Queen named as the most played rock act in the UK of the 21st century – see the top 10

Queen has gained the esteemed title of the UK’s most played rock act of the 21st century, as per a new chart by PPL commemorating National Album Day 2025. The band has garnered an impressive 400 million seconds of radio and TV airplay, equivalent to 12.5 years of uninterrupted play since the turn of the century. Their track ‘A Kind Of Magic’ reigns as their most played tune.

Guitarist Brian May expressed his disbelief at the news, mentioning that the majority of Queen’s significant works were produced in the 20th century, making this 21st-century achievement all the more astonishing. PPL Chief Executive Officer, Peter Leathem OBE, lauded Queen’s success on the chart, highlighting their enduring popularity with UK audiences.

Following Queen, David Bowie secured second place as the most played rock act, with U2 and Oasis following suit. Notable mentions in the Top 10 include the likes of Fleetwood Mac, Stereophonics, and The Rolling Stones. Queen is slated to release a 50th-anniversary vinyl reissue of ‘A Night At The Opera’ featuring the iconic ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ on National Album Day.

Additional vinyl reissues will be made available by other artists, including Liam Gallagher, Manic Street Preachers, Iggy Pop, and Architects. This year marks the eighth installment of National Album Day, with an emphasis on rock music. Acts like Wolf Alice, Nova Twins, Architects, and Iron Maiden have assumed the role of Album Champions for this year’s celebrations.

These artists acknowledge the significance of albums in their lives, citing them as pivotal in their creative processes. Albums provide comfort, joy, and healing, serving as a medium for artists to express themselves and connect with audiences. As the event approaches, anticipation is high for the vinyl releases and celebrations planned in honor of these iconic musical creations.