50 Best Selling Bands of All Time

In the world of music, certain bands have captured the hearts of millions, leaving a lasting mark with their unique styles and timeless tunes. These iconic groups have not only produced classic tunes but have also achieved huge success in terms of sales and fanbase. In this article, we will look at the best selling bands of all time and how they have shaped cultural and musical landscapes.

Best Selling Bands of All Time

Throughout music history, some bands have achieved incredible success, selling millions of albums worldwide. Their timeless melodies and powerful performances have resonated with fans across generations. Their record-breaking sales and enduring popularity continue to solidify their status as some of the best-selling bands of all time.

1. The Beatles

• Number of Units Sold: 183 million
• Net Worth: $2.8 billion

The Beatles, formed in Liverpool in 1960, with members John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, are widely regarded as the most influential band in history. Their groundbreaking fusion of skiffle, beat, rock ‘n’ roll, and exploration of diverse genres like folk and psychedelia revolutionized popular music. Pioneers in recording and songwriting, they epitomized the sociocultural movements of the 1960s and remain one of the best selling bands of all time.

2. Eagles

• Number of Units Sold: 120 million
• Net Worth: $4.9 billion

The Eagles, born in LA in 1971, became rock legends with hits like “Take It Easy” and “Witchy Woman” from their 1972 debut album. Achieving their first US number-one with “One of These Nights” in 1975, the band, featuring Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Bernie Leadon, and Randy Meisner, initially formed under Linda Ronstadt’s influence. Signed to David Geffen’s Asylum Records, they earned six Grammys and five American Music Awards, solidifying their status as one of the best selling rock bands of all time.

3. Led Zeppelin

• Number of Units Sold: 111.5 million
• Net Worth: $900 million

Led Zeppelin, one of the biggest selling bands and an iconic English rock group formed in London in 1968, included Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham. Pioneering hard rock and heavy metal, their guitar-driven sound blended blues and folk. Despite early criticism, they shaped the music scene, influencing album-oriented rock and stadium performances. Across a decade, they released eight studio albums, starting with their 1969 debut featuring hits like “Good Times Bad Times” and “Dazed and Confused.” Their enduring impact defined a transformative era in rock history.

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4. AC/DC

• Number of Units Sold: 75 million
• Net Worth: $400 million

Formed in 1973 by Australian siblings Angus and Malcolm Young, AC/DC is an iconic rock band with members Angus Young, Cliff Williams, Phil Rudd, Brian Johnson, and Stevie Young. Their music, often described as hard rock and blues rock, has had a major impact on rock and metal. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, AC/DC continues to be a powerhouse in the music world.

5. Pink Floyd

• Number of Units Sold: 75 million
• Net Worth: $800 million

Formed in London in 1965, Pink Floyd swiftly rose to prominence as trailblazers of British psychedelic music. Led by Syd Barrett, the original lineup, including Nick Mason, Roger Waters, and Richard Wright, delivered hits like “Arnold Layne” and “See Emily Play,” culminating in the acclaimed debut album “The Piper at the Gates of Dawn” (1967). With their experimental sound and profound lyrics, Pink Floyd became iconic in progressive rock, leaving an enduring impact on music history.

6. Aerosmith

• Number of Units Sold: 66.5 million
• Net Worth: $530 million

Aerosmith, born in Boston in 1970, boasts Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Joey Kramer, and Brad Whitford. Famed as the “Bad Boys from Boston” and hailed as “America’s Greatest Rock and Roll Band,” their bluesy hard rock style, blending pop rock, heavy metal, and rhythm and blues, has influenced countless artists. The “Toxic Twins,” Tyler and Perry, form a legendary songwriting duo, leaving an indelible mark on the global rock scene. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

7. The Rolling Stones

• Number of Units Sold: 66.5 million
• Net Worth: $1.45 billion

The Rolling Stones, formed in London in 1962, have been a rock icon for seven decades. The original lineup included Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Brian Jones, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts. Initially led by Jones, they began writing their own songs in 1963, shaping the gritty, rhythm-driven sound of hard rock. Their dynamic talent cements their status as enduring legends in the rock era.

8. Metallica

• Number of Units Sold: 63 million
• Net Worth: $1 billion

Formed in 1981 in Los Angeles, Metallica, an iconic American heavy metal band, primarily operates from San Francisco. Renowned as part of the thrash metal “big four” with Megadeth, Anthrax, and Slayer, their aggressive musicianship and rapid tempos define the genre. The current lineup features founders James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo, with notable past members like Dave Mustaine and Cliff Burton. They stand among the best selling rock bands of all time.

9. Van Halen

• Number of Units Sold: 56.5 million
• Net Worth: $350 million

Hailing from Pasadena, California, Van Halen emerged in 1973, injecting new life into hard rock. Led by the legendary Eddie Van Halen’s unmatched guitar prowess, the band, including Alex Van Halen, David Lee Roth, and Michael Anthony, captivated audiences with dynamic live performances. Their 1978 debut album achieved Diamond status, solidifying their iconic status in rock history as one of the biggest selling bands.

10. Fleetwood Mac

• Number of Units Sold: 54.5 million
• Net Worth: $551 million

Founded in 1967 by guitarist and singer Peter Green in London, Fleetwood Mac underwent lineup changes, welcoming members like Mick Fleetwood and Jeremy Spencer. John McVie replaced Bob Brunning soon after their debut, and Christine Perfect officially joined in 1970, becoming Christine McVie. The band, boasting 120 million global record sales, earned a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 1979, cementing their status as one of the world’s top-selling music acts.

11. U2

• Number of Units Sold: 52 million
• Net Worth: $1.8 billion

U2, the legendary Irish rock band formed in 1976 in Dublin, features Bono (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), the Edge (lead guitar, keyboards, backing vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums). Known for their anthemic sound, Bono’s emotive vocals, and the Edge’s effects-laden guitar, they’ve achieved global success with dynamic live performances and profound lyrics exploring spiritual and sociopolitical themes. U2 is among the world’s best selling bands of all time.

Cross-Reference: U2

12. Journey

• Number of Units Sold: 48 million
• Net Worth: $128 million

Formed in 1973 in San Francisco, Journey, a rock band with members from Santana, Steve Miller Band, and Frumious Bandersnatch, soared to fame from 1978 to 1987 with vocalist Steve Perry. Hits like “Don’t Stop Believin'” (1981) marked their peak. The 2021 lineup features Neal Schon, Jonathan Cain, Jason Derlatka, Deen Castronovo, Todd Jensen, and Arnel Pineda. Their iTunes highlight came in 2009 with the success of “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

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13. Alabama

• Number of Units Sold: 46.5 million
• Net Worth: $1.6 billion

Formed in 1969 in Fort Payne, Alabama, the country music sensation Alabama, led by Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry, rose to fame in the 1980s. Originally called Wildcountry, they rebranded in 1977 after achieving chart-topping success. With 27 number ones and seven multi-platinum albums, Alabama became a country music powerhouse, securing a recording deal with RCA Records. Their ’80s chart dominance cemented their status as one of the best selling rock bands of all time.

14. Guns N’ Roses

• Number of Units Sold: 44.5 million
• Net Worth: $450 million

Formed in March 1985 through the merger of Hollywood Rose and L.A. Guns, Guns N’ Roses, the iconic hard rock band from Los Angeles, boasts a classic lineup—Axl Rose, Slash, Izzy Stradlin, Duff McKagan, and Steven Adler. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, they’ve sold over 100 million records worldwide, earning a spot among history’s biggest selling bands. The current lineup includes Rose, Slash, McKagan, and others, maintaining their legendary status.

15. Santana

• Number of Units Sold: 43.5 million
• Net Worth: $120 million

Founded by Mexican guitarist Carlos Santana in 1966 in San Francisco, Santana rose to fame after their iconic Woodstock Festival performance in 1969. Under Santana’s consistent leadership, the band signed with Columbia Records and achieved commercial success with albums like Santana (1969) and Abraxas (1970). With over 47 million certified albums sold in the US and an estimated 100 million worldwide, Santana is one of the best selling bands of all time, boasting 25 studio albums, with 14 reaching the US top 10.

16. Chicago

• Number of Units Sold: 38.5 million
• Net Worth: $2.18 billion

Formed in 1967 in Chicago, the band initially called themselves the Chicago Transit Authority before shortening it. Chicago, a unique blend of rock, jazz, classical, R&B, and pop, earned the 13th spot on the 2008 Hot 100 singles chart success and the 15th in 2015. With over 100 million records sold, they are among the world’s most successful and best selling rock bands of all time.

17. Foreigner

• Number of Units Sold: 38 million
• Net Worth: $3.73 billion

Foreigner, the British-American rock sensation formed in 1976 in NYC, boasts Mick Jones, Lou Gramm, and other talents. With a global fan base, they’ve sold 80 million records, 37.5 million in the US. Their 1977 debut marked the start of four consecutive 5× platinum albums, making them one of the world’s biggest selling bands, celebrated for top 10 hits and millions in sales.

18. Backstreet Boys

• Number of Units Sold: 37 million
• Net Worth: $200 million

Formed in Orlando, Florida, in 1993, the Backstreet Boys, or BSB, gained global acclaim with their 1996 debut album. Comprising Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, and cousins Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson, they released hits like “Backstreet’s Back” in 1997. Celebrating their 20th anniversary, they received a Hollywood Walk of Fame star on April 22, 2013, solidifying their status as one of the best selling bands of all time.

Cross-Reference: Backstreet Boys

19. Def Leppard

• Number of Units Sold: 35.5 million
• Net Worth: $220 million

Hailing from Sheffield in 1976, Def Leppard rose to fame in the early 1980s. The current lineup, solid since 1992, includes Rick Savage, Joe Elliott, Rick Allen, Phil Collen, and Vivian Campbell. With 100 million records sold globally, they’ve been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. Def Leppard stands out as one of just five rock bands with two studio albums each exceeding 10 million US sales, solidifying their place as one of the best selling rock bands of all time.

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20. Queen

• Number of Units Sold: 35 million
• Net Worth: $600 million

Formed in London in 1970, Queen, led by Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon, initially delved into progressive rock and heavy metal. Evolving their sound to embrace arena rock and pop, they became a global cultural icon. With estimated sales of 250-300 million records, Queen remains one of the biggest selling bands. In 1990, they received the Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to British Music, cementing their lasting impact on the music scene over 50 years.

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21. Bon Jovi

• Number of Units Sold: 34.5 million
• Net Worth: $410 million

Formed in 1983 in Sayreville, New Jersey, Bon Jovi, led by Jon Bon Jovi, is a genre-blending powerhouse with 15 studio albums and over 120 million global sales. Despite departures like Alec John Such in ’94 and Richie Sambora in ’13, they’ve rocked 2,700 concerts for 34 million fans, earning spots in the UK Music Hall of Fame in ’06 and the US Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in ’18. Undoubtedly, they’re among the best selling bands of all time.

22. Dave Matthews Band

• Number of Units Sold: 34.5 million
• Net Worth: $300 million

Formed in 1991 in Charlottesville, Virginia, the Dave Matthews Band (DMB) boasts original members Dave Matthews, Stefan Lessard, and Carter Beauford. Their 1994 debut, “Under the Table and Dreaming,” went six times platinum. With over 25 million concert tickets and 39 million CDs/DVDs sold by 2018, their impact is immense. “Come Tomorrow,” their 2018 album, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, marking their seventh consecutive chart-topping release.

23. The Chicks

• Number of Units Sold: 33 million
• Net Worth: $150 million

Hailing from Dallas, Texas, The Chicks (formerly the Dixie Chicks) rose to prominence after joining Monument Records Nashville in 1997. Following Maines’ inclusion, the band soared to success with albums like “Wide Open Spaces” (1998) and “Fly” (1999). Their rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” topped the Adult Contemporary chart in 2002, solidifying The Chicks’ place in country music history. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

24. The Doors

• Number of Units Sold: 33 million
• Net Worth: $40 million

Formed in 1965 in Los Angeles, The Doors, featuring Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore, emerged as a highly influential and controversial rock band. Morrison’s distinctive voice, enigmatic lyrics, and unpredictable stage presence fueled their 1960s prominence. The Doors achieved a milestone as the first American band with eight consecutive gold LPs. Renowned magazines, including Rolling Stone, have recognized them as one of the greatest artists, placing them 41st on the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time” list.

25. Pearl Jam

• Number of Units Sold: 31.5 million
• Net Worth: $385 million

Formed in Seattle in 1990, Pearl Jam quickly became a rock powerhouse, outselling many ’90s peers. Dubbed “the most popular American rock and roll band of the ’90s,” they’re lauded for their influence and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017. Rolling Stone readers ranked them eighth in the “Top Ten Live Acts of All Time.” The band’s impact on the decade is undeniable, solidifying their status as one of the era’s most influential acts.

26. Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

• Number of Units Sold: 31.5 million
• Net Worth: $95 million

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, a rock band hailing from Gainesville, Florida, formed in 1976 with members Tom Petty, Mike Campbell, Benmont Tench, Stan Lynch, and Ron Blair. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, they often collaborated on Petty’s solo projects, including the successful Full Moon Fever (1989). Despite primarily recording as “Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers,” some band members served as studio musicians.

27. Boston

• Number of Units Sold: 31 million
• Net Worth: $100 million

Formed in 1975 by Tom Scholz in Boston, Massachusetts, the American rock band Boston achieved remarkable success in the 1970s and 1980s. With core members like multi-instrumentalist Tom Scholz and lead vocalist Brad Delp, the band released six studio albums over 48 years. Scholz played most instruments on their 1976 debut album. Boston secured the 63rd spot on VH1’s list of the best hard rock artists.

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28. Linkin Park

• Number of Units Sold: 28.5 million
• Net Worth: $236 million

Linkin Park, an American rock band from Agoura Hills, California, boasts a lineup with members like Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Dave Farrell, Joe Hahn, and Rob Bourdon, along with the late Chester Bennington. Initially blending heavy metal with hip hop, their later work incorporates electronica and pop elements. Recognized by MTV2 and Billboard, Linkin Park earned acclaim, with VH1 naming them the greatest artist of the 2000s in 2012. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

29. Lynyrd Skynyrd

• Number of Units Sold: 28.5 million
• Net Worth: $60 million

Lynyrd Skynyrd, an iconic American rock band, originated in Jacksonville, Florida, forming in 1964 as My Backyard. The lineup included Ronnie Van Zant (lead vocals), Gary Rossington (guitar), Allen Collins (guitar), Larry Junstrom (bass guitar), and Bob Burns (drums). Recognized for their musical prowess, the band secured the 95th spot on Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Artists of All Time” in 2004. Lynyrd Skynyrd earned their place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 13, 2006.

30. Bee Gees

• Number of Units Sold: 28 million
• Net Worth: $140 million

The Bee Gees, formed in 1958 by brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, found immense success in the late ’60s and early ’70s, transitioning to disco prominence in the mid-’70s. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, they boast nine Billboard Hot 100 number-one hits, making them the third-most successful band in Billboard charts history, surpassed only by the Beatles and the Supremes.

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31. Creedence Clearwater Revival

• Number of Units Sold: 28 million
• Net Worth: $350 million

CCR, or Creedence Clearwater Revival, a renowned American rock band from El Cerrito, California, hit their peak from 1969 to 1971. Led by John Fogerty, the band delivered an impressive streak of fourteen top 10 singles and five top 10 albums in the U.S. Their 1976 compilation album, “Chronicle: The 20 Greatest Hits,” continues to shine on the Billboard 200, reaching 600 weeks in August 2022. Remarkably, it’s certified Diamond by the RIAA with over 10 million copies sold in the U.S. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

32. Mannheim Steamroller

• Number of Units Sold: 28 million
• Net Worth: $10 million

Chip Davis, a percussionist and composer, established Mannheim Steamroller in 1974, an American neoclassical new-age music ensemble. The ensemble gained recognition for its unique blend of classical music, new-age vibes, and rock elements, particularly showcased in the Fresh Aire series of albums. Mannheim Steamroller is also celebrated for its contemporary interpretations of Christmas music.

33. NSYNC

• Number of Units Sold: 28 million
• Net Worth: $303 million

Formed in Orlando in 1995 by Chris Kirkpatrick, NSYNC, a popular American boy band, gained international fame with their self-titled debut album in 1997. The group, including members Justin Timberlake, Joey Fatone, Lance Bass, and JC Chasez, saw success with hits like “I Want You Back,” “Girlfriend,” “Pop,” and “It’s Gonna Be Me.” Their track “It’s Gonna Be Me” even topped the US Billboard Hot 100.

34. Nirvana

• Number of Units Sold: 28 million
• Net Worth: $850 million

Nirvana, formed in 1987 in Aberdeen, Washington, by Kurt Cobain and Krist Novoselic, gained fame with drummer Dave Grohl in 1990. The band’s brief but impactful 3-year mainstream stint solidified them as the face of Generation X and alternative rock. Despite their short career, Nirvana’s influence endures, and they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, recognized by Rolling Stone as one of the greatest artists in 2004. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

35. Boyz II Men

• Number of Units Sold: 27 million
• Net Worth: $200 million

Hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Boyz II Men, the renowned American vocal harmony trio, is celebrated for their soulful ballads and captivating a cappella harmonies. The current lineup comprises baritone Nathan Morris, alongside tenors Wanyá Morris and Shawn Stockman. Their 1991 breakthrough brought global acclaim with hits like “Motownphilly” and “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday.” The timeless “End of the Road” secured their elite status in music history, spending an impressive 50 weeks at the number one spot on Billboard charts.

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36. RUSH

• Number of Units Sold: 26 million
• Net Worth: $107 million

Rush, the iconic Canadian rock trio featuring Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart, gained widespread acclaim in the 1970s with hits like Fly by Night, 2112, A Farewell to Kings, and Hemispheres. Their success extended into the 1980s and 1990s, with chart-topping albums in Canada, the US, and the UK. Renowned for their musical prowess, intricate compositions, and thought-provoking lyrics inspired by science fiction, fantasy, and philosophy, Rush remains a celebrated force in rock history.

37. Steve Miller Band

• Number of Units Sold: 25.5 million
• Net Worth: $60 million

Formed in 1966 in San Francisco, California, the Steve Miller Band, led by guitarist and vocalist Steve Miller, gained fame with a series of 1970s classic rock hits. After leaving his initial band, Miller established the Steve Miller Blues Band. Their 1978 release, “Greatest Hits 1974–78,” became a massive success, selling over 13 million copies. In 2016, Steve Miller earned solo induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

38. Creed

• Number of Units Sold: 25 million
• Net Worth: $30 million

Formed in 1994 in Tallahassee, Florida, Creed emerged during the late ’90s post-grunge era. With lead vocalist Scott Stapp, guitarist Mark Tremonti, bassist Brian Marshall, and drummer Scott Phillips, the band achieved multi-platinum success with consecutive albums. Notably, their 1999 release, “Human Clay,” went diamond and houses the hit single “With Arms Wide Open.” Despite Marshall’s departure in 2000, Creed’s impact endures, with “Human Clay” standing as one of the biggest selling albums ever. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

39. Hootie & The Blowfish

• Number of Units Sold: 25 million
• Net Worth: $20 million

Hootie & the Blowfish, a rock band formed in 1986 in Columbia, South Carolina, boasts a lineup featuring Darius Rucker, Mark Bryan, Dean Felber, and Jim Sonefeld. With two Grammy Awards, sixteen Billboard charting singles, and six studio albums, their debut, “Cracked Rear View” (1994), ranks 19th among the best selling bands of all time in the U.S., certified platinum 21 times. A musical journey that’s left an indelible mark on American rock history.

40. Motley Crue

• Number of Units Sold: 25 million
• Net Worth: $245 million

Formed in 1981 in Hollywood, California, Mötley Crüe, led by bassist Nikki Sixx, drummer Tommy Lee, and guitarist/vocalist Greg Leon, gained fame with seven platinum albums, including the chart-topping “Dr. Feelgood” in 1989. With nine Top 10 Billboard 200 albums, twenty-two mainstream rock hits, and six pop singles, they left their mark. The band’s supposed farewell gig on December 31, 2015, became a theatrical and Blu-ray release in 2016.

41. Red Hot Chili Peppers

• Number of Units Sold: 25 million
• Net Worth: $140 million

Formed in Los Angeles in 1982, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, often known as RHCP or Chili Peppers, boast a lineup of vocalist Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer Chad Smith, and guitarist John Frusciante. Their genre-defying sound blends alternative rock, funk, punk, hard rock, hip hop, and psychedelic rock, influencing styles like funk metal and rap rock. With a staggering 15 number-one singles, they hold several Billboard Alternative Songs chart records. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

42. ZZ Top

• Number of Units Sold: 25 million
• Net Worth: $60 million

Formed in Houston, Texas in 1969, ZZ Top, an iconic American rock band, featured vocalist-guitarist Billy Gibbons, drummer Frank Beard, and bassist-vocalist Dusty Hill until Hill’s passing in 2021. Known for their blues-infused sound, humorous lyrics, and distinctive appearance, the band gained fame with Gibbons and Hill’s sunglasses, hats, and long beards. ZZ Top earned three MTV Video Music Awards, and in 2004, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

43. REO Speedwagon

• Number of Units Sold: 24.5 million
• Net Worth: $50 million

Formed in 1967 in Champaign, Illinois, REO Speedwagon, or simply REO, gained a devoted following in the 1970s and soared to commercial heights in the 1980s. Their pinnacle, the 1980 album “Hi Infidelity,” featuring four US Top 40 hits, sold over ten million copies. With 40 million records sold and 13 Top 40 hits, including chart-toppers like “Keep On Loving You” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” REO Speedwagon remains a beloved live act, despite a dip in mainstream radio play in the late 1980s.

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44. Green Day

• Number of Units Sold: 24 million
• Net Worth: $100 million

Formed in 1987 in California’s East Bay by vocalist/guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong and bassist Mike Dirnt, Green Day is acclaimed for bringing punk rock to mainstream U.S. audiences. They’ve earned 20 Grammy nominations, securing wins for Best Alternative Album (Dookie), Best Rock Album (American Idiot, 21st Century Breakdown), Record of the Year (“Boulevard of Broken Dreams”), and Best Musical Show Album (American Idiot: The Original Broadway Cast Recording). They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

45. Nickelback

• Number of Units Sold: 24 million
• Net Worth: $150 million

Formed in 1995 in Hanna, Alberta, Nickelback is a Canadian rock band featuring Chad Kroeger, Ryan Peake, Mike Kroeger, and Daniel Adair. With a breakthrough in 2002 through “How You Remind Me,” they gained widespread acclaim. Their 2005 album “All the Right Reasons” produced hits like “Photograph,” “Far Away,” and “Rockstar,” the latter being a major success in the UK. Known for their diverse sound, Nickelback continues to be a prominent name in the rock music scene.

46. Earth, Wind, & Fire

• Number of Units Sold: 23.5 million
• Net Worth: $20 million

Earth, Wind & Fire, an iconic American band formed in Chicago by Maurice White in 1969, emerged from the Salty Peppers, showcasing a diverse musical palette spanning jazz, R&B, soul, funk, disco, pop, Latin, and Afro-pop. With an impressive legacy, they’ve garnered 6 Grammys and 4 American Music Awards, earning induction into prestigious halls of fame like Rock and Roll, Vocal Group, and NAACP Image Award.

47. Genesis

• Number of Units Sold: 21 million
• Net Worth: $230 million

Formed in 1967 at Charterhouse School in Surrey, England, Genesis became a rock sensation with hits like “Foxtrot” (1972) and “Selling England by the Pound” (1973). The iconic trio of Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford, and Phil Collins led the band’s most successful era. Achieving widespread acclaim, Genesis earned induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. Their influence is evident in numerous tribute bands recreating memorable moments from the band’s extensive career. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

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48. The Beach Boys

• Number of Units Sold: 21 million
• Net Worth: $225 million

The Beach Boys, formed in 1961 in Hawthorne, California, featured the original lineup of brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, Cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine. Known for their distinctive harmonies, teen-oriented lyrics, and musical creativity, the band drew inspiration from older pop vocal groups, 1950s rock, and black R&B. Led by Brian, they infused classical and jazz elements, along with unconventional recording techniques, into their innovative sound, making them highly influential in the rock era.

49. R.E.M.

• Number of Units Sold: 21 million
• Net Worth: $60 million

R.E.M., the Athens-formed American rock band, emerged in 1980 with members Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Stipe. Their pivotal albums, “Out of Time” (1991) and “Automatic for the People” (1992), propelled them to the forefront of alternative rock as it entered the mainstream. “Losing My Religion,” the lead single from “Out of Time,” marked R.E.M.’s peak with commercial success, earning seven Grammy nominations at the 34th Annual Grammy Awards.

50. Black Eyed Peas

• Number of Units Sold: 20 million
• Net Worth: $70 million

The Black Eyed Peas, an American musical group formed in 1995 in Los Angeles, consists of rappers will.i.am, apl.de.ap, and Taboo. Initially rooted in alternative hip hop, they transitioned to a pop-rap style for broader appeal. Fergie joined in 2002, replacing Kim Hill. The group gained widespread success with their third album, Elephunk, in 2003, marking a turning point in their record sales and popularity during the 2000s. They stand among the best selling bands of all time.

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With this, we come to the end of the list of most popular bands of all time. Their widespread appeal and popularity have made them household names across several generations.

Source: Best-selling music artists of all time