Billboard Reveals Top 10 Biggest Albums of the 21st Century So Far

Billboard recently unveiled its list of the top albums of the 21st century, using data from the Billboard 200 chart as a benchmark. This list spans over two decades, from the year 2000 to the close of 2024, showcasing the albums that have left an indelible mark on music history.

At the top of the list is Morgan Wallen’s ‘Dangerous: The Double Album,’ a record that made an explosive debut at No. 1 on January 23, 2021. It dominated the chart for an impressive 10 consecutive weeks, holding its spot until March 27, 2021. Its massive success reflects not only Wallen’s impact on the country music scene but also how the genre continues to captivate mainstream audiences.

This isn’t just a rundown of bestsellers; it’s a reflection of how these records have connected with audiences worldwide. Whether it’s Adele’s heart-wrenching anthems in ‘21’ or the genre-defying storytelling of ‘Hamilton: An American Musical,’ these albums are cultural touchstones that transcend charts.

1. Morgan Wallen, ‘Dangerous: The Double Album’

Spotify

Wallen’s record-breaking country masterpiece, released in 2021, became a cultural phenomenon with its mix of heartfelt ballads and party anthems. It spent over 100 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart. 

Billboard noted that ‘Dangerous: The Double Album’ made history by being the first album to spend its initial 10 weeks at No. 1 since Whitney Houston’s ‘Whitney’ in 1987. By the end of 2024, it had stayed an impressive 158 weeks in the top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart.

2. Adele, ‘21’

Spotify

Adele’s 2011 emotional powerhouse, featuring hits like ‘Someone Like You’ and ‘Rolling in the Deep,’ is a universal favorite, earning Grammys and cementing her legacy as a vocal icon. Who remembers when she sold out the Royal Albert Hall and delivered powerful performances of ‘Set Fire to the Rain’ and ‘Rumour Has It’! That was the night she truly cemented herself as one of the all-time greats!

3. Taylor Swift, ‘Fearless’

Spotify

Swift’s 2008 breakout album blended country roots with pop crossover appeal. Tracks like ‘Love Story’ and ‘You Belong with Me’ propelled her into global superstardom. 

4. Taylor Swift, ‘1989’

Spotify

This 2014 album marked Swift’s full embrace of pop with smash hits like ‘Blank Space’ and ‘Shake It Off.’ It’s a certified pop-cultural landmark. the 1989 album is oten refered to asthe modern pop Bible!

5. Original Broadway Cast Recording, ‘Hamilton: An American Musical’

Spotify

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s genre-defying musical soundtrack, released in 2015, tells the story of America’s founding with rap, R&B, and Broadway flair, captivating audiences worldwide.

6. Morgan Wallen, ‘One Thing at a Time’

Spotify

Wallen strikes again with this 2023 album, showcasing his knack for storytelling and blending country with other genres, earning massive chart success.

7. Post Malone, ‘Hollywood’s Bleeding’

Spotify

Post Malone’s 2019 genre-bending album delivered chart-topping hits like ‘Circles,’ and Goodbyes’ proving his status as a modern certfified hitmaker.

8. Lil Baby, ‘My Turn’

Spotify

Lil Baby’s 2020 album became a hip-hop staple, showcasing his reflective lyrics and memorable hooks. Tracks like ‘Woah’ defined a new rap era.

9. Nickelback, ‘All the Right Reasons’

Spotify

Released in 2005, this rock album features enduring hits like ‘Photograph’ and ‘Rockstar,’ making it a go-to for nostalgic fans.

10. Lady Gaga, ‘The Fame’

Spotify

Gaga’s 2008 debut redefined pop with its infectious beats and boundary-pushing style. ‘Poker Face’ and ‘Just Dance’ became instant anthems.