On This Day in 1964, The Beatles’ 2nd Album Reached #1 on the Billboard LP 2 Weeks After Its Release—First Album Ever to Make it to the Top Quickly
via Sergio Giacobone / YouTube
A Quick Rise to the Top
On May 2, 1964, The Beatles’ Second Album climbed to number one on the Billboard LP chart just two weeks after its release. This was the fastest any album had reached the top at that time. It replaced Meet the Beatles!, which had been at number one for eleven weeks.
This event marked the first time an artist had replaced themselves at the top of the U.S. album charts. The Beatles’ growing popularity in America was evident through this achievement.
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Album Details and Content
Released by Capitol Records on April 10, 1964, The Beatles’ Second Album was the band’s third album released in the United States. It was compiled mostly from leftover tracks from the UK album With the Beatles and the forthcoming UK Long Tall Sally EP, which are predominantly rock and roll and R&B covers, and rounded out with several Lennon-McCartney-penned non-album B-sides and the hit single “She Loves You.”
The album showcased the band’s early blend of rock and roll and rhythm and blues. It included songs like “Roll Over Beethoven” and “Money (That’s What I Want),” highlighting their musical influences.
Chart Performance and Sales
The Beatles’ Second Album debuted at number 16 on the Billboard Top LPs chart for the week ending April 25, 1964. It reached number one the following week, replacing Meet the Beatles!. The album remained at the top for five consecutive weeks and stayed in the top 200 until May 1965.
By December 31, 1964, the album had sold 1,668,435 copies, and by the end of the decade, it had sold over 2 million copies. It was certified Gold by the RIAA on April 13, 1964, and 2× Platinum on January 10, 1997.
Continued Success
The Beatles’ chart dominance continued throughout 1964. On April 4, 1964, they held the top five positions on the Billboard Hot 100, an achievement that remains unmatched. Their albums and singles consistently performed well, solidifying their status in the music industry.
The success of The Beatles’ Second Album contributed to the band’s growing influence and popularity in the United States. Their ability to connect with audiences through their music led to a lasting impact on the music scene.
