The Eagles’ ‘Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975’ sets record
The Eagles’ 1976 album, “Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975),” has reached a monumental milestone, officially selling over 40 million units in the U.S. according to the Recording Industry Association of America. This achievement solidifies its position as the bestselling album of all time in the United States.
A Legacy of Chart-Topping Success
The band’s iconic 1976 record, “Hotel California,” also received significant recognition, achieving 28x platinum certification. This maintains its standing as the third bestselling album in the U.S., trailing only Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” which is certified 34x diamond as of 2021.
The RIAA tracks sales and streaming equivalents within the U.S., and certifications require a third-party audit. The diamond status, initially signifying 10 million units sold, has evolved to reflect the changing landscape of music consumption.
Celebrating a Half-Century of Music
Released almost exactly 50 years ago on February 17, 1976, “Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975)” is being commemorated with a new crystal-clear, 180-gram vinyl edition. Founding member Don Henley expressed gratitude, stating, “In an age, in a culture, where everything seems to become more ephemeral, by the day, it is gratifying to have been part of something that endures, even for fifty years. We are amazed and grateful.”
The Eagles are currently enjoying a period of renewed success, launching 12 final shows at the Sphere in Las Vegas. This residency, which began on September 20, 2024, has already entertained over 700,000 fans across 44 performances, setting a record for the longest-running residency at the venue.
Formed in Los Angeles in the early 1970s, the Eagles blended rock ‘n’ roll and country music, creating hits like “Hotel California” and “Take It Easy” that defined a decade. The band experienced a hiatus from 1980 to 1994, continuing with Don Henley and, until his death in 2016, Glenn Frey as original members. The Eagles were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998 and honored as Kennedy Center honorees in 2016.
Frequently Asked Questions
What album currently holds the title of bestselling album in the U.S.?
The Eagles’ “Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975)” currently holds the title of bestselling album in the U.S., having officially sold over 40 million units.
What is the certification status of the Eagles’ “Hotel California” album?
“Hotel California” has been certified 28x platinum, making it the third bestselling album in the U.S.
How has the RIAA’s certification process changed over time?
The RIAA initially based certifications solely on album sales, but in 2013 began incorporating streaming data from services like YouTube and Spotify, with 1,500 streams now equivalent to one album sale.
As the Eagles continue their residency at the Sphere, it remains to be seen how their legacy will continue to evolve, but their enduring popularity suggests they may continue to reach new audiences for years to come.