Top 100 Female Artist Albums of All Time

We created this list by looking at how each album performed on the Billboard 200 charts – considering peak position, weeks on the chart, and overall chart points. In other words, we gave credit for not only hitting No.1 but also for lasting a long time on the charts. The rankings largely follow Billboard’s own “Greatest Albums” list for women. For example, Adele’s 21 is widely cited as the all-time top Billboard 200 album by a female artist. With that as a guide, we filled out the rest of the top 100 to include solo women and female-led groups. Each album below has a brief note on its peak chart position and longevity.

21 by Adele

Adele’s second album 21 (2011) is universally recognized as the highest-charting female album ever. It debuted at No.1 and amassed about 4.22 million chart points, far more than any other female release. 21 spent a record-breaking time on the Billboard 200 – over 500 non-consecutive weeks – and spent many weeks at No.1. Its massive run on the charts (including breaking the previous record set by Tapestry) makes it our top pick.

Fearless by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s Fearless (2008) was her breakthrough country-pop album. It debuted at No.1 and stayed there for 11 weeks. Those 11 weeks at the summit gave it huge longevity. In total Fearless earned roughly 2.59 million chart points, placing it second on the all-time female list. With multiple hit singles and a double-Diamond certification, Fearless’s combination of peak position and extended run make it one of the biggest albums by a woman.

Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morissette

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill (1995) is the classic alt-rock album that charged up the charts. It climbed to No.1 in October 1995 (even after debuting at #117), and then remained at No.1 for 12 weeks. This long run at #1, plus years on the chart, gave it 2.34 million chart points. It was the first album by a Canadian woman to top the chart, eventually selling over 12 million US copies. In short, Jagged Little Pill combined a very high peak with outstanding longevity.

Tapestry by Carole King

Carole King’s Tapestry (1971) is a landmark singer-songwriter album. It spent 15 consecutive weeks at No.1 on the Billboard 200, a record for any solo female artist. Even more impressively, Tapestry stayed on the chart for 318 weeks (over six years!). Those two feats (long #1 run and very long chart run) made it a top performer. In fact, it held the record for longest-charting female album for decades until Adele’s 21 came along. Tapestry’s 2.30 million chart points rank it among the best ever.

1989 by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s 1989 (2014) marked her big pop crossover. It debuted at No.1 and tallied 11 weeks at #1. This huge run atop the chart makes it one of Swift’s most successful albums. 1989 earned about 2.22 million chart points. In other words, even though 1989 shared the No.1 spot with others that year, its long stay on the charts and multiple #1 weeks cemented its place among the top female albums.

Whitney Houston by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s self-titled debut (1985) was a blockbuster. It peaked at No.1 in early 1986 and accumulated 14 weeks at #1(nearly breaking the record for weeks at #1 by a female solo artist). It also remained on the Billboard 200 for 162 weeks. Altogether this gave it about 2.22 million chart points, tying it with 1989 on the list. In short, Whitney’s debut combined a high peak (14 weeks at the top) with long-term presence on the chart.

The Fame by Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga’s debut The Fame (2008) didn’t reach No.1 (it peaked at #2), but it had astounding longevity. It spent over 400 weeks on the Billboard 200 – almost eight years – making it one of the longest-charting debut albums ever. Over its run The Fame amassed 2.18 million chart points(ranked #7 on the list). Its major dance-pop singles and steady sales meant that even without an initial #1, the album kept selling for years, giving it top all-time status for a debut by a female act.

Come On Over by Shania Twain

Shania Twain’s Come On Over (1997) is the biggest-selling country/pop album ever. In the US it peaked at No.2 (never quite hitting #1) but sold constantly for years. It became the top-selling studio album by a female artist (40 million worldwide). Its long chart life earned it 2.15 million chart points, placing it high in the list. Though it didn’t debut at #1, its overall chart performance and record sales mean Come On Over ranks among the elite – it even topped all country charts and stayed relevant far longer than most albums.

Taylor Swift by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s debut Taylor Swift (2006) never topped the chart (it peaked at #5), but it was a sleeper hit. The album spent 157 weeks on the Billboard 200 – the longest run of any album in the 2000s. Its total chart points are about 2.04 million, which lands it at #9 on the list. In other words, even without a No.1 peak, its extraordinary longevity (and four hit singles) made it one of the top-performing female albums of the era.

Forever Your Girl by Paula Abdul

Paula Abdul’s Forever Your Girl (1988) is famous for its slow rise. It took 64 weeks to climb to No.1 on the Billboard 200, a record at the time. Once it reached No.1 in October 1989, it stayed there briefly and its five hit singles made it a major success. In total it collected about 2.03 million chart points. The very long chart climb and multiple hits (“Straight Up”, “Opposites Attract”, etc.) gave Forever Your Girl unusually strong overall performance.

Falling into You by Celine Dion

Celine Dion’s Falling into You (1996) became one of her biggest albums. It debuted at No.2 and later reached No.1 on the Billboard 200 (see October 1996 chart). Its worldwide sales were massive (over 32 million copies). With about 1.99 million chart points, it ranks #11 on our list. In short, Falling into You peaked at the top of the chart and its multi-year presence (helped by hit songs like “Because You Loved Me”) made it a top female album of the 1990s.

Up! by Shania Twain

Shania Twain’s Up! (2002) was another huge country-pop success. It debuted at No.1 on the Billboard 200 and on the Country chart, selling 874,000 copies its first week (a career best). It was eventually certified 11× Platinum (Diamond) in the US – Shania is the only female with three Diamond albums. Up! earned about 1.95 million chart points and ranks among the top albums. Its combination of an immediate No.1 and continued sales (hit singles like “I’m Gonna Getcha Good”) made it a standout on the charts.

Rhythm Nation 1814 by Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989) was a landmark pop/R&B album. It peaked at No.1 and stayed there for 4 consecutive weeks. Even more impressively, it produced an unprecedented seven Top-5 singles in three years (four of them went to #1). The album’s hit parade and multi-week No.1 run gave it roughly 2.18 million chart points. In Billboard’s view it was one of the very best (it’s often listed alongside Tapestry and Jagged Little Pill), thanks to its strong peaks and longevity.

Need You Now by Lady Antebellum

Country-pop trio Lady Antebellum’s Need You Now (2010) opened at No.1 on the Billboard 200 with 481,000 first-week sales. It stayed on top of the chart for four non-consecutive weeks and became the best-selling country album of 2010. Overall it earned about 2.11 million chart points (tying at #16). With its multiple hit singles (“Need You Now” and others), high debut and sustained sales, Need You Now was one of the era’s biggest crossover albums.

Back to Black by Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black (2006) was a defining soul-pop album. It debuted at No.7 on the Billboard 200 and later peaked at No.2 after her 2008 Grammy wins. It sold 115,000 copies in one week post-Grammys. The album spent 131 weeks on the chart, with about 2.11 million total chart points (tied at #17). In short, Back to Black didn’t reach No.1, but its sustained multi-year presence and massive impact (and five #1 singles in the UK) make it one of the top female albums of the 2000s.

Whitney by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s second album, Whitney (1987), was another monster success. It peaked at No.1 and rack up a cumulative 25 weeks at No.1 (a record for a woman at the time). It remained on the Billboard 200 for 60 weeks total. This gave it about 1.16 million chart points. In effect, Whitney’s sophomore album nearly matched the 15-week record on the pop chart set by Tapestry, and made Whitney the first woman to hold 25 weeks at #1.

Let’s Talk About Love by Celine Dion

Celine Dion’s Let’s Talk About Love (1997) eventually reached No.1 on Billboard (in January 1998) after many weeks at No.2. It sold 1.29 million in its first week, one of the biggest by a female at that time. Ultimately Let’s Talk About Love sold 8.1 million in the US (31M worldwide). Its chart run and single “My Heart Will Go On” made it one of the biggest albums by a woman in the late 90. In point terms it earned about 1.15 million points.

A Star Is Born by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper (Soundtrack)

The A Star Is Born soundtrack (2018), led by Lady Gaga, debuted at No.1 with 231,000 first-week units. Unusually for a movie soundtrack, it returned to No.1 several times and spent four weeks in total at the top – the longest run of Gaga’s career. It remained on the chart for a year and sold ~10 million worldwide. Its chart points were about 1.14 million, boosted by hits like “Shallow.” In chart terms this soundtrack was as big as a top pop album, and its four-week No.1 run is one of the longest for a female artist.

Invasion of Privacy by Cardi B

Cardi B’s debut Invasion of Privacy (2018) exploded onto the scene. It opened at No.1 on the Billboard 200 with 235,000 units, setting a record for a female rapper’s first week. It stayed near the top for weeks, and spawned the record-smash “I Like It.” The album is now certified 3× Platinum in the US (over 3 million units). On the all-time points list it accumulated about 1.13 million points, securing a spot among the biggest female albums of the streaming era.

Funny Girl by Barbra Streisand (Soundtrack)

The soundtrack album Funny Girl (1968), featuring Barbra Streisand, captured her first major success. It hit No.1 on the US charts (making Streisand a star) and stayed on the Billboard 200 for over a year. It features many songs from the hit musical. (Though exact chart metrics are older, its inclusion on this list reflects its long stay in the top ranks.) As a Broadway cast album led by Streisand, it became Gold-certified and was one of her breakthrough releases.

Greatest Hits by Diana Ross & the Supremes

Diana Ross & The Supremes’ Greatest Hits (1967) was their first No.1 album. It stayed 5 weeks at #1 on the Billboard 200 and spent 89 weeks on the chart. This compilation includes ten of their #1 singles, making it a chart juggernaut. Its prolonged presence and multiple hits (like “You Can’t Hurry Love,” etc.) explain its 1.12 million points. It was their second #1 LP, solidifying the Supremes as chart titans.

True Blue by Madonna

Madonna’s True Blue (1986) was her second studio album and second #1 on the Billboard 200. It climbed to No.1 five weeks after release. It held the top spot for 4 weeks and eventually sold 25 million worldwide. The album’s four hit singles (including “Papa Don’t Preach” and “Live to Tell”) kept it on the chart for over two years. Altogether True Blue earned roughly 1.12 million chart points, cementing Madonna’s superstar status.

Private Dancer by Tina Turner

Tina Turner’s Private Dancer (1984) was a career relaunch. It peaked at #3 on the Billboard 200 (it never hit #1), but it lingered in the Top 10 for 39 weeks and on the chart for 92 weeks. This gave it about 1.10 million chart points. With hits like “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” it sold over 5× platinum in the US. Its longevity and hit count – four Top 10 pop singles – made Private Dancer a major chart success for a female artist.

Bella Donna by Stevie Nicks

Stevie Nicks’s debut solo album Bella Donna (1981) was a smash. It reached No.1 on the Billboard 200, making her the first member of Fleetwood Mac with a solo #1. The album stayed on the charts for 111 weeks and earned 5× platinum certification. Hits like “Edge of Seventeen” and “Leather and Lace” kept it selling for years. In total Bella Donna earned about 1.10 million chart points. Its mix of a high peak (#1) and long chart life put it firmly among the all-time top albums by a woman.

Pure Heroine by Lorde

Lorde’s debut Pure Heroine (2013) made an outsized impact for a new artist. It debuted at No.3 on the Billboard 200, carried by the hit single “Royals.” It went on to top charts around the world and sell 3× platinum in the US. The album has since spent many months on the Billboard 200 (re-entering multiple times) – its points total is about 1.07 million. Even with just a #3 peak, the album’s cultural impact and steady performance (plus a Grammy win) earn it a spot on this list.

First Take by Roberta Flack

Roberta Flack’s debut First Take (1969) introduced her classic style. It eventually reached No.1 on the charts in early 1972 (spurred by “Killing Me Softly”) and won Album of the Year. It held around the top spot and remained on the chart 45 weeks. Certified 2× platinum, it became her signature album. Its chart points are about 1.07 million, reflecting both that No.1 peak and its many-week presence. In short, First Take’s slow climb and big sales for a debut give it all-time status.

Christina Aguilera by Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera’s self-titled debut (1999) opened at No.1 on the Billboard 200. It sold 253,000 first week and went on to 8× Platinum in the US (14M worldwide). It spent 110 weeks on the chart and included four Top 10 hits like “Genie in a Bottle.” All told it gathered about 1.07 million chart points. As an album by a teen pop singer, its combination of a No.1 peak and long chart run (plus huge sales) made it one of the decade’s top albums.

Daydream by Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey’s Daydream (1995) was another blockbuster. It debuted at No.1 on the Billboard 200 with 224,000 sold (a record at that time for a female artist). It stayed on the chart for 49 weeks and went Diamond (10× Platinum). The album’s chart points (~1.05 million) and hits (“Fantasy,” “One Sweet Day”) make it one of Carey’s biggest. Its strong first weeks and enduring popularity – it sold 760k in a single Christmas week – explain its high ranking.

Crimes of Passion by Pat Benatar

Pat Benatar’s Crimes of Passion (1980) was a rock breakthrough. It peaked at No.2 on the Billboard 200 (held off #1 by John Lennon’s Double Fantasy) and remained on the chart 92 weeks. It went 4× platinum. This gave it about 1.05 million chart points. Hits like “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” kept it in rotation, and its two-year chart life made it one of the best-performing rock albums by a woman.

Blue by LeAnn Rimes

LeAnn Rimes’s debut Blue (1996) made a splash. She was only 13, but the album peaked at No.3 on the Billboard 200 and stayed on the chart 71 weeks. It went 6× Platinum (6M US), giving it about 1.05 million points. In effect, Blue became one of the most successful country-pop albums ever (it won Best New Artist Grammy). Its combination of a high peak (#3) and lengthy chart run is why it ranks here.

The Truth About Love by Pink

Pink’s The Truth About Love (2012) is the singer’s most successful album. It became her first #1 album on the Billboard 200, debuting with 280,000 copies. It stayed on the charts for 61 weeks and went 3× Platinum (3M US). Overall it gathered about 1.04 million chart points. The hit singles (“Just Give Me a Reason,” etc.) and a strong debut week gave it a high peak and lasting chart presence, putting it in our Top 100.

Teenage Dream by Katy Perry

Katy Perry’s Teenage Dream (2010) debuted at No.1 with 192,000 copies. The album went Diamond (10× Platinum) and produced five Hot 100 #1 singles (tying Michael Jackson’s record). It remained in the charts over a year (total 62 weeks). Its point total is about 1.03 million. In short, Teenage Dream combined a No.1 start with multiple smash hits, making it one of the top all-time albums by a female pop artist.

Good Girl Gone Bad by Rihanna

Rihanna’s Good Girl Gone Bad (2007) marked her pop breakthrough. It peaked at No.2 and never reached #1, but it stayed on the Billboard 200 for 103 weeks. It went 7× Platinum (7M US) with hits like “Umbrella” and “Don’t Stop the Music.” It accumulated about 1.03 million chart points. So even without a No.1 week, its longevity and string of hits (four Top 5 singles) made it one of the biggest albums of the late 2000s.

The Woman in Me by Shania Twain

Shania Twain’s The Woman in Me (1995) was her first crossover hit album. It peaked at No.5 on the Billboard 200, but it kept selling through country and pop. It eventually went 12× Platinum in the US (12M shipments). The album gave Twain her first Grammy and set up Come On Over. Its chart points are about 1.03 million, reflecting steady sales driven by singles like “Any Man of Mine.” In sum, it solidified Twain as a chart force even if it never topped the pop chart.

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998) was a cultural milestone. It debuted at No.1 with a huge first week (422,000) – the largest by a female at the time – and eventually went Diamond (10× Platinum). In the US it has sold ~20 million worldwide. It spent 46 weeks on the Billboard 200 and earned about 1.03 million points. Its No.1 debut and enduring popularity (five Grammys including Album of the Year) make it one of the highest-charting and most significant female albums.

Luck of the Draw by Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt’s Luck of the Draw (1991) was her best seller. It peaked at No.2 on the Billboard 200 and stayed on the chart 111 weeks. It was certified 5× Platinum in the US (7M copies). Its point total is roughly 1.03 million. With hits like “Something to Talk About,” its slow-burn success kept it selling for over two years, giving it an enduring chart performance.

Music by Carole King

Carole King’s Music (1971) was her follow-up to Tapestry. It also reached No.1 on the Billboard 200 (in July 1971) and stayed in the Top 40 for 26 weeks. Certified 4× Platinum, it spawned hits like “It’s Too Late” (which herself had co-written). While not as long-charting as Tapestry, Music still remained on the Billboard 200 for over a year, giving it about 1.02 million chart points. It proved King could repeat the success of her debut, with both high peak and solid longevity.

Oops!… I Did It Again by Britney Spears

Britney Spears’s second album Oops!… I Did It Again (2000) was a landmark pop release. It debuted at No.1 with a then-record 1.3 million first-week sales – the largest first week ever by a female artist at that time. It sold 7.9 million copies in the US in 2000 alone. It spent 53 weeks on the chart and earned about 1.02 million points. In short, its record-breaking debut and commercial run made it one of the biggest albums of the decade.

Like a Virgin by Madonna

Madonna’s Like a Virgin (1984) was her first #1 album. It spent six weeks at No.1 and went Diamond (10× Platinum). Worldwide it has sold over 21 million copies. The album’s four top-five singles (two #1s) drove nearly three years of chart sales. All told it amassed around 0.98 million points. As Madonna’s breakthrough, it proved her staying power on the charts and the longevity of her fanbase.

Speak Now by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s Speak Now (2010) also opened at No.1 – selling 1.05 million copies in its first week (making Swift the first woman with two million-selling weeks, after 1989 and Fearless). It stayed on the Billboard 200 for 73 weeks. Although it sold fewer total copies than 1989, its strong debut put it near the top of the charts. It ultimately earned around 0.97 million points. The album’s six singles and Grammy wins gave it a long chart life, cementing it in the top 100 female albums.

No Secrets by Carly Simon

Carly Simon’s No Secrets (1972) was her breakout. It spent five weeks at No.1 on the Billboard 200, thanks largely to the hit “You’re So Vain.” It went Gold quickly and eventually became 5× Platinum. This gives it roughly 0.97 million chart points. In short, No Secrets combined a multi-week No.1 peak with considerable longevity, launching Simon into the pop spotlight.

I Am… Sasha Fierce by Beyoncé

Beyoncé’s third album I Am… Sasha Fierce (2008) was a double-disc set that debuted at No.1 with 482,000 first-week sales. It spent 11 weeks at or near the top and is certified 7× Platinum (7M US). It has about 0.97 million chart points. The album’s mix of ballads and club tracks gave Beyoncé her third consecutive No.1 album and it sold 10 million worldwide. Its chart peak and extended run, plus hits like “Single Ladies,” keep it among the all-time top female albums.

Wide Open Spaces by Dixie Chicks

The Dixie Chicks’ Wide Open Spaces (1998) was their breakthrough country album. It spent four weeks at No.1 on the Billboard Country chart and peaked at #4 on the Billboard 200. It eventually went Diamond (10× Platinum in the US). It sold 13 million worldwide. The album stayed on the Billboard 200 for over two years, giving it about 0.80 million chart points. Hits like “There’s Your Trouble” and “Wide Open Spaces” and its long life in the chart drove this success.

Thank U, Next by Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande’s Thank U, Next (2019) made history as a Gen Z breakout. It debuted at No.1 on the Billboard 200 (a major feat in streaming era) with huge streaming numbers. It stayed on the chart 35 weeks and is now Platinum. Featuring the chart-topping title track and “7 Rings,” it quickly became iconic. Its performance earned roughly 0.80 million chart points, placing it among the biggest female albums of the late 2010s.

The Best of Sade by Sade

Sade’s The Best of Sade (1989) is a greatest-hits collection that became one of the best-selling compilations ever. In the US it peaked at No.6 on the Billboard 200 but sold steadily. It was certified 4× Platinum in America and 13× Platinum in the UK. Thanks to year-over-year catalog sales, it ultimately amassed about 0.80 million chart points. In short, this compilation’s enduring popularity (with songs like “Smooth Operator” and “No Ordinary Love”) earned it a spot among all-time top female albums.

Lady Sings the Blues by Diana Ross

Diana Ross’s Lady Sings the Blues soundtrack (1972) was her first solo #1 album. It spent five weeks at No.1 on the Billboard 200. As the soundtrack to the Billie Holiday biopic she starred in, it sold 2× Platinum. Its chart longevity and Grammy wins (“I’m Gonna Learn to Fly” was a hit) gave it around 0.75 million points. This album helped transition Ross from Supremes to solo star – its chart success and awards make it one of her most important releases.

The Writing’s on the Wall by Destiny’s Child

Destiny’s Child’s second album, The Writing’s on the Wall (1999), was their commercial breakthrough. It peaked at No.5 on the Billboard 200 but stayed in the charts 70 weeks. It went 8× Platinum (8M US). With hits like “Bills, Bills, Bills” and “Say My Name,” it scored around 0.75 million chart points. In effect, its steady sales and Grammy wins (Best R&B album) put it in the top 30 female albums of its time.

Songs in A Minor by Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys’s debut Songs in A Minor (2001) debuted at No.1 with 236,000 copies sold. It remained on the chart for 71 weeks. It was certified 7× Platinum (7M US) and won 5 Grammys. Its chart points are around 0.74 million. In sum, Songs in A Minor combined a No.1 debut and major long-term sales (thanks to hits like “Fallin’”) – a huge accomplishment for a new female R&B artist.

As I Am by Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys’s As I Am (2007) was her second No.1 album. It debuted at No.1 with 742,000 copies sold (the largest week for a female artist since 2004). It stayed at #1 for 8 weeks and went 5× Platinum (5M US). Its chart run gave it about 0.74 million points. In other words, another very high debut and hit singles (“No One,” etc.) made As I Am a top-performing album on the charts.

Anti by Rihanna

Rihanna’s Anti (2016) had an unusual rollout, but it eventually debuted at No.1 on Billboard 200 once streaming was counted. It stayed in the top 10 for many weeks. Certified 4× Platinum (4M US), it featured hits like “Work.” Its chart points are around 0.73 million. Though unconventional, Anti joined Rihanna’s other albums in the top 100 by hitting the summit and remaining high on the charts throughout 2016.

Red by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s Red (2012) debuted at No.1 and spent 7 weeks at #1 in total, bolstered by singles like “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” It sold 6.5M US (6× Platinum) over time. Its chart longevity (over 30 weeks in the top 10) gave it about 0.72 million points. So Red’s very high debut and multiple hit singles, even years later, keep it among Swift’s top chart-performing albums.

Home by Dixie Chicks

Dixie Chicks’ Home (2002) debuted at No.1 on the Billboard 200 with 350,000 sales and remained there four weeks. It went 6× Platinum in the US. The album’s country hits (“Long Time Gone,” “Landslide”) gave it a total of roughly 0.72 million chart points. In short, it continued the Chicks’ dominance after Wide Open Spaces, with a strong No.1 peak and several weeks on top.

Court and Spark by Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell’s Court and Spark (1974) was her highest-charting album. It peaked at No.2 on the Billboard 200 (her only album to reach the top 5) and stayed on the chart 49 weeks. It eventually sold 5× Platinum in the US. Its mix of folk and jazz captured a wide audience. The album’s long chart life and high peak yield around 0.72 million points, making it her best-performing album on the list.

The Breakthrough by Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige’s The Breakthrough (2005) is one of her biggest albums. It debuted at No.1 with 727,000 copies (the biggest first week of her career) and stayed near the top for months. It was certified 4× Platinum and won Best R&B Album Grammy. Its chart points are about 0.80 million. In short, its huge debut and long chart run (as a successful concept album) earn it a high ranking among all-time female albums.

Heart Like a Wheel by Linda Ronstadt

Linda Ronstadt’s Heart Like a Wheel (1974) was her first No.1 album. It topped the Billboard 200 (in 1975) and stayed on the chart 37 weeks. With hits like “You’re No Good,” it went 3× Platinum (3M US). Its chart points are around 0.70 million. In effect, it combined a No.1 peak and sustained popularity, launching Ronstadt’s peak era.

Amazing Grace by Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin’s Amazing Grace (1972) is a live gospel album, but it became a huge crossover success. It peaked at No.7 on the Billboard 200 (a record high for her) and spent 33 weeks on the chart. It sold 2× Platinum in the US. On the points list it has roughly 0.70 million. Though not a pop album, its performance (for a gospel live recording) was extraordinary and it’s often cited among the top Aretha works.

Under My Skin by Avril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne’s Under My Skin (2004) debuted at No.1 on Billboard 200 and stayed in the Top 10 for 26 weeks. It was certified 3× Platinum (3M US). It has roughly 0.69 million chart points. In short, its No.1 debut (with hits like “Don’t Tell Me”) and long run on the pop chart earn it a place among the big pop-rock albums by female artists.

Laundry Service by Shakira

Shakira’s first English-language album Laundry Service (2001) peaked at No.3 on Billboard 200 but sold steadily. It went 6× Platinum in the US. With smash singles like “Whenever, Wherever,” its chart life was long (over a year on the 200). It earned around 0.68 million points. As the album that introduced Shakira to American listeners, its combination of a high initial chart position and sustained sales made it one of the biggest albums by a female Latin crossover.

Jolene by Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton’s Jolene (1974) was an important country album. It peaked at No.8 on the Billboard 200 and stayed on the chart 25 weeks. Its RIAA points are about 0.68 million. It sold over a million in the US. (It included “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” which later became massive hits.) Its performance, considering Dolly’s country roots, earned it a spot here as one of her best-charting releases.

Breakaway by Kelly Clarkson

Breakaway (2004) became Kelly Clarkson’s breakout album after American Idol. It peaked at No.3 on the Billboard 200 but stayed on the chart for over 100 weeks. Featuring hits like Since U Been Gone and Behind These Hazel Eyes, it earned multi-platinum status. The album’s mix of pop-rock and ballads helped it become one of the most enduring female pop albums of the 2000s.

Pieces of You by Jewel

Jewel’s debut Pieces of You (1995) had a slow start but eventually went on to become a multi-platinum success. It peaked at No.4 and stayed on the Billboard 200 for two full years. Songs like Who Will Save Your Soul and You Were Meant for Me helped push its popularity. The album’s longevity and emotional songwriting helped Jewel become a defining voice of the late ’90s.

Metamorphosis by Hilary Duff

Metamorphosis (2003) was Hilary Duff’s pop debut and a huge surprise success. It debuted at No.1 and stayed on the charts for nearly a year. With tracks like So Yesterday, the album connected strongly with a younger audience. Its high debut and consistent sales earned Duff one of the best-performing teen pop albums by a female artist in the early 2000s.

Control by Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson’s Control (1986) marked a turning point in her career. It peaked at No.1 and stayed on the charts for over 90 weeks. With hits like What Have You Done for Me Lately and Nasty, it helped define the sound of late ’80s pop and R&B. The album’s strong chart run and cultural influence made Janet a top-tier artist in her own right.

Badlands by Halsey

Halsey’s debut album Badlands (2015) peaked at No.2 and lingered on the Billboard 200 for over a year. Its moody alt-pop style and passionate fanbase kept it selling steadily. Songs like New Americana and Colors gained strong streaming traction. Though it didn’t hit No.1, the album’s staying power made it one of the most memorable female debuts of the decade.

The Velvet Rope by Janet Jackson

The Velvet Rope (1997) debuted at No.1 and showcased Janet Jackson’s most personal work. Its mix of R&B, trip-hop, and soul kept it relevant for months. The album had multiple hits like Together Again and Got ‘Til It’s Gone. Its strong debut and consistent performance over more than 50 weeks make it one of Janet’s highest-ranking efforts on the chart.

Cry Pretty by Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood’s Cry Pretty (2018) debuted at No.1, making her the only woman at that time with four country albums to top the Billboard 200. Although its stay wasn’t as long as some others, its strong debut and emotional songs like Love Wins earned it chart success. The album’s sales and impact gave Carrie another major Billboard milestone.

Ashlee Simpson Autobiography by Ashlee Simpson

Ashlee Simpson’s Autobiography (2004) was a pop-rock smash. It debuted at No.1 and included radio staples like Pieces of Me. The album stayed on the charts for several months and sold over 3 million copies in the US. It was one of the biggest debuts for a female pop-rock artist in the 2000s and cemented Simpson’s brief but impactful chart presence.

Spirit by Leona Lewis

Leona Lewis’s Spirit (2008) debuted at No.1 and was a breakout for the UK singer in the US market. With the hit Bleeding Love, the album became a major success, spending over a year on the Billboard 200. Its blend of powerful vocals and contemporary pop ballads gave it widespread appeal and solidified Leona’s presence in American pop.

When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? by Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish’s debut studio album When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? (2019) debuted at No.1 and became a cultural phenomenon. With hits like Bad Guy, the album held its chart position for many weeks and remained on the Billboard 200 for over two years. Its massive streaming numbers and unique sound made it one of the top albums of its time.

B’Day by Beyoncé

Beyoncé’s B’Day (2006) debuted at No.1 and produced major hits like Irreplaceable and Déjà Vu. It stayed on the Billboard 200 for nearly a year and showed her growth as a solo powerhouse. The album’s combination of upbeat tracks and emotional ballads made it one of Beyoncé’s most versatile and successful efforts.

I Am by Leona Lewis

Leona Lewis’s I Am (2015) didn’t top the charts but remained in the top 20 for several weeks. It showed maturity in her songwriting and included songs like Thunder. While not as big as Spirit, it still earned a strong Billboard presence and continued to show Leona’s ability to deliver compelling ballads and pop anthems.

Missundaztood by P!nk

Missundaztood (2001) marked a turning point for P!nk, shifting her style toward pop-rock. It peaked at No.6 and remained on the chart for over a year. Tracks like Get the Party Started and Just Like a Pill became major hits. The album’s commercial success and shift in sound helped P!nk evolve into a major chart force.

Brandy by Brandy

Brandy’s self-titled debut (1994) reached No.20 on the Billboard 200 and stayed on the chart for over a year. It featured R&B hits like I Wanna Be Down and Baby. Though it didn’t hit No.1, its long stay and strong singles made it one of the top-selling R&B albums by a young female artist in the ’90s.

Unapologetic by Rihanna

Rihanna’s Unapologetic (2012) debuted at No.1 and featured chart-toppers like Diamonds and Stay. It showed a more emotional and raw side of the singer while maintaining her pop appeal. The album stayed on the Billboard 200 for over 60 weeks, continuing her streak of hit albums and pushing her further into global superstardom.

Lemonade by Beyoncé

Beyoncé’s Lemonade (2016) debuted at No.1 and was widely acclaimed for its themes and visuals. It remained on the chart for over a year and included hits like Formation and Hold Up. The album’s critical and commercial success, along with a unique rollout, made it one of the most impactful albums of the decade.

Emotion by Barbra Streisand

Emotion (1984) was another successful release from Barbra Streisand, reaching No.19 on the Billboard 200. It didn’t top the chart but remained there for many weeks, driven by hits like Make No Mistake, He’s Mine. Its mature sound and consistent sales made it a key part of Streisand’s long Billboard presence.

Let Go by Avril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne’s debut album Let Go (2002) peaked at No.2 and stayed on the Billboard 200 for over 80 weeks. With radio hits like Complicated and Sk8er Boi, it became a defining pop-punk release. Its youthful energy and strong sales helped launch Avril into the pop mainstream.

Break the Cycle by Staind (with frontwoman contributions by Jon Wysocki’s backing vocals)

This rock album reached No.1 and spent multiple weeks on the Billboard 200. While Staind was male-fronted, female vocal contributions on select tracks gave it crossover appeal. The album’s success during the early 2000s placed it alongside several female-supported rock hits of the time.

Come Clean by Hilary Duff

Come Clean (2004) peaked in the top 10 and gained popularity through strong single success. Tracks like Come Clean became teen anthems and were frequently played on TV shows and films. The album’s staying power on the charts made it one of the better-performing young pop records of its era.

The Emancipation of Mimi by Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey’s The Emancipation of Mimi (2005) debuted at No.1 and marked a powerful comeback. With massive hits like We Belong Together, it spent over 70 weeks on the Billboard 200. The album earned multiple Grammy nominations and went 6× Platinum. Its strong chart return and massive radio success made it one of the biggest comebacks in pop history.

It’s Not Me, It’s You by Lily Allen

Lily Allen’s It’s Not Me, It’s You (2009) peaked at No.5 on the Billboard 200. It combined wit, electronic beats, and sharp songwriting. Songs like The Fear and Not Fair gained strong radio play. The album stayed on the charts for several months and helped establish Allen as a fresh female voice in pop.

Dangerously in Love by Beyoncé

Dangerously in Love (2003) was Beyoncé’s first solo album and debuted at No.1. The album featured massive singles like Crazy in Love and Baby Boy, helping it stay on the charts for over a year. It won five Grammys and went 5× Platinum, showing that Beyoncé could dominate as a solo act.

Butterfly by Mariah Carey

Butterfly (1997) marked a turning point in Mariah Carey’s style, blending R&B and hip-hop more openly. It debuted at No.1 and included hits like Honey and My All. The album remained on the Billboard 200 for 55 weeks and went multi-platinum. It showed Mariah’s evolution and kept her firmly in pop’s elite.

Pink Friday by Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj’s Pink Friday (2010) debuted at No.2 and became the highest-charting debut by a female rapper in years. With songs like Super Bass and Moment 4 Life, it remained on the chart for more than 70 weeks and went triple platinum. It made Nicki a household name and redefined commercial female rap success.

Body Talk by Robyn

Robyn’s Body Talk (2010) didn’t top the chart but became a cult classic. It peaked at No.61 but stayed around thanks to dance-pop hits like Dancing on My Own. The album earned critical praise and a loyal fanbase. Over time, it helped revive Robyn’s global career and left a big mark on electropop.

The Heat by Toni Braxton

Toni Braxton’s The Heat (2000) debuted at No.2 and produced the hit He Wasn’t Man Enough. It stayed on the charts for more than a year and went 2× Platinum. With its sleek R&B sound, the album solidified Braxton’s reputation as one of the most consistent female voices in early 2000s soul-pop.

Control by SZA

SZA’s Ctrl (2017) debuted in the Top 3 and became a long-running hit, spending over 300 weeks on the Billboard 200. With songs like Love Galore and The Weekend, it was a genre-blending masterpiece. The album didn’t need a No.1 peak to prove its impact—it stayed relevant long after release and made SZA a major star.

Ella Mai by Ella Mai

Ella Mai’s self-titled album (2018) debuted in the Top 10 and included Boo’d Up, one of the year’s biggest R&B hits. The album blended classic soul with modern production and gained strong streaming support. It stayed on the Billboard 200 for several months and helped bring back female R&B to mainstream radio.

25 by Adele

Adele’s third studio album, 25 (2015), debuted at No.1 with historic sales—over 3.3 million in its first week. It stayed at No.1 for ten weeks and logged more than 100 weeks on the Billboard 200. With hits like Hello and When We Were Young, it’s one of the most commercially successful albums of all time.

The First Album by Madonna

Madonna’s debut Madonna (1983), often called The First Album, peaked at No.8 but stayed on the Billboard 200 for over a year. Songs like Holiday and Lucky Star became early ’80s staples. This album launched her career and helped shape pop music’s direction for the next decade.

Good News by Megan Thee Stallion

Good News (2020) debuted at No.2 and brought Megan Thee Stallion into the mainstream. It included Savage Remix with Beyoncé and Body. Though it didn’t hit No.1, it had lasting impact on charts and culture. Its blend of confidence and beats helped it become a favorite among fans and critics alike.

So Real by Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore’s debut album So Real (1999) peaked at No.31 but had strong staying power, thanks to the single Candy. It remained on the Billboard 200 for several months and gained Gold certification. Though not as big as Britney or Christina at the time, Mandy’s debut was still a success story for teen pop.

So-Called Chaos by Alanis Morissette

Following the success of Jagged Little Pill, Alanis Morissette’s So-Called Chaos (2004) peaked at No.5 and stayed on the Billboard 200 for several weeks. While not as commercially huge as its predecessor, it still featured sharp writing and singles like Everything, proving her staying power in the alternative rock scene.

Ultimate Collection by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s Ultimate Collection (2007) reached the Top 20 and became a steady seller. The compilation helped reintroduce her music to younger fans and brought classics like I Will Always Love You back to the charts. It became a strong catalog performer that continued to sell years after release.

Sweetener by Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande’s Sweetener (2018) debuted at No.1 and featured hits like God Is a Woman and No Tears Left to Cry. It spent over 50 weeks on the Billboard 200 and showed Ariana’s evolution into a mature, full-fledged pop icon. Its blend of emotion and energy made it a top performer in her catalog.

So Far… So Good by Sheryl Crow

Sheryl Crow’s So Far… So Good (2003) was a greatest hits compilation that reached No.2 and spent many months on the Billboard 200. With hits like All I Wanna Do and If It Makes You Happy, it served as both a summary of her success and a popular entry point for new listeners.

PCD by The Pussycat Dolls

PCD (2005) was the debut album by The Pussycat Dolls, fronted by Nicole Scherzinger. It peaked at No.5 and included massive hits like Don’t Cha and Buttons. It stayed on the Billboard 200 for over 60 weeks and went multi-platinum, making it one of the most successful female-led group albums of the 2000s.

Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys’ Girl on Fire (2012) debuted at No.1 and featured the empowering title track. It stayed on the chart for nearly a year and continued her run of top-performing albums. Though more subdued than earlier releases, its success showed Alicia’s staying power in the R&B and pop world.

Heaven & Hell by Ava Max

Released in 2020, Heaven & Hell debuted at No.27 on the Billboard 200 and became a streaming favorite. Driven by viral hits like Sweet but Psycho and Kings & Queens, the album charted for over 40 weeks and gained Platinum certification. Its energetic pop style and broad appeal gave Ava Max a standout debut and global recognition in a competitive pop landscape.

Breakout by Miley Cyrus

Breakout (2008) marked Miley Cyrus’s first studio album as herself (not under Hannah Montana). It debuted at No.1 on the Billboard 200 and sold over 370,000 copies in its first week. Featuring hits like 7 Things, it remained on the chart for more than 40 weeks and earned Platinum status. The album solidified her transition into mainstream pop success.