Is Imagine Dragons A-List?
No — Imagine Dragons is currently ranked C tier — recognizable within their niche but with limited mainstream visibility.
Reached A-list in 2013
Radioactive Becomes Longest Hot 100 Run
Lost A-list status in 2021
Dropped to B tier — Mercury - Act 1 Shows Declining Impact
Ranking Timeline
Band Forms in Las Vegas
Dan Reynolds forms Imagine Dragons in Las Vegas, playing small venues. The band struggled financially while building a local following in the Vegas music scene.
It's Time Becomes Breakthrough Hit
The single 'It's Time' gains traction on alternative radio and charts. This led to their signing with Interscope Records and began building mainstream recognition.
Radioactive Becomes Longest Hot 100 Run
Their single 'Radioactive' sets record for longest Hot 100 run at 87 weeks and wins Grammy for Best Rock Performance. The band became one of rock's biggest mainstream acts overnight.
Smoke + Mirrors Debuts #1
Second album debuts at #1 on Billboard 200 with singles 'I Bet My Life' and 'Shots.' The band proved their debut success wasn't a fluke and commanded massive touring fees.
Evolve and Thunder Dominate Radio
Third album Evolve spawns massive hits 'Believer' and 'Thunder,' with extensive sync licensing deals. The band reached peak commercial success with global arena tours and corporate partnerships.
Origins Continues Commercial Success
Fourth album Origins with hit 'Natural' maintains their radio dominance but receives harsh critical reception. Rock purists increasingly dismissed them as overproduced pop-rock, affecting their credibility.
Mercury - Act 1 Shows Declining Impact
Fifth album receives muted commercial response compared to earlier releases. Their sound became increasingly divisive among listeners and critics, signaling waning cultural relevance.
Touring Legacy Act with Catalog
The band continues releasing music and touring but no longer dominates radio or pop culture. They maintain wealth through extensive catalog streams and reliable touring despite decreased prominence.
Last updated: February 23, 2026