Queen named UK's most-played rock act of the 21st century

Queen has been named the United Kingdom's most played rock act of the 21st century, according to airplay data compiled by music licensing company PPL. The band accumulated more than 400 million seconds of radio and television play since 2000, the equivalent of roughly 12.5 years of continuous broadcast time, with A Kind of Magic identified as their most played track. PPL released the ranking ahead of National Album Day on October 18.

Guitarist Brian May called the result "Astounding news! 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," acknowledging the continued public interest in the band's catalogue. PPL said the tally covers airplay on radio and TV stations across the country and reflects usage in public spaces that the company licenses.

PPL reported that Queen's five most played songs in the period were A Kind of Magic, I Want to Break Free, Don't Stop Me Now, Radio Ga Ga, and Somebody to Love. The company's top 10 list of most played rock acts of the century placed David Bowie second, U2 third, Oasis fourth and Fleetwood Mac fifth, followed by Stereophonics, The Rolling...