In a monumental moment for British music, Robbie Williams has officially made chart history by surpassing The Beatles to become the artist with the most UK Number One albums of all time. The 51-year-old singer achieved this remarkable milestone on Friday with his latest release, BRITPOP, which soared to the top spot, marking his 16th chart-topping LP and breaking a long-standing record held by the legendary Liverpool quartet.
A Landmark Achievement in Music History
Robbie Williams expressed profound gratitude and excitement upon learning of this historic accomplishment. In a heartfelt statement, he said: 'BRITPOP is the record I’ve always wanted to make, and seeing it become my 16th Number 1 album means everything to me. Thank you to all the fans who have been with me every step of the way. You’ve made my dreams come true.' This emotional response underscores the significance of this achievement for the artist, who has been a dominant force in the UK music scene for decades.
From Stoke-on-Trent to Chart-Topping Stardom
Robbie's journey to this pinnacle began with his 1997 debut solo album, Life Thru a Lens, which secured his first Number One. Over the years, he has consistently delivered hit after hit, with his other chart-toppers including iconic albums such as I’ve Been Expecting You (1998), Sing When You’re Winning (2000), Swing When You’re Winning (2001), Escapology (2002), and Greatest Hits (2004).
His impressive catalogue of Number One albums also features:
- Intensive Care (2005)
- Rudebox (2006)
- In and Out of Consciousness: Greatest Hits 1990-2010 (2010)
- Take The Crown (2012)
- Swings Both Ways (2013)
- The Heavy Entertainment Show (2016)
- The Christmas Present (2019)
- XXV (2022)
- Better Man (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (2025)
- BRITPOP (2026)
The Making of BRITPOP: A Collaborative Masterpiece
Released last Friday via Columbia Records, BRITPOP is Robbie's 13th studio album and showcases a diverse range of musical influences and collaborations. The album features standout singles such as Rocket, Spies, Human, Pretty Face, and All My Life. It boasts an impressive lineup of collaborators, including Coldplay's Chris Martin, Supergrass frontman Gaz Coombes, Black Sabbath legend Tony Iommi, Mexican pop duo Jesse & Joy, and former Take That bandmate Gary Barlow.
Official Charts CEO Hails 'Extraordinary' Achievement
Martin Talbot, Chief Executive Officer of the Official Charts, praised Robbie's unprecedented success, stating: 'Congratulations Robbie! There are chart records and there are chart records – and Robbie Williams’ achievement today in securing his record 16th UK Number 1 album is simply extraordinary.' He added, 'Not even the confident young 16-year-old from Stoke-on-Trent would have believed this were possible when he joined Take That back in 1990, but here he is, on top of the world, the UK’s number 1 album artist - of all time! Just let that sink in, Robbie!'
A Surprising Chart Twist: Victoria Beckham's Resurgence
In an unexpected turn of events, Victoria Beckham's 2001 solo single Not Such An Innocent Girl became the UK's best-selling single of the week, nearly 25 years after its original release. This resurgence came days after her estranged son Brooklyn posted a scathing six-page statement, claiming his mother danced 'inappropriately' at his 2022 wedding, sparking a fan-led social media campaign.
The track, which originally showcased Posh Spice's raunchy dance moves, shot to number one on the iTunes chart in the UK and Ireland on Thursday. Victoria's youngest son Cruz also contributed to the promo effort by using his mum's song to soundtrack one of his Instagram Stories, further fuelling the song's unexpected comeback.
This week's charts have been dominated by historic achievements and surprising comebacks, highlighting the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the UK music industry. Robbie Williams' record-breaking feat cements his legacy as one of the most successful artists in British music history, while Victoria Beckham's resurgence demonstrates the enduring power of nostalgia and social media in shaping contemporary music trends.
