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Who says a first album can’t be a hit? These artists’ US debuts went at least 10x Platinum according to the RIAA. And they are the top answers to RIAA Best Selling Debut Albums.
Cracked Rear View – Hootie & The Blowfish – 21x Platinum
Released in 1994, *Cracked Rear View* by Hootie & The Blowfish became a monumental success, becoming certified 21x Platinum by the RIAA. Driven by hits like “Hold My Hand,” “Let Her Cry,” and “Only Wanna Be with You,” the album resonated widely due to its heartfelt lyrics and relatable themes. The album’s blend of rock, folk, and pop influences created a sound that was accessible and refreshing at the time. It spent over two years on the Billboard 200, including several weeks in the number one spot. *Cracked Rear View* remains one of the best-selling albums in U.S. history and is a testament to the appeal of ‘90s rock.
Appetite For Destruction – Guns N’ Roses – 18x Platinum
*Appetite For Destruction*, the debut album by Guns N’ Roses, was released in 1987 and quickly cemented itself as a defining album of rock music. The album reached 18x Platinum status and introduced fans to iconic tracks like “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” “Welcome to the Jungle,” and “Paradise City.” Guns N’ Roses’ raw energy, gritty lyrics, and rebellious spirit resonated deeply, capturing the angst and excitement of a new rock generation. The album took a while to gain traction, but once it did, it became unstoppable, eventually topping the Billboard 200. *Appetite For Destruction* is often regarded as one of the greatest rock albums of all time.
Boston – Boston – 17x Platinum
Boston’s self-titled debut album, released in 1976, became an instant classic and has since reached 17x Platinum certification. The album’s clean, polished sound and Tom Scholz’s unique guitar work stood out from other rock music of the era. Songs like “More Than a Feeling,” “Peace of Mind,” and “Foreplay/Long Time” received significant radio airplay and solidified Boston as a rock staple. This album is credited with setting new standards in music production and inspiring countless artists in the years to come. Its success was unexpected but remains one of the most impressive in rock history.
…Baby One More Time – Britney Spears – 14x Platinum
In 1999, Britney Spears burst onto the pop scene with her debut album, *…Baby One More Time*, which went on to achieve 14x Platinum certification. The title track became a global hit, showcasing Spears’ youthful energy and charisma. The album’s mix of dance-pop and catchy melodies helped redefine pop music at the turn of the millennium. Spears quickly became a pop culture icon, and her debut album influenced a generation of fans and artists alike. *…Baby One More Time* remains a quintessential pop album of the late ’90s and cemented Britney Spears as a music legend.
Backstreet Boys – Backstreet Boys – 14x Platinum
The Backstreet Boys’ self-titled debut album, released in 1997 in the U.S., went on to reach 14x Platinum. With songs like “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” and “As Long as You Love Me,” the album captured the hearts of millions of fans. The album’s success marked the resurgence of boy bands in the ’90s and launched the Backstreet Boys into global superstardom. Their harmonies, catchy pop tunes, and choreographed performances set a high standard for boy bands to come. The album’s success in the U.S. and globally remains one of the highest benchmarks in pop music.
Whitney Houston – Whitney Houston – 14x Platinum
Whitney Houston’s self-titled debut album, released in 1985, became a massive success and achieved 14x Platinum certification. With singles like “Saving All My Love for You,” “How Will I Know,” and “Greatest Love of All,” the album showcased Houston’s vocal talent and ability to cross genres. It topped charts around the world, and her powerful voice made her an instant star. The album helped redefine the pop and R&B landscape, inspiring countless artists. Whitney’s debut is still celebrated as one of the finest R&B and pop records, cementing her place as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
Bat Out of Hell – Meat Loaf – 14x Platinum
Released in 1977, *Bat Out of Hell* by Meat Loaf became a landmark rock album, achieving 14x Platinum certification. Known for its theatrical style, the album featured epic compositions by Jim Steinman, with tracks like “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” and “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad” becoming classics. Initially met with mixed reviews, it later gained massive popularity, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, where its dramatic style found a dedicated fanbase. The album’s unique fusion of rock, opera, and storytelling made it a one-of-a-kind success and turned Meat Loaf into an unlikely rock star.
Ten – Pearl Jam – 13x Platinum
Pearl Jam’s *Ten*, released in 1991, captured the raw energy of grunge and earned 13x Platinum certification. The album included powerful songs like “Alive,” “Jeremy,” and “Even Flow,” which explored themes of personal struggle, societal issues, and resilience. Eddie Vedder’s haunting vocals and the band’s intense instrumentation defined the grunge movement, alongside contemporaries like Nirvana. Despite slow initial sales, *Ten* eventually became a major success, contributing to Pearl Jam’s lasting legacy and influence on alternative rock. The album remains one of the genre’s most acclaimed releases and an essential listen for rock enthusiasts.
Come Away With Me – Norah Jones – 12x Platinum
*Come Away With Me*, Norah Jones’s 2002 debut album, became a sensation, achieving 12x Platinum certification. With its jazz, blues, and folk influences, the album struck a chord with listeners, propelled by singles like “Don’t Know Why” and “Come Away With Me.” Jones’s smooth vocals and laid-back style stood in stark contrast to the pop-dominated charts of the time, giving the album a timeless appeal. Her understated approach and emotive performance earned her five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, cementing her status as a major artist. The album’s success highlighted the enduring appeal of soulful, sophisticated music.
Hybrid Theory – Linkin Park – 12x Platinum
Linkin Park’s 2000 debut album, *Hybrid Theory*, became a groundbreaking success, achieving 12x Platinum status. Featuring hits like “In the End,” “Crawling,” and “One Step Closer,” the album mixed nu-metal with electronic elements, creating a unique and accessible sound. Chester Bennington’s powerful vocals, combined with Mike Shinoda’s rap verses, appealed to both rock and hip-hop fans. The album’s themes of angst and emotional conflict resonated with a generation, solidifying Linkin Park’s place in music history. *Hybrid Theory* remains one of the best-selling debut albums of the 2000s and continues to influence alternative and nu-metal bands.
Yourself Or Someone Like You – Matchbox Twenty – 12x Platinum
Matchbox Twenty’s debut album, *Yourself Or Someone Like You*, released in 1996, earned 12x Platinum certification. Fueled by hits like “Push,” “3 A.M.,” and “Real World,” the album’s introspective lyrics and Rob Thomas’s compelling vocals resonated with audiences. Its success was largely due to its blend of rock and pop elements, which appealed to a broad demographic. The album gained a steady following, becoming a staple of ‘90s rock and launching the band into mainstream success. *Yourself Or Someone Like You* remains a defining record of its era, appreciated for its relatable themes and strong songwriting.
Pieces Of You – Jewel – 12x Platinum
*Pieces Of You*, released by Jewel in 1995, reached 12x Platinum status with its introspective folk and pop songs. Hits like “Who Will Save Your Soul,” “You Were Meant for Me,” and “Foolish Games” showcased Jewel’s poetic lyrics and unique vocal style. The album’s raw production and heartfelt themes of love, self-discovery, and vulnerability connected deeply with listeners. Initially gaining traction slowly, it eventually became a major commercial success and earned Jewel a prominent place in the folk-pop scene. *Pieces Of You* remains a notable example of singer-songwriter authenticity and emotional resonance.
Fallen – Evanescence – 10x Platinum
Evanescence’s debut album, *Fallen*, released in 2003, achieved 10x Platinum certification and brought gothic rock to the mainstream. With hits like “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal,” the album showcased Amy Lee’s powerful vocals and the band’s dramatic sound. *Fallen* combined rock, metal, and classical influences, creating a unique sound that appealed to a wide audience. The album’s dark, haunting themes resonated with fans and earned Evanescence two Grammy Awards. *Fallen* remains one of the best-selling rock albums of the 2000s and is celebrated for its emotional depth and genre-blending innovation.
Country Grammar – Nelly – 10x Platinum
Released in 2000, Nelly’s debut album *Country Grammar* achieved 10x Platinum certification and brought Southern hip-hop to the forefront. The album’s title track, along with singles like “Ride wit Me,” quickly gained popularity, showcasing Nelly’s unique style and catchy hooks. *Country Grammar* became a major influence on the hip-hop genre, blending elements of pop and Southern rap in a way that appealed to a broad audience. The album’s success marked Nelly’s rise as a major player in early-2000s hip-hop, and its impact can still be felt in the genre today.
‘N Sync – *NSYNC – 10x Platinum
The debut album from *NSYNC, released in 1998 in the U.S., reached 10x Platinum status, driven by hits like “I Want You Back” and “Tearin’ Up My Heart.” The album helped launch the boy band phenomenon of the late ‘90s, with *NSYNC quickly becoming one of the biggest pop groups in the world. Known for their vocal harmonies, energetic performances, and catchy songs, *NSYNC captured the hearts of millions and paved the way for future boy bands. Their self-titled debut remains a significant moment in pop music history, symbolizing the height of boy band mania.
The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill – Lauryn Hill – 10x Platinum
Released in 1998, Lauryn Hill’s debut solo album, *The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill*, achieved 10x Platinum certification and became a groundbreaking project in both the hip-hop and R&B genres. Combining elements of soul, jazz, and reggae with sharp social commentary, Hill’s album was widely praised for its emotional depth and versatility. With tracks like “Doo Wop (That Thing),” “Ex-Factor,” and “Everything Is Everything,” Hill showcased her remarkable talent as both a singer and rapper. The album earned her five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, and became an iconic release that continues to influence generations of artists.
Garth Brooks – Garth Brooks – 10x Platinum
Garth Brooks’s self-titled debut album, released in 1989, reached 10x Platinum certification, setting the stage for one of the most successful careers in country music. Combining traditional country with a pop and rock sensibility, the album struck a chord with a wide audience, earning Brooks critical acclaim and commercial success. Hits like “If Tomorrow Never Comes” and “The Dance” showcased Brooks’s unique ability to connect emotionally with listeners. The album’s success helped transform Brooks into a global country music icon, and it marked the beginning of a series of record-breaking albums that reshaped the country genre in the 1990s.
Faith – George Michael – 10x Platinum
*Faith*, George Michael’s 1987 debut solo album, achieved 10x Platinum status and solidified his place as a pop music icon. After his success with Wham!, Michael’s solo debut showcased his ability to create timeless pop hits, blending rock, pop, and R&B influences. The album featured unforgettable songs like the title track “Faith,” “Father Figure,” and “I Want Your Sex.” Michael’s blend of catchy hooks and introspective lyrics appealed to both pop and adult contemporary audiences, making *Faith* a massive commercial success. The album earned Michael multiple Grammy Awards and remains a defining record of the late ’80s.
Licensed To Ill – Beastie Boys – 10x Platinum
Released in 1986, *Licensed to Ill* by the Beastie Boys achieved 10x Platinum certification and became the first rap album to top the Billboard 200. The album’s groundbreaking fusion of rap and rock, with tracks like “Fight For Your Right” and “No Sleep Till Brooklyn,” reshaped the music landscape. With their rebellious attitude and bold sound, the Beastie Boys became pioneers of crossover music, influencing countless artists and genres. The album’s success marked the group’s rise to stardom and is widely regarded as one of the most influential hip-hop albums of all time, laying the foundation for the Beastie Boys’ legendary career.
Van Halen – Van Halen – 10x Platinum
Van Halen’s 1978 self-titled debut album achieved 10x Platinum certification and set the stage for the band’s legendary career in rock music. With iconic tracks like “Runnin’ with the Devil,” “You Really Got Me,” and “Jump,” the album introduced Eddie Van Halen’s revolutionary guitar playing, which would go on to influence generations of rock musicians. The combination of high-energy rock, catchy hooks, and David Lee Roth’s charismatic vocals made Van Halen a household name. The album remains a defining release in rock history, known for its raw power and musicianship, and continues to be celebrated by rock fans around the world.
