Meat Loaf dominates top two spots on Official Irish Albums Chart following his death

Following Meat Loaf's death last week, Bat Out Of Hell (1977) and Hits Out Of Hell (1984) have shot to the top of the Official Irish Albums Chart – occupying the No.1 and No.2 spots, respectively.

Bat Out Of Hell is Meat Loaf's debut album, which has become one of the best-selling albums of all time, in the 45 years since its original release. Hits Out Of Hell, meanwhile, is a compilation album, featuring classics like 'Paradise By The Dashboard Light', 'Bat Out Of Hell', and 'Dead Ringer For Love'.

Meat Loaf died in Nashville on January 20, aged 74 – reportedly from Covid-19 complications. His death was confirmed on his official social media platforms soon after:

"Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight surrounded by his wife Deborah, daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends," the statement read. "We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man. We thank you for your understanding of our need for privacy at this time. From his heart to your souls…don’t ever stop rocking!"

Elsewhere on the chart, Olivia Rodrigo holds onto her position at No.3 with Sour, followed by Ed Sheeran's = at No.4 and Dermot Kennedy's Without Fear at No.5. Last week's chart topper – The Weeknd's Dawn FM, has dropped to No.7.

On the Official Irish Singles Chart, meanwhile, Gayle is at No.1 once again with 'abcdefu', followed by 'We Don't Talk About Bruno' from Disney's Encanto at No.2, Lost Frequencies and Calum Scott's 'Where Are You Now' at No.3 , Adele's 'Easy On Me' at No. 4, and Lauren Spencer-Smith's 'Fingers Crossed' at No.5.