Photo Credit: Canadian Press

When Adele released her sophomore album 21 in 2011, the world was captivated by its raw emotion, soulful melodies, and powerhouse vocals. Inspired by heartbreak and resilience, the album struck a universal chord, turning personal pain into global anthems. With record-breaking sales, chart-topping hits like “Rolling in the Deep” and “Someone Like You,” and a Grammy sweep, 21 became more than an album—it became a cultural phenomenon that solidified Adele’s status as one of the greatest voices of her generation.

1. A Breakup-Inspired Album

21 was heavily inspired by a tumultuous breakup Adele experienced, infusing the album with raw emotion and vulnerability.

2. Global Success

The album became one of the best-selling albums of all time, selling over 31 million copies worldwide by 2023.

3. Grammy Sweep

21 won 6 Grammy Awards in 2012, including Album of the Year, Song of the Year (“Rolling in the Deep”), and Best Pop Vocal Album.

4. Signature Songs

It featured massive hits like “Rolling in the Deep,” “Someone Like You,” and “Set Fire to the Rain”, which topped charts worldwide.

5. Longevity on the Charts

21 spent 24 weeks at number one on the Billboard 200 in the U.S., a record for a female solo artist.

6. Critical Acclaim

The album received universal acclaim for its mix of soul, pop, and blues, with critics praising Adele’s powerhouse vocals.

7. Influence on the Music Industry

21 is often credited with reviving the popularity of soul and ballad-heavy albums in a pop-dominated industry.

8. Cultural Impact

The album’s emotional themes resonated globally, making it a soundtrack for heartbreak and resilience for millions.

9. “Someone Like You” Milestone

Adele became the first female artist to have a solo song (with only piano accompaniment) reach number one on the UK Singles Chart with “Someone Like You.”

10. Personal Triumph

Adele recorded much of the album while battling vocal cord issues, proving her resilience and dedication to her craft. Later in 2011, she underwent surgery to address the problem.

21 remains a timeless masterpiece that solidified Adele as one of the most iconic artists of her generation.