British rock legends Queen have been named the UK’s most played rock act of the 21st century, according to a new chart published by PPL ahead of National Album Day 2025, NME reports.
The band has accumulated more than 400 million seconds of radio and television airplay since 2000, the equivalent of 12.5 years of continuous broadcast, with their classic hit ‘A Kind of Magic’ topping their most-played list.
Reacting to the news, Queen guitarist Brian May stated, “Astounding news! Bearing in mind that most of Queen’s major works were done in the 20th century, it’s amazing to top a 21st century list. Big thanks to all our fans.”
PPL Chief Executive Officer Peter Leathem OBE congratulated the group, calling the achievement a testament to their expansive and much-loved music catalogue. He added that rock continues to thrive across UK airwaves, noting that this year also marks the 50th anniversary of Queen’s first number-one album, ‘A Night at the Opera’.
The chart also highlights other timeless names, with David Bowie ranking second, followed by U2, Oasis, and Fleetwood Mac in the top five. Completing the list are Stereophonics, The Rolling Stones, The Police, The Killers, and Kings of Leon, reflecting the ongoing appeal of both classic and alternative rock acts in the UK.
To celebrate National Album Day on October 18, Queen will release a 50th anniversary vinyl reissue of ‘A Night at the Opera’, featuring the legendary anthem ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’. The special edition will be issued worldwide on crystal-clear vinyl with gold labels.
Other artists releasing limited editions include Liam Gallagher, Manic Street Preachers, Iggy Pop, Amy Macdonald, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Teenage Fanclub, and Stereophonics.
Now in its eighth year since launching in 2018, National Album Day is organized by the BPI and ERA in partnership with BBC Radio 2. The 2025 edition will celebrate rock music, with Wolf Alice, Nova Twins, Architects, and Iron Maiden named as this year’s Album Champions, honoring the genre’s lasting influence and the artists who continue to shape it.
