Queen named top rock band in U.K. for 21st century – WROR 105.7
Queen, the iconic rock band, has achieved a remarkable feat by being named the most played rock act in the U.K. of the 21st century. This prestigious title was awarded to them by the music rights organization PPL, who revealed that Queen has accumulated over 400 million seconds of radio and TV airplay, equivalent to 12.5 years of continuous play. The band’s most played track during this period was found to be “A Kind of Magic.” Expressing his astonishment at this achievement, Queen guitarist Brian May remarked on the significance of securing the top spot on a 21st-century list, particularly given that most of Queen’s renowned works were created in the 20th century. He expressed his gratitude to the dedicated fans who have continued to support the band throughout the years.
“A Kind of Magic,” which serves as the title track of Queen’s 1986 album, emerged as their most played song of the 21st century. This track, along with numerous other hits such as “I Want To Break Free,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Radio Ga-Ga,” and “Somebody to Love,” have solidified Queen’s enduring legacy in the realm of rock music. The release of this ranking coincided with the U.K.’s National Album Day, an annual event organized by the BPI and ERA in collaboration with BBC Radio 2. This year, rock music featured prominently during the festivities, with PPL reporting that 60 limited edition albums were being released by record labels to cater to music enthusiasts and collectors.
In addition to Queen, other notable artists who made the tally compiled by PPL included David Bowie, U2, Oasis, Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, and The Police. PPL is responsible for licensing recorded music for use on U.K. radio and television, as well as in public venues such as bars, restaurants, and gyms. The findings of this ranking were derived from extensive airplay reporting data provided by radio and TV broadcasters across the country.
Queen’s enduring popularity and musical influence continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, with their music spanning generations and captivating listeners across different eras. As they continue to captivate audiences with their timeless hits, Queen’s impact on the rock music landscape remains indelible. In honoring and celebrating the timeless spirit of Freddie Mercury, Queen stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to unite and inspire audiences through the universal language of rock.