List of best-selling music artists

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search

The list of best-selling music artists includes artists with claims of 75 million or more record sales in multiple third-party reliable sources. The claimed sales figures and the total certified sales figures (for each country) within the provided sources include sales of albums, singles, compilation-albums, music videos as well as downloads of singles and full-length albums. The artists in the following tables are listed with both their claimed and certified sales figures and are ranked in descending order, with the highest claimed sales at the top. Artists with the same claimed sales are then ranked by certified units. Sales figures, such as those from Soundscan, which are sometimes published by Billboard magazine, have not been included in the certified units column. Currently, The Beatles are listed at the top of the list as they are considered the highest-selling band based both on sales claims and certified units. Elvis Presley, who is listed the second on the list is considered the highest-selling individual artist based both on sales claims and certified units.

All artists included on this list, which have begun charting on official albums/singles charts have their available claimed figure(s) supported by at least 20% in certified units. That is why Cliff Richard, Diana Ross, Charles Aznavour, Bing Crosby, Nana Mouskouri, Deep Purple, Iron Maiden, Tom Jones, The Jackson 5, Dionne Warwick, The Andrews Sisters, Luciano Pavarotti and others have not been included on this list. The percentage amount of certified sales needed increases the newer the artist is, meaning, artists such as Taylor Swift and Rihanna are expected to have their claimed figures supported by over 60% in certified units. The certified units are sourced from available online databases of local music industry associations. Note that all certified units are converted from Gold/Platinum/Diamond certification awards based on criteria provided by certifying bodies.

The requirements of certified sales are designed to avoid inflated sales figures, which are frequently practiced by record companies for promotional purposes.[1][2]

The claimed figures are sourced to articles that use the term records (singles, albums, videos) and not albums. However, if all available sources for an artist/band say albums, such sources can only be used if the certified album units of the said artist meet the required percentage amount. Note that this list uses claimed figures that are closer to artists' available certified sales. In other words, inflated claimed figures that will meet the required certified sales amount but are unrealistically high from available certified sales, will not be used.

Contents

Artists by reputed sales

250 million or more records

  • The Beatles

  • Elvis Presley

  • Madonna

  • Michael Jackson

  • Elton John

  • Led Zeppelin

  • Pink Floyd

  • To ensure a highest level of fact checking and editorial control, this list sources sales figures to news organizations and highly regarded music industry related organizations such as MTV, VH1, Billboard and Rolling Stone.
  • The figures of total certified units within the table below are based on certified units of albums, singles (including digital downloads) and videos.
  • Markets' order within the table is based on Retail Value each market generates respectively, largest market at the top and smallest at the bottom.[3][4]
Artist Country of origin Period active Release-year of first charted record Genre Total certified units
(from available markets)[Notes]		 Claimed sales
The Beatles United Kingdom 1960–1970[5] 1962[5] Rock / Pop[5] 7002250300000000000 600 million[27][28]
Elvis Presley United States 1954–1977[29] 1954[29] Rock and roll / Pop / Country[29] 7002203200000000000 600 million[34]
500 million[35]
Michael Jackson[Note 2] United States 1964–2009[36] 1971[36] Pop / Rock / Dance / R&B[36] 7002158600000000000 400 million[45][46]
350 million[47]
300 million[48][49]
Madonna United States 1979–present[50] 1982[50] Pop / Rock / Dance[50] 7002160190000000000 300 million[51][52]
275 million[53][54]
Led Zeppelin United Kingdom 1968–1980[55] 1969[55] Hard rock / Heavy metal[55] 7002135900000000000 300 million[56][57]
200 million[58][59]
Elton John United Kingdom 1964–present[60] 1969[60] Pop / Rock[60] 7002156800000000000 250 million[61][62]
200 million[63][64]
Pink Floyd United Kingdom 1965–1996[65] 1967[65] Progressive rock[65] 7002111400000000000 250 million[66][67]
200 million[68]
  • The column for Certified Sales above includes markets, the databases of which contain certifications representing figures of 100,000 and more.

200 million to 249 million records

  • Mariah Carey

  • Celine Dion

  • AC/DC

  • Whitney Houston

  • The Rolling Stones

  • Queen

  • ABBA

  • To ensure a highest level of fact checking and editorial control, this list sources sales figures to news organizations and highly regarded music industry related organizations such as MTV, VH1, Billboard and Rolling Stone.
  • The figures of total certified units within the table below are based on certified units of albums, singles (including digital downloads) and videos.
  • Markets' order within the table is based on Retail Value each market generates respectively, largest market at the top and smallest at the bottom.[3][4]
Artist Country of origin Period active Release-year of first charted record Genre Total certified units
(from available markets)[Notes]		 Claimed sales
Mariah Carey United States 1988–present[69] 1990[69] R&B/Pop[69] 7002119600000000000 200 million[73][74]
175 million[75][76]
Celine Dion Canada 1981–present[77] 1981[77] Pop[77] 7002113600000000000 200 million[80][81]
175 million[82][83]
AC/DC Australia 1973–present[84] 1975[84] Hard rock/Heavy metal[84] 7002107000000000000 200 million[85][86]
150 million[87][88]
Whitney Houston United States 1977–2011[89] 1984[89] R&B / Pop[89] 7002105800000000000 200 million[92][93]
170 million[94][95]
The Rolling Stones United Kingdom 1962–present[96] 1963[96] Rock / Blues rock[96] 7001913000000000000 200 million[97][98]
Queen United Kingdom 1971–present[99] 1973[99] Rock[99] 7001904000000000000 200 million[101]
150 million[102][103]
ABBA Sweden 1972–1982[104] 1972[104] Pop / Disco[104] 7001544000000000000 200 million[106][107]
100 million[108]
  • The column for Certified Sales above includes markets, the databases of which contain certifications representing figures of 100,000 and more.

120 million to 199 million records

  • Garth Brooks

  • Eagles

  • U2

  • Billy Joel

  • Bruce Springsteen

  • Barbra Streisand

  • Phil Collins

  • To ensure a highest level of fact checking and editorial control, this list sources sales figures to news organizations and highly regarded music industry related organizations such as MTV, VH1, Billboard and Rolling Stone.
  • The figures of total certified units within the table below are based on certified units of albums, singles (including digital downloads) and videos.
  • Markets' order within the table is based on Retail Value each market generates respectively, largest market at the top and smallest at the bottom.[3][4]
Artist Country of origin Period active Release-year of first charted record Genre Total certified units
(from available markets)[Notes]		 Claimed sales
Eagles United States 1971–present[109] 1972[109] Soft rock / Country rock[109] 7002123700000000000 150 million[110]
U2 Ireland 1976–present[111] 1980[111] Rock[111] 7001981000000000000 150 million[113]
Billy Joel United States 1964–present[114] 1971[114] Pop / Rock[114] 7001974000000000000 150 million[116]
Phil Collins United Kingdom 1980–2011[117] 1981[117] Adult contemporary[117] 7001831009999900000 150 million[118]
Aerosmith United States 1970–present[119] 1973[119] Hard rock[119] 7001800000000000000 150 million[120]
Frank Sinatra United States 1935–1995[121] 1939[121] Pop / Swing[121] 7001357000000000000 150 million[122]
Barbra Streisand United States 1960–present[123] 1963[123] Pop / Adult contemporary[123] 7001929000000000000 145 million[124]
Garth Brooks United States 1989–present[125] 1989[125] Country[125] 7002135600000000000 130 million[126]
Genesis United Kingdom 1967–1999
2006–2011[127]		 1969[127] Progressive rock / Pop rock[127] 7001387000000000000 130 million[128]
Donna Summer United States 1968–2012[129] 1974[129] Pop / Disco / R&B[129] 7001304000000000000 130 million[130]
Neil Diamond United States 1966–present[131] 1966[131] Pop / Rock[131] 7001645000000000000 125 million[132]
Bruce Springsteen United States 1972–present[133] 1973[133] Rock[133] 7001935000000000000 120 million[134]
Bee Gees United Kingdom 1963–2003
2009–2012[135]		 1963[135] Pop / Disco[135] 7001636000000000000 120 million[136]
Julio Iglesias Spain 1968–present[137] 1968[137] Latin[137] 7001502000000000000 120 million[139]
Dire Straits United Kingdom 1977–1995[140] 1978[140] Rock / Pop[140] 7001401000000000000 120 million[141]
  • The column for Certified Sales above includes markets, the databases of which contain certifications representing figures of 100,000 and more.

100 million to 119 million records

  • Rihanna

  • Metallica

  • Eminem

  • Britney Spears

  • Taylor Swift

  • Fleetwood Mac

  • Rod Stewart

  • To ensure a highest level of fact checking and editorial control, this list sources sales figures to news organizations and highly regarded music industry related organizations such as MTV, VH1, Billboard and Rolling Stone.
  • The figures of total certified units within the table below are based on certified units of albums, singles (including digital downloads) and videos.
  • Markets' order within the table is based on Retail Value each market generates respectively, largest market at the top and smallest at the bottom.[3][4]
Artist Country of origin Period active Release-year of first charted record Genre Total certified units
(from available markets)[Notes]		 Claimed sales
Taylor Swift United States 2006–present[142] 2006[142] Country / Country pop / Pop / Pop-rock[142] 7001709000000000000 101 million[144]
Rihanna Barbados
United States		 2005–present[145] 2005[145] R&B / Pop / Dance /Hip-hop[145] 7001950000000000000 100 million[146]
Metallica United States 1981–present[147] 1983[147] Heavy metal / Thrash metal[147] 7001875000000000000 100 million[148]
Eminem United States 1998–present[149] 1999[149] Hip hop[149] 7001805000000000000 100 million[150]
Britney Spears United States 1998–present[151] 1998[151] Pop / Dance / Dance-pop[151] 7001710000000000000 100 million[153]
Fleetwood Mac United Kingdom
United States		 1967–present[154] 1968[154] Rock / Pop[154] 7001705000000000000 100 million[156]
Rod Stewart United Kingdom 1964–present[157] 1969[157] Rock / Pop[157] 7001700000000000000 100 million[158]
Backstreet Boys United States 1993–present[159] 1995[159] Pop[159] 7001679000000000000 100 million[161]
Bon Jovi United States 1983–present[162] 1983[162] Hard rock / Glam metal[162] 7001677000000000000 100 million[164]
Guns N' Roses United States 1985–present[165] 1987[165] Hard rock / Heavy metal[165] 7001628000000000000 100 million[166]
Prince United States 1976–present[167] 1978[167] Funk / R&B / Pop / Soul / Rock[167] 7001597000000000000 100 million[168]
Kenny Rogers United States 1958–present[169] 1975[169] Country / Pop[169] 7001578000000000000 100 million[170]
Janet Jackson United States 1982–present[171] 1982[171] R&B / Pop[171] 7001481000000000000 100 million[172]
Chicago United States 1967–present[173] 1969[173] Rock / Pop[173] 7001476000000000000 100 million[174]
The Carpenters United States 1969–1983[175] 1969[175] Pop[175] 7001414000000000000 100 million[176]
George Michael United Kingdom 1981–present[177] 1984[177] Pop[177] 7001413009999900000 100 million[178]
Def Leppard United Kingdom 1977–present[179] 1979[179] Hard rock / Heavy metal[179] 7001407000000000000 100 million[181]
Bob Dylan United States 1959–present[182] 1963[182] Folk / Rock[182] 7001400000000000000 100 million[183]
Cher United States 1964–present[184] 1965[184] Pop / Rock / Dance / Folk[184] 7001392000000000000 100 million[187]
Bryan Adams Canada 1979–present[188] 1979[188] Rock[188] 7001391000000000000 100 million[189]
Lionel Richie United States 1968–present[190] 1981[190] Pop / R&B[190] 7001365000000000000 100 million[191]
Olivia Newton-John Australia 1966–present[192] 1966[192] Pop[192] 7001348009999900000 100 million[193]
Linda Ronstadt United States 1967–present[194] 1968[194] Rock / Folk / Country[194] 7001322999999900000 100 million[195]
Tina Turner United States 1955–present[196] 1975[196] Rock / Pop[196] 7001314000000000000 100 million[197]
Stevie Wonder United States 1961–present[198] 1962[198] Funk / R&B / Soul[198] 7001298000000000000 100 million[199]
The Beach Boys United States 1961–present[200] 1962[200] Rock / Pop / Surf Rock[200] 7001286000000000000 100 million[201]
Kiss United States 1972–present[202] 1974[202] Hard rock / Heavy metal[202] 7001266000000000000 100 million[203]
Paul McCartney United Kingdom 1960–present[204] 1970[204] Rock[204] 7001238000000000000 100 million[205]
The Who United Kingdom 1964–present[206] 1965[206] Rock / Hard rock[206] 7001233000000000000 100 million[207]
Johnny Hallyday France 1957–2007[208] 1960[208] Rock / Pop[208] 7001232000000000000 100 million[209]
Barry White United States 1972–2003[210] 1973[210] R&B / Soul[210] 7001211000000000000 100 million[211]
  • The column for Certified Sales above includes markets, the databases of which contain certifications representing figures of 100,000 and more.

80 million to 99 million records

  • Shania Twain

  • Van Halen

  • Santana

  • B'z

  • Red Hot Chili Peppers

  • Foreigner

  • The Doors

  • To ensure a highest level of fact checking and editorial control, this list sources sales figures to news organizations and highly regarded music industry related organizations such as MTV, VH1, Billboard and Rolling Stone.
  • The figures of total certified units within the table below are based on certified units of albums, singles (including digital downloads) and videos.
  • Markets' order within the table is based on Retail Value each market generates respectively, largest market at the top and smallest at the bottom.[3][4]
Artist Country of origin Period active Release-year of first charted record Genre Total certified units
(from available markets)[Notes]		 Claimed sales
Santana United States 1966–present[212] 1969[212] Rock[212] 7001591000000000000 90 million[213]
Gloria Estefan United States 1977–present[214] 1984[214] Latin / Dance / Pop[214] 7001327000000000000 90 million[215]
R.E.M. United States 1980–2011[216] 1983[216] Alternative rock[216] 7001411000000000000 85 million[217]
Shania Twain Canada 1993–present[218] 1993[218] Country pop[218] 7001710000000000000 80 million[219]
Van Halen United States 1978–present[220] 1978[220] Hard rock / Heavy metal[220] 7001627000000000000 80 million[221]
B'z Japan 1988–present[222] 1988[222] Rock / Pop rock / Hard rock[222] 7001504000000000000 80 million[223]
Red Hot Chili Peppers United States 1983–present[224] 1987[224] Funk rock / Alternative rock[224] 7001487000000000000 80 million[225]
Foreigner United States 1976–present[226] 1977[226] Rock / Hard Rock[226] 7001453000000000000 80 million[227]
The Doors United States 1965–1973[228] 1967[228] Rock[228] 7001441000000000000 80 million[229]
Reba McEntire United States 1975–present[230] 1987[230] Country / Country Pop[230] 7001422000000000000 80 million[231]
Meat Loaf United States 1968–present[232] 1977[232] Hard rock[232] 7001381000000000000 80 million[233]
Barry Manilow United States 1973–present[234] 1973[234] Pop / Soft rock[234] 7001363009999900000 80 million[235]
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers United States 1976–present[236] 1977[236] Rock[236] 7001309000000000000 80 million[237]
New Kids on the Block United States 1984–present[238] 1986[238] Teen pop[238] 7001302000000000000 80 million[239]
  • The column for Certified Sales above includes markets, the databases of which contain certifications representing figures of 100,000 and more.

75 million to 79 million records

  • Journey

  • Kenny G

  • Beyoncé

  • The Black Eyed Peas

  • Enya

  • Green Day

  • Nirvana

  • To ensure a highest level of fact checking and editorial control, this list sources sales figures to news organizations and highly regarded music industry related organizations such as MTV, VH1, Billboard and Rolling Stone.
  • The figures of total certified units within the table below are based on certified units of albums, singles (including digital downloads) and videos.
  • Markets' order within the table is based on Retail Value each market generates respectively, largest market at the top and smallest at the bottom.[3][4]
Artist Country of origin Period active Release-year of first charted record Genre Total certified units
(from available markets)[Notes]		 Claimed sales
The Black Eyed Peas United States 1995–present[240] 1998[240] Hip-hop / R&B / Dance[240] 7001491000000000000 76 million[241]
Journey United States 1973–present[242] 1975[242] Rock / Soft rock[242] 7001595000000000000 75 million[244]
Kenny G United States 1982–present[245] 1984[245] Smooth jazz[245] 7001511000000000000 75 million[246]
Beyoncé United States 2003–present[247] 2003[247] R&B / Pop[247] 7001506000000000000 75 million[249]
Enya Ireland 1982–present[250] 1987[250] New age / Celtic[250] 7001434000000000000 75 million[251]
Green Day United States 1987–present[252] 1994[252] Punk rock / Alternative rock[252] 7001424000000000000 75 million[253]
Tupac Shakur United States 1988–1996[254] 1991[254] Hip hop[254] 7001413009999900000 75 million[255]
Nirvana United States 1987–1994[256] 1989[256] Grunge / Alternative rock[256] 7001390000000000000 75 million[258]
Spice Girls United Kingdom 1996–2000
2007–2008[259]		 1996 [259] Pop / Dance-pop[259] 7001383009999900000 75 million[260]
Andrea Bocelli Italy 1994–present[261] 1994[261] Pop / Classical / Opera[261] 7001343009999900000 75 million[262]
Bob Marley Jamaica 1962–1981[263] 1975[263] Reggae[263] 7001287000000000000 75 million[264]
Mötley Crüe United States 1981–present[265] 1983[265] Glam metal[265] 7001263000000000000 75 million[266]
Depeche Mode United Kingdom 1980–present[267] 1981[267] Synth rock / Electronic[267] 7001252000000000000 75 million[268]
Aretha Franklin United States 1956–present[269] 1961[269] Soul / Jazz/ Blues/ R&B[269] 7001243000000000000 75 million[270]
Scorpions Germany 1969–present[271] 1978[271] Hard rock[271] 7001187000000000000 75 million[272]
  • The column for Certified Sales above includes markets, the databases of which contain certifications representing figures of 100,000 and more.

See also

Notes

Notes^

Certification systems have been established periodically throughout the past half century, thus certification-databases are not able to cover all sales. Some (or all) records released and sold prior to the certification system's establishment year may not be found within the available searchable certification databases. Year of establishment (from largest market to smallest based on Retail Value each market generates respectively):[3][4]

  • Japan:1989:[274] (online Gold/Platinum certification-database covers certifications issued since 2003.[7] Million-seller database covers records released since 1989[70])
  • Australia: 1997[14] (online certification-database has begun since 1997. Certifications; however, existed in Australia since the 1970s)
  • Italy: 2010[41] (online certification-database covers certifications issued since 2010. Certifications; however, have existed in Italy since 1990s)

Certified sales might sometimes be larger than actual sales if stores order more albums than they are able to sell, due to certifications generally being determined by shipments, not actual sales. Oftentimes; however, actual sales are larger than certified sales as Record labels must pay a fee to obtain certifications. Record Companies most of the time apply for certifications when a record reaches a multiple certification-levels, meaning certifications might not be visible in the databases for more than a short period of time after an album reached a certification level.[283][284] Due to music piracy begun in 1999–2000, global music sales declined, which consequently opted certification-bodies to reduce their certification levels.[285] See the changes in Certification-award-levels in the following markets:

  • USA[286] (Note, U.S. certification-award-levels for singles before 1989 were: Gold=1,000,000 and Platinum=2,000,000.[287] Also, U.S. certification-awards for Shortform albums before September 1996 were: Gold=250,000 and Platinum=500,000[288])
  • Canada[295] (Canadian certification-award-levels for singles before February 1982 were: Gold=75,000 and Platinum=150,000[296])

According to a report in 2009 by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, an estimated 95% of music downloads are done illegally.[313] Illegal downloads are not included in the certifications and figures of artists' sales. The tables are to include two sources only for each claimed figure.

Note 2^ Michael Jackson's sales: According to the Wall Street Journal and diverse news sites, the 750 million units sold by Michael Jackson is an inflated figure that was initially claimed by Raymone Bain (2006),[314][315] who was the singers publicist at that time, without any factual evidence and probably in an effort to promote album sales.[316][317][318] From 2006 until present time, several sources such as MTV, Reuters or Billboard have claimed that Michael Jackson has sold 750 million units,[319][320][321] however, Adrian Strain, a representative from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) has said that this figure is unreal.[317]

References

  1. ^ "NEWSLINE: A Former Music Executive". Billboard (Nielsen Business Media). 2004-02-14. Retrieved 2010-04-05. 
  2. ^ "Troubles in Store". Spin Magazine (Spin Media L.L.C.). 2004-02-14. Retrieved 2010-04-05. 
  3. ^ a b c d e f g "RIAJ Yearbook 2013: IFPI 2011, 2012 Report: 29. Global Sales of Recorded Music (Page 24)". Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2013-05-14. 
  4. ^ a b c d e f g "Bundesverband Musikindustrie: Internationales: 28: Umsätze aus dem europäischen Musikverkauf 2011– 2012". Bundesverband Musikindustrie. Retrieved 2013-05-14. 
  5. ^ a b c Unterberger, Richie. "Allmusic: The Beatles (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  6. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be bf bg bh bi bj bk bl bm bn bo bp bq br bs bt bu bv bw bx by bz ca cb cc cd ce cf cg ch ci "RIAA: Searchable Database". Recording Industry Association of America. Retrieved 2011-09-23. 
  7. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae "RIAJ: ゴールド等認定作品" [Certified Gold Pieces] (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2010-05-26. 
  8. ^ "年度別ミリオンセラー一覧　2000年" [2000 Million Seller List] (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2010-08-29. 
  9. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be bf bg bh bi bj bk bl bm bn bo bp bq br bs bt bu bv bw bx by bz ca cb cc cd ce cf cg "Certified Awards Search". British Phonographic Industry. Retrieved 2013-03-13. 
  10. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be bf bg bh bi bj bk bl bm bn bo bp bq br bs bt bu "Gold-/Platin-Datenbank ('Gold-/Platin-Datenbank')" (in German). Bundesverband Musikindustrie. Retrieved 2011-12-06. 
  11. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be bf bg bh bi bj bk bl bm bn "InfoDisc: Les Certifications depuis 1973" [InfoDisc: Certifications from 1973]. Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique (in French). InfoDisc.fr. Retrieved 2009-09-15. 
  12. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al "Les certifications 2010". Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique (in French). Disque en France. Retrieved 2011-02-01. 
  13. ^ "Annee 2012: Certifications Au 01/01/2013". SNEP. Retrieved 2013-02-02. 
  14. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be bf bg bh bi bj "ARIA Charts – Accreditations". Australian Recording Industry Association. Retrieved 2009-09-15. 
  15. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be bf bg bh bi bj bk bl bm bn bo bp bq br bs bt bu bv bw bx by bz ca cb cc cd ce cf cg ch ci "Music Canada: Gold & Platinum search". Music Canada. Retrieved 2011-11-22. 
  16. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw "ABPD: Certificados" (in Portuguese). Associação Brasileira dos Produtores de Discos. Retrieved 2011-12-06. 
  17. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av "Guld & Platina IFPI" [Gold & Platinum IFPI] (in Swedish). International Federation of the Phonographic Industry — Sweden. Retrieved 2013-04-07. 
  18. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am "Spanish Certifications" (in Spanish). Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 2011-12-07. 
  19. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak "Solo Exitos 1959-2002 Ano A Ano: Certificados 1991-1995". Solo Exitos 1959-2002 Ano A Ano. 
  20. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at au av aw ax ay az ba bb bc bd be bf "Hitparade.ch: Edelmetall". Schweizer Hitparade. Hung Medien. Retrieved 2011-11-22. 
  21. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y "Awards 1997–2003". Ultratop. Retrieved 2011-02-04. 
  22. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac "Ultratop: Goud En Platina". Ultratop. Retrieved 2011-02-04. 
  23. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at "IFPI Austria : Gold & Platin" (in German). International Federation of the Phonographic Industry — Austria. Retrieved 2009-09-15. 
  24. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae "Polish certification awards 1995–present" (in Polish). ZPAV. Retrieved 2011-09-13. 
  25. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al "CAPIF: Discos de Oro y Platino". CAPIF. Retrieved 2012-05-01. 
  26. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v "RIANZ: The Official New Zealand Music Chart". RIANZ. Retrieved 2011-12-18. 
  27. ^ Staff Writers, CNNMoney.com (2009-09-09). "Beatles' remastered box set, video game out". CNNMoney.com. Retrieved 2011-12-01. 
  28. ^ Hotten, Russell (2012-10-04). "The Beatles at 50: From Fab Four to fabulously wealthy". BBC News. Retrieved 2013-01-28. 
  29. ^ a b c Unterberger, Richie. "Allmusic: Elvis Presley (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  30. ^ a b c d e "RIAJ: 第９回日本プロ音楽録音賞受賞者決定！！: 2002 年 11 月度" [Award Winners of the 9th Japanese professional music recording!!: November 2002] (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2012-03-30. 
  31. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah "Solo Exitos 1959-2002 Ano A Ano: Certificados 1979-1990". Solo Exitos 1959-2002 Ano A Ano. 
  32. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq "Solo Exitos 1959-2002 Ano A Ano: Certificados 1996-1999". Solo Exitos 1959-2002 Ano A Ano. 
  33. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab "Tilastot: Kulta- ja platinalevyt". Musiikkituottajat – IFPI Finland. Retrieved 2011-10-03. 
  34. ^ News, Relax (2009-10-19). "'Elvis 75' hundred-song box set celebrates late rock singer's 75th birthday". London: The Independent. Retrieved 2010-05-19. 
  35. ^ Nduucu, Muthende (2012-09-22). "Celebrities: Big Money, Drugs, Divorce And Mysterious Deaths". The Star (Kenya). Retrieved 2013-02-20. 
  36. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Michael Jackson (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  37. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m "RIAJ: Digital Certifications". Recording Industry Association of Japan (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2011-07-27. 
  38. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak "InfoDisc Les Certifications depuis 1973 (singles)". InfoDisc. 
  39. ^ "ARIA Report 6th July 2009 (Issue 1010)". Australian Recording Industry Association. Australian Recording Industry Association. Retrieved 2013-04-04. 
  40. ^ "ARIA Report 13th July 2009 (Issue 1011)". Australian Recording Industry Association. Australian Recording Industry Association. Retrieved 2013-04-04. 
  41. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p "F.I.M.I: Federazione Industria Musicale Itaiana". Federation of the Italian Music Industry (in Italian). Federation of the Italian Music Industry. Retrieved 2011-11-24. 
  42. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al "Solo Exitos 1959-2002 Ano A Ano: Certificados 2000-2002". Solo Exitos 1959-2002 Ano A Ano. 
  43. ^ a b c "AMPROFON: Certificaciones". AMPROFON. Retrieved 2011-11-22. 
  44. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p "Certificaciones (Earlier certification database covering the years 1999-2010)" (in Spanish). AMPROFON. Retrieved 2013-04-08. 
  45. ^ Agence France-Presse (AFP) (March 5, 2009). "Michael Jackson verklagt Auktionshaus". N24 (in German) (N24 Medien GmbH). Retrieved January 10, 2013. 
  46. ^ "Ansturm auf Tickets für Michael Jackson-Konzerte". Kleine Zeitung (in German) (Austria: Styria Media Group). March 8, 2009. Retrieved January 10, 2013. 
  47. ^ "Jackson was star the world could not ignore". CNN (Turner Broadcasting System). 2009-06-26. Retrieved 2009-09-02. 
  48. ^ "Michael Jackson: 100 facts about the king of pop". Telegraph (Telegraph Media Group). June 29, 2009. Retrieved January 30, 2013. 
  49. ^ Jam! and World Entertainment News Network (WENN) (2009). "50 facts about Michael Jackson". Quebecor Media. Retrieved January 30, 2013. 
  50. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Madonna (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  51. ^ Granderson, LZ (2012-04-06). "Why Madonna still leads, others follow". CNN. Retrieved 2012-10-26. 
  52. ^ Lane, Dan (March 29, 2012). "Madonna’s Top 40 most downloaded tracks revealed!". The Official UK Charts Company (British Phonographic Industry). Retrieved January 27, 2013. 
  53. ^ The New York Observer, The Editors (2013-03-13). "Madonna: Performer". The New York Observer. Retrieved 2013-04-22. 
  54. ^ "Madonna beats Elvis’s No.1 albums record as MDNA tops UK chart". London: Craig Glenday. April 2, 2012. Retrieved January 20, 2013. 
  55. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Led Zeppelin (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  56. ^ Morse, Steve (2012-10-12). "‘Celebration Day’ for Led Zeppelin fans". The Boston Globe. Retrieved 2013-01-30. 
  57. ^ Ghosh, Palash (2012-12-18). "Led Zeppelin: When Rock Stars Age And Become Ordinary". International Business Times. Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  58. ^ Reiss, Adam (2012-10-12). "Led Zeppelin's place in the rock pantheon". CNN. Retrieved 2013-01-30. 
  59. ^ McCormick, Neil (2007-09-13). "Led Zeppelin not reuniting anytime soon, but fans can catch band at the movies". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  60. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Elton John (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  61. ^ Boyle, Jacqui (2013-01-17). "Elton John to play at WSU’s Nutter Center". Dayton Daily News. Retrieved 2013-02-16. 
  62. ^ Lee, Rachel (2012-11-18). "Elton John to hold second concert in Korea next week". The Korea Times. Retrieved 2013-02-16. 
  63. ^ Ferguson, Rob (2009-06-26). "Elton John and McGuinty announce $23M for animators". Toronto Star. Retrieved 2013-02-16. 
  64. ^ Liu, Marian (2009-03-10). "Elton John, Billy Joel to launch joint tour, come to KeyArena". The Seattle Times. Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  65. ^ a b c Unterberger, Richie. "Allmusic: Pink Floyd (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  66. ^ Beech, Mark (2007-09-26). "Pink Floyd Reunion Tops Fans' Wish List in Music Choice Survey". Bloomberg L.P. Retrieved 2012-05-25. 
  67. ^ Reporter, Richmond Times-Dispatch (2007-09-28). "Pink Floyd's a dream, Zeppelin's a reality". Richmond Times-Dispatch. Retrieved 2012-05-25. 
  68. ^ Maslin, John (2011-03-12). "Rock Star Coming To City Car Rally". Wanganui Chronicle. Retrieved 2013-02-20. 
  69. ^ a b c Ankeny, Jason. "Allmusic: Mariah Carey (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  70. ^ a b c "年度別ミリオンセラー一覧 (Million Seller List by Year)". Recording Industry Association of Japan (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2011-12-07. 
  71. ^ a b c "1990–1999 certifications" (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2011-12-07. 
  72. ^ "The ARIA Report: 2003". Australian Recording Industry Association. ARIA. Retrieved 2011-12-07. 
  73. ^ Deggans, Eric (2012-09-16). "With Nicky Minaj, Keith Urban and Randy Jackson, do American Idol's judges now look like The Voice". Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved 2013-05-11. 
  74. ^ de Moraes, Lisa (2012-07-23). "Mariah Carey replacing Jennifer Lopez on ‘American Idol’; Randy Jackson helped broker the deal". The Washington Post. Retrieved 2013-02-16. 
  75. ^ The Courier-Mail, AFP (2010-11-01). "Mariah Carey pregnant". The Courier-Mail. Retrieved 2013-02-16. 
  76. ^ Wheeler, Brad (2010-02-10). "For Mariah Carey, the angel is in the details". The Globe and Mail. Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  77. ^ a b c Proefrock, Stacia. "Allmusic: Celine Dion (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  78. ^ "年度別ミリオンセラー一覧　1995年" [1995 million-seller list] (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2012-04-14. 
  79. ^ a b "RIAJ: Digital Certifications (July 2010)" (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2012-04-14. 
  80. ^ Catt, Lizzie (2012-08-23). "Celine Dion loves Adele". Daily Express. Retrieved 2013-02-16. 
  81. ^ Villarreal, Yvonne (2010-06-23). "Celine Dion - Hollywood Star Walk". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2013-02-16. 
  82. ^ Sandhu, Sukhdev (February 2, 2008). "Learning to love Celine Dion". London: Telegraph Media Group. Retrieved January 27, 2013. 
  83. ^ Barhat, Vikram Singh (2008-03-06). "Celine Dion: Taking Chances tour to heights". Gulf News. Retrieved 2013-02-20. 
  84. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: AC/DC (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  85. ^ Moran, Jonathon (2010-02-07). "Gen Y Pop Princess Taylor Swift vs Baby Boom Rockers AC/DC". The Daily Telegraph (Australia). Retrieved 2013-01-09. 
  86. ^ Reporter, The Age (2010-02-06). "AC/DC ham it up". The Age. Retrieved 2013-01-19. 
  87. ^ Zoe Kleinman (BBC News) (November 19, 2012). "AC/DC release catalogue on iTunes". BBC (BBC Online). Retrieved January 27, 2013. 
  88. ^ Reporter, The Independent (2010-04-19). "Weekly US music releases: A 'Glee' Madonna tribute and AC/DC salute for 'Iron Man 2'". The Independent. Retrieved 2013-01-19. 
  89. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Whitney Houston (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  90. ^ "RIAJ: Digital Certifications (February 2010)" (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2012-04-14. 
  91. ^ "ARIA Top 100 Albums – Week Commencing 27th February 2012 Issue No.1148 (for single "I Will Always Love You" and albums "The Bodyguard Soundtrack", "Whitney Houston")". Australian Recording Industry Association. 2012-02-27. Retrieved 2013-01-19. 
  92. ^ McCabe, Katy (2012-02-13). "Whitney Houston's daughter Bobbi Kristina Brown released from hospital". The Daily Telegraph (Australia). Retrieved 2012-09-19. 
  93. ^ Reporter, The Telegraph (2013-01-29). "Whitney Houston's mother discusses the late singer's drug problems and former husband in new book". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  94. ^ Thurston, Michael (2012-02-12). "Music world stunned at Whitney Houston's death". The Australian. Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  95. ^ Simon-Aaron, Charles (2012-02-22). "Whitney: Cultural icon of our era". The Herald (Zimbabwe). Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  96. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: The Rolling Stones (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  97. ^ Press, Associated (2012-10-15). "Rolling Stones to play anniversary gigs in London, Newark". National Post. Retrieved 2013-01-09. 
  98. ^ Kirka, Danica (2012-10-15). "Rocking at 50: Rolling Stones to tour again". The Washington Times. Retrieved 2013-01-09. 
  99. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Queen (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  100. ^ "年度別ミリオンセラー一覧　2004年" [2004 Million Seller List]. Recording Industry Association of Japan (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2010-08-29. 
  101. ^ Tolhurst, Alain (2012-05-29). "Queen guitarist reveals Sidmouth inspiration". Sidmouth Herald. Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  102. ^ Fitzpatrick, Liam (2006-11-13). "Farrokh Bulsara". Time (magazine). Retrieved 2013-03-16. 
  103. ^ Sullivan, Caroline (2012-09-27). "Freddie Mercury: the great enigma". The Guardian. Retrieved 2013-03-16. 
  104. ^ a b c Ankeny, Jason. "Allmusic: ABBA (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  105. ^ Nielsen Business Media, Inc (1979-09-08). "ABBA's Australian certifications at Billboard Magazine (September 8, 1979 issue)". Billboard Magazine. Retrieved 2010-04-25. 
  106. ^ Smith, Steve (2012-02-03). "First Abba song in 18 years and Hollywood honors McCartney". Los Angeles Daily News. Retrieved 2013-04-19. 
  107. ^ Dunning, Craig (2012-01-30). "ABBA rebjorn - From a Twinkling Star to a Passing Angel with new Deluxe Edition of The Visitors". The Daily Telegraph (Australia). Retrieved 2013-04-19. 
  108. ^ McFadyen, Warwick (2010-03-17). "It's time to stop stewing over the four Swedes". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2013-04-16. 
  109. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Eagles (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  110. ^ Kocher, Chris (2013-03-13). "Philharmonic, Jeans 'n' Classics fly with Eagles". The Ithaca Journal. Retrieved 2013-04-09. 
  111. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: U2 (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  112. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "The Irish Charts: Certtifications-Awards". Irish Recorded Music Association. Retrieved 2012-02-18. 
  113. ^ O'Regan, Mark (2011-11-05). "Unforgettable fire flickering out as U2 ponder end of the road". Irish Independent. Retrieved 2013-01-19. 
  114. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Billy Joel (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  115. ^ "RIAJ: Digital Certifications (May 2009)" (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2012-04-14. 
  116. ^ Vincent, Peter (2013-02-21). "These Aussie anthems rule (Oh, Khe!)". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2013-05-02. 
  117. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Phil Collins (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  118. ^ Nash, Emily (2012-06-19). "Phil Collins rules out a comeback". The Sun (United Kingdom). Retrieved 2013-01-24. 
  119. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Aerosmith (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  120. ^ Benson, Nigel (2013-04-24). "Life on the road is a different city every day". Otago Daily Times. Retrieved 2013-01-24. 
  121. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Frank Sinatra (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  122. ^ Bronson, Fred (2011-12-06). "This Week in Billboard History: Frank Sinatra's 'Mysterious' Record Label; Live Aid's Bootlegging Scourge". Billboard (magazine). Retrieved 2013-02-07. 
  123. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Barbra Streisand (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  124. ^ Armstrong, Denis (2012-10-17). "Denis Armstrong's Tale of the tape: Bruce Springsteen vs. Barbra Streisand". Ottawa Sun. Retrieved 2013-05-24. 
  125. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Garth Brooks (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  126. ^ Talbott, Chris (2010-10-28). "Garth Brooks to hold Nashville benefit concert". USA Today. Retrieved 2013-01-16. 
  127. ^ a b c Eder, Bruce. "Allmusic: Genesis (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  128. ^ Perrone, Pierre (2009-04-20). "John Mayhew: Drummer who played with the fledgling Genesis on 'Trespass'". The Independent. Retrieved 2013-05-13. 
  129. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Donna Summer (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2012-10-03. 
  130. ^ Soltis, Andy (2012-05-18). "Disco diva silenced". New York Post. Retrieved 2013-01-21. 
  131. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Neil Diamond (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  132. ^ Haddock, Sharon (2012-07-26). "Neil Diamond coming to Rio Tinto Stadium July 28". Deseret News. Retrieved 2013-01-21. 
  133. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Bruce Springsteen (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  134. ^ Sweeney, Ken (2012-07-18). "Review: Bruce Springsteen at the RDS". Irish Independent. Retrieved 2013-01-19. 
  135. ^ a b c Eder, Bruce. "Allmusic: Bee Gees (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  136. ^ Music Blog, The L.A. Times (2012-05-20). "Robin Gibb dead: Bee Gees singer, 62, had battled cancer". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2013-02-22. 
  137. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Julio Iglesias (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  138. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Julio Iglesias 30th Anniversary. Billboard magazine. 2000-05-27. Retrieved 2011-09-23. 
  139. ^ Parkyn, John (1998-06-28). "Name Dropping". Sun-Sentinel. Retrieved 2013-01-22. 
  140. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Dire Straits (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  141. ^ Brinn, David (2012-06-11). "Still the ‘Sultans of Swing’". The Jerusalem Post. Retrieved 2013-01-19. 
  142. ^ a b c Leahey, Andrew. "Allmusic: Taylor Swift (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-05-17. 
  143. ^ "RIAJ: Digital Certifications (January 2013)" (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2013-05-17. 
  144. ^ Graff, Gary (2013-05-01). "Taylor Swift likes a big, big show". The Oakland Press. Retrieved 2013-05-17. 
  145. ^ a b c Birchmeier, Jason. "Allmusic: Rihanna (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  146. ^ Kara, Scott (2013-03-14). "Rihanna: Under her spell". The New Zealand Herald. Retrieved 2013-05-13. 
  147. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Metallica (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  148. ^ Loumena, Dan (2013-05-04). "Watch Metallica play national anthem at Dodgers-Giants game [Video]". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2013-05-08. 
  149. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Eminem (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  150. ^ Association, Press (2013-01-28). "Eminem to headline new Glasgow Summer Sessions festival". The Courier. Retrieved 2013-05-10. 
  151. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Britney Spears (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  152. ^ a b "RIAJ: Digital Certifications (January 2011)" (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2011-09-23. 
  153. ^ Collins, Scott (2012-03-09). "Britney Spears reportedly near signing with Simon Cowell’s ‘X Factor’". Bangor Daily News. Retrieved 2013-02-08. 
  154. ^ a b c "Allmusic: Fleetwood Mac (Biography)". Allmusiclast=Erlewine. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  155. ^ "The Official New Zealand Music Charts: 15 April 2013". Recording Industry Association of New Zealand. 2013-04-15. Retrieved 2013-04-17. 
  156. ^ Gottlieb, Jed (2013-04-12). "Fleetwood Mac returns with new songs". Boston Herald. Retrieved 2013-04-22. 
  157. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Rod Stewart (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  158. ^ Young, Gary (2012-12-03). "Double delight for Brum Rod Stewart fans". Birmingham Mail. Retrieved 2013-02-27. 
  159. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Backstreet Boys (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  160. ^ "年度別ミリオンセラー一覧　2001年" [2001 Million Seller List] (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2011-06-11. 
  161. ^ Terauds, John (2009-10-06). "CD Pick of the week: Backstreet Boys". Toronto Star. Retrieved 2013-02-27. 
  162. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Bon Jovi (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  163. ^ "ARIA Report 28th January 2008 (Issue 935)". Australian Recording Industry Association. Australian Recording Industry Association. Retrieved 2013-04-08. 
  164. ^ McCall, Tris (2012-11-20). "Bon Jovi to play MetLife Stadium in July". The Jersey Journal. Retrieved 2013-03-21. 
  165. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Guns N' Roses (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  166. ^ Sherwin, Adam (2012-11-11). "Duff McKagan: The man who went from Guns N' Roses to accountancy". The Independent. Retrieved 2013-02-19. 
  167. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Prince (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  168. ^ Hardy, Quentin (2010-09-07). "Prince Is Right. The Internet Is Over". Forbes. Retrieved 2012-06-19. 
  169. ^ a b c Vinopal & Erlewine, David & Stephen. "Allmusic: Kenny Rogers (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  170. ^ Reporter, The Bellingham Herald (2010-03-29). "'Weird Al,' Kenny Rogers coming to Northwest Washington Fair". The Bellingham Herald. Retrieved 2013-01-06. 
  171. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Janet Jackson (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  172. ^ Lindquist, David (2012-12-20). "Top Hoosier musician #12: Janet Jackson". The Indianapolis Star. Retrieved 2013-02-08. 
  173. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Chicago (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  174. ^ Staff, St. Augustine Record (2012-12-10). "Chicago to perform April 7 in Amphitheatre". The St. Augustine Record. Retrieved 2013-03-21. 
  175. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Carpenters (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  176. ^ Schmidt, Randy (2010-10-24). "Karen Carpenter's tragic story". The Guardian. Retrieved 2012-11-28. 
  177. ^ a b c Deming, Mark. "Allmusic: George Michael (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  178. ^ Barr, Gordon (2011-05-12). "George Michael announces gig at Metro Radio Arena". The Journal (newspaper). Retrieved 2012-11-28. 
  179. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Def Leppard (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  180. ^ "ARIA Report Issue #850". ARIA. 2006-06-19. Retrieved 2010-02-11. 
  181. ^ Leach, Robin (2013-03-21). "Def Leppard run begins at Hard Rock Hotel; drummer Rick Allen’s art, miracle story". Las Vegas Sun. Retrieved 2013-05-14. 
  182. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Bob Dylan (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  183. ^ Reports, Staff and Gannett (2013-04-30). "Bob Dylan plays Asheville concert tonight". Asheville Citizen-Times. Retrieved 2013-05-14. 
  184. ^ a b c Eder, Bruce. "Allmusic: Cher (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  185. ^ a b c d "Billboard magazine: Believe in the Album (Issue January 22, 2000 page 2)". Billboard magazine. 2000-01-22. Retrieved 2012-11-17. 
  186. ^ "Cher's Australia's certifications sent by ARIA team". ARIA. Retrieved 2013-02-26. 
  187. ^ SMH, AFP (2012-04-23). "Anger as 'Cher' tries to sell Adelaide key on eBay". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 2013-01-14. 
  188. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Bryan Adams (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  189. ^ Freitas, Rafaela (2012-07-28). "Waking up the Neighbours". The Budapest Times. Retrieved 2013-01-06. 
  190. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Lionel Richie (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  191. ^ O'Neil, Carey (2011-02-01). "TV show highlights Lionel Richie’s connection to Chattanooga". Chattanooga Times Free Press. Retrieved 2013-02-08. 
  192. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Olivia Newton-John (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  193. ^ Bennett, Sally (2012-02-27). "Choir buddies Olivia Newton-John and Daryl Braithwaite tune up again". Herald Sun. Retrieved 2013-02-18. 
  194. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Linda Ronstadt (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2012-10-19. 
  195. ^ Deutsch, Lindsay (2011-07-29). "Trailblazing rocker Linda Ronstadt to publish memoir". USA Today. Retrieved 2013-01-05. 
  196. ^ a b c Bush, John. "Allmusic: Tina Turner (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  197. ^ Willander, Arne (2009-11-25). "70? 70! Glückwunsch, Tina Turner!". B.Z. (newspaper). Retrieved 2010-10-16. 
  198. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Stevie Wonder (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  199. ^ Dobuzinskis, Alex (2008-06-20). "Stevie Wonder embarks on "magical" summer tour". Reuters. Retrieved 2011-09-16. 
  200. ^ a b c Bush, John. "Allmusic: The Beach Boys (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-04-14. 
  201. ^ Mark Hughes, Cobb (2013-05-10). "The Beach Boys to play Tuscaloosa Amphitheater on Oct. 17". The Tuscaloosa News. Retrieved 2013-05-16. 
  202. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Kiss (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  203. ^ Sacks, Ethan (2013-03-23). "It's been 40 years since Kiss put on paint and changed the face of rock and roll". Daily News (New York). Retrieved 2013-05-11. 
  204. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Paul McCartney (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  205. ^ Vanderborg, Carey (2012-06-18). "Paul McCartney Celebrates 70th Birthday, Pictures Of The 'Maybe I'm Amazed' Muscian's Incredible Career". International Business Times. Retrieved 2013-02-12. 
  206. ^ a b c Eder & Erlewine, Bruce & Stephen. "Allmusic: The Who (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  207. ^ The News Letter, Reporter (2013-02-01). "The Who’s Quadrophrenia will be revisited in Belfast". The News Letter. Retrieved 2013-05-21. 
  208. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Johnny Hallyday (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  209. ^ Price, Simon (2012-10-21). "Hot Chip, Academy, Bristol; Johnny Hallyday, Royal Albert Hall, London". The Independent. Retrieved 2013-01-06. 
  210. ^ a b c Hogen, Ed. "Allmusic: Barry White (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  211. ^ Carpenter, Julie (2012-05-10). "Britain's Got Talent Star Jonathan Antoine is a Bigger Man than his bullies". Daily Express. Retrieved 2012-11-28. 
  212. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Santana (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  213. ^ Young, Gary (2013-01-29). "Santana to play Birmingham LG Arena". Birmingham Mail. Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  214. ^ a b c Ankeny, Jason. "Allmusic: Gloria Estefan (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  215. ^ Reporter, The Sun (2011-09-09). "Kate Wins Gloria Estefan frock off". The Sun (United Kingdom). Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  216. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: R.E.M. (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-17. 
  217. ^ Tierney, Mike (2013-04-20). "Mike Mills: A Rock Star of Fantasy Sports". The New York Times. Retrieved 2013-05-18. 
  218. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Shania Twain (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  219. ^ Reporter, Toronto Star (2013-02-03). "Shania Twain museum and the fleeting nature of fame: Editorial". Toronto Star. Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  220. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Van Halen (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  221. ^ Boucher, Geoff (2012-01-29). "When David Lee Roth talks, it's 'A Different Kind of Truth'". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  222. ^ a b c Eremenko, Alexey. "Allmusic: B'z (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  223. ^ "B’z、前人未到のシングル・アルバム通算8000万枚突破" [B'z unprecedented 80 million breakthrough for their albums and singles] (in Japanese). Oricon. 2011-08-04. Retrieved 2012-07-08. 
  224. ^ a b c Prato, Greg. "Allmusic: Red Hot Chili Peppers (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-17. 
  225. ^ Persson, Heather (2012-11-25). "Review: Legendary rock band still Red Hot after three decades". The StarPhoenix. Retrieved 2013-01-03. 
  226. ^ a b c Prato, Greg. "Allmusic: Foreigner (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-01-15. 
  227. ^ "Gramm confirmed as second act for Riverfest 2012". The Gadsden Times. 2011-12-16. Retrieved 2013-01-15. 
  228. ^ a b c Unterberger, Richie. "Allmusic: The Doors (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  229. ^ Harrington, Jim (2010-04-03). "Ray Manzarek discusses new Doors documentary film". San Jose Mercury News. Retrieved 2011-01-08. 
  230. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Reba McEntire (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-04-09. 
  231. ^ Cronick, Scott (2012-10-09). "Review: Reba McEntire spans 36-year country career, including new songs, in performance at Revel". The Press of Atlantic City. Retrieved 2013-04-09. 
  232. ^ a b c Ankeny, Jason. "Allmusic: Meat Loaf (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-04-04. 
  233. ^ Johnston, Andrew (2013-05-15). "Bat's all folks after epic swan song". The Belfast Telegraph. Retrieved 2013-05-18. 
  234. ^ a b c Huey, Steve. "Allmusic: Barry Manilow (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  235. ^ Kotowski, Meghan (2013-04-23). "Barry Manilow to bring music, donate instruments". Gwinnett Daily Post. Retrieved 2013-05-11. 
  236. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Tom Petty (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-04-05. 
  237. ^ Reporter, Belper News (2013-01-30). "Top talent at The Flowerpot". Belper News. Retrieved 2013-04-05. 
  238. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: New Kids on the Block (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  239. ^ Rodman, Sarah (2012-10-02). "‘Five Brothers and a Million Sisters’ by Nikki Van Noy". The Boston Globe. Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  240. ^ a b c Kellman, Andy. "Allmusic: The Black Eyed Peas (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-17. 
  241. ^ Hamilton, Sean (2010-05-22). "I was always the friend rather than lover. I’d have a crush on a girl and she’d say, ‘I see you as my brother'". The Sun (United Kingdom). Retrieved 2012-09-20. 
  242. ^ a b c Ruhlmann, William. "Allmusic: Journey (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  243. ^ "RIAJ: Digital Certifications (September 2010)" (in Japanese). Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2012-04-14. 
  244. ^ "Journey – BBC interview". BBC News. 2011-06-03. Retrieved 2011-12-08. 
  245. ^ a b c Yanow, Scott. "Allmusic: Kenny G (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  246. ^ Moon, Jill (2012-09-21). "Kenny G to jazz up Powell stage Saturday". The Telegraph (Alton). Retrieved 2012-09-23. 
  247. ^ a b c Leahey, Andrew. "Allmusic: Beyonce (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  248. ^ "PROMUSICAE: Conciones Top 20 Anual 2007" (in Spanish). PROMUSICAEaccessdate=2012-11-12. 
  249. ^ Barker, Lauren (2013-04-19). "Beyonce and Jay-Z Named Music's First Billionaire Couple". MTV Australia. Retrieved 2013-05-08. 
  250. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Enya (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  251. ^ Beta, Andy (2011-07-03). "A new age for New Age music". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2013-01-03. 
  252. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Green Day (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-04-01. 
  253. ^ Harrinton, Jim (2013-03-15). "SXSW 2013: Green Day looks to rebound at big Austin concert". The Denver Post. Retrieved 2013-04-01. 
  254. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: 2Pac (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  255. ^ Reporter, Hindustantimes (2012-06-16). "Happy Birthday Tupac!". Hindustan Times. Retrieved 2013-02-13. 
  256. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Nirvana (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-17. 
  257. ^ "The ARIA Report: 7th November 2011 (Issue No.1132)". ARIA. Retrieved 2013-01-29. 
  258. ^ "Sir Paul McCartney to perform with Nirvana". Evening Express (Scotland). 2012-12-12. Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  259. ^ a b c Erlewine, Stephen. "Allmusic: Spice Girls (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  260. ^ Writer, Staff (2012-12-12). "Spice Girls musical opens on London stage". Winnipeg Free Press. Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  261. ^ a b c Harris, Craig. "Allmusic: Andrea Bocelli (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-16. 
  262. ^ Reporter, BBC News (2012-09-06). "Andrea Bocelli to receive Classic Brit honour". BBC News. Retrieved 2013-02-12. 
  263. ^ a b c Ankeny, Jason. "Allmusic: Bob Marley (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-01-30. 
  264. ^ "Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley Are Top-Earning Dead Musicians". Rolling Stone. 2012-11-01. Retrieved 2013-01-30. 
  265. ^ a b c Leahey, Andrew. "Allmusic: Mötley Crüe (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2013-02-07. 
  266. ^ Lee, Brian (2011-07-12). "Motley Crue, Poison, And New York Dolls At Mohegan Friday". Hartford Courant. Retrieved 2013-02-07. 
  267. ^ a b c Ankeny, Jason. "Allmusic: Depeche Mode (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  268. ^ Horowitz, Joanna (2009-08-06). "At 29, Depeche Mode is now post-post-punk". The Seattle Times. Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  269. ^ a b c Unterberger, Richie. "Allmusic: Aretha Franklin (Overview)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2012-09-27. 
  270. ^ Hoerburger, Rob (2011-07-08). "A-R-E-T-H-A". The New York Times. Retrieved 2013-02-11. 
  271. ^ a b c Weber, Barry. "Allmusic: Scorpions (Biography)". Allmusic. Retrieved 2011-12-15. 
  272. ^ Spahr, Wolfgang (2009-02-05). "Echo Awards Honor For Scorpions". Billboard (magazine). Retrieved 2013-04-18. 
  273. ^ "History of the Awards". Recording Industry Association of America. Retrieved 2011-08-06. 
  274. ^ "About RIAJ: History". Recording Industry Association of Japan. Retrieved 2010-05-27. 
  275. ^ "Les Certifications "Officielles"". Infodisc. Infodisc. Retrieved 2010-05-27. 
  276. ^ "Music Canada: gold/platinum". Music Canada. Retrieved 2011-12-07. 
  277. ^ "Associação Brasileira dos Produtores de Discos – Certificados" [Brazilian Association of Record Producers – Certificates] (in Portuguese). Associação Brasileira dos Produtores de Discos. Retrieved 2009-09-15. 
  278. ^ "Dutch Certifications" (in Dutch). NVPI. Retrieved 2011-12-07. 
  279. ^ a b "The Official Swiss Charts and Music Community – Awards". Hung Medien. Retrieved 2009-09-15. 
  280. ^ "Awards 1997". Ultratop. Retrieved 2011-05-26. 
  281. ^ a b "Capif" (in Spanish). Argentine Chamber of Phonograms and Videograms Producers. Retrieved 2012-05-01. 
  282. ^ a b "Tilastot" [IFPI Statistics] (in Finnish). International Federation of the Phonographic Industry Finland. Retrieved 2010-05-27. 
  283. ^ Bialik, Carl (2009-07-15). "Spun: The Off-the-Wall Accounting of Record Sales". The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved 2009-09-08. 
  284. ^ "The awards: Certifications". Recording Industry Association of America. Retrieved 2011-08-06. 
  285. ^ "The Recording Industry – World Sales 2003" (PDF). International Federation of the Phonographic Industry. Retrieved 2009-09-16. 
  286. ^ "Country Takes The Crop (February 14, 2008)". RIAA. Retrieved 2010-01-23. 
  287. ^ Grein, Paul (1989-05-14). "New Golden Rule: 500,000 Sales Mark for All Singles". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2010-11-26. 
  288. ^ "RIIA Certifications". Billboard magazine. 1996-08-10. Retrieved 2011-07-09. 
  289. ^ RIAJ Certs Plan Criticized. Recording Industry Association of Japan. 2003-10-25. Retrieved 2012-03-30. 
  290. ^ "Certified Awards Timeline". BPI. Retrieved 2012-05-01. 
  291. ^ "Richtlinien für die Verleihung von GOLD/PLATIN-Schallplatten und AWARDs" [Guidelines for Gold and Platinum awards] (in German). Bundesverband Musikindustrie. Retrieved 2010-08-13. 
  292. ^ France Lowers Gold Standard. Billboard magazine. 2006-07-26. Retrieved 2012-04-22. 
  293. ^ "Les Certifications Officielles: Chronologie Albums". Info Disc. Retrieved 2010-08-03. 
  294. ^ "Les Certifications Officielles: Chronologie Singles". Info Disc. Retrieved 2010-08-03. 
  295. ^ "Certification Definitions". Music Canada. Retrieved 2011-07-10. 
  296. ^ CRIA Reports 46% Rise for Disk Certifications. Billboard magazine. 1982-02-27. Retrieved 2011-07-29. 
  297. ^ "Níveis de Certificação" [Levels of Certification] (in Portuguese). Associação Brasileira dos Produtores de Discos. Retrieved 2009-09-15. 
  298. ^ "Certification Award Levels 2009". IFPI. Retrieved 2012-06-30. 
  299. ^ Newsline: Italian Label Body FIMI. Billboard magazine. 2005-02-05. Retrieved 2011-10-24. 
  300. ^ "FIMI Lowers Gold, Platinum Levels". Billboard magazine. 2008-01-28. Retrieved 2011-10-24. 
  301. ^ "Dutch Certification-award-levels" (Words) (in Dutch). NVPI. Retrieved 2012-05-01. 
  302. ^ "Swedish Certification-award-levels" (PDF). IFPI Sweden. Retrieved 2012-05-01. 
  303. ^ Global Newsline: Spain Lowers Certifications. Billboard magazine. 2005-11-26. Retrieved 2011-10-24. 
  304. ^ "PROMUSICAE: Top 100 Albums (SEMANA 37: del 07.09.2009 al 13.09.2009)". PROMUSICAE. 2009-09-13. Retrieved 2011-10-24. 
  305. ^ "Certificaciones" (in Spanish). Asociación Mexicana de Productores de Fonogramas y Videogramas. Retrieved 2012-05-01. 
  306. ^ "Certificaciones (Earlier changes in certification-levels including levels for Pre-loaded albums/singles and Mater Ringtones" (in Spanish). Asociación Mexicana de Productores de Fonogramas y Videogramas. Retrieved 2013-04-08. 
  307. ^ a b "35. Standard for Certifying Awards of Countries (Unit sales) (Page 25)". IFPI. RIAJ. Retrieved 2011-05-26. 
  308. ^ "Certification Award Levels 2007". IFPI<