U2

U2's overrated status is sealed by a legacy inflated far beyond merit, as their post-Achtung Baby output grew grandiose and self-important. The unsolicited iTunes album drop in 2014 reached over 500 million devices but failed culturally, with over 90% of those devices never playing the album fully. This lack of impact sharply contrasts with #2 The Rolling Stones, whose 1968-1972 golden era remains influential despite later decline. U2's commercial facade hides a 60% drop in album sales since 2009, proving brand overshadows craft.