Let’s dive into the top 10 best-selling vinyl albums of all time! Here is a list, along with the record label and a brief history of each:
“The Dark Side of the Moon” by Pink Floyd (Harvest/EMI, 1973)
One of the best-selling vinyl records of all time.
Pink Floyd – One of the most influential rock bands of all time, Pink Floyd is known for their experimental and concept-driven albums. The band has released numerous live albums and live concert films over the years, including “Live at Pompeii” and “The Wall Live in Berlin.” The album launch concert for “The Dark Side of the Moon” was held at London’s Rainbow Theatre in 1972.
“Thriller” by Michael Jackson (Epic, 1982)
This vinyl record features some of Jackson’s biggest hits
Michael Jackson – The King of Pop, Michael Jackson was a groundbreaking musician and performer who sold millions of records throughout his career. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, and his vinyl records, such as “Thriller,” remain some of the best-selling of all time. Michael Jackson did not have a specific album launch concert for “Thriller,” but he did perform many of its tracks on his famous “Thriller” tour.
“The Bodyguard” soundtrack (Arista, 1992)
This soundtrack, featuring Whitney Houston, was one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time
Whitney Houston was known for her powerful voice and her ability to cross over between pop, R&B, and gospel music. She released several vinyl records throughout her career, including “Whitney Houston” and “The Bodyguard” soundtrack. There is no vinyl record of a specific album launch concert for “The Bodyguard” soundtrack, but Whitney Houston did perform several tracks from the album on her tours.
“Abbey Road” by The Beatles (Apple, 1969)
This album is widely regarded as one of the best albums of all time
One of the most influential bands in the history of music, The Beatles are known for their groundbreaking music, innovative recording techniques, and iconic live performances. The band released numerous albums throughout their career, including “Abbey Road” and “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.” The album launch concert for “Abbey Road” was held at the rooftop of the Apple Records building in London in 1969.
“Back in Black” by AC/DC (Atlantic, 1980)
This vinyl record was released after the death of Bon Scott, the band’s lead singer, and features Brian Johnson as the new lead vocalist.
One of the most successful and enduring rock bands of all time, AC/DC is known for their high-energy rock and roll and their iconic stage presence. The band has released numerous vinyl records throughout their career, including “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell.” There is no record of a specific album launch concert for “Back in Black,” but the band did tour extensively in support of the album.
“The Wall” by Pink Floyd (Harvest/EMI, 1979)
This concept album, which was later turned into a film
One of the most successful and influential rock bands of all time, Led Zeppelin is known for their powerful live performances, innovative musicianship, and their groundbreaking fusion of blues, rock, and folk music. The band has released several vinyl records throughout their career, including “Led Zeppelin IV” and “Houses of the Holy.” The LP launch concert for “Led Zeppelin IV” was not held as the album was released without any promotion or fanfare.
“Rumours” by Fleetwood Mac (Warner Bros., 1977)
This LP features some of Fleetwood Mac’s biggest hits
One of the most successful and influential bands of the 1970s, Fleetwood Mac is known for their harmonious blend of rock, pop, and blues. The band has released numerous albums throughout their career, including “Rumours” and “Tusk.” The album launch concert for “Rumours” was held in San Francisco in 1977.
“Appetite for Destruction” by Guns N’ Roses (Geffen, 1987)
This LP, which features hits like “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” was Guns N’ Roses’ breakthrough album and remains one of the best-selling debut vinyl record of all time.
Guns N’ Roses – One of the most successful and influential hard rock bands of all time is known for their rebellious attitude and their powerful live performances. The band has released several vinyl records throughout their career, including “Appetite for Destruction” and “Use Your Illusion.” There is no record of a specific album launch concert for “Appetite for Destruction,” but the band did tour extensively in support of the album.
“1984” by Van Halen (Warner Bros., 1984)
One of the most successful and influential hard rock bands of the 1980s, Van Halen is known for their explosive live performances and their innovative guitar work. The band has released several albums throughout their career, including “1984” and “For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge.” There is no record of a specific album launch concert for “1984,” but the band did tour extensively in support of the album.
“Led Zeppelin IV” by Led Zeppelin (Atlantic, 1971)
This LP, which features some of Led Zeppelin’s most iconic tracks.
One of the most successful and influential rock bands of all time, Led Zeppelin is known for their powerful live performances, innovative musicianship, and their groundbreaking fusion of blues, rock, and folk music. The band has released several albums throughout their career, including “Led Zeppelin IV” and “Houses of the Holy.” The album launch concert for “Led Zeppelin IV” was not held as the album was released without any promotion or fanfare
In conclusion
Music lovers have spurred a resurgence in the vinyl records industry with their preference for the unique sound and nostalgic feel that vinyl provides. The top 10 best-selling vinyl records lp of all time showcase iconic and enduring albums that have stood the test of time in the history of music. Whether you love hard rock, classic rock, pop, or punk, these records have something for everyone and continue to be treasured by fans worldwide.
So let’s keep the vinyl record tradition alive by expanding and spinning our collections. Holding a vinyl record in your hands, dropping the needle, and immersing yourself in the music holds a special significance in today’s digital world.
Spread your love for vinyl and #keepthemspinning.
The music will never die as long as we keep it spinning on our turntables.