Nickelback Has Topped Billboard Rock Chart
The band earned its ninth No. 1 spot on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart with the single Rattle the Cage.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Rock
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Nickelback reached the top of the Billboard Mainstream Rock Airplay chart for the first time since 2014 with their latest single, Rattle the Cage. The song features guitarist John 5 and marks his first No. 1 as a billed artist.
Why it matters
The achievement highlights the band's continued relevance in the rock format more than two decades after their first chart appearance. It also serves as a commercial milestone for their upcoming 11th studio album, Everything Under the Sun.
The single secured the top spot following an 8% increase in radio plays during the week of Sept. 11-17. It marks the third No. 1 hit for the label Nickelback II/Virgin Music this year.
The players
Nickelback
A Canadian rock band formed in 1995 that has achieved significant commercial success with hits like How You Remind Me.
John 5
A prominent guitarist and songwriter who has worked with artists including Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie, and Motley Crue.
The details
The track was released on July 14, 2026, and entered the chart in August. It is part of the band's 11th studio album, which is titled Everything Under the Sun.
Timeline
Nickelback first appeared on the chart in March 2000.
The band last topped the chart in 2014.
Rattle the Cage was released on July 14, 2026.
Radio plays increased by 8% between Sept. 11-17, 2026.
The album Everything Under the Sun is scheduled for release on Oct. 30, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This success illustrates the enduring strength of veteran rock acts within traditional radio formats, even as digital streaming dominates the broader music business. The ability to drive 8% growth in airplay years after a band's peak suggests a stable, loyal audience demographic.
Fans can hear the No. 1 track through standard radio rotation and streaming platforms that support the single. The song's current airplay success indicates it will likely be a staple on rock radio stations nationwide through the fall.
The takeaway
The success of Rattle the Cage proves that established rock bands can still achieve significant radio milestones well into their careers. Listeners looking for new music from the band can anticipate the upcoming full album release in late October.
What happens next
The band is set to release their 11th studio album, Everything Under the Sun, on Oct. 30, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the current state of the format, visit Rock.
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