Oasis have officially surpassed The Beatles to claim the third spot on the UK’s list of all-time best-selling albums. Their 1995 record, (What’s The Story) Morning Glory?, has reached 6.2 million chart units, propelled by renewed interest following the band’s recent reunion and enduring status as a defining British musical force.
Shifting Rankings in the UK All-Time Top 10
The Official Charts Company released updated rankings this week to mark the 70th anniversary of the weekly UK album chart, revealing a significant shake-up in the top five. Oasis’s 1995 classic, (What’s The Story) Morning Glory?, has officially overtaken Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles. The 1967 masterpiece, which held the third spot a decade ago, has now slipped to number five.
While Oasis now sits at number three, the top two positions remain occupied by compilation records: Queen’s 1981 Greatest Hits collection holds the top spot, followed by 1992’s Abba Gold. Adele’s 2011 release, 21, has also climbed, currently sitting at number four and further pushing The Beatles down the list.
The Impact of the Oasis Reunion and Legacy
Industry analysts point to the band’s recent reunion as a primary driver for the sustained sales and streaming numbers of (What’s The Story) Morning Glory?. According to reporting from The Sun, the band’s 2025 live shows triggered a surge in interest that saw the album selling like hot cakes.
This commercial momentum has firmly cemented the band’s influence three decades after their initial rise.
The record’s enduring cultural footprint is reflected in its diverse usage, from the adoption of Wonderwall
by England fans and players at the World Cup in North America to the poignant use of Don’t Look Back in Anger
during the 2017 Manchester Arena attack vigil.
Elite Milestones and Market Performance
The competition for the top of the chart remains fierce, with Queen’s Greatest Hits making history in 2022 as the first album to surpass seven million UK chart units. While Oasis currently holds 6.2 million units, the market remains active; industry sources suggest that with additional tour dates expected in 2027, the record’s sales figures are likely to see further growth.
A Decade of Movement in the Top 10
The all-time list has seen notable shifts over the past 10 years, reflecting both the longevity of classic rock and the impact of modern pop. Fleetwood Mac’s 1977 album Rumours and Bob Marley’s Legend have both secured positions within the top 10 during this period.
- 1. Greatest Hits – Queen
- 2. Gold – Abba
- 3. (What’s The Story) Morning Glory? – Oasis
- 4. 21 – Adele
- 5. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band – The Beatles
- 6. Rumours – Fleetwood Mac
- 7. The Dark Side of the Moon – Pink Floyd
- 8. Thriller – Michael Jackson
- 9. Legend – Bob Marley and The Wailers
- 10. Brothers in Arms – Dire Straits
Future Projections for Oasis
As the band looks toward their 2027 touring schedule, market observers expect the sustained commercial interest to continue. Following the achievement, one source told The Sun, Noel and Liam should be cracking out the champagne.
While no new studio album has been confirmed, the consistent performance of their back catalog suggests the band remains a dominant force in the British music market as they prepare for the next round of live performances.
Worth a look
