On This Day in 1976: The Eagles Score No. 1 With ‘Their Greatest Hits’, Later Rivaling One of Music’s Biggest Albums Ever

A Collection That Topped the Charts

On this day in 1976, the album Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975) by Eagles reached No. 1 on the U.S. album chart. The record gathered many of the band’s most popular songs from its early years and quickly became one of the most successful releases of the decade.

The compilation included well-known tracks such as Take It Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, Take It to the Limit, and Best of My Love. Each of these songs had already gained strong radio play in the early 1970s, helping the band build a loyal following across the United States.

Released by Asylum Records in February 1976, the album was designed to highlight the group’s rise during its first five years. At that time, the Eagles were already known for blending rock, country, and folk influences into a sound that reached a wide audience.

Members of the band during that period included Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Bernie Leadon, and Randy Meisner. Their songs often focused on themes of life on the road, relationships, and the culture of the American West.

From Compilation to Record-Breaking Album

When Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975) climbed to the top of the charts, it marked a major moment for the band. The album’s success showed how strong their earlier singles had been and how widely their music had spread.

Over time, the record became one of the most purchased albums in history. It sold millions of copies across the United States and around the world, turning a simple collection of songs into a lasting commercial force.

For decades, the album also shared an unusual rivalry with Thriller by Michael Jackson. Both releases spent years competing for the title of the best-selling album in the United States.

A Defining Moment for the Band

The timing of the compilation’s release also placed it just months before the Eagles issued another landmark album, Hotel California, later in 1976. That record would produce major songs like Hotel California and help cement the group’s standing in rock music.

By the late 1970s, the Eagles had become one of the most widely known American bands. Their blend of country-rock style and radio-friendly songwriting made them a constant presence on album charts and radio stations.

Even as music trends changed in the decades that followed, Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975) continued to sell steadily. Its strong performance over many years kept it near the top of sales rankings, often appearing alongside the most famous albums ever released.