rock band Led Zeppelin, released in 1971. It is widely considered one of the greatest and most popular rock albums of all time. The album features a blend of various music genres including hard rock, folk, blues, and acoustic elements.- Release Date: November 8, 1971
- Runtime: 42 minutes
- Label: Atlantic Records
- Producer: Jimmy Page
- Chart Performance: Reached #1 in multiple countries
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611votes
Rumours by Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood MacReleased in 1977, Rumours has sold over 40 million copies worldwide and won the Grammy award for Album of the Year. Its iconic songs, including "Go Your Own Way" and "Dreams," continue to inspire generations of music fans.Rumours is the eleventh studio album by the British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac. It was released on February 4, 1977, by Warner Bros. Records. The album is known for its unique blend of rock, pop, and soft rock, and is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. It features heartfelt lyrics, beautiful harmonies, and catchy melodies that have captivated audiences for decades.- Release Date: February 4, 1977
- Label: Warner Bros. Records
- Genre: Rock, Pop, Soft Rock
- Length: 39:07
- Number of Tracks: 11
Rumours by Fleetwood Mac in other rankings- Position 4 of 10 in Most successful pop album
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720votes
Bat Out of Hell by Meat Loaf
Meat LoafReleased in 1977, Bat Out of Hell has sold over 43 million copies worldwide and remains one of the best-selling albums of all time. Its theatrical rock sound and epic songs, such as "Paradise by the Dashboard Light," have made it a cult classic.Bat Out of Hell is a rock opera album by Meat Loaf, released in 1977. It was predominantly written by Jim Steinman and produced by Todd Rundgren. The album features an epic and grandiose fusion of rock and roll, pop, and theatrical elements, with emotionally charged and storytelling lyrics. It is known for its bombastic and larger-than-life sound, characterized by soaring vocals, multi-layered instrumentation, and orchestral arrangements. Bat Out of Hell became one of the best-selling albums worldwide, selling over 50 million copies to date.- Release Date: October 21, 1977
- Genre: Rock
- Length: 46 minutes and 33 seconds
- Label: Cleveland International, Epic
- Producer: Todd Rundgren
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812votes
Saturday Night Fever Soundtrack
Various artistsReleased in 1977, the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack has sold over 45 million copies worldwide and won the Grammy award for Album of the Year. Featuring disco hits such as "Stayin' Alive" and "Night Fever," it remains a cultural touchstone of the disco era.The Saturday Night Fever Soundtrack is a highly influential album that was released in 1977. It served as the soundtrack to the movie 'Saturday Night Fever' and played a significant role in popularizing disco music. The album features a collection of disco hits performed by various artists, with the Bee Gees contributing the majority of the tracks. It became an instant success and went on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time.- Release date: November 15, 1977
- Genre: Disco
- Label: RSO Records
- Length: 75 minutes
- Number of tracks: 17
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90votes
The Bodyguard Soundtrack
Various ArtistsReleased in 1992, The Bodyguard soundtrack has sold over 45 million copies worldwide and won the Grammy award for Album of the Year. Featuring Whitney Houston's iconic rendition of "I Will Always Love You," it remains one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time.The Bodyguard Soundtrack is the soundtrack album for the film 'The Bodyguard', released in 1992. It features recordings by various artists, predominantly Whitney Houston. The album became one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time and has sold over 45 million copies worldwide.- Release Date: November 17, 1992
- Genre: R&B, pop, soul
- Label: Arista
- Length: 57 minutes 37 seconds
- Number of Tracks: 12
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109votes
Come On Over by Shania Twain
Shania TwainReleased in 1997, Come On Over has sold over 40 million copies worldwide and remains the best-selling country album of all time. Featuring hits such as "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" and "You're Still the One," it helped to popularize country music beyond its traditional audience.Come On Over is the third studio album by Canadian singer-songwriter Shania Twain. It was released on November 4, 1997, and is considered one of the most successful albums of all time. The album showcases Twain's unique blend of country and pop music, featuring catchy melodies and relatable lyrics.- Release Date: November 4, 1997
- Genre: Country, Pop
- Label: Mercury Nashville
- Total tracks: 16
- Certifications: Diamond (USA, CAN); Various certifications worldwide
Come On Over by Shania Twain in other rankings- Position 7 of 10 in Most successful pop album
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Ranking factors for popular album
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Chart performanceThe duration an album has spent on music charts, such as the Billboard 200 or UK Albums Chart, as well as its peak position, can indicate its popularity. Albums that have spent long periods in the top 10 or have reached the number 1 position are often considered highly popular.
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Critical acclaimThe reception and reviews an album has received from music critics and publications also play a role in determining its popularity. Albums with high scores on aggregators such as Metacritic or strong reviews from influential critics or publications can enhance their popularity.
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Awards and accoladesThe number of awards an album has won, such as Grammy Awards or other major music awards, can be used as an indicator of its popularity and success.
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Timelessness and longevityAn album's popularity can be gauged by how long its appeal has lasted, if it remains well-regarded years or decades after its release, or if it continues to sell copies and gain new fans.
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Streaming and online engagementIn the digital age, the number of streams an album has garnered on platforms like Spotify or Apple Music, as well as views and engagement on YouTube or other social media platforms, can be an indicator of its popularity.
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Fanbase and fandomsThe size and dedication of an album's fanbase can be an important factor in determining its overall popularity. Loyal fanbases promote, share, and engage with an artist's work, contributing to its popularity and longevity.
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Worldwide appealAn album's popularity outside its home territory or across different regions and countries can also indicate its overall success and appeal, especially if it transcends cultural and linguistic barriers.
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Influence on other artistsThe impact that an album has had on other musicians and bands, in terms of inspiring their own work or shaping their sound, can also contribute to its popularity, as it becomes an important touchstone in music history.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular album of all time. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Album is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1607 views
- 193 votes
- 10 ranked items
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Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Album once every 24 hours. The rank of each Album is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular album of all time
The world of music has produced countless albums throughout the years, each with its own unique sound and style. From classic rock to hip-hop, there is no shortage of genres to choose from. But when it comes to determining the most popular album of all time, the answer is not so clear-cut.
There are many factors that come into play when considering the popularity of an album, such as sales figures, critical acclaim, and cultural impact. Some albums have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by fans decades after their release, while others have faded into obscurity.
In this article, we will explore the contenders for the title of "most popular album of all time" and examine why these albums have resonated with audiences around the world. Whether you're a music aficionado or simply curious about the history of popular music, this is a topic that is sure to fascinate and inspire.
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