During the past 40 years, hard rock and heavy metal have achieved amazing commercial results. These albums have been recognized as the best of their genre and have sold millions of copies.

Back in Black by AC/DC is one of the best arena rock albums of all time. It sold 51 million copies globally when it was released in 1980. AC/DC toured the world to promote the album. They recorded the album in just two months. It went on to become the second best selling album of all time.

Metallica’s self-titled 1991 release is their first album to top the album charts. The album includes singles like Enter Sandman, Nothing Else Matters and The Unforgiven. This album is ranked 252 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.

Led Zeppelin IV is considered the best selling heavy metal album of all time. The album contains songs that became hits including “Stairway To Heaven” and “I Will Always Love You.” This album was recorded in Nassau, Bahamas. It was also influenced by pre-cursor Heavy Metal music.

“Enter Sandman” is one of the first metal songs to reach new audiences. It helped contribute to Van Halen’s 10 million sales.

Back In Black was the band’s seventh studio album. It was released after the death of lead vocalist Bon Scott. Brian Johnson replaced Bon Scott on lead vocals and the album became the band’s biggest seller. The cover was meant to symbolize mourning and was black.