Talk:List of best-selling music artists/Archive 28

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RIAJ Gold/Platinum Awards (under the Old Criteria)

Artists with 250 million or more worldwide sales

Michael Jackson (マイケル･ジャクソン)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Thriller (スリラー) Gold ― March 1994
• BAD Gold ― November 1994
• HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (ヒストリー パスト、プレズント・アンド・フューチャー ブック1) ― 2×Platinum ― July 1995
• Blood on the Dance Floor (ブラッド・オン・ザ・ダンス・フロア/ヒストリー・イン・ザ・ミックス) ― Gold ― May 1997
• Invincible (インヴィンシブル) ― Platinum ― October 2001

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.9 million units (900,000 albums)

Elvis Presley (エルヴィス・プレスリー)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Mega Elvis ― Gold ―　November 1995
• ELV1S ― Platinum ―　November 2002

Singles

• "A Little Less Conversation" ― Gold ―　May 2003

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Jul '03

• 0.35 million units ― (300,000 albums + 50,000 singles)

Madonna (マドンナ)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Like a Virgin (ライク・ア・ヴァージン) ― Gold ―　March 1994
• True Blue (トゥルー・ブルー) ― Gold ―　March 1994
• Erotica (エロティカ) ― 2× Platinum ―　November 1994
• Bedtime Stories (ベッドタイム・ストーリーズ) ― Platinum ―　November 1994
• Evita: Original Soundtrack (エビータ) ― Gold ―　January 1994 (NOTE: counted as the album by Madonna)
• Something to Remember (サムシング・トゥ・リメンバー) ― 2×Platinum ― May 1997
• The Immaculate Collection (ウルトラ・マドンナ～グレイテスト・ヒッツ) ― 4×Platinum ― February 1998
• Ray of Light (レイ・オブ・ライト) ― 2×Platinum ― May 1998
• Music ― Platinum ― September 2000
• GHV2 (グレイテスト・ヒッツ VOL.2) ― Platinum ― December 2001

Singles

• "La Isla Bonita" (ラ・イスラ・ボニータ) ― Gold ― October 1995

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 2.95 million units ― (2,900,000 albums + 50,000 singles)

There also seems to be a Platinum-award (200,000 units) for Ballad Collection by Madonna, posted in January 1996. But I cannot verify the certification you've posted for the single "La Isla Bonita" in December 1995 . The following "ラ・イス弓・ボニータノマドシナ(WJ)" translates into something else by Google. Is that the one? I have yet to get to the rest you've posted as I've gone through only the years 1994, 1995, 1996. I will most likely add all of the certifications when I'm though with all of the years. I should be done sometime in the next week. --Harout72 (talk) 16:16, 14 July 2013 (UTC)

Sorry, I mistook the Japanese title for Something to Remember album. In Japan, it was released under the Japanese subtitle Best of Madonna: Ballad Collection (ベスト・オブ・マドンナ～バラード・コレクション). Ballad Collecton seems the same release as Something to Remember. --Fugreena (talk) 18:25, 14 July 2013

>Is that the one?
Yes. --Fugreena (talk) 18:29, 14 July 2013

Led Zeppelin (レッド・ツェッペリン)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Led Zeppelin ― Gold ―　November 1993
• BBC Sessions (BBCライヴ) ― Gold ―　December 1997

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.2 million units ― (200,000 albums)

Elton John (エルトン・ジョン)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• The Very Best of Elton John (ベリー・ベスト・オブ・エルトン・ジョン) ― Gold ― March 1995
• Made in England (メイド・イン・イングランド) ― Gold ― May 1995
• Love Songs ― Gold ― December 1995
• Your Song: Elton John Greatest Hits (YOUR SONG～エルトン・ジョン・グレイテスト・ヒッツ)(NOTE: expanded reissue of 1974 Greatest Hits compilation) ― Gold ― July 1996
• Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (グッバイ・イエロー・ブリック・ロード)(NOTE: retitled edition of 1996 Your Song compilation, not 1973 same-titled album) ― Platinum ― December 2000

Singles — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" (愛を感じて) ― Gold ― March 1995
• "Your Song" (僕の歌は君の歌) ― Gold ― July 1996
• "Candle in the Wind 1997"/"Something About the Way You Look Tonight" (キャンドル・イン・ザ・ウィンド～ダイアナ元英皇太子妃に捧ぐ) ― 4×Platinum ― October 1997

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 1.1 million units ― (600,000 albums + 500,000 singles)　NOTE: excluding sales for Gold-certified Lion King soundtrack released in 1994, because it was not regarded as Elton John's album by the RIAJ.

Pink Floyd (ピンク・フロイド)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• The Division Bell (対～TSUI) ― Gold ―　November 1994

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.1 million units ― (100,000 albums)

200 to 249 million

Mariah Carey (マライア・キャリー)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Music Box― Million ―　April 1994
• Any Time You Need a Friend (エニタイム・ユー・ニード・ア・フレンド)(EP) ― Gold ―　Novemeber 1994
• Mariah Carey (マライア・キャリー) ― 3× Platinum ―　January 1995
• Daydream (デイドリーム) ― Million ―　October 1995
• Emotions (エモーションズ) ― 4× Platinum ―　May 1996
• Merry Christmas (メリー・クリスマス) ― 2× Million ―　December 1996
• Butterfly (バタフライ) ― Million ―　September 1997
• MTV Unplugged (MTVアンプラグド) ― 2× Platinum ―　October 1998
• #1's (Number Ones) ― 3× Million ― December 1998
• Rainbow ― 4× Platinum ―　November 1999
• Glitter (グリッター) (soundtrack) ― Platinum ―　September 2001
• Greatest Hits (グレイテスト・ヒッツ) ― Platinum ―　December 2001
• Charmbracelet (チャームブレスレット) ― Platinum ―　November 2002

Singles — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• "All I Want for Christmas Is You" (恋人たちのクリスマス) ― Million ―　January 1995

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 12.3 million units ― (11,300,000 albums + 1,000,000 singles)

Whitney Houston (ホイットニー・ヒューストン)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• The Bodyguard (ボディガード～オリジナル・サウンドトラック) (Soundtrack, as featured artist) ― 2× Million ―　December 1994
• Waiting to Exhale' (ため息つかせて～オリジナル・サウンドトラック) (Soundtrack, as featured artist) ― Platinum ―　January 1996
• The Preacher's Wife (天使の贈りもの～オリジナル・サウンドトラック)(Soundtrack) ― Platinum ―　February 1997
• Waiting to Exhale (ため息つかせて～オリジナル・サウンドトラック) (Soundtrack, as featured artist) ― Platinum ―　February 1997
• I'm Your Baby Tonight (アイム・ユア・ベイビー・トゥナイト) ― 2× Platinum ―　February 1997
• My Love Is Your Love (マイ・ラヴ・イズ・ユア・ラヴ) ― Platinum ―　December 1998
• The Greatest Hits (グレイテスト・ヒッツ) ― 3× Platinum ―　July 2000
• Love, Whitney ― Gold ―　December 2001
• Just Whitney ― Gold ―　January 2003

Singles — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• "All at Once" (オール・アット・ワンス) ― Gold ―　August 1996

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 4.05 million units ― (4,000,000 albums + 50,000 singles)(NOTE: Waiting to Exhale Soundtrack, issued in Dec 1995, was certified Platinum twice for unknown reason)

You have 5x Platinum for "I Will Always Love You" certified in June 1993? The database for The Record starts from 1994. Where can I find it?--Harout72 (talk) 19:06, 14 July 2013 (UTC)

Sorry. Mistakenly, I wrote down more older certification. Please forget it. I'm providing the information based on the complete list of Gold/Platinum-certified international products between 1989 and 2003, including some unavailable data on the official RIAJ website. --- Fugreena (talk) 22:57, 14 July 2013‎ (UTC)

Celine Dion (セリーヌ・ディオン)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Celine Dion (セリーヌ・ディオン) ― Gold ―　August 1996
• Colour of My Love (ラヴ・ストーリーズ) ― 3×Platinum ―　January 1996
• Let's Talk About Love (レッツ・トーク・アバウト・ラヴ) ― Million ―　May 1998
• Falling into You ― 4×Platinum ―　October 1998
• All the Way... A Decade of Song (ザ・ベリー・ベスト) ― Million ―　November 1998
• These Are Special Times (スペシャル・タイムス) ― 2×Platinum ―　November 1998
• The Collector's Series, Volume One (スペシャル・ベスト) ― Gold ―　January 2001
• A New Day Has Come (ア・ニュー・デイ・ハズ・カム) ― Gold ―　March 2002

Singles

• "To Love You More" (トゥ・ラヴ・ユー・モア) ― Million ―　January 1996
• "Beauty and the Beast" (ビューティー・アンド・ザ・ビースト〜美女と野獣) ― Platinum ―　November 1996
• "The Power of the Dream" (パワー・オブ・ザ・ドリーム) ― Gold ―　January 1997
• "Be the Man" ― Platinum ―　November 1997
• "My Heart Will Go On" (マイ・ハート・ウィル・ゴー・オン) ― 2×Platinum ―　February 1999

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 5.55 million units ― (4,100,000 albums and 1,450,000 singles) NOTE: All the Way... later reached Double Million status (in 2007).

The Color of My Love appears as Love Stories (Special Edition) in March 1996. I take it that in Japan it was released under a different title?--Harout72 (talk) 19:06, 14 July 2013 (UTC)

Don't you see the nihongo templates? If you don't care about it, I'll write the original title only. --- Fugreena (talk) 22:51, 14 July 2013‎ (UTC)

I don't think you understood my question. I'm saying that the 3x Platinum appears to be for Love Stories (Special Edition), there is no certification for Colour of My Love here, unless google mistranslates it.--Harout72 (talk) 02:42, 15 July 2013 (UTC)

ABBA (アバ)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• ABBA Gold: Greatest Hits (アバ・ゴールド～グレイテスト・ヒッツ) ― Platinum ―　January 2001
• S.O.S: The Best of ABBA (S.O.S.～ベスト・オブ・アバ) ― 3×Platinum ―　May 2001

Singles — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• "S.O.S."/"Chiquitita" (S.O.S./チキチータ) ― Platinum ―　February 2001

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.9 million units ― (800,000 albums + 100,000 singles) NOTE: In Feb '09, ABBA Gold reached Triple Platinum status for shipments of over 750,000 copies.

Queen (クイーン)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Greatest Hits (グレイテスト・ヒッツ) ― Gold ―　April 1995
• Made in Heaven (メイド・イン・ヘヴン) ― Platinum ―　Janaury 1996
• Queen Rocks (クイーン・ロックス) ― Gold ―　December 1998
• Queen in Vision ― Gold ―　Janaury 2001

Singles — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• "I Was Born to Love You" (ボーン・トゥ・ラヴ・ユー) ― Gold ―　May 1996

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.55 million units ― (500,000 albums + 50,000 singles)

The Rolling Stones (ザ・ローリング・ストーンズ)

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Voodoo Lounge (ヴードゥー・ラウンジ) ― Gold ―　July 1994
• Stripped ― Gold ―　November 1995
• Bridges to Babylon (ブリッジズ・トゥ・バビロン) ― Platinum ―　October 1997
• Forty Licks (フォーティ・リックス) ― Platinum ―　September 2002

Singles — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• "Angie" (悲しみのアンジー) ― Gold ―　August 1997

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.65 million units ― (600,000 albums + 50,000 singles)

120 to 199 million

Eagles (イーグルス)

Albums

• The Best of Eagles (ベスト・オブ・イーグルス) ― Gold ―　Dec '94
• Hell Freezes Over (ヘル・フリーゼス・オーヴァー) ― Platinum ―　Jan '95
• The Very Best of the Eagles (ヴェリー・ベスト・オブ・イーグルス) ― Platinum ―　May '97

Singles

• "Hotel California" (ホテル・カリフォルニア) ― Platinum ―　May '96

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.6 million units ― (500,000 albums + 100,000 singles)

Should we not assume that the Gold posted in February 1995 for The Best of Eagles is the same album as the Platinum posted in July 1997 for The Very Best of the Eagles released in July 11, 1994?--Harout72 (talk) 19:36, 14 July 2013 (UTC)

These are different products. The Best of Eagles is a 1990 reissue of another European-compilation originally released in 1985.--- Fugreena (talk) 23:01, 14 July 2013‎ (UTC)

Bruce Springsteen (ブルース・スプリングスティーン)

Albums

• Greatest Hits (グレイテスト・ヒッツ) ― Platinum ―　Jan '96

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.2 million units ― (200,000 albums)

Phil Collins (フィル・コリンズ)

Albums

• Both Sides (ボース・サイズ) ― Gold ―　May '95
• ...Hits (グレイテスト・ヒッツ) ― 2× Platinum ―　Dec '01

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and Dec '02

• 0.5 million units ― (500,000 albums)

U2

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• Pop ― Platinum ―　Mar '97
• The Best of 1980-1990 ― 2× Platinum ―　Jan '99
• All That You Can't Leave Behind ― Platinum ―　Oct '00
• The Best of 1990-2000 ― Gold ―　Oct '02

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.9 million units ― (900,000 albums)

Billy Joel

Albums — (Left to right; Title, Level of Certification, Month of Certification)

• 52nd Street ― Gold ―　Feb '94
• The Stranger ― Gold ―　Mar '95
• Greatest Hits Volume III ― Gold ―　Sep '97
• Greatest Hits Volume I and II ― 3×Platinum ―　Oct '99
• Ultimate Collection ― Gold ―　Apr '01

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.9 million units ― (900,000 albums)(NOTE: In later years, Ultimate Collection was certified Platinum under the new criteria, for shipments of 250,000 copies. 2004 remaster of Greatest Hits Volume I and II was also certified Gold again, aside from earlier release.

I'm also seeing 2x Platinum for a compilation album "Best of Billy Joel" posted in May 1995.--Harout72 (talk) 03:02, 15 July 2013 (UTC)

Bee Gees

Albums

• 22 Hits of the Bee Gees ― Gold ―　May '96

Singles

• "First of May ― Gold ―　May '96

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.15 million units ― (100,000 albums + 50,000 singles)

Aerosmith

Albums

• Big Ones ― Platinum ―　Jan '95
• Permanent Vacation ― Gold ―　Apr '95
• Nine Lives (1st pressing) ― 2×Platinum ―　Mar '97
• Nine Lives ― 2×Platinum ―　Apr '97
• Little South of Sanity ― Platinum ―　Oct '98
• I Don't Want to Miss a Thing (EP) ― Platinum ―　Mar '99
• Just Push Play ― 2×Platinum ―　Mar '01
• Ultimate Aerosmith Hits ― Platinum ―　Jul '02

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 2.1 million units ― (2,100,000 albums)

Regarding Nine Lives, are you sure they haven't mistakenly posted the same certification twice once in May 1997, and again in June 1997? Because they both happen to have the same release date and they both have been released on the same record company.--Harout72 (talk) 03:14, 15 July 2013 (UTC)

Julio Iglesias

Any of Julio Iglesias' efforts have NOT received RIAJ certification. The artist had some strong sellers in Japan, in fact, including Momentos which have sold over 800,000 copies (and became one of the country's best-selling albums during the 1980s). But those albums were from pre-RIAJ era, and never been certified at any levels, as of 2013.

The Black Eyed Peas (31 million albums and 58 million singles worldwide)

Hi Harout. How are you?. I need your advice, so far they have about 50m in certification sales, what do you think about statement that they have sold 89 million records? (31 million albums and 58 million singles worldwide).

(http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/9718353.will_i_am_flies_in_on_a____hip_hop_copter___/) / (http://www.nbc.com/news/2012/06/20/seven-time-grammy-award-winning-songwriter-and-multi-platinum-artist-william-to-perform-on-americas/)

Is this reliable and is it right to updated their claim figures? thanks. Politsi (talk) 07:59, 18 July 2013 (UTC)

They're ok for now with their current 76 million claim.--Harout72 (talk) 15:46, 18 July 2013 (UTC)

Jennifer Lopez

An article says that Jlo had sold over 80 million records. Can you please check her certified units to see if are enogh to put her on the list. http://entertainment.inquirer.net/62824/bonus-busters-jennifer-lopez-elton-john-sting-usher-in-pricey-christmastime --24.139.76.197 (talk) 19:33, 21 July 2013 (UTC)

Lopez needs her claimed figures supported by 58% certified sales (or 46.4 million certified units for 80 million claim) as her first charting year is 1999. Her available certified units are 27.9 million.--Harout72 (talk) 19:59, 21 July 2013 (UTC)

ok thanks! :) --Rudeby88 (talk) 00:27, 24 July 2013 (UTC)

75m-records of Green Day

Hi Harout. Need your advice, is this source reliable? (http://inserbia.info/news/2013/05/green-day-concert-on-kalemegdan-fortress-belgrade-tonight/) because it is stated 75m-records of Green Day.

Our source currently still stated 75m-albums, so if that source reliable I will change it. thanks Politsi (talk) 07:51, 23 July 2013 (UTC)

Our current source is a better one, and it's pretty new. Why do you want to replace it?--Harout72 (talk) 15:53, 23 July 2013 (UTC)

Well, so far I still trying to find another claim which stated records. And as we know that Green Day, Motley Crue, Shania Twain, and Meatloaf still stated albums. And if i found the better one, I will change it but if i feel looks not reliable enough. I will asking you first. thanks by the way. Politsi (talk) 01:18, 24 July 2013 (UTC)

Elton John

Hello. As I noticed, very right columns of tables in the wiki-article List of best-selling music artists include data taken out from articles, books and other elaborations. I think It would be honest to add in that column the item "300 million" for Sir Elton John, as such a value also appears from time to time. The links are given below: http://eltonjohnlasvegas.com/discography.php http://www.excite.com/events/concert-tickets/Elton-John/ http://www.celebritynetworth.com/articles/entertainment-articles/8-bestselling-recording-artists-time/#!/elton-john_491/ Thank You very much, Maciek 94.124.18.19 (talk) 08:17, 24 July 2013 (UTC)

Hello again, I have just found some more sources, saying about 300 million Elton John's records sold worldwide: http://www.blurtit.com/q265336.html

http://whatculture.com/film/elton-john-biopic-from-writer-of-billy-elliott.php

http://essarcentre.com/elton-john-concert-sault-ste-marie/

https://www.sodahead.com/entertainment/8-singers-or-bands-have-topped-300-million-in-record-sales-which-one-do-you-like-the-best/question-3176721/

http://www.therichest.org/entertainment/the-top-10-best-selling-artists-of-all-time/

http://amazingnews4you.com/the-top-5best-selling-artists-of-all-time/ :)

Cheers, Maciek 94.124.18.19 (talk) 09:41, 24 July 2013 (UTC)

Sales figures should come from news agencies. You also want to read the last sentences in the lead on the list.--Harout72 (talk) 15:12, 24 July 2013 (UTC)

I read those sentences. They only prove that it is absolutely subjective and wishful thinking list. While the claimed sales of other artists are increased in relation to total certified units by 185% (Madonna), through 220% (Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin), to 243% (Michael Jackson), in Elton's case it is 158%. It seems like all those numbers are taken from the ceiling and now you demand a particular source of information, ridiculous. But ok, it seems to be your own list and it looks like you do whatever you want with it, keep on. 94.124.18.19 (talk) 10:19, 25 July 2013 (UTC)

Hibari Misora & Ayumi Hamasaki

Harout, need your advice. Who is Hibari Misora? because Japan Today (http://www.japantoday.com/category/entertainment/view/1001-song-hibari-misora-box-set-to-go-on-sale-from-aug) said that she has sold 80m-records. Is this reliable?

and for Hamasaki. I still can not find it, her claim still stuck on 50m-records. thanks Politsi (talk) 08:01, 23 July 2013 (UTC)

She's just one of Japan's well known artists whose records have gone uncertified as she was an early beginner, her records basically sold before Japan had certification-system. But let me know if you find something for Ayumi, even with 80 million records, she can be on this list.--Harout72 (talk) 15:44, 23 July 2013 (UTC)

Harout, i think Ayumi Hamasaki will be in same case like Eric Clapton, where their certification sales is good enough but the media seems not interest to write about them. And i just find this for Hamasaki, 75m-CD (http://www.mintry.eu/jp/archives/152) but i think that source absolutely not reliable. what do you think? thanks Politsi (talk) 03:41, 24 July 2013 (UTC)

Yeah, that source doesn't look good. I hope we find something for her in the near future. Thanks for looking around.--Harout72 (talk) 05:59, 24 July 2013 (UTC)

Edit request on 25 July 2013

Another factor that causes claimed product sales to vary from certified sales (particularly for older recording acts and artists) include piracy, which reached its peak in the late 1970's, before music copyright and anti-counterfeit piracy laws changed from civil to criminal violations. Once counterfeiting and piracy were classified as 'crimes', not civil infringments, police agencies could seize and confiscate entire inventories of pirated products as evidence in counterfeiting cases. In cases where multiple entities were found to be in collusion, RICO Statutes could also be applied. Pursuant to the 1979 Law changes. penalties for willful copyright infringement increased from $1,000 to $150,000 per instance..

No one knows the extent to which counterfeiting and piracy affected certified sales. Estimates vary, but for some artists the impact is believed to be significant. Black Sabbath Deep Purple, Iron Maiden, and several other heavy metal or hard rock bands claim that millions of pirated and counterfeit copies of their albums have been sold worldwide, and that has significantly reduced their certified sales.

Beginning in 1979, record companies began using UPC bar codes and other inventory control tagging to detect pirated returns (records which were given on consignment to major retailers, but didn't sell). Even in cases where piracy was not involved, un-accounted for returns might have significantly inflated sales. The RIAA notes that prior to the implementation of Neilsen-Soundscan in 1991, certifying sales often meant taking record company and artist statements of 'items shipped' with no accounting for any returns.

204.65.0.21 (talk) 15:06, 25 July 2013 (UTC)

==

Illegally made copies isn't one of the factors for the gap between claimed sales and certified sales as those are never counted towards the total sold units by record companies, thus never submitted to those that publish record sales. The main reason for the gap between claimed sales and certified sales is the fact that record companies inflate claimed sales for promotional purposes. Second main factor for the gap is the fact that lot of the music markets didn't have certification-systems until 1970s (for key markets), 1980s and 1990s (for others), therefore, lot of older releases have gone uncertified in most markets. But the second reason plays a minor role only in creating the gap between claimed sales and certified sales, because most of the global music sales is generated by key music markets such as U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Canada, have had certification schemes since the 1970s (U.S. from 1958).--Harout72 (talk) 16:30, 25 July 2013 (UTC)

Backstreet Boys

backstreet boys have sold over 130 million albums worldwide [1] — Preceding unsigned comment added by 188.54.86.89 (talk) 00:16, 26 July 2013 (UTC)

Mariah Carey

As the Japanese certifications updated the total certified units for Mariah by [almost] double and the total certified units are updated to 125 million certified ones, I do suggest that the total claimed sales should be pushed further to 220 - 225 million. Fidel 10:05, 28 July 2013 (UTC)

Queen

Hello I just want to prove the fact that Queen has sold 300 million copies of albums. — Preceding unsigned comment added by Sabbathbloodness (talk • contribs) 06:52, 30 July 2013 (UTC)

Paul McCartney/Wings

Paul McCartney's certified-sales seems to be under-estimated. It misses a string of the albums and singles released during the artist's commercial heyday.

After the dissolution of The Beatles, McCartney had garnered international success with another band Wings. Although some releases left McCartney's name out of the credits, Wings has commonly been regarded as part of his solo career, including one of this article's core sources Billboard magazine.[2]

Aside from the Wings, Paul McCartney has never had massive record sales in last 30 years. The artist has no U.S. Multi-Platinum sellers, except for compilations, live albums, or his previous classics. Probably, the claimed sales of 100 million copies, are largely composed of his earlier career with the band. I think those releases have to be taken into account, just like Bob Marley who produced most materials with his backing band The Wailers. -- Fugreena (talk)8:22, 5 August 2013‎ (UTC)

Your source doesn't aim at a specific issue or an article, but The Wings was a band on its own, quintet. I don't think The Wings can immediately be compared to Bob Marley and The Wailers, as Marley's work was with The Wailers from the very beginning. Anyways, this is all the certified sales I have for Paul McCartney as a solo artist.--Harout72 (talk) 16:04, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

Band on the Run, certified Gold in France, is precisely not the solo album by Paul McCartney. Why is it included there? This album was certified Triple Platinum in the United States in 1991. Why is it disregarded? The same thing can be said about his collaboration singles like "Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey", "Say Say Say" and "Ebony and Ivory".

I can't make out the definition of particular artists at all. It seems vague and contradictory. Contrary to McCartney, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers' certified-sales seems over-estimated. Full Moon Fever should not be counted to, because it was just the solo album by the frontman of the band. -- Fugreena (talk) 19:36, 5 August 2013‎ ‎ (UTC)

Since I'm not an expert on Paul McCartney, I have included the French certification for Band on the Run only because that certification is listed along with his other solo certification here, but you spotted it since you know his materials. I will remove that from the French total. As for Tom Petty, hasn't he always been with The Heartbreakers? I think it would be more accurate if we changed Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers to simply Tom Petty on the list? After all, we are trying to include the certified sales of Tom Petty as a solo and his duo collaborations. As for the single "Say, Say, Say", the French certification and the Canadian certification are both included because it is a duo collaboration. I mentioned above that we do include duo collaborations, you probably misunderstood. In case you're interested, here is Tom Petty's certified sales. --Harout72 (talk) 20:15, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

McCartney's collaborative singles "Uncle Albert", "Ebony and Ivory" and "Say Say Say" were certified Gold or Platinum in the United States. Why are they excluded? McCartney have had many RIAA-awarded singles during the 1970s and 1980s, though they are completely ignored on your list.-- Fugreena (talk) 20:36, 5 August 2013‎ ‎ (UTC)

I'm actually glad you're discussing this with me. Again, since I'm not familiar with his releases, I have only included those certifications which certification-databases bring up when his name is entered in the search box. That said, "Uncle Albert" doesn't come up in RIAA's database when typed Paul Mc Cartney, neither the other two single. I will include those now. Let me know if there is more.--Harout72 (talk) 20:58, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

Paul McCartney has had one more Platinum-certified album Ram, co-recorded by the artist's spouse Linda. In addition, on some of earlier Wings-releases between 1972 and 1974, Paul McCartney was credited as a featured artist, for the sake of boosting sales. At least, those releases (LPs Red Rose Speedway, Band on the Run and singles "My Love", "Live and Let Die", "Band on the Run" and "Jet") should be included anyway, in my opinion.

And I say again that it's unfair to exclude Wings releases, unlike Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers (whose lead vocalist has his own independent career except for the band).

On the Billboard article that I cited before, McCartney is listed as the artist with nine number-one hits. Strictly speaking, however, he has never had a chart-topping single as a solo artist (six songs with Wings, while others are collaborations with Linda McCartney, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder). It is one of the proof that Wings has been considered McCartney's practical solo project or backing band. Not only American Charts[3], but British Official Chart Company[4][5] and Japanese Oricon Chart[6][7] also regards Wings' efforts as McCartney's solo. Even on the database of Recording Industry Association of America, Wings' (=MC CARTNEY PAUL & WINGS) releases have been categorized 'SOLO'.[8]-- Fugreena (talk) 22:13, 5 August 2013‎ ‎ (UTC)

Oh, RIAA lists the albums of the Wings as Paul McCartney & Wings? That definitely changes things quite a bit. So yes, you are right, this is very much like a collaboration between McCartney and The Wings rather than being a band on its own. OK, let me retrieve the certifications from RIAA database listed as Paul McCartney & Wings. The BPI too has lot of certifications listed for The Wings. Germany and France as well as Canada have certifications also.--Harout72 (talk) 22:34, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

I added all available certified units of The Wings to the total certified units of McCartney, here is the updated file in case you're interested.--Harout72 (talk) 00:12, 6 August 2013 (UTC)

There seems to be one extra certification missing from the list; The McCartney Years (3-DVD box set), awarded Double Platinum by the RIAA in March 2009 [9] -- Fugreena (talk) 01:13, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Actually, I also had "The Space Within Us" missing. Not sure how I'd missed those two as I'm normally very careful. Thanks.--Harout72 (talk) 02:10, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

RIAJ Gold/Platinum Awards (under the Old Criteria)

The article is still missing some of certified sales in Japan. -- Fugreena (talk)16:51, 1 August 2013‎ (UTC)

100 to 119 million

Janet Jackson

Albums

• janet. ―　Platinum ― Feb '94
• Design of a Decade ―　Platinum ― Dec '95
• The Velvet Rope ―　Platinum ― Oct '97
• All for You ―　2× Platinum ― Apr '01
• All for You ―　2× Platinum ― Jun '01

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 1.4 million units ― (1,400,000 albums) (NOTE: All for You album was awarded Double-Platinum twice, for unknown reason. janet. was also certified Platinum twice, for the first time in August 1993.)

I'm not sure why you have two 2x Platinum awards for All for You. I see All for You certified 2x Platinum in June 2001, and then it reaches 3x Platinum in August 2001. So that is total of 600,000 units.--Harout72 (talk) 02:32, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Def Leppard

Albums

• Greatest Hits ―　Gold ― Oct '95
• Euphoria ―　Gold ― Aug '99

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.2 million units ― (200,000 albums)

Is this (グレイテスト・ヒソヴ/子'7・レノマ ド (MME)) the Greatest Hits posted in December 1995? I get a completely different translations from google ('7-Renomado Greatest Hisovu / child (MME)).--Harout72 (talk) 02:56, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Title and artist in Japanese; Gureitesuto Hittsu (グレイテスト・ヒッツ) / Defu Repādo (デフ・レパード) -- Fugreena (talk) 03:03, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Carpenters

Albums

• Yesterday Once More: Their Greatest Hits ―　Gold ― Feb '94(NOTE: Same release as 1990 UK Compilation Only Yesterday)
• 22 Hits of the Carpenters ―　2× Million ― Jun '96
• As Time Goes By ― Gold ― Aug '01

Singles

• "I Need to Be in Love"/"Top of the World" ―　4× Platinum ― Jan '96

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 2.6 million units ― (2,200,000 albums + 400,000 singles)

Rod Stewart

Albums

• Best of Rod Stewart ―　Gold ― Mar '94(NOTE: 1989 Compilation)
• Unplugged ... and Seated ―　Gold ― Mar '94
• Spanner in the Works ―　Gold ― Sep '95
• If We Fall in Love Tonight ―　Gold ― Jan '96

Singles

• "All for Love" (w/Sting, Bryan Adams) ―　Gold ― Apr '94
• "Lady Luck" ―　Gold ― Oct '95

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.5 million units ― (400,000 albums + 100,000 singles)

I can't see any certifications for Rod Steward's "If We Fall in Love Tonight" in March 1996.--Harout72 (talk) 17:58, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

Sorry. I mistook the year of awards. It was certified Gold in 1997, not 1996.-- Fugreena (talk) 01:10, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Also, for the single "Lady Luck" posted in December 1995, is "レティ・ラ。ソク/口、ッド・スチュワ ト" it?--Harout72 (talk) 18:07, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

Correct title and artist in Japanese; Redī Rakku (レディ・ラック) / Roddo Suchuwāto (ロッド・スチュワート) -- Fugreena (talk) 1:10, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

OK thanks. So our total is 450,000 units, not 500,000 units: 400,000 units of albums (4 Gold albums) and 50,000 units of single (Gold).--Harout72 (talk) 03:18, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Guns N' Roses

Albums

• Use Your Illusion II ―　2× Platinum ― Nov '93
• The Spaghetti Incident? ―　Platinum ― Dec '93
• GN'R Lies ―　Gold ― Feb '94
• Use Your Illusion I ―　2× Platinum ― Feb '94
• Appetite For Destruction ―　Platinum ― Mar '94
• Live Era '87-'93 ―　Gold ― Dec '99

Singles

"Sympathy for the Devil" ―　Gold ― Apr '95

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 1.45 million units ― (1,400,000 albums + 50,000 singles)

The Gold certification for the single "Sympathy for the Devil", is it the last certification (悪魔を憐れむ歌/カ。ンズ・ア〉ド・ローゼズ (MV)) posted in June 1995? I get a clumsy translation by Google as I do for all other missing certifications of all artists, which is the reason why I didn't include them in the total.--Harout72 (talk) 16:30, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

Correct name of the artist in Japanese; Ganzu ando Rōzezu (ガンズ・アンド・ローゼズ). "Akuma o Awaremu Uta" (悪魔を憐れむ歌) is the Japanese subtitle of the song. -- Fugreena (talk) 01:13, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Prince

Albums

• Love Symbol Album ―　Gold ― Apr '94
• Emancipation ―　Gold ― Apr '97

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.2 million units ― (200,000 albums)

I can't find the Gold certification for "Emancipation" posted in June 1997. Can you please write as it appears in Japanese, I'm maybe not able to see it because of Google's translation.--Harout72 (talk) 17:35, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

Title and artist in Japanese; Imanshipeishon (イマンシペイション) / The Artist Formerly Known as Prince (ジ・アーティスト・フォーマリー・ノウン・アズ・プリンス, Ji Ātisuto Fōmarī Noun Azu Purinsu) -- Fugreena (talk) 01:13, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Can you please double check the month/year of the certification for Emancipation, I'm quite sure it's not posted in June 1997.--Harout72 (talk) 03:35, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Certified date is completely correct. The album is certainly listed on the right side of the Page 9 (9 out of 12 on PDF), along with released date (1996.11.19) and record label (TO = stands for Toshiba EMI) of the product.[10] For your information, following international LPs were certified Gold in same month. （left to right: title, artist, release date, label)

• "Emmerdale" - Cardigans - 1994.09.24 - PO
• "Sweet Dreams" - La bouche - 1995.10.21 - BMG
• "Providing the Atmosphere" - Cloudberry Jam - 1996.03.20 - QT
• "Man with the Fun" - Maxi Priest - 1996.04.24 - TO
• "Sex Affairs" - E-rotic - 1996.05.09 - TO
• "Naked" - Louise - 1996.07.24 - TO
• "The Power of Sex" - E-rotic - 1996.08.07 - TO
• ”Bilingual" (バイリンガル, Bairingaru) - Pet Shop Boys (ペット・ショップ・ボーイズ, Petto Shoppu Bōizu) - 1996.09.14 - TO
• ”Love Is the Wonderful Thing" (ラヴ・イズ・ザ・ワンダフル・シング, Lavu Izu Za Wandafuru Singu) - Fatima Rainey (ファティマ・レイニー, Fatima Reini) - 1997.01.25 - EW
• "Go!" - Fair Warning - 1997.02.26 - XR
• "Past, Present and Future: Greatest Hits" - C.J. Lewis - 1997.03.05 - MV
• "Dig Your Own Hole" - Chemical Brothers - 1997.03.26 - TO

The awards are listed chronologically. So Prince's album will be found between Pet Shop Boys' and Fatima Rainey's ones. -- Fugreena (talk) 04:56, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Okay, got it, this one is very difficult to figure out. Thanks.--Harout72 (talk) 05:56, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Bryan Adams

Albums

• So Far So Good ―　Gold ― Dec '93
• 18 Til I Die ―　Platinum ― Aug '96
• MTV Unplugged ―　Gold ― Dec '97
• On a Day Like Today ―　Gold ― Nov '98

Singles

• "All for Love" (w/Sting, Rod Stewart) ―　Gold ― Apr '94

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.55 million units ― (500,000 albums + 50,000 singles)

The single All for Love is not included in the total because we include certifications of solo and duo collaborations.--Harout72 (talk) 17:21, 5 August 2013 (UTC)

Paul McCartney

Albums

• Flaming Pie ―　Gold ― Jun '97
• Back in the U.S.: Live 2002 ―　Gold ― Feb '03

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '03

• 0.2 million units ― (200,000 albums)

80 to 99 million

Van Halen

Albums

• Live: Right Here, Right Now ―　Gold ― Sep '94
• Balance ―　Platinum ― Feb '95
• Van Halen ―　Gold ― Feb '95
• Greatest Hits ―　2×Platinum ― Dec '96
• Van Halen III ―　Platinum ― Mar '98

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 1.0 million units ― (1,000,000 albums)

Can you please double check and see if the Gold certification for the album Van Halen is posted in April 1995? I can't see it.--Harout72 (talk) 01:02, 8 August 2013 (UTC)

70 to 79 million

Journey

Albums

• Trial by Fire ―　Gold ― Nov '96

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.1 million units ― (100,000 albums)

Kenny G

Albums

• Montage ―　Gold ― Sep '94
• Breathless ―　Platinum ― Nov '96
• Miracles ―　Gold ― Feb '97
• The Moment ―　Platinum ― Mar '98
• Greatest Hits ―　Platinum ― Jan '00

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.8 million units ― (800,000 albums)

Green Day

Albums

• Dookie ―　Platinum ― May '97
• Insomniac ―　Platinum ― May '97
• Nimrod ―　Platinum ― Nov '97
• Warning ―　Platinum ― Sep '00
• International Superhits! ―　2×Platinum ― Dec '01
• Shenanigans ―　Gold ― Jul '02

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 1.3 million units ― (1,300,000 albums)

Enya

Albums

• The Memory of Trees ― 3× Plstinum ―　Apr '97
• Paint the Sky with Stars ―　Million ― Feb '98
• Watermark ― 3× Plstinum ―　Apr '97
• The Celts ―　Gold ― Feb '98
• A Day Without Rain ― 4× Plstinum ―　Dec '01
• Themes from "Calmi Cuori Appassionati" ―　Million ― Feb '02

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 4.1 million units ― (4,100,000 albums)

For the album Watermark, I see 2x Platinum posted in June 1998. I don't see any certifications for Watermark in June 1997. The 3x Platinum in June 1997 belongs to the album The Memory of Trees.--Harout72 (talk) 00:12, 2 August 2013 (UTC)

Sorry, I misread it. -- Fugreena (talk) 8:19, 5 August 2013‎ (UTC)

Nirvana

Albums

• In Utero ―　Platinum ― Feb '00
• MTV Unplugged in New York ―　Platinum ― Feb '00
• From the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah ―　Gold ― Feb '00
• Nevermind ―　3× Platinum ― Nov 02
• Nirvana ―　Platinum ― Nov '00

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 1.3 million units ― (1,300,000 albums)

Motley Crue

Albums

• Motley Crue ―　Gold ― Apr '94
• Generation Swine ―　Gold ― Jun '97

Cumulative certified-sales between Nov '93 and '02

• 0.2 million units ― (200,000 albums)

Elton John

Hello. I think that Elton John's claimed worldwide sales should be improved. This reliable source estimates it on the level of 350 million: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/celebritynews/5197203/Sir-Elton-John-adds-an-extra-date-to-his-tour.html Some sources say even about 450 million and more, but they may seem controversial. However I assume that the number 300 million is adequate for Sir Elton, since the artists who have total available certified sold units at the same level (160 million), i.e. Madonna and Michael Jackson posess claimed numbers 300 and even 400 million. Moreover, some artist who have total available certified sold units at much lover level, posess claimed numbers as high as Elton John or even higher (e.g. Led Zeppelin). I think that something is quite wrong here. Regards, Maciek 94.124.18.19 (talk) 13:15, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

Backstreet Boys sales

Backstreet Boys have sold over 130 million albums, close to 200 million records when including singles etc — Preceding unsigned comment added by 151.226.233.204 (talk) 20:24, 7 August 2013 (UTC)

The Andrews Sisters, Roger Whittaker

The Andrews Sisters are claimed in their Wikipedia article to have sold 75-100 million. No figure is given for Roger Whittaker, but based on the number of gold and platinum records he has been awarded, I think he probably is also in the 75 million mark. Bing Crosby, maybe the most successful recording artist of the 20th century, is credited with 23 gold and platinum records. Roger Whittaker is reliably credited with over 250 silver, gold and platinum albums. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 124.170.54.77 (talk) 09:34, 9 August 2013 (UTC)

Edit request on 12 August 2013

The information given on claimed sales of Britney Spears filed in case [153] have changed and now stands at 130 million worldwide according to sources that are cited by Wikipedia and All resulting Adding this number and not 100 million as stated in page. This figure comes from physical and digital sales of albums, singles and videos. For confirmation look carefully the following page and add the numbers match. 79.131.149.18 (talk) 19:20, 12 August 2013 (UTC)

Please read the last sentences of the list's lead.--Harout72 (talk) 21:01, 12 August 2013 (UTC)

Johnny Mathis

According to the Wikipedia article on Johnny Mathis, he has sold over 350 million records. Which article is correct, this one or the one about Johnny Mathis? — Preceding unsigned comment added by Crose371 (talk • contribs) 21:13, 14 August 2013 (UTC)

Mathis' available certified sales are only 16 million units. That suggests that Mathis may or may not have sold some 50-75 million record. Clearly, any figure higher than that is out of question.--Harout72 (talk) 23:50, 14 August 2013 (UTC)

Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John is from United Kingdom, not Australia — Preceding unsigned comment added by 87.158.255.141 (talk) 18:14, 15 August 2013 (UTC)

Italian sales?

The italian certifications are now known. Why cant they be added to the total? .122.165.3.250 (talk) 10:55, 18 August 2013 (UTC)

Italian certifications are added for those artists for whom FIMI's certification database has results.--Harout72 (talk) 16:19, 18 August 2013 (UTC)

Add Another source for 120m-records and more

Hi Harout, i want to add another source for those artist with claim sales of 120m-more. So far only the artist with sales above 200m have two or three sources. What if i add another reliable source for artists with 120m-claim? just to make this list more reliable and prestigious.

Need your advice. thanks Politsi (talk) 07:35, 19 August 2013 (UTC)

I really think it's unnecessary to use multiple sources for a single claimed sales. I think one highly reliable source should be enough.--Harout72 (talk) 15:04, 19 August 2013 (UTC)

RIAJ Highest-Certified International CDs 1989-1993

I found another available information about Japanese older certification. On the 4th page of the newsletter The Record published in November 1996, RIAJ featured all the Multi-Platinum international products at the time.[11] It will enable to cite some of the earliest certifications.

Following records would be added to the list.

2x Platinum albums (400,000+ copies shipped)

• Michael Jackson - Dangerous
• Madonna - Like a Prayer
• Bon Jovi - Keep the Faith

5x Platinum singles (500,000 copies shipped)

• Whitney Houston - "I Will Always Love You"

2x Platinum singles (200,000+ copies shipped)

• Bee Gees - "First of May"

--Fugreena (talk) 02:30, 21 August 2013

1) The 2x Platinum for Keep the Faith by Bon Jovi had already been added to Bon Jovi's total Japanese certified sales as I'd found it in May 1995.

2) I can't, however, see Madonna's Like a Prayer anywhere under Double-Platinum section.

Artist/Title/Record Label in Japanese: Madonna (マドンナ, Madonna)/Like a Prayer (ライク・ア・プレイヤー, Raiku a Preiyā)/ WJ (acronym of WEA Japan) It is listed between the same artist's "Erotica" album and Guns 'N Roses' "Use Your Illusion I". -- Fugreena (talk) 08:28, 21 August 2013

3) As for Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You", I'm not sure if the first title under Million singles tittles (@ミリオン) is it (TO LθVE YOU MORE/セリ一ヌ.ヂデ?イオン W抗ith クライズ九カンパ). And if that is the one, why 5x Platinum? It says 1 million units immediately above it.--Harout72 (talk) 05:51, 21 August 2013 (UTC)

"I Will Always Love You" (shortened "Always Love You" in Japan) is listed on the "Quintuple Platinum" (クイントゥプル・プラチナ, Kuintwupuru purachina) section.

Artist/Title/Record Label in Japanese: Whitney Houston (ホイットニー・ヒューストン, Hoittonī Hyūsuton) / Always Love You (オールウェイズ・ラヴ・ユー, Ōruweizu Rabu Yū) / BV (acronym of BMG Victor)　--Fugreena (talk) 08:30, 21 August 2013

Okay, thanks. Adobe Acrobat's conversion into an editable version is quite messy sometimes with some of the lines on some pages completely missing.--Harout72 (talk) 15:24, 21 August 2013 (UTC)

Beyoncé Knowles

Beyoncé has sold over 118 million records worldwide. Sources: 1.CBS 2.Wikipedia itself. Yet she's still in the 75+ million section. Please fix this. BeKay77 (talk) 17:32, 21 August 2013 (UTC)

We use those claimed sales that are closer to artists' certified sales. This is said in the lead.--Harout72 (talk) 23:18, 21 August 2013 (UTC)

Harout, why her picture has been remove from the section?, there only 6 pictures at the 75m-section. Politsi (talk) 10:10, 22 August 2013 (UTC)

It's been deleted from the Commons, see this edit. I'll place another one of her images that's actually free.--Harout72 (talk) 15:11, 22 August 2013 (UTC)

Edit request on 25 August 2013

Duran Duran sold one million records and should be added to this list. Ronise99 (talk) 20:42, 25 August 2013 (UTC)

They've definitely sold more than one million records.--Harout72 (talk) 21:03, 25 August 2013 (UTC)

Lady Gaga

I'm confused, Lady Gaga used to appear on this list, didn't she? 219.89.245.152 (talk) 13:53, 28 August 2013 (UTC)

Alabama

Hi Harout. As I remember, we listed this group previously with their current sales in 73m-records claims, and from where i see, most of the recent news source also stated the same claim. Their certification sales also really good about 40m, perhaps.

I need your advice. I have found this source (http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/life/music/news/2003-02-04-alabama_x.htm) but this is quite old from 2003. It was said that Alabama has sold 75 million albums.

What do you think? thanks Politsi (talk) 06:10, 31 August 2013 (UTC)

They certainly do have a lot of albums certified (total of 47.5 million in U.S. and Canada). There aren't newer sources I guess, huh? If not, we'll put them up on the list with the one you found.--Harout72 (talk) 17:02, 31 August 2013 (UTC)

No Harout, This is the only sources that i have found so far that claimed 75m-albums for that band and i'm lucky to have found that source, believe me i found it at page 19 on google page. Like I said, several news source still stated their sales figures between 65m to 73m records.

But, this source came out in 2003, but i feel this is highly reliable because that figure came out before this list has been builded on wikipedia, i think. so it means the writer on that source absolutely not quote the figures from this list.

I will re-new their figures in wiki biography, and let's see. I believe the recent news source will use this figures because they also will see this list.

And by the way, since their certification is better than Enya, Green Day, and Nirvana. I think their picture should be put at 75m-section.

what do you think? thanks Politsi (talk) 01:27, 2 September 2013 (UTC)

You're right about Alabama's image, unfortunately, I can't find an image for them.--Harout72 (talk) 06:25, 2 September 2013 (UTC)

Rihanna to 150m-section

Harout, don't you think is time to her moving to 150m-section?. Her certification has been reach 105m, meaning that 100m-records claim is not reliable again.

we could use this source (http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_22974441/rihanna-5-things-you-need-know) need your advice. thanks Politsi (talk) 04:45, 6 September 2013 (UTC)

I updated her claimed sales. I was going to update her sales figure after updating the BPI certified sales for all the other artists, but that's ok.--Harout72 (talk) 05:14, 6 September 2013 (UTC)

thanks harout, but just for remind you if i'm not mistaken. Her name still in 100-119m section, is it supposed to be at 150m-section now? Politsi (talk) 05:53, 6 September 2013 (UTC)

You're right, I should have moved Rihanna up into the section above, I was doing something else at the same time, I totally missed it. Anyways, someone has already moved her up.--Harout72 (talk) 14:59, 6 September 2013 (UTC)

Taylor Swift 101M is wrong

I was impressed how this girl could sell more than big legends in such a short time, but it looks like the information is wrong. I checked the source 156( http://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/dont-mess-with-taylor-swift/story-fn9n8gph-1226629813164 ) and it says = "n the past five years she has sold 26 million albums more than any other musician. Illegal downloading doesn't seem to have touched her. She has sold 75 million song downloads and holds the Guinness world record for the fastest selling digital album, for Speak Now."

So in the list they are suming up each downloaded song plus the real album sales. 75+26 = 101.. but song downloads shouldn't be counted. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 92.70.209.109 (talk) 13:51, 8 September 2013 (UTC)

Madonna certified sales

At some point Madonna's certifies sales were 169 million units。 How, when and why did it changed to 164.3? Is the main editor of this page，Harout， aware of this change? --60.247.76.15 (talk) 05:25, 10 September 2013 (UTC)

I don't think Madonna's certified sales have ever been that high. This version of the page is from March 2013, and it is 160.1 million. Anyways, here is Madonna's available detailed certified sales, in case you're interested.--Harout72 (talk) 05:40, 10 September 2013 (UTC)

Lady Gaga

Harout, i've seen that her name has been put at the 80m-list, does she deserve already to this list? and if yes, regarding with her certification sales. I think her picture should be put at the section.

need your advice. thanks. Politsi (talk) 09:16, 10 September 2013 (UTC)

Mariah Carey's New Zealand's certifications

Hi Harout, I've been searching so hard for the total claimed sales for MC, and here's a detailed certified sales for MC as its not listed in the certification sections:

Album certifications

• 1990: Mariah Carey = 4x Platinum = 60,000
• 1991: Emotions = Platinum = 15,000
• 1992: MTV Unplugged = 2x Platinum = 30,000
• 1993: Music Box = 5x Platinum = 75,000
• 1994: Merry Xmas = 2x Platinum = 30,000
• 1995: Daydream = 5x Platinum = 75,000
• 1997: Butterfly = Platinum = 15,000
• 1998: #1's = 2x Platinum = 30,000
• 1999: Rainbow = Platinum = 15,000
• 2001: Greatest hits= Platinum = 15,000
• 2005: E of Mimi = Platinum = 15,000

Total certified albums = 375,000

Singles certifications

• 1990: Vision of Love = Gold = 7,500
• 1991: Emotions = Gold = 7,500
• 1992: I'll be there = Gold = 7,500
• 1993: Dreamlover = Gold = 7,500
• 1993: Hero = Platinum = 15,000
• 1993: Without You = Gold = 7,500
• 1993: Anytime u need... = Gold = 7,500
• 1995: Fantasy = Platinum = 15,000
• 1995: One Sweet Day = Platinum = 15,000
• 1996: Always be my baby = Gold = 7,500
• 1997: Breakdown = Gold = 7,500
• 1999: Hreatbeaker = Platinum = 15,000
• 2005: We Belong together= Platinum = 15,000
• 2013: #Beautiful = Gold = 7,500
• Total Certified Singles = 130,500
• TOTAL CERTIFIED SALES COMBINED = 505,500

SOURCE: BOOK BY Dean Scaplo "The Complete New Zealand Music Charts" 1966 - 2006 Fidel 00:42, 12 September 2013 (UTC)

Singles levels for New Zealand were Gold=5,000, Platinum=10,000 before June 2007 (see this for May 28, 2007 and June4, 2007). Can you provide detailed scans for those certifications you've posted? I mean scans such as this and all others I have prepared for Spanish earlier certifications? I'm not sure if it's worth all that trouble though for such a small market. From RIANZ old chart and new chart, I've been able to retrieve certifications totaling 60,000 units, because RIANZ chart starts from 1999. Sometimes Gold certifications turn into Platinum while off New Zealand's Top 50 (for older chart), Top 40 (for newer chart).--Harout72 (talk) 01:11, 12 September 2013 (UTC)

Okay if you wait until tomorrow I'll re-arrange them again, based on the old and new certifications.. but concerning the Media Fire file you linked me concerning her certified sales, why the NVPI isn't listed which has 1.4 million certified units as well as the certified European region exceeding 9,000,000? One more thing based on the Old and New levels of singles certifications, the total certified sales isn't less than 350,000 - 400,000 Fidel 01:47, 12 September 2013 (UTC)

I have removed all NVPI certifications for all artists because they cannot be verified as NVPI's database at the moment doesn't function. It's been that way for quite some time now. I never said anything about the total being under 400,000 units, not sure what you mean there. But all certifications must be verifiable. In other words, just the reference to the book isn't going to do it, we'd need scans for all pages containing Mariah's certifications, if of course you insist on using them on this list. I personally don't have that book in my possession, otherwise I would have scanned the pages of the certifications myself.--Harout72 (talk) 02:17, 12 September 2013 (UTC)

Bonnie Tyler

I have been adding up her sales certifications for the last 4 months but keep hitting stumps and losing count. From a quick overview do you think that the source stating 80 million is roughly accurate or inflated? Some of the statistics that I gathered can be found on the talk page of her biographical article. Please see the sub-section "Statistics breakdown June 2013". Thanks. Bonnietylersave (talk) 12:00, 12 September 2013 (UTC)

Well, looking at Tyler's available certified sales, I'd say she may or may not have sold some 30-35 million records (albums, singles, videos) worldwide. Her certified sales are:

• USA: 3.5 million
• UK: 1,980,000 units
• Germany: 1,250,000 units
• France: 500,000 units of albums and 1,750,000 units of singles, (total 2,250,000)
• Canada: 475,000 units
• Switzerland: 125,000 units
• Austria: 125,000 units
• Finland: 74,523

I'm seeing total of 9.7 million in certified units, so to answer your question, the 80 million is inflated.--Harout72 (talk) 15:24, 12 September 2013 (UTC)

Edit request on 12 September 2013

This information has been changed and need to update the page with the changes: Britney Spears has sold a total of over 134 millions by including sales of all physical and digital albums and singles until 2013 100 millions of these are based on album sales only for confirmation see the following elements:

...Baby One More Time (album) sold 30 millions copies worldwide ...Baby One More Time (Physical single) sold 10 millions copies worldwide Oops!...I Did It Again! (album) sold 24 millions copies worldwide Oops!...I Did It Again (Physical single) sold 6 millions copies worldwide Britney (album) sold 15 millions copies worldwide In the Zone (album) sold 10 millions copies worldwide Toxic (Digital and Physical single) sold 6,5 millions copies worldwide Greatest Hits: My Prerogative (compilation album) sold 5,6 millions copies worldwide Blackout (album) sold 3,1 millions copies worldwide Circus (album) sold over 4 millions copies worldwide Womanizer (Digital single) sold 6 millions copies worldwide Circus (Digital single) sold 5,5 millions copies worldwide The Singles Collection (Compilation album) sold 1 million copies worldwide Femme Fatale (album) sold in the US 769,000 copies Till the World Ends (Digital single) sold over 3 millions copies worldwide Scream and Shout (Digital single) sold over 4 millions copies worldwide Αdding up all the items together total sales amounted to: 134.469.000 (Physical & Digital total sales Worldwide) 79.131.149.18 (talk) 12:43, 12 September 2013 (UTC)

Once Spears' certified sales reach 85-90 million, we'll update her claimed sales.--Harout72 (talk) 15:11, 12 September 2013 (UTC)

Bobby Vinton

Harout, need your advice. I never heard his name since i was born but this source (http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/entertainment/17906470-421/bobby-vinton-performs-valentine-show-at-paramount.html) said him have sold 75 million albums. is this reliable and who is he?

and by the way, what's wrong with Lady Gaga image, is her image are too expensive to be put in this list?

thanks Politsi (talk) 01:39, 13 September 2013 (UTC)

I see very low certified sales, 4 million for U.S., 100,000 for Canada. He has no chance, really.--Harout72 (talk) 02:31, 13 September 2013 (UTC)

Metallica raise to 120m-section

Harout, please. I need your considered it, because i feel this band certification is so excellent. nearly 90m and with only 100m-claim.

this isn't fair for them, they deserve to get better.

I think we must put them in the 120m-section with this source (http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/default.aspx?pageid=438&n=0628084913163-2010-06-28) it looks quite reliable for 120m-records claim of them.

need your advice. thanks Politsi (talk) 10:14, 13 September 2013 (UTC)

I'm hesitant to use that source because it says: With more than 120 million records sold worldwide, including 57 million in the United States. The last part is entirely incorrect, because Metallica's U.S. certified sales alone are 73.2. I agree that it may be time to update their claimed sales, but it would be better to go with 110 million records, if there is one. We shouldn't create 30 million units of gap between their available certified sales and claimed sales with 120 million claim. Let me know what if you find another source, but the one above is no good.--Harout72 (talk) 16:37, 13 September 2013 (UTC)

Well, i have to admitted. I'm a little bit disappointed but it's ok Politsi (talk) 01:36, 16 September 2013 (UTC)

es.wiki

Hi Harout! I've been working on an improvement over this article in the es.wiki and though there's a lot of work to be done, I need to ask you a question.... why are Rihanna, Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift on the list?.

In the source that claims their worlwide sales, it doesn't especify the number 80, 101 and 150 millon, they rather put the singles and album sales seperatly. I mean if we do the math it would give obviously us that numbers but shouldn't they be on the list only when the source claims the whole number of millon records sold?.--Fallengrademan (talk) 21:25, 15 September 2013 (UTC)

Not necessarily, sources can claim separate figures for albums and single and even videos. As long as they all appear in the same source, it is ok to use that source. Most news agencies seem to publish separate figures now for newer artists.--Harout72 (talk) 22:05, 15 September 2013 (UTC)

Nile Rodgers

Harout, what do you think about him? is this source about him is reliable? (http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/profiles/lucky-man-legendary-hitmaker-nile-rodgers-on-disco-drugs-and-daft-punk-8732695.html) 100m-records.

thanks Politsi (talk) 01:36, 16 September 2013 (UTC)

I can't find a single certification for that guy.--Harout72 (talk) 02:04, 16 September 2013 (UTC)

The source was probably referring to his production discography. Rodgers has produced over 50 releases by other artists, including blockbuster hits such as Like a Virgin, Let's Dance and diana, not mention his work as a part of Chic, which was the 4th best-charting singles artist of 1979.--Mαuri^’96 “everything and nothing always haunts me…” 05:49, 16 September 2013 (UTC)

Normally records sales go the artists, not producers, unless of course the producer happens to be part of the band. But for Chic,

• RIAA has 7.5 million certified units
• BPI has 910,000 certified units
• SNEP has 100,000 units of certified albums, 500,000 units of certified singles
• Music Canada has 400,000 certified units.

Still very low certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 15:31, 16 September 2013 (UTC)

Foreigner

Harout, i know that i'm the one who provided this claim sales band (80m-albums) from the Gadsden Times. But, i read the source from this (http://www.turlockjournal.com/section/36/article/21018/) which said that band claim sales lower than previously, 75m-albums.

so, what do you think? do we need to kick out this band from 80m-section and put them at 75m-section? thanks Politsi (talk) 06:25, 16 September 2013 (UTC)

It's ok we can leave them where they are. They're early beginners and still have over 45 million in certified units. Besides, our current source is a better one.--Harout72 (talk) 15:37, 16 September 2013 (UTC)

Mariah Carey Asian Sales

Hi Harout. Can the album sales be added to the list without Certifications? Cause Mariah Carey sold in South Korea an approximation of 4 million units in addition to 1 million in Taiwan, Malaysia and Singapore? does that works? Fidel 17:03, 16 September 2013 (UTC)

I'm afraid we include certified sales only.--Harout72 (talk) 00:12, 17 September 2013 (UTC)

Its Okay, I just gotta ask one more thing, Mariah has recorded several Latin songs like 5 or even 6 in addition to several Rock Ballads in her career, can we add to the Genre the Latin and soft rock ? fidelovkurt 03:23, 17 September 2013 (UTC)

Those genres can be added as long as they're supported by the source provided for the genres. But it doesn't seem to have those.--Harout72 (talk) 04:53, 17 September 2013 (UTC)

Well if you look back at the source you've provided and click at each album independently, the Genre was R&B/Pop/Rock cause there are several tracks Mariah performed under the alternative rock mainly in her debut album and charmbracelet,,,

and According to the Latino/Spanish Songs I guess those Videos from YouTube speaks for themselves:

• Mi Todo
• Hermosa
• Heroe
• El Amor Que Sone

And here are some three Rock ballads:

• Alone in Love
• You Need me
• Bringing on the heartbreak

fidelovkurt 06:41, 18 September 2013 (UTC)

I added Rock, but I could not find Soft Rock when I clicked on albums, nor could I find Latin. I'm afraid YouTube cannot be used as a source.--Harout72 (talk) 22:31, 18 September 2013 (UTC)

David Bowie

Harout, what do you think about this old man. this source (http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-08/news/sns-rt-music-davidbowiel5e9c826o-20130108_1_david-bowie-ziggy-stardust-tony-visconti) said him have sold 130m-albums.

is this reliable? thanks Politsi (talk) 01:40, 18 September 2013 (UTC)

130 million albums? That is way too inflated for that guy. Bowie needs 26 million in certified albums sales to be listed with 130 million for albums only. His available album sales are 19.5 million. His overall certified sales are 25.4 million (that includes albums, singles, videos). He can only be listed with a claim of up to 97.5 million for albums, or with a claim of up to 127 million records. Still both those figures would be extremely unrealistic and inflated as Bowie could not have sold more than 50 million records based on his available certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 03:08, 18 September 2013 (UTC)

Jennifer Lopez

Harout, actually how many certification sales of her so far. It seems she's also hope to be included in this list.

this source (http://www.independent.ie/woman/celeb-news/lopez-was-homeless-before-her-big-break-29412172.html) claim her have sold 75m-records.

what do you think? thanks Politsi (talk) 11:14, 18 September 2013 (UTC)

Lopez would need 43.5 million in certified units (or 58%) for the claim of 75 million records. Her available certified sales are 30.4 million.--Harout72 (talk) 15:08, 18 September 2013 (UTC)

The Doors

Harout, i hope you're not sick of it but i feel that we must raise this band claim sales to 100m-records by using this source (http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/doors-keyboardist-ray-manzarek-dies-20130521-2jxie.html)

I think they deserve it. They are really earlier artist (1967) but still have an excellent certification sales (45m).

Harout, please. i need your advice. thanks Politsi (talk) 11:39, 18 September 2013 (UTC)

45 million in certified sales is planets away from 100 million claim, even considering that they are early beginners.--Harout72 (talk) 15:03, 18 September 2013 (UTC)

Katy Perry

Harout, how far her certification has been gone so far? is reliable for 11m-albums and 75m-singles claim?

I think she's deserve to in. this source looks quite reliable (http://www.straitstimes.com/the-big-story/case-you-missed-it/story/her-secret-love-smurfs-20130812)

need your advice. thanks Politsi (talk) 01:53, 13 September 2013 (UTC)

She needs 62.6 million certified units (or 72.8%) for 86 million claim. She so far has 49.5 million. Probably soon she'll be able to get on this list.--Harout72 (talk) 02:26, 13 September 2013 (UTC)

BTW GAGA has Total available certified units: 58.7 million and she is in 77.44.232.141 (talk) 12:56, 21 September 2013 (UTC)

Edit request on 20 September 2013

Groomingly (talk) 04:19, 20 September 2013 (UTC)

And your request is?--Harout72 (talk) 05:48, 20 September 2013 (UTC)

Shirley Bassey

Harout, what do you think about her? 135m-records (http://www.buenosairesherald.com/article/123716/dame-shirley-bassey-to-appear-at-the-academy-awards)

thanks Politsi (talk) 04:38, 21 September 2013 (UTC)