Released on this day in 1976, 2112 is the fourth studio album by Rush. After the band's previous album, Caress of Steel failed to sell well, combined with a decline in attendance at concerts, the band's international label, Mercury Records, considered dropping them but granted them one more album. Though the label demanded a more commercial release, the band decided to throw caution to the wind and continue developing its progressive rock sound. It turned out to be the right decision. 2112 sold faster than any of the band's prior releases, breaking the US Top 100 for the first time. Since its release, 2112 has sold over 3 million copies, becoming Rush's second-biggest seller after Moving Pictures.
In honor of the anniversary, see the band performing the title track, above.