Oasis' 'Morning Glory' crowned UK's biggest studio album ever, overtaking The Beatles

Oasis have added another remarkable achievement to their legacy after their landmark second album, What's the Story Morning Glory?, was officially recognised as the biggest studio album of all time in the United Kingdom. The announcement came from the Official Charts Company as it celebrated the 70th anniversary of the UK Official Albums Chart, with rankings based on combined UK sales and streaming data.

Released in 1995, What's the Story Morning Glory? secured third place on the overall list of the UK's biggest albums ever. However, because the two records above it are greatest hits collections from Queen and ABBA, Oasis' iconic release has been crowned the country's biggest studio album.

According to the Official Charts Company, the album has accumulated 6.2 million UK chart units across physical sales, downloads and streaming. The record also enjoyed renewed momentum following Oasis' hugely successful LIVE '25 reunion tour, which introduced the band's music to younger audiences while reigniting enthusiasm among long time fans.

The album remains one of the defining releases of the Britpop era and transformed Liam Gallagher and Noel Gallagher into global rock stars. Featuring enduring tracks including "Wonderwall", "Don't Look Back in Anger", "Champagne Supernova", "Morning Glory" and "Some Might Say", the record became a cultural phenomenon shortly after its release.

Becca Monahan and Chris Austin, interim Co Managing Directors at the Official Charts Company, described the achievement as a fitting tribute during the chart's landmark anniversary celebrations. They said the album's influence remains extraordinary nearly three decades after its release, adding that it continues to unite generations, fill stadiums and soundtrack people's lives. They also noted that although the way audiences consume music has evolved dramatically over the past 70 years, the album remains the ultimate expression of an artist's creativity and ambition.

The recognition places What's the Story Morning Glory? ahead of celebrated studio albums including Adele's 21, Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles, Rumours by Fleetwood Mac, The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd, Thriller by Michael Jackson and Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits.

Interest in the album has remained especially strong during the past year. "Wonderwall" experienced another surge in streaming after becoming closely associated with England's successful FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. Noel Gallagher welcomed the renewed popularity, saying the song belongs to the people and describing its connection with supporters and players as a magical moment. Liam Gallagher also reacted positively as streaming numbers climbed following England's performances.

The album originally debuted at Number One on the UK Albums Chart in 1995 after selling approximately 345,000 copies during its first week. It remained at the summit for 10 weeks and later received the Best British Album honour at the 1996 BRIT AWARDS. Worldwide sales have reached around 22 million copies, including more than 5.5 million in the United States.

Oasis have also continued celebrating the record in recent years with anniversary editions featuring newly recorded unplugged versions of classic songs and special collector releases. Reports have additionally suggested the band could return for another major UK and European tour in 2027, although no official announcement has yet been made.