Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

The Best Selling Rock Album of 2024 is Almost 50 Years Old

Ralf Liebhold / Shutterstock.com
Ralf Liebhold / Shutterstock.com

Fleetwood Mac's *Rumours*, originally released in 1977, has astonishingly become the best-selling rock album of 2024, a noteworthy achievement considering its initial release nearly five decades ago. According to Billboard's year-end album charts, *Rumours* ranked at number 34, making it the highest-charting rock album with the charts being largely dominated by genres like pop, country, and hip-hop. The album's consistent presence and prominence, even among contemporary releases, underscore its significant cultural impact and the undying nostalgia it carries among various generations of music lovers.

The 2024 Billboard year-end list notably features just 29 rock albums in the top 200, with Fleetwood Mac's *Rumours* leading the pack. What stands out is that the majority of these rock entries are greatest hits compilations, highlighting classic rock's sustained relevance. Alongside *Rumours*, albums like Nirvana's *Nevermind*, AC/DC's *Back in Black*, Linkin Park's *Hybrid Theory*, and Sublime's self-titled album also made it to the list, showing the staying power of rock music that defined previous eras. These albums, like *Rumours*, have transcended their original releases to capture the attention and admiration of both old fans and new listeners, demonstrating rock's robust legacy.

The ongoing popularity of *Rumours* can be attributed to several factors, including Fleetwood Mac's unique ability to blend their often turbulent personal lives with their music, creating a narrative that resonates on a deep and personal level with listeners. Additionally, the anticipated release of an Apple Original Films documentary about the band has likely reignited interest in their music. This documentary, directed by Frank Marshall, promises to delve into the defining moments of Fleetwood Mac's career, featuring never-before-seen footage and interviews, including commentary from the late Christine McVie.

The documentary’s focus on Fleetwood Mac's storied history, particularly after Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks joined in 1974, provides fans and newcomers alike with a comprehensive look at a band that achieved both critical and commercial success. This portrayal not only enriches the appreciation of their seminal album *Rumours* but also ensures that the band’s legacy continues to influence and entertain. The band’s ability to fuse personal narrative with musical genius is central to their timeless appeal, sustaining their relevance in an ever-evolving musical landscape.

In an era where contemporary music heavily features digital production and viral trends, the resurgence of interest in *Rumours* reaffirms the lasting value of authentic storytelling through music. *Rumours* is more than just an album; it's a historical artifact of rock music that continues to find new listeners and maintain a stronghold in the hearts of its longtime fans. With the added boost from the upcoming documentary, Fleetwood Mac's influence remains undiminished, proving that while music styles may evolve, the emotional and artistic depth that characterized much of the classic rock era still resonates today.

 

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

The National - Matt Berninger The National in concert at Castlefield Bowl, Manchester, UK - 04 Jul 2024

The National’s Matt Berninger Shares New Track Off Solo Album

Matt Berninger, the eminent frontman of The National, is carving a distinct path with his solo musical endeavors, which include…

Brad Arnold of the band 3 Doors Down performs at Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre on Saturday, June 17, 2023, in Tinley Park, Ill. 3 Doors Down, with Candlebox, in concert, Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre, Tinley Park, Illinois, USA - 17 Jun 2023

Brad Arnold of 3 Doors Down is Diagnosed With Stage 4 Kidney Cancer

Brad Arnold, the lead singer of the rock band 3 Doors Down, has publicly announced through a heartfelt video on…

LEFT PHOTO: CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons RIGHT PHOTO: CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Tool’s Adam Jones Performs for WWE Wrestler Penta’s New Entrance

In an exciting and dynamic crossover between the worlds of professional wrestling and heavy metal music, WWE wrestler Penta, also…

Rock band: The Who - lead vocalist Roger Daltrey, guitarist Pete Townshend, and drummer Keith Moon VARIOUS

The Who Teases Upcoming ‘The Song is Over’ Project

The renowned rock band The Who has once again captivated their audience with an intriguing announcement of their new project,…

Soundgarden - Chris Cornell SoundGarden In Concert, Whisky a Go Go, Los Angeles, USA - 07 Dec 1989

Soundgarden Plans to Release Last Album With Late Frontman, Chris Cornell

Soundgarden, one of the pioneering bands of the grunge movement, is moving forward with plans to release a final album…

LEFT PHOTO: 2005 Lollapalooza Day 2 Nathan Jerde of the Ponys RIGHT PHOTO: 2005 Lollapalooza Day 2 Nathan Jerde of the Ponys

Drummer, Nathan Jerde of The Ponys Has Died

Nathan Jerde, the talented drummer for the Chicago indie-rock band The Ponys, has passed away, leaving a significant void in…

Svenska: Katatonia på Grammisgalan på Cirkus, Stockholm den 20 februari 2013. Date 20 February 2013

Katatonia Unveils New Single ‘Temporal’

Swedish melancholic metal band Katatonia has once again captivated their audience with the release of their second single, “Temporal,” from…

Parkway Drive in concert @ Download Festival England 16.06.24 2024 Download Festival, Day 3, Donington Park, Leicestershire, UK - 16 Jun 2024

Parkway Drive Shares First New Single In Three Years

Australia’s renowned metalcore band, Parkway Drive, has returned with their latest single, “Sacred,” a musical piece that exudes both power…

Entertainer Jay-Z stands on the sideline with daughters Blue Ivy (L) and Rumi before the Philadelphia Eagles defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Sunday, February 9, 2025. Super Bowl Lix, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States - 09 Feb 2025

Jay-Z Claims Accuser is Still Making ‘Malicious’ Statements

Jay-Z, a renowned musician and entrepreneur, is currently embroiled in a legal battle that has brought significant economic and reputational…