Hybrid Theory is the debut album by the American rock band Linkin Park, released on October 24, 2000. The album, produced by Don Gilmore, was recorded and mixed from March to July 2000. Prior to the release, the band was known as Xero and Hybrid Theory, names they used while trying to secure a record contract.
The album's title, "Hybrid Theory" signifies the band's unique approach to music by blending different music styles. It draws from a variety of inspirations, mixing alternative rock, nu metal, and rap.
Hybrid Theory includes the singles "One Step Closer", "Crawling", "Papercut", and the Grammy Award-winning "In the End". It also includes the lesser-known, but critically acclaimed "Points of Authority". The album was a commercial success, thanks to heavy radio and MTV play of the singles. It peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 and remained on the chart for a staggering 38 weeks.
The success of the album marked the rebirth of the rock genre in a period typically dominated by teen pop. The rise of Linkin Park confirmed the growing popularity of the nu-metal and rap metal genres, with Hybrid Theory standing as a major representative of this movement.
Hybrid Theory has been certified Diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), indicating shipments of over 10 million units in the United States. It's also the best-selling debut album of the 21st century. The album has continued to be acclaimed by critics, with many listing it as one of the greatest albums of its genre.
