- Band: The Clash
- Release Year: 1977
- Sales: 2,000,000
The Clash's self-titled album is a cornerstone of punk rock, known for its raw energy and politically charged lyrics. Recorded in just three weeks, it features iconic tracks like "White Riot" and "London's Burning." The album's cover, shot by Kate Simon, shows the band in a gritty urban setting to symbolize their rebellious spirit. Notably, the U.S. version of the album, released two years later, included additional tracks like "Complete Control" and "I Fought the Law," which were not on the original UK release. The Clash's debut set the stage for their influential career and the evolution of punk music.
- Band: Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Release Year: 1973
- Sales: 2,000,000
"Pronounced 'Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd" by Lynyrd Skynyrd features the iconic track "Free Bird," which became a staple of rock radio and live performances. The album was recorded at Studio One in Doraville, Georgia, and produced by Al Kooper, a notable figure in rock music. The band's name is a playful nod to a high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner, who was known for enforcing the school's policy against long hair. The album's Southern rock sound, characterized by its triple-guitar attack, helped define the genre and solidified Lynyrd Skynyrd's place in rock history.
- Band: The Pretenders
- Release Year: 1980
- Sales: 2,000,000
The Pretenders' self-titled album, released in 1980, is notable for its blend of punk, new wave, and rock influences. The band, fronted by Chrissie Hynde, quickly gained attention with hits like "Brass in Pocket" and "Kid." The album's raw energy and Hynde's distinctive voice set it apart contemporary bands. Guitarist James Honeyman-Scott's innovative playing also contributed to its unique sound. The album was both a commercial and critical success, reaching No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart. It remains influential, showcasing the band's ability to merge catchy melodies with edgy, punk-inspired instrumentation.
- Band: Aerosmith
- Release Year: 1973
- Sales: 2,000,000
Aerosmith's self-titled album features the iconic track "Dream On," which became a sleeper hit. It peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 three years after its release. The album was recorded in just two weeks at Intermedia Studios in Boston. It was not an initial success and wasn't even reviewed by Rolling Stone magazine upon its release. Despite an initially lukewarm reception, the album eventually went double platinum and appeared on sales charts in 1976. The raw, bluesy sound of the album set the stage for Aerosmith's future success.
- Band: Bad Company
- Release Year: 1974
- Sales: 5,000,000
Bad Company's self-titled album was recorded in just two weeks at Headley Grange, a former poorhouse in England. The album features the hit single "Can't Get Enough," which became a rock radio staple. The band, formed by members of Free, Mott the Hoople, and King Crimson, was one of the first to be signed to Led Zeppelin's Swan Song Records. The minimalist cover art, a stark black background with the band's name in white, reflects the straightforward, no-frills rock sound that defined the album. It quickly went platinum, solidifying the band's place in rock history.
- Band: Jimi Hendrix
- Release Year: 1967
- Sales: 5,000,000
Are You Experienced by The Jimi Hendrix Experience is renowned for its groundbreaking fusion of rock, blues, and psychedelia. The album features iconic tracks like "Purple Haze" and "Hey Joe," which showcased Hendrix's innovative guitar techniques and use of feedback. It was recorded in only 16 days and produced by Chas Chandler, former bassist of The Animals. The album's cover art, designed by Karl Ferris, became celebrated in its own right. Despite initial mixed reviews, it has since been hailed as one of the greatest rock albums of all time.
- Band: The Cars
- Release Year: 1978
- Sales: 6,000,000
The Cars' self-titled album, released in 1978, is often hailed as a cornerstone of new wave rock. It features the hit singles "Just What I Needed," "My Best Friend's Girl," and "Good Times Roll." The album was produced by Roy Thomas Baker, known for his work with Queen. Remarkably, all nine tracks received significant airplay, a rare feat for a single album. The album's blend of rock, punk, and synth-pop elements helped define the sound of the late '70s and influenced countless bands that followed.
- Band: Ozzy Osbourne
- Release Year: 1980
- Sales: 6,000,000
Blizzard of Ozz marked Ozzy Osbourne's first solo project after leaving Black Sabbath. The album features the iconic track "Crazy Train," which eventually went double platinum. Guitarist Randy Rhoads' innovative playing style on this album earned him legendary status. The song "Mr. Crowley" is inspired by the infamous occultist Aleister Crowley. Despite initial skepticism from critics, the album achieved multi-platinum status. The recording sessions were completed in just a few weeks. Blizzard of Ozz played a crucial role in defining the sound of 1980s heavy metal and establishing Ozzy Osbourne as a solo artist.
- Band: Counting Crows
- Release Year: 1993
- Sales: 7,000,000
August and Everything After by Counting Crows features the hit single "Mr. Jones," which catapulted the band to fame. The album's cover art displays handwritten lyrics to a song that wasn't included on the album. Produced by T-Bone Burnett, the album blends rock with folk influences. The band’s frontman, Adam Duritz, drew inspiration from his own life, infusing the lyrics with personal and introspective themes. The album was critically acclaimed and went multi-platinum, establishing Counting Crows as a significant force in the 1990s rock scene.
- Band: Queen
- Release Year: 1973
- Sales: 7,000,000
Queen's self-titled album features a mix of hard rock and progressive rock elements, showcasing the band's early experimentation with complex arrangements and multi-tracked harmonies. Notably, the track "Keep Yourself Alive" was one of the first songs Freddie Mercury wrote for the band. Brian May used a homemade guitar, the "Red Special," which contributed to the album's distinctive sound. The song "Liar" became a fan favorite during live performances. The album cover, designed by Mick Rock, features a striking black-and-white photo of the band.
- Band: Oasis
- Release Year: 1994
- Sales: 8,000,000
Definitely Maybe by Oasis is often hailed as one of the greatest albums in rock history. It became the fastest-selling debut album in the UK at the time. The album features legendary tracks like "Live Forever" and "Supersonic," which helped define the Britpop era. Recorded in a succinct 15 days, the album showcases the raw energy and swagger of the band. Despite initial mixed reviews, Definitely Maybe has since been critically acclaimed and is frequently listed in "greatest albums" lists. The album's success catapulted Oasis to international fame, setting the stage for an influential career.
- Band: Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
- Release Year: 1970
- Sales: 8,000,000
Déjà Vu by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young features a blend of rock, folk, and country influences. The album was recorded during a tumultuous period marked by personal and professional challenges, including the breakup of relationships and the death of Nash's girlfriend. Despite this, it became a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard 200. The album includes renowned tracks like "Teach Your Children" and "Woodstock." Notably, it was one of the first albums to be certified multi-platinum by the RIAA. The intricate harmonies and diverse musical styles showcased the individual talents of each member.
- Band: Black Sabbath
- Release Year: 1970
- Sales: 10,000,000
Black Sabbath's self-titled album, released in 1970, is often credited with pioneering the heavy metal genre. The album was recorded in a single day, capturing a raw and unpolished musical sound. The opening track, "Black Sabbath," features the tritone, also known as "the devil's interval," which was considered taboo in classical music. The album cover, featuring a mysterious woman in black, added to its eerie and dark aesthetic. Despite initial critical panning, the album gained a massive following and has since been hailed as one of the most influential records in rock history.
- Band: Van Halen
- Release Year: 1978
- Sales: 10,000,000
Van Halen's self-titled album revolutionized rock music with Eddie Van Halen's innovative guitar techniques, including the iconic two-handed tapping on "Eruption." The album was recorded in about three weeks and was produced by Ted Templeman. "Runnin' with the Devil" and "Ain't Talkin' 'bout Love" became instant classics. David Lee Roth's dynamic vocals and stage presence, combined with Michael Anthony's backing vocals and solid bass lines, set the band apart. The album's raw energy and technical prowess influenced countless musicians and remains a cornerstone in rock history.
- Band: Led Zeppelin
- Release Year: 1969
- Sales: 10,000,000
Led Zeppelin's self-titled album (sometimes referred to as Led Zeppelin I) was recorded in quick sessions totaling a short 36 hours. It cost less than £1,800 to produce. The album features a mix of blues and hard rock, showcasing Jimmy Page's innovative guitar techniques and Robert Plant's powerful vocals. "Dazed and Confused," one of the standout tracks, became a staple of their live performances, often extending to over 20 minutes. The iconic cover art, featuring the Hindenburg disaster, was a nod to the band's explosive impact on the music scene. Despite initial mixed reviews, the album has since been hailed as a classic.
- Band: Eagles
- Release Year: 1972
- Sales: 10,000,000
The Eagles' self-titled album features the iconic hit "Take It Easy," co-written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey. Recorded in London, it was produced by Glyn Johns, known for his work with The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin. The album blends rock, country, and folk influences, showcasing the band's signature harmonies. "Witchy Woman" and "Peaceful Easy Feeling" also became fan favorites. The cover art, a desert scene with a soaring eagle, reflects the band's Southwestern roots. This album laid the foundation for the Eagles' future success and enduring legacy in rock music.
- Band: The Beatles
- Release Year: 1963
- Sales: 10,000,000
Please Please Me by The Beatles was recorded in a mere 13 hours at Abbey Road Studios. The album features a mix of original songs and covers, showcasing the band's early rock and roll influences. Notably, John Lennon had a bad cold during the recording of "Twist and Shout," and the song features his raw, raspy vocals. The album's success helped catapult The Beatles to international fame, setting the stage for the British Invasion. It also marked the beginning of their long collaboration with producer George Martin, who played a crucial role in shaping their sound.
- Band: Pearl Jam
- Release Year: 1991
- Sales: 13,000,000
Pearl Jam's Ten is notable for its raw, powerful sound and introspective lyrics, which helped define the grunge movement of the early 1990s. The album's title refers to the jersey number of NBA player Mookie Blaylock, whom the band initially named themselves after. Ten features iconic tracks like "Alive," "Even Flow," and "Jeremy," each telling deeply personal stories. Despite initial slow sales, the album eventually went 13-times platinum in the U.S. The band's lineup during the recording included Eddie Vedder, Stone Gossard, Jeff Ament, Mike McCready, and Dave Krusen on drums.
- Band: The Doors
- Release Year: 1967
- Sales: 20,000,000
The Doors' self-titled album features the memorable track "Light My Fire," which became a number one hit and a defining song of the 1960s. The album was recorded quickly over six days at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles. Jim Morrison's deep, haunting vocals and Ray Manzarek's distinctive keyboard playing gave the band a unique sound. "The End," an 11-minute epic, was famously used in the film Apocalypse Now (1979). The album cover, featuring a photo by Guy Webster, has become one of rock's most recognizable images. The Doors' fusion of rock, blues, and psychedelia helped shape the counterculture movement.
- Band: Guns N' Roses
- Release Year: 1987
- Sales: 30,000,000
Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses is one of the best-selling albums of all time, with over 30 million copies sold worldwide. The album cover, initially controversial, was replaced with a now-iconic cross and skulls design. It features hits like "Sweet Child o' Mine" and "Welcome to the Jungle," which became anthems of the late 1980s rock scene. The raw, gritty sound was a stark contrast to the polished glam rock of the era. Slash's guitar riffs and Axl Rose's distinctive voice set a new standard for rock music, influencing countless bands that followed.
