On This Day in 1971: Led Zeppelin’s Breakthrough Album Marks 100 Weeks on the Charts After Knocking The Beatles’ Abbey Road From No. 1 — Twice
via SicaRec / YouTube
Week 100 on the Charts
On October 8, 1971, Led Zeppelin II hit its 100th week on the UK album charts, a rare achievement in rock history. The album, which first appeared in 1969, had already made waves by becoming the band’s first No. 1 in the U.S. and displacing The Beatles’ Abbey Road at the top spot—not once, but twice.
Abbey Road had held the No. 1 slot for seven weeks before being overtaken by Led Zeppelin II. Later, during the album’s U.S. run, Abbey Road managed to reclaim the top spot briefly—only to be knocked down again by Zeppelin’s record.
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Advance Orders and Marketing Push
When Led Zeppelin II was first released, it came with strong momentum. The album reportedly had 400,000 advance orders in the U.S., a sign of how eagerly fans anticipated the follow-up to their debut.
To match that interest, the album was promoted under slogans like “Led Zeppelin II Now Flying” and “The Only Way to Fly.” Those marketing lines hinted at confidence from both the band and their label—a message that the album was ready to take flight in the marketplace.
Chart Power and Lasting Impact
Led Zeppelin II’s chart success was not limited to the UK. In the U.S., it climbed to No. 1 and held that position for multiple weeks, firmly placing the band in the top tier of rock acts.
The dual achievement of dominating both the U.K. and U.S. charts underscored how the band had crossed over from rising stars to global icons. With this album, Zeppelin refined their blend of blues roots, hard rock riffs, and studio innovation.
Today, the legacy of Led Zeppelin II is often tied to that strong chart run and the audacity to challenge the Beatles at their own game. It remains a benchmark in rock history for both its ambition and enduring influence.
