Queen Is Named The Most Played Rock Act Of The 21st Century In The U.K.

Queen has been named the UK’s most played rock act of the 21st century, according to a new chart from the British music copyright collective PPL. Queen has accumulated over 400 million seconds – equivalent to 12.5 years – of radio and TV airplay since 2000, with their 1986 hit single, “A Kind of Magic,” revealed as their most played track according to the tally, which was released in celebration of the U.K.’s National Album Day 2025 on October 18. “Astounding news,” says guitarist Brian May of the accolade. “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.” “This chart underlines how rock music across the decades continues to thrive on UK airwaves,” said PPL CEO Peter Leathem. “It’s a testament to [Queen’s] much-loved music catalogue that they continue to mean so much to UK audiences to this very day.” The chart is rounded out by David Bowie in second place, followed by (in order) U2, Oasis, Fleetwood Mac, Stereophonics, The Rolling Stones, The Police, The Killers, and Kings Of Leon. (NME)