History's Best Selling Music of 2011

Revisiting 2011 presents a grand parade of music history, marked by Y2K fever and early digital revolution and enduring fan favorites. Unrivaled hits including Showroom of Compassion, 21, and essential classics took top honors in living rooms and storefronts alike. Master craftsmen from industry leaders like Cake and Adele led the vanguard, engineering high-caliber releases that dominated airwaves and playground buzz alike. Dive into the full historical rankings below to see which standout creations won the day.

1. Showroom of Compassion

   Released in 2011 by Cake, Upbeat Records

   On January 11, 2011, the alternative rock landscape was revitalized by the return of a beloved and quirky voice. After a seven-year hiatus, the band Cake released their sixth studio album, "Showroom of Compassion." This date marked not just the end of a long wait for their dedicated fanbase but also a historic moment for the band. In an era dominated by major labels, Cake independently produced and released the album on their own label, Upbeat Records. Its subsequent debut at number one on the Billboard 200 chart was a landmark achievement, proving the power of a loyal following and independent spirit in the modern music industry.

2. 21

   Released in 2011 by Adele, XL Recordings, Columbia Records

   On January 24, 2011, Adele's sophomore album, "21," received its major European release, following its UK debut a few days prior. This date marked the beginning of a global musical phenomenon that would defy industry trends and shatter records. In an era dominated by digital singles and dance-pop, the release of this raw, emotionally charged collection of songs was a watershed moment. It was a quiet launch that soon became a deafening roar, as word-of-mouth and critical acclaim propelled the album from a highly anticipated release into a cultural touchstone that would define the sound of the early 2010s and cement Adele's status as a once-in-a-generation talent.