Van Halen’s iconic debut album was released 45 years ago today!
Released on February 10th, 1978, Van Halen was a huge commercial success and would go on to influence countless bands in the years that followed. The album peaked at number 19 on the US Billboard 200 and has gone on to sell more than 10 million copies in the United States. Rolling Stone, AllMusic, Classic Rock and Q all give it five out of five stars.
Of the 11 tracks on the album, nearly half would quickly become staples of rock radio stations in the US and beyond including “You Really Got Me” (#36 on Billboard), “Runnin’ with the Devil” (#84 on Billboard), “Jaimie’s Cryin'”, “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love” and “Ice Cream Man”.
But we know there’s much more to this album than just the hits. With album tracks like “I’m The One”, “Atomic Punk”, “Feel Your Love Tonight”, Little Dreamer” and “On Fire”, it’s easy to see why this album is considered to be among the best of the best in rock history. What won’t be easy is deciding which is the best track on the album but that’s the challenge we’re about to put you to! Vote below!