Metallica Album Becomes Fourth Ever to Achieve Historic Chart Record

Metallica’s 1991 self-titled album has achieved a significant milestone in music history.

Known as The Black Album, it has officially spent 750 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart. This accomplishment places it among an elite group of albums that have achieved similar longevity. The other records to reach this benchmark include Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon (1973), Bob Marley and The Wailers’ compilation album Legend (1984), and Journey’s Greatest Hits (1988).

The Black Album holds the distinction of being the youngest album to reach this milestone and the second studio album to do so, with the other two records being compilation albums.

To understand the magnitude of this achievement, 750 weeks equates to approximately 14.38 years. The album initially reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 on Aug. 31, 1991, and continues to remain relevant, sitting at No. 178 nearly 33 years later.

Metallica’s self-titled album marked their breakthrough into mainstream success, although the band had been favorites in the thrash metal community for years. It sold 598,000 copies in its first week and maintained the top spot on the chart for four consecutive weeks.

Since its release, the album has sold over 30 million copies worldwide, with 17 million sold in the U.S. alone.

Following the success of The Black Album, Metallica’s subsequent albums also achieved impressive chart positions. Load (1996), Reload (1997), St. Anger (2003), Death Magnetic (2008), and Hardwired… To Self-Destruct (2016) all topped the Billboard 200.

Their most recent album, 2023’s 72 Seasons, peaked at No. 2 on the chart.

Other albums with long runs on the Billboard 200 include Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Chronicle (1976) greatest hits compilation, Nirvana’s Nevermind (1991), Guns N’ Roses’ Greatest Hits (2004), AC/DC’s Back in Black (1980), and Queen’s Greatest Hits (1981).

The achievement is a testament to Metallica’s lasting impact and influence in the music industry. Congratulations to Metallica for this incredible accomplishment!

Source: Billboard, Rolling Stone, and other music industry sources