Biggest Selling Live Albums

Live albums have long been a staple in the music industry, offering fans a chance to experience concerts from their favorite artists even if they couldn't attend in person. Some live albums have achieved remarkable commercial success, becoming iconic in their own right. In this article, we’ll explore some of the biggest selling live albums in history, examining their impact, popularity, and significance in the music world.

1. Kiss – "Kiss Alive!" (1975)
Released in 1975, "Kiss Alive!" is a landmark live album for the rock band Kiss. This album was crucial in establishing Kiss as a major rock act and was a commercial success, reaching multi-platinum status. The raw energy and the electrifying performance captured on this album helped solidify Kiss's reputation as one of the greatest live bands of all time. Songs like “Deuce” and “Strutter” became fan favorites, and the album's success helped boost the band's career to new heights.

2. The Rolling Stones – "Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out!" (1970)
"Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out!" is a live album by The Rolling Stones, released in 1970. Recorded during the band’s 1969 American tour, it captures the energy and excitement of their live performances. This album was well-received both critically and commercially, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. It features performances of classic Stones hits such as "Jumpin' Jack Flash" and "Sympathy for the Devil," showcasing the band's ability to deliver powerful live performances.

3. Peter Frampton – "Frampton Comes Alive!" (1976)
Released in 1976, "Frampton Comes Alive!" is one of the most successful live albums of all time. Peter Frampton's double album features hits like "Show Me the Way" and "Baby, I Love Your Way," and it became a massive commercial success, reaching quadruple platinum status. The album's success was driven by Frampton's engaging live performances and charismatic stage presence, making it a defining record of the 1970s rock era.

4. The Who – "Live at Leeds" (1970)
The Who’s "Live at Leeds," released in 1970, is widely regarded as one of the greatest live rock albums ever released. It was recorded during the band's performance at the University of Leeds and features energetic renditions of their hits, including "My Generation" and "Young Man Blues." The album was praised for its raw sound and powerful performances, cementing The Who's reputation as one of rock's most dynamic live acts.

5. Bob Dylan – "Before the Flood" (1974)
"Before the Flood" is a live album by Bob Dylan and The Band, released in 1974. This album captures performances from their joint tour and includes a mix of Dylan's classic hits and new material. The album was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard charts, and is celebrated for its vibrant performances and the chemistry between Dylan and The Band.

6. James Brown – "Live at the Apollo" (1963)
James Brown's "Live at the Apollo," released in 1963, is a seminal live album that showcases the Godfather of Soul at his peak. Recorded during a performance at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, this album captures Brown's electrifying live energy and dynamic stage presence. It features hits like "Try Me" and "Lost Someone," and its success helped establish James Brown as a major force in soul and R&B music.

7. The Allman Brothers Band – "At Fillmore East" (1971)
The Allman Brothers Band’s "At Fillmore East," released in 1971, is a landmark live album in the genre of Southern rock. Recorded during the band's performances at the Fillmore East in New York City, the album features extended jams and showcases the band's exceptional musicianship. Songs like "Whipping Post" and "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed" have become classics, and the album's success helped elevate the Allman Brothers to prominence.

8. U2 – "Under a Blood Red Sky" (1983)
"Under a Blood Red Sky" is a live album by U2, released in 1983. This album captures performances from the band's "War" tour and features some of their most iconic songs, including "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and "New Year's Day." The album was a commercial success and played a significant role in establishing U2 as one of the leading rock bands of the 1980s.

9. Eric Clapton – "Unplugged" (1992)
Released in 1992, Eric Clapton’s "Unplugged" is a live album recorded for MTV’s Unplugged series. This album features acoustic versions of Clapton's hits, including "Tears in Heaven" and "Layla," and was a huge commercial success, reaching multi-platinum status. The album showcased Clapton’s versatility and ability to adapt his music to different formats, further cementing his status as a legendary guitarist.

10. Nirvana – "MTV Unplugged in New York" (1994)
"MTV Unplugged in New York" by Nirvana, released in 1994, is a significant live album that captures one of the band’s most memorable performances. Recorded during their MTV Unplugged session, the album features stripped-down versions of their songs and showcases Kurt Cobain's emotional and raw vocal delivery. The album was well-received and is considered a poignant and important piece in Nirvana’s discography.

In summary, these biggest selling live albums not only highlight the power of live performances in the music industry but also represent various genres and eras. From the raw energy of Kiss and The Who to the soulful performances of James Brown and Bob Dylan, these albums have left a lasting impact on music lovers and continue to be celebrated for their exceptional live recordings. Whether you’re a fan of rock, soul, or acoustic music, these live albums offer a glimpse into the electrifying experience of live music.