25 - Adele

Adele's third studio album, 25, was released on November 20, 2015, by XL Recordings and Columbia Records. It is her third studio album. The album is referred to be a "make-up record" since it is a representation of her life and state of mind at the age of 25. According to a Rolling Stone interview with Adele, the song's lyrical substance includes themes of parenthood and regret, as well as Adele's "yearning for her former self, her nostalgia," and "melancholia at the passing of time." Unlike Adele's previous albums, 25 was produced with the use of electronic components and unique rhythmic patterns, as well as elements of 1980s R&B and organs.

Music critics praised the album's production and Adele's vocal delivery, however, others criticized its predictable style and Adele's lack of risk-taking. The album was eagerly anticipated and Adele's record firms pushed it with an elaborate marketing effort over five years after the release of her sophomore album, the worldwide successful 21.

Worldwide sales (in millions): 23.0