Taylor Swift has once again reached new heights in her illustrious career, officially making history by surpassing Madonna as the female artist with the most No. 1 albums in the UK, according to The Sun.
The 35-year-old global sensation has achieved her 13th chart-topping album with the re-release of Lover (Live From Paris) on vinyl. This milestone propels her past Madonna, who held the record with 12 UK No. 1 albums. Madonna, now 66, last topped the UK charts in 2012 with her album MDNA.
Swift’s latest achievement places her in an elite category alongside Elvis Presley, who also boasts 13 UK No. 1 albums. The only artists still ahead of her are Robbie Williams and The Beatles, both holding 15 UK No. 1 albums each. Given Swift’s momentum, surpassing these records seems increasingly plausible.
The success of Lover (Live From Paris) is particularly remarkable. This special live recording from her 2019 Paris concert was released on vinyl to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The release sparked unprecedented demand, resulting in record-breaking sales.
The album now holds the distinction of achieving the largest first-week sales for a live album in the UK in over a decade. The previous record was set by George Michael’s Symphonica, which was released in March 2014.
Additionally, Lover (Live From Paris) has shattered another record by becoming the live vinyl album with the highest total weekly sales of the 21st century. Moreover, it is the first album to reach the No. 1 position in the UK based solely on pure sales since Swift’s 2017 release Reputation.
Swift’s accomplishments do not stop here. She is currently immersed in multiple projects, including her 12th studio album and the highly anticipated re-recordings of Reputation and her 2006 self-titled debut album. These re-recordings are part of her ongoing effort to reclaim ownership of her music.
With these exciting projects on the horizon, industry experts believe Swift could end 2025 as the artist with the most UK No. 1 albums of all time. Her relentless work ethic and enduring popularity continue to redefine success in the music industry.