The Top 10 Selling Albums of All Time
You may have heard of some of the most popular albums in music history, but have you ever wondered which ones have sold the most copies? In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 highest-selling albums of all time in the US.
1. Fleetwood Mac – “Rumours”
This 1977 album by Fleetwood Mac has sold over 40 million copies worldwide and is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. The album features hit songs such as “Go Your Own Way” and “Don’t Stop.”
2. Hootie & the Blowfish – “Cracked Rear View”
Released in 1994, “Cracked Rear View” was the debut album for Hootie & the Blowfish. The album was a commercial success, selling over 21 million copies in the US alone. It includes hit songs such as “Hold My Hand” and “Let Her Cry.”
3. Pink Floyd – “The Wall”
Released in 1979, “The Wall” is one of Pink Floyd’s most critically acclaimed albums. It sold over 23 million copies in the US and includes the hit song “Another Brick in the Wall”
4. Led Zeppelin – “Zeppelin IV”
This 1971 album by Led Zeppelin features some of the band’s most iconic songs such as “Black Dog” and “Stairway to Heaven.” The album has sold over 23 million copies in the US.
5. The Beatles – “The Beatles”
Also known as “The White Album,” this 1968 release by The Beatles is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. It has sold over 19 million copies in the US and features hit songs such as “Blackbird” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.”
6. AC/DC – “Back in Black”
This 1980 album by AC/DC is the band’s best-selling album, with over 22 million copies sold in the US alone. It includes hit songs such as “You Shook Me All Night Long” and “Hells Bells.”
7. Eagles – “Hotel California”
Released in 1976, “Hotel California” is one of the Eagles’ most iconic albums. It sold over 16 million copies in the US and includes hit songs such as “New Kid in Town” and the title track, “Hotel California.”
8. Michael Jackson – “Thriller”
Released in 1982, “Thriller” is the best-selling album of all time, with over 66 million copies sold worldwide. The album includes hit songs such as “Billie Jean” and “Thriller.”
9. Billy Joel – “Greatest Hits Volume I & Volume II”
Released in 1985, this Billy Joel compilation album includes some of his greatest hits such as “Piano Man” and “Uptown Girl.” The album has sold over 15 million copies in the US.
10. Led Zeppelin – “Physical Graffiti”
This 1975 album by Led Zeppelin has sold over 16 million copies in the US. It features hit songs such as “Kashmir” and “Trampled Under Foot.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How are album sales counted?
A: Album sales are counted by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) based on shipments to retailers and digital downloads.
Q: Are these the top selling albums worldwide?
A: These are the top selling albums in the US. Worldwide, the best-selling album is “Thriller” by Michael Jackson, with over 66 million copies sold.
Q: Are there any newer albums on this list?
A: All of the albums on this list were released before 2021, with most of them being released in the 1970s and 1980s.
Q: Are there any other albums close to making the top 10 list?
A: Some other albums that have sold over 15 million copies in the US include “Come On Over” by Shania Twain, “Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975” by the Eagles, and “Born in the U.S.A.” by Bruce Springsteen.
It’s clear that these albums have stood the test of time and continue to be popular among music fans. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, pop, or country, there’s something on this list for everyone. With so many great albums to choose from, it’s no wonder that these are the top 10 selling albums of all time.