Talk:List of best-selling music artists/Archive 38

Metallica to 120m club
Harout, today I see that their certified sales already pass 95m. Based on our previous discussion, when they pass 95m barrier then we can update their claim sales to 120m. I think it's time since they are an old artist (since 1983), 110m claim from 95m certified sales is too low. Is it okay I put them to the 120m club now? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 07:31, 5 May 2018 (UTC)
 * And this is the source for their 120m claim, from Arkansas Democrat-Gazette / http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2018/feb/26/metallica-sets-north-little-rock-stop-2019-tour/ is very new and reliable. Politsi (talk) 08:25, 5 May 2018 (UTC)
 * Sure, it should be ok to upgrade their claimed figure now. I'd wait until they reached 97 or 98 million with their certified sales, but that's not a big difference.--Harout72 (talk) 12:40, 5 May 2018 (UTC)

Harout, after I see that Elton John's certified sales has reach 179m and more than Madonna's 170m, while John's music chart career since 1969 and Madonna's music chart career since 1982. I begin seriously thinking that Madonna's 300m records sales is too much!, her 170m certified sales is too low to cover 300m claim. I seriously suggest, that we should erase Madonna's 300m sales claim and put her highest claim sales at 275m, the source from 2011 Telegraph edition (https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/celebritynews/8751794/Madonna-healthy-pop-star-admits-to-weakness-for-sticky-toffee-pudding.html) for Madonna's 275m claim is very reliable and not so old. Beside her 275m claim, we also put another Madonna's sales claim. At this moment is very hard to find a new source for her 250m claim. But I suggest at this moment, we use 200m records claim for her from the Rolling Stones (https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/madonna-looks-back-the-rolling-stone-interview-20091029) along with her 275m from The Telegraph. And when her certified sales pass 200m, well then we bring her 300m claim back to the list. What do you think? Thanks Politsi (talk) 11:37, 7 May 2018 (UTC)
 * 200 million is very low for Madonna actually, we should leave her claimed figures as they are I think.--Harout72 (talk) 13:18, 7 May 2018 (UTC)

Nicki Minaj
Please update Nicki Minaj's sales — Preceding unsigned comment added by Kelvin Sigga (talk • contribs) 15:04, 8 May 2018 (UTC)

I SEE ELTON JOHNS TOTAL HAS JUMP BY 10 MILLION WHICH IS GREAT AS ELTON IS WAY UNDER CERTIFIED IN THE USA AND IN THE UK HE DOES NOT GET THE CREDIT FOR THE LION KING, GBYB DOES NOT THE CREDIT OF BEEN A DOUBLE CERTIFIED ALBUM TO 16 MILLION WHILE BILLY JOEL AND LED ZEPPLIN GET THEIR DOUBLE CREDITS TO BOOST ALBUM SALES WHICH IS A NONSENSE THATS AT LEAST 16 MILLION THAT SHOULD BE ON HIS TOTAL04:56, 9 May 2018 (UTC)04:56, 9 May 2018 (UTC)04:56, 9 May 2018 (UTC)~ — Preceding unsigned comment added by 121.75.191.67 (talk)

elton john
SORRY THAT SHOULD BE 18 MILLION THAT SHOULD BE CERTIFIED TO ELTONS TOTAL BY THE WAY CAN ANYBODY TELL ME WHERE THE EXTRA CAME FROM05:01, 9 May 2018 (UTC)05:01, 9 May 2018 (UTC)05:01, 9 May 2018 (UTC)~ — Preceding unsigned comment added by 121.75.191.67 (talk)

elton john
should not eltons name be moved above madonnas in the best selling list now that his certified total is above madonnas11:23, 11 May 2018 (UTC)11:23, 11 May 2018 (UTC)11:23, 11 May 2018 (UTC)~ — Preceding unsigned comment added by 27.252.26.209 (talk)

Bruce Springsteen (140 million)
Harout, I think we should upgrade his sales claim figured. He was starting his music chart career since 1973 (which is 45 years ago) but his certified sales very excellent for artists who's started their chart career in that year, He has 102m certified units but his range claim sales only at 120m. I found that his 120m claim sales is also old already, since 2009 https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/barackobama/4274357/Bruce-Springsteen-George-W-Bush-ruined-lives.html until today his claim sales still stuck at 120 million while he release two new albums after 2009. Harout, I suggest we raise his claim sales to 140 million, I haven't found any news source yet but I think we could use this source for temporary from Boston (magazine) / https://www.bostonmagazine.com/news/2018/05/10/tbt-bruce-springsteen-cambridge/ it is same like The New Yorker, and is quite reliable to use for temporary. What do you think? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 09:35, 12 May 2018 (UTC)
 * But our source is from 2014, not 2009. And Springsteen has collected only a single Platinum during this period in the US for a million units, in the UK has collected certifications awards for 1.345 million units. All in all, I'm not seeing a significant amount of sales between now and the beginning of 2014 to justify our upgrade from 120 million to 140 million. However, is there is a relatively new source that claims 130 million records out there, then I'd agree to go with that.--Harout72 (talk) 17:05, 12 May 2018 (UTC)
 * 130-135 million for him looks more reliable. Let's see in the future. Politsi (talk) 02:45, 13 May 2018 (UTC)

R. Kelly (75 million)
Harout, need your help to see his current certified sales. Today, I see a news from Asia Pacific Daily of Xinhua News Agency / https://www.apdnews.com/e-lifestyle/841004.html and inside it is said that Kelly has sold 75m albums and singles. As I remember, once I proposed we put him with 100m claim sales but his certified sales only around 50m. Harout, I think he able to join the list with 75m claim. Need your help. Thanks Politsi (talk) 10:33, 14 May 2018 (UTC)
 * Is this a reliable source? Because R. Kelly does have enough certified sales for 75 million claim.--Harout72 (talk) 13:20, 14 May 2018 (UTC)
 * Of course is reliable, see their profile page. Asia Pacific Daily is a part of Xinhua News Agency. Please read the content carefully. The source is reliable. We should welcoming Kelly to the list.Politsi (talk) 13:34, 14 May 2018 (UTC)
 * OK I'll work on it later today.--Harout72 (talk) 14:09, 14 May 2018 (UTC)

Thank you. Politsi (talk) 01:32, 15 May 2018 (UTC)

EDDY ARNOLD
Eddy was a high volume seller for RCA, MGM  and special issue records. His Min was 85 Million in the 1990s  more like 90+ Million now He was on Billboard longer than any other Country artist in total weeks of hits He was only performer who was from first to last had Billboard hits First 45 record — Preceding unsigned comment added by 204.147.2.23 (talk) 18:23, 16 May 2018 (UTC)

Carpenters
The duo has sold more than 90 million records worldwide. Much of the sales information puts them above the 100 million. Richard himself said it on the Carpenters' official web in 2003. Source: http://www.richardandkarencarpenter.com/Album_gold_35th_anniversary.html The 2007 BBC Documentary Only Yesterday said the band has sold about 150 million records. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2t97I-pBIEk&t=1s Minute 59:03

Kanye West
Harout, can I update his claim sales to 132 million ? https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2016/aug/06/six-comedians-imagine-edinburgh-shows-for-famous-people because his current claim 121m vs 116m certified sales is too close. is that okay? Thanks Politsi (talk) 01:23, 17 May 2018 (UTC)
 * Let's wait until he hits 120 million with his certified sales. I'm sure all his recent US certifications are streaming generated.--Harout72 (talk) 02:39, 17 May 2018 (UTC)

Gaga's at 3.8 million in Germany, not 3.5
Here's the breakdown:

ALBUMS: The Fame 9x GOLD: 900,000

Born This Way PLATINUM: 200,000

TOTAL: 1,100,000 albums
SINGLES: Just Dance GOLD: 150,000 Poker Face 2x PLATINUM: 600,000 Paparazzi PLATINUM: 300,000 Bad Romance 3x GOLD: 450,000 Telephone GOLD: 150,000 Alejandro PLATINUM: 300,000 Born This Way PLATINUM: 300,000 The Edge of Glory GOLD: 150,000 Applause GOLD: 150,000 Do What U Want GOLD: 150,000

TOTAL: 2,700,000 singles
TOTAL OVERALL: 3.8 million certified copies till the last update

Please, update.
 * Add timestamp. — IB [ Poke ] 18:16, 20 May 2018 (UTC)

Enrique Iglesias Certificied Sales
Excuse me How many certificied sales needs Enrique Iglesias to be at the list. Because beetwen US have 21.680 (including the certificied sales of ´´El Perdon´´) and Uk he has 4.900Elmisterioso1979 (talk) 20:47, 28 May 2018 (UTC).
 * For 75 million claim, he needs 50.250 million certified units. So far he has 44 million certified units.--Harout72 (talk) 21:08, 28 May 2018 (UTC)

One Direction
Harout, I need your help. Somehow, I feel that One Direction able to get the 75m claim considering their level of success in their seven years career. I will try to find 75m claim for them but I need your help to see some information of their U.S and U.K certified sales. I can't do that and I believe you far away better than me to see certified sales. Need your information, But if you able and have enough time to do it. Thanks Politsi (talk) 09:05, 28 May 2018 (UTC)
 * Well, for 75 million claim, they'd need 57.9 million certified units. But since they are a new band that started charting in 2011, we'll need their certified sales to be much higher than 57.9 million considering how much streaming must have helped their recent singles to reach certification levels all over the world. I'm seeing only 21.1 million certified units from the US and 10.6 million from the UK. I highly doubt they could have another 30-35 million from the rest of the world. In any case, if you come across a source that claims 75 million for them, let me know, I'll go over their certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 14:33, 28 May 2018 (UTC)
 * Okay Thanks... I think they should have at least 60m in certified sales, I believe they can achieve that. Politsi (talk) 01:17, 29 May 2018 (UTC)

Drake
Surely he should be on this list now. Aitch &#38; Aitch Aitch (talk) 15:49, 29 May 2018 (UTC)
 * Please find a reliable source to support him and bring it here. Politsi (talk) 16:31, 29 May 2018 (UTC)

Nicky Minaj to 100m club
Harout, her certified sales already at 84 million. Is she already to join the 100m club?..By the way, this is the only reliable source I've found so far for her 100m claim from a Jamaican news online. http://rjrnewsonline.com/arts-entertainment/nicki-minaj-becomes-first-female-rapper-to-sell-more-than-5-million-copies-of-all-her-albums Thanks Politsi (talk) 08:45, 7 June 2018 (UTC)
 * At least 30% of her US singles and albums certification are streaming generated, so we should wait for her certified sales to pass the 95 million mark to consider upgrading her claimed figure.--Harout72 (talk) 13:05, 7 June 2018 (UTC)

Tim McGraw with 75m
Harout, finally I found the reliable source to support McGraw 75m, from The Intelligencer (Doylestown, Pennsylvania) / http://www.theintell.com/entertainmentlife/20180606/concert-scene-mcgraw-and-hill-bring-star-power-to-hershey and he has 62m in certified sales. Let's welcoming him to the list. Need your help. Thanks Politsi (talk) 04:01, 9 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Ok I added him to the list, good job with finding the source.--Harout72 (talk) 12:43, 9 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Thanks, now only Drake, Eric Clapton still out of the list. Probably Christina Aguilera. Politsi (talk) 14:30, 9 June 2018 (UTC)

Bob Seger (100m records)
Harout, need your help. Bob Seger is a very old artists but I believe he has a high certified sales especially in U.S. I think he has at least 50m, and deserve to get 100m claim. Here is the source https://www.chieftain.com/entertainment/music/ticket-alert-blue-oyster-cult-to-rock-memorial-hall-in/article_56ce166e-a926-5615-ab2d-6795aa97d8c2.html from The Pueblo Chieftain. Lets welcoming this old singer to the list. Thanks Politsi (talk) 16:40, 9 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Although an early beginner, based on his available certified sales (47.2 million), it doesn't look like he could have sold 100 million. He doesn't have certifications coming almost anywhere other than US (44.5 million), Canada (2.5 million), UK (200,000 units). No certifications from Germany, France, Australia, Japan, or elsewhere. In other words, his popularity is US based only. And he's been actively releasing records until the 80s and even the 90s, but still nothing from other main markets which have had certification system since the 70's. I think 75 million would a fair figure for him, but not the 100 million. For the time being we should leave him off the list. If his certified sales reach good 60 million, then I'll be sure to put him up on the list using the source you've found.--Harout72 (talk) 17:12, 9 June 2018 (UTC)
 * I feel the same way too actually, his career only around U.S area. I will try to find the lower claim sales for him, perhaps 75m. Politsi (talk) 17:25, 9 June 2018 (UTC)

Coldplay
Here's updates:

1. Germany: Something Just Like This - 2x Platinum 2. Italy: A Rush of Blood to The Head - Platinum (digital sales or re-issued version) Esambuu (talk) 04:11, 10 June 2018 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 13 June 2018
I would suggest adding drake to the "75 to 99" million units section, according to the RIAA, he has sold 95 million records. https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/?tab_active=default-award&se=drake&col=highest_level&ord=desc#search_section OkinWarrior (talk) 21:22, 13 June 2018 (UTC)
 * We will once we locate a source that claims appropriate sales figures for him.--Harout72 (talk) 22:20, 13 June 2018 (UTC)

Coldplay sales
Hello Harout, can you give me Coldplay certified sales file?

Esambuu (talk) 00:25, 20 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Here you are--Harout72 (talk) 13:06, 20 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Thank you, i noticed you didn't update Something Just Like This' German certification.
 * 2. Mylo Xyloto Certified 3x Platinum. But you stated 160,000. Link: https://musiccanada.com/gold-platinum/?fwp_gp_search=Mylo+Xyloto%20Coldplay
 * 3. Something Just Like This has certified 3x platinum Swiss. So SJLT' certified units should be 60,000.

and i have question, why Coldplay's US single certification level on 100,000? i think gold certification level is 500,000. Esambuu (talk) 02:44, 21 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Got them all, thanks for bringing them to my attention. Lot of the Swiss 2017 certifications have been posted just recently, they were not there even by March/April of this year. As for the US initial levels for Digital singles, they were Gold=100,000 and Platinum=200,000. Effective Sep. 2006 the levels were raised to Gold=500,000 units, Platinum=1,000,000. RIAA applies the most recent certification levels to all singles and albums when re-certified. However, five of Coldplay's singles have yet to be re-certified. If they reach the current Platinum level, their Platinum level will be 1 million units.--Harout72 (talk) 04:17, 21 June 2018 (UTC)


 * Thank you for explaining, let's hope someday RIAA or recording label will update Coldplay's US certification. one example : Viva la Vida has sold 6,6M digital copies sold in US. With stream VLV would be 8x platinum at least. Esambuu (talk) 08:02, 21 June 2018 (UTC)

Paste Magazine
Harout, what do you think about Paste (magazine)? this magazine is a monthly music and entertainment digital magazine published in the U.S and run exactly same as Rolling Stone, but unlike Rolling Stones which is considered a popular culture magazine, Paste is focus on music. Is it possible to use Paste magazine as a reliable source in the list same like Rolling Stones and Billboard magazine, because if yes then I will use it to bring ABBA go down at the list with 140m claim / https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2018/04/abba-releasing-new-songs-for-the-first-time-in-35.html. Need your opinion. Thanks Politsi (talk) 01:45, 22 June 2018 (UTC)
 * This is really not the kind of source we want to replace the 200 million claims with, which are supported by BBC and one other reliable source. This seems to be reliable enough to support a claimed figure temporarily but not permanently. My hope with ABBA is when they release their new material, perhaps some of their older records will get re-certified by certifying bodies all around the world, and our gap between their certified sales and the 200 million will narrow down at least by some extend. But surely the 140 million records is definitely something that's more logical for them.--Harout72 (talk) 03:08, 22 June 2018 (UTC)

Bon jovi
Bon Jovi has now more than 130M records. It would be so great if you could move them up. Coffeecupincup (talk) 21:39, 25 June 2018 (UTC)

If you could put them up in the “120M-199M” that would be greatly appreciated Coffeecupincup (talk) 21:41, 25 June 2018 (UTC)


 * Harout, considering their certified sales quite high and they start their music chart career since 1983, I think its possible to raise Bon Jovi's claim sales. However 130m is look too much, but 120m is possible. When their certified sales pass 85 million, I think we should raise their claim sales to 120m. Here the source https://www.ft.com/content/a3951c6c-d788-11e6-944b-e7eb37a6aa8e from the prestigious Financial Times. What do you think?. Thanks Politsi (talk) 01:38, 26 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Let's wait until they reach and pass at least the 90 million mark with their certified sales, then we'll replace the current sales figure with 120 million. We don't have sources that claim 110 million for them, do we? Because that could work for 85+ million.--Harout72 (talk) 02:40, 26 June 2018 (UTC)
 * It's very difficult to find a claim sales figure that could match with our best estimation vs their certified sales. The best thing we can do is to find the closest one with our calculation. For Bon Jovi, it seems impossible for us to find the 110m claim of them. Their claim sales only stuck at 100/120/30m. I suggest when they reach 88 million in their certified sales, we raise their claim sales to 120m. Politsi (talk) 09:47, 27 June 2018 (UTC)
 * We did the same with Metallica, remember? We didn't upgrade them until they were well over 90+ with their certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 13:31, 27 June 2018 (UTC)

Okay then. Thanks Politsi (talk) 15:20, 27 June 2018 (UTC)

Chris Brown's 100m sales from Heavy.com
Harout, I've seen that Brown's certified sales is raise very quick and now he has 100m in certified sales while his claim sales only at 86m. This is weird for the list. I've been trying to seek the best source and the best calculation sales for him but still not yet founded. However, I see this source from Heavy.com, a news and information website based in New York City. Founded in 1999 as an entertainment website, then switched to news and popular-culture content in 2012. Heavy.com speak about Brown 100m sales / https://heavy.com/money/2018/06/chris-brown-net-worth/. Heavy.com is an online media company, and it's usable for temporary in the list. I suggest we bring Brown to the 100m club with this source for temporary and after I found the better reliable one, I will replace it immediately. What do you think?. Thanks Politsi (talk) 09:43, 28 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Let's wait for him to reach 105-110 million with his certified sales, if by then we still don't have a better source, we'll use this. Because all his recent US certified sales especially are streaming generated. For example, his album Heartbreak on a Full Moon, has been certified Platinum (1,000,000 units) in January, while it had sold only 80,000 units by February.--Harout72 (talk) 13:23, 28 June 2018 (UTC)

Jackson 5's 75m records
Harout, need your help to look over of their certified sales records. I have a feeling that their certified units able to cover 75m. Here the source https://www.canberratimes.com.au/entertainment/music/joe-jackson-father-of-superstar-michael-jackson-dies-aged-89-20180628-p4zo66.html?utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed from The Canberra Times. Thanks Politsi (talk) 13:06, 30 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Their available certified sales are only 13.7 million, that's not enough certified sales to put them on the list with 75 million claim.--Harout72 (talk) 16:22, 30 June 2018 (UTC)

Please look at this source
Harout, please look at this source / https://303magazine.com/2018/06/drake-nicki-minaj-denver-pepsi/ is it usable to use for the list? for Drake?. Thanks Politsi (talk) 07:53, 29 June 2018 (UTC)
 * I think we should avoid using this, doesn't seem reliable enough for us, even for temporary use.--Harout72 (talk) 13:16, 29 June 2018 (UTC)

Okay, but I need your help to look over of his certified digital single sales units and lets calculate if all of his digital singles sales able to cover 142 million. Reuters / https://www.reuters.com/article/us-music-drake/drake-on-course-to-smash-streaming-records-with-scorpion-idUSKBN1JP3A4 said that RIAA announce that Drake is the top digital song artist, with 142 million digital single sales units. In the list sometimes we use source that speak albums only for some artists if there is no reliable source speak about the overall records sales and their certified albums sales able to cover the total of the sales claim estimation. As for Drake, we do the same systems so if all of certified singles sales of him able to cover 142m claim singles sales that come from RIAA as Reuters said. We should welcoming Drake to the list with 142m claim only of his singles sales claim, and when I found the reliable source that speak all of his records sales overall, I will replace it immediately. Need your help, Thanks. Politsi (talk) 12:47, 30 June 2018 (UTC)
 * Politsi, RIAA is the certifying body in the US. We cannot use that source because it only speaks of US digital sales, not his worldwide digital sales, this is not a similar situation. If it did speak of worldwide digital sales, then yes we could consider using it. But it is true that his US digital certified sales for his solo singles have reached 142 million. Just yesterday RIAA posted dozens of new certifications for him.--Harout72 (talk) 16:27, 30 June 2018 (UTC)

But since RIAA have claimed he has 142 million digital sales for his singles in the US alone he should be on the list for now. At least until they verify his worldwide sales then it can be updated Jay el rey (talk) 01:26, 5 July 2018 (UTC)

Kylie Minogue
Kylie Minogue will be at the list. she sold 80 million records Elmisterioso1979 (talk) 21:44, 5 July 2018 (UTC)

Check Lady Gaga’s sales
Gaga has sold over 180 M records until now ( 2018 ) it’s exposed on her biography page of Wikipedia, it says : “Having sold 27 million albums and 146 million singles as of January 2016, Gaga is one of the best-selling music artists in history. “ If both amounts are added the result is over 180 records sold in that page that is of Wikipedia too. Please move Gaga to the correct classification it will be very rewarding for all her fans.(https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lady_Gaga ) (talk) 15:33, 7 July 2018 (UTC) Andresitosp (talk) 19:34, 7 July 2018 (UTC)

Drake
Drake is supposed to be on this list Jay el rey (talk) 13:05, 1 July 2018 (UTC)
 * How many sales Drake has? Excelse (talk) 19:06, 6 July 2018 (UTC)

Over 200 million records sold, and 143 on singles only in the USA, wonder why he's not on this list Jay el rey (talk) 18:44, 9 July 2018 (UTC)

The editors don't acknowledge sales earned through streaming even though the RIAA stated in 2013 that streaming in certain ratios is a sale equivalent, meaning the same thing. In other words, the editors of the list are judge and jury and decided what the RIAA had to say on the matter doesn't count because it doesn't coincide with their personal opinions on streaming. It's called being biased and nonobjective. They're also waiting on other international record sales/certifications for Drake, but aren't actively seeking any out either, and for similar reasons mentioned above I imagine.

Rihanna's in the wrong tier.
I'm confused how Rihanna's languished in her current tier on this list for so long? It's now to the point where she has 261 million certified units worldwide and is STILL in the 200-249 million tier... Please consider moving her to the highest tier so as to improve the accuracy of this list and disregard any clear bias against her that's kept this from happening for years now. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.232.78.122 (talk) 01:47, 8 July 2018 (UTC)
 * She's the most streamed female artist of all time. That's why her certifications got inflated that much. And it doesn't necessarily mean her record sales are close to her certified units. Thank you. Bluesatellite (talk) 02:18, 8 July 2018 (UTC)

I'm sorry you feel streaming and modern music consumption shouldn't matter at all. Thankfully the RIAA, IFPI, Nielsen, Billboard, and any international recording association feels differently and counts streaming toward record sales and certifications. Thank you.

My question still stands and would love a response from someone who actually knows what they're talking about...


 * Well, this is not a list of "most-consumed" music artists. This is a list of best-selling artist, and "selling" means product trade. Streaming is a service subsciption. And no, RIAA and IFPI do not count streams as "record sales", but they do count it as "certifications", I beg to differ. Bluesatellite (talk) 22:33, 8 July 2018 (UTC)

Unfortunately for your very weak and biased counterargument they use the terms "sale" and "sale equivalent" in their official wording/language in regard to streaming and this is a sales list; so they would beg to differ as well... A list like this has no place for a Luddite mentality when it comes to progress and music consumption, they've adapted with the times and perhaps you should as well... — Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.232.79.182 (talk) 05:30, 9 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Take that sass to somewhere you will get a kick out of it IP user. The above editor explained why Rihanna has not been moved to the top tier. Take it or leave it. And call another user with a personal attack once more, will make sure your privilege to post in Wikipedia is taken away. — IB [ Poke ] 14:10, 12 July 2018 (UTC)

Certification countries
Why are there no certifications from South Korea, China, India, etc.? The Netherlands are also missing on a lot of artist pages… these are all much larger markets than Poland, Finland, NZ. Also are there no K-Pop groups (or Chinese or Indian musicians) that have sold 75 million records? Fei Xiang sold 20 million with one album in China surely he must have sold more albums? AR Rahman has sold over 200 million http://www.rediff.com/money/2002/sep/21bizsp.htm EXO has sold at least 50 million according to their wikipedia page; sure wikipedia is not a source but that page has individual sources. BTS probably has sold more than that — Preceding unsigned comment added by 59.177.68.21 (talk) 21:53, 10 July 2018 (UTC)

The Latin Countries don′t appear here too. Countries like Venezuela, Colombia, Peru or Chile. Reason for that latin artists like Shakira or Enrique Iglesias don′t appear in the list. Because the majority of his certifications are from latin countriesElmisterioso1979 (talk) 01:31, 15 July 2018 (UTC)

elton
WHY HAS NOT ELTON MOVED UP ABOVE MADONNA IN THE LIST WHEN HE IS AT LEAST CERTIFIED BY 10 MILLION MORE THAN HER06:09, 18 July 2018 (UTC)06:09, 18 July 2018 (UTC)06:09, 18 July 2018 (UTC)~ — Preceding unsigned comment added by 203.109.216.215 (talk)

Drake Can Now Be Added
I finally found *reliable* articles from Forbes, Billboard, and XXL Mag with claims of 142 million sales on singles alone. Use these as sources for claimed sales, and put him on the damn list already. God knows this is long overdue. -- Bobtinin  (talk)  06:13, 7 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Those sources do not speak of worldwide singles sales, they don't even speak of the entire US singles sales, they simply state that Drake now has 142 certified units issued for his solo singles by the RIAA (the US certifying body). Drake's overall US certified singles sales stand at 183.7 million. But these are streaming generated certified sales, his actual US singles sales should not be more than some 75-90 million. We cannot put Drake up on the list with sources that speak of RIAA certified sales for his solo singles only. His worldwide actual sales should be around 150 million, but let's wait and see what kind of worldwide sales we'll see for him possibly published in the near future.--Harout72 (talk) 12:48, 7 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Yeah, I figured as much to be honest. Maybe they'll post an article detailing his worldwide sales after the Scorpion sales numbers come out. However, it's just as likely they won't. In addition, nobody seems to really care about "actual" sales numbers anymore. The only articles I ever see popping up these days are about streaming numbers, or sales which are determined through streaming numbers. It's all very confusing, but I feel like going into the future we should count certifications with streaming + sales numbers at face value. It's only fair to the newer artists. -- Bobtinin  (talk)  17:44, 7 July 2018 (UTC)
 * It's not about being "fair" or not to the newer artists. The article's title is clearly best-selling music artists, hence only the actual sales of physical/digital products count. Unless we rename this articles into List of most successful recording artists or List of most popular recording artists, I can't see why we should bother with streaming as it fails by the definition ("selling" = "sales"). Even Billboard no longer call Billboard 200 as "best-selling albums" ranking, but "most popular albums" ranking Bluesatellite (talk) 21:25, 7 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Well maybe we should do that then, cause it's pretty obvious that close to no one will actually be "buying" physical or digital copies of music in the near future since everything is becoming streaming. I think this is a serious debate that we need to have. -- Bobtinin  (talk)  23:46, 7 July 2018 (UTC)
 * We haven't been experiencing any problems operating this list even with the streaming helping certifications reach their levels faster than before. Now, just because Drake's fans are not able to get their favorite artist on the list only because there is still not a single available published figure for his worldwide sales, we should consider changing the whole system? Absolutely ridiculous.--Harout72 (talk) 00:31, 8 July 2018 (UTC)
 * You're foolish if you think it's only Drake fans that care about this, or will care about this. There will be plenty of current and future musicians that will reach very high numbers in certifications, and the bulk of it will be in streaming. The truth of the matter is one of the biggest artists of all time is not on this list because the system is flawed and things will only get worse. We need to solve this problem instead of ignoring it, what is so bad about that? -- Bobtinin  (talk)  01:20, 8 July 2018 (UTC)
 * The so called one of the biggest artists of all time will get on the list when we have a sales figure for him, nobody's keeping his name off the list. We have always had to wait for sales figures to be published for all newer artists in the past few years, for Justin Bieber, Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown etc. Not having Drake on the list doesn't make the system flawed. Perhaps you should create a separate list of your own listing most streamed artists of all time. Because even if another list was created called List of most successful recording artists and/or List of most popular recording artists, their ranking would still have to be based on sales. Because the streaming alone could not determine artists' popularity or success.--Harout72 (talk) 01:44, 8 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Nobody has sold 20 million albums in this past 15 years (except Adele's 21 and 25), yet nobody complains on the List of best-selling albums page. It's just the way it is. As long as this page is still titled "best-selling music artists", I against all the inclusion of streaming numbers. Bluesatellite (talk) 02:14, 8 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Well that seems like a fair conclusion. I'll see about the creation of another article which focuses on just certifications. I feel like that would be a good way to avoid any conflict regarding this article. -- Bobtinin  (talk)  03:53, 8 July 2018 (UTC)

@ Bobtinin, please be patient and hold your anger. We will have Drake on the list. Let me tell you that I need 5 years searching internet in a thousand page to find a reliable source and bring Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Kanye West, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Adele, Lil Wayne, Jay Z, Beyoncé, Linkin Park, Coldplay, George Strait, Simon & Garfunkel, Bob Dylan, Def Leppard, James Taylor, David Bowie, Linda Ronstadt, Pink, Johnny Cash, Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown, Nicki Minaj, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foreigner, Reba McEntire, Meat Loaf, Tom Petty, The Black Eyed Peas, Maroon 5, Tim McGraw, R. Kelly, Kenny G, Usher, Robbie Williams, Alabama, Bob Marley, The Police, Aretha Franklin to the list. So please, be patient. Harout72 and I work very hard to make this list very perfect and reliable, you can help us by keep searching reliable source for Drake and not putting some anger toward the list. Politsi (talk) 09:45, 9 July 2018 (UTC)

"I work very hard to make this list very perfect and reliable, you can help us by keep searching reliable source for Drake" LOL, only I did just that in my own question posed here and you scoffed at my link and alluded to it not mattering because it only included RIAA and US certifications... You have to start somewhere. "not putting some anger toward the list." Consider your conduct and responses to people on here, that might explain their anger, I'm certainly not happy with you either.

"I against all the inclusion of streaming numbers." Then you have no business editing this list, you and the other Luddites can go somewhere else. Streams are sales equivalent to record sales in a certain ratio, it's in the official wording of the RIAA and Nielsen and accepted by tastemakers like Billboard, has been for over 5 years now. Your bias is your issue, if you can't be fair, accurate and objective then pick another hobby... — Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.232.66.61 (talk) 00:09, 11 July 2018 (UTC)


 * First, I suggest you log into your account if you're trying to be taken as the person above (Bobtinin), because there is no anonymous IP in this thread who's provided any info including links of any kind. Second, I suggest you drop your sarcasm towards other editors as your next post in a similar nature will be removed. Third, listen to what others are saying as it has been explained above as to why RIAA's certified figure cannot be accepted to include an artist.--Harout72 (talk) 02:18, 11 July 2018 (UTC)

There's been several links across two questions including this one posed here providing data/sources that could be used. You refused Drake's inclusion because these sources were from American record sales/certifications only. There's data available on his record sales and certifications in the UK and Canada as well. Artists have been added to this list with a foundation of as little as 3 contributing markets. You also refused the inclusion of SEA units from streaming even though the official language regarding streaming is as a "sales equivalent", which would contradict your statement above. It is a serious debate that needs to be had, they're correct. The list should be fact-based and acknowledge all legitimate sources. Personal opinion shouldn't hold sway over the official statements of record associations in regard to what constitutes a sale. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.232.65.212 (talk) 12:27, 18 July 2018 (UTC)

Madonna has sold more than 335 milion records.
Madonna has sold more than 335 milion records. Not 275/300 milion. Please, change it. (http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/best-selling-female-recording-artist) Robert - music1234 (talk) 07:31, 18 July 2018 (UTC)
 * I suggest you read the definitions on the main page.--Harout72 (talk) 13:23, 18 July 2018 (UTC)

The Bee Gees are WAAAAAY off
It looks like the citation being used for the Bee Gees may actually be using album sales rather than record sales? Anyway, they're listed on this page as having only 120 million, but this article shows 220 million: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/18/barry-gibb-bee-gees-music-alive. Also, the Bee Gees Wikipedia page says 220!

I found certified sales of 36 million on RIAA, like 8 million on German BVMI, and like 8 million on BPI, which goes well over the 20% requirement. — Preceding unsigned comment added by AlexMc (talk • contribs) 19:59, 22 July 2018 (UTC)

Christina Aguilera 75 million copies worldwide.
I couldn't find a better source for Aguilera's sales, but does she have enough to put her in the list, as having 75kk worldwide?!--88marcus (talk) 00:46, 23 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Yes, she can be listed with 75 million claim as she has 54.3 million certified units.--Harout72 (talk) 13:19, 23 July 2018 (UTC)


 * So sad, I only could find sources like that: link0,link1, link2. :( --88marcus (talk) 02:10, 27 July 2018 (UTC)
 * At the moment her certified sales are not incredibly high for a 75 million claim, so we still have time to wait for better sources to come along. In the meantime, her certified sales might grow higher, hopefully.--Harout72 (talk) 02:36, 27 July 2018 (UTC)

Green Day
Harout, any new updated in certified sales for them? They should be in the list with 75m. Thanks Politsi (talk) 05:01, 27 July 2018 (UTC)
 * They're still at 48.3 million certified units, 1.5 million more units to go.--Harout72 (talk) 13:34, 27 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Where is the source for supporting 75 million? Excelse (talk) 18:07, 28 July 2018 (UTC)

Mistyping
Harout. Need your help to look at Olivia Newton John's section, I think there is some error or mistyping at her certified sales. Thanks Politsi (talk) 01:41, 30 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Got it, it's all good now.--Harout72 (talk) 03:02, 30 July 2018 (UTC)

It's time for Rihanna
Harout, her certified sales already nearly 263m. I think it's time for her to join the 250m club. Let's put her claim sales between 250m and 230m. Is that okay? Thanks Politsi (talk) 04:52, 31 July 2018 (UTC)
 * Her US certified sales drop by 44.5 million units when we replace those certified units for singles/albums that have actual sales. So it goes straight from 262 million 218 million. We're fine for now.--Harout72 (talk) 14:53, 31 July 2018 (UTC)

Drake
Where is Drake on this list? According to his wikipedia page he's sold over 200 million records, and RIAA says he's sold 154 million digital singles in the US alone, it's way past time he gets on this list Jay el rey (talk) 06:48, 2 August 2018 (UTC)

Shakira and J Lopez
How many certified units do they have? Since they, according to their articles, have 125M and 80M records sold, respectively. Cornerstonepicker (talk) 00:38, 1 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Those are inflated, promotional sales figures. Shakira's certified sales are 49.989 million, Jennifer Lopez's certified sales are 35.465 million.--Harout72 (talk) 13:54, 1 August 2018 (UTC)
 * As I thought. Thanks. Cornerstonepicker (talk) 17:44, 1 August 2018 (UTC)

50m certified sales still not enough for Shakira to get the 75m claim, Harout? Politsi (talk) 08:39, 3 August 2018 (UTC)
 * She's very close, just another 250,000 units and we can put her up on the list if there is a source for 75 million claim.--Harout72 (talk) 13:15, 3 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Harout, we should definitely put her up on the list right now because it's just 250,000 units left and I believe it will add to her certified sales in a matter of week. I try to find the newest source to support her 75m claim but still not yet founded, however once we put her on the list by using a german newspaper Berliner Zeitung / https://www.berliner-zeitung.de/die-kolumbianische-saengerin-steckt-viele-millionen-dollar-in-bildungsprojekte---sie-baut-schulen-in-ihrer-heimat-shakiras-kinder-15192896# lets use it again until I find the better one and let's welcoming her to the list. Need your help. Thanks Politsi (talk) 01:40, 4 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Actually, the 250,000 certified units for Shakira might take months, she's not one of the hottest artists at the moment, so it will take some time. Anyways, there is no rush as there is 25 million units between the 75 million claim and her certified sales. I will, however, be sure to put her up on the list using that source above once the required amount is reached.--Harout72 (talk) 12:43, 4 August 2018 (UTC)
 * I support it, in order to make the list very reliable we must include artists who's really fulfill the certified sales requirement and supported with regarded news organization. Politsi (talk) 02:47, 5 August 2018 (UTC)

Alanis Morissette
Harout, is it any possibilities for Morissette entering the list with 75m claim? https://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/alanis-morissette-review-voice-of-a-generation-mellowed-but-not-dulled-20180123-h0mpog.html Thanks Politsi (talk) 04:08, 5 August 2018 (UTC)
 * She needs 48.480 million certified units to be listed with 75 million claim. She has only 36.860 million.--Harout72 (talk) 12:37, 5 August 2018 (UTC)

Kylie Minogue
Kylie has 80 million records sold. She would have a place in the list


 * Minogue cannot be listed due to her very low certified sales, 23.8 million.--Harout72 (talk) 13:21, 7 August 2018 (UTC)

Enrique Iglesias & Luis Miguel
They would be at the list. They have 140M and 100M records sold. Enrique Iglesias: Luis Miguel:

First, sign your posts. Second, you have already been replied on your previous inquiry of Enrique Iglesias. Next time you re-post a name that you've already been replied for, I will remove it as it's disruptive. As for Luis Miguel, his certified sales are very low.--Harout72 (talk) 16:23, 7 August 2018 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 8 August 2018
Please edit the 'Genre' section for R. Kelly. The genre 'hip-pop' doesn't exist, and the source provided doesn't have any usage of the word. It's probably supposed to say 'hip-hop' instead. 184.101.158.29 (talk) 01:43, 8 August 2018 (UTC)
 * ✅ — xaosflux  Talk 03:06, 8 August 2018 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 16 August 2018
In the list they are all in order of their sales from highest to lowest in each section. Except for in the list for people with 250 or more. Elton John should be above Madonna this way it would be in the correct order. 38.21.46.211 (talk) 03:17, 16 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Madonna's second/lower claimed figure is higher, that's the reason why she's listed higher.--Harout72 (talk) 13:17, 16 August 2018 (UTC)

Aretha Franklin years of activity require editing
She died in 2018. Robitaille03 (talk) 14:56, 17 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Got it,thanks.--Harout72 (talk) 15:30, 17 August 2018 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 19 August 2018
UPDATE Tina Turner's record sales from 100 million to 200 million, as referenced in her smash-hit West End production of 'TINA: The Tina Turner Musical' - which says: "(Tina) has sold more than 200 million albums and singles worldwide to date, making her one of the biggest selling female artists in music history." (Found here - https://tinathemusical.com/creative/tina-turner/).

This figure thus needs to be updated. D3IM2NTEII (talk) 15:53, 19 August 2018 (UTC)
 * This is not a media source. It reads like a profile link. Statistics should come from news agencies or music magazines like Billboard, Rolling Stone and any other that are just as reliable as those two. Excelse (talk) 08:19, 20 August 2018 (UTC)

Dalida
The Egyptian-French singer would be at the list. She sold 140 million copies. Elmisterioso1979 (talk) 05:14, 15 August 2018 (UTC)


 * universalmusic.fr/artiste/ is a web profile link. Statistics should come from news agencies or music magazines. Excelse (talk) 08:34, 20 August 2018 (UTC)

Chris Brown
in the greatest artist of all time list Chris Brown should have 19 million units in the uk instead of 10 million i have source to support this claim chart data is also a music sale database also https://twitter.com/chartdata/status/982634107694919680 he also just got a new certification too https://twitter.com/chartdata/status/1028711464649904129
 * Chartdata is a gross unreliable source. — IB [ Poke ] 04:42, 21 August 2018 (UTC)

New RIAA Certificates
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) announced today that 21 different songs and three albums, spanning Jackson’s career, have garnered major new Gold and Platinum certifications. The new song awards mean that Michael Jackson enjoys 40 million cumulative digital singles certifications in the US .Akhiljaxxn (talk) 16:58, 23 August 2018 (UTC)

Katy Perry has sold 165 million records worldwide
Katy Perry has sold 165 million records worldwide in total. Here are the references:
 * 165 million records
 * 40 million albums
 * 125 million singles

JACKSON New RIAA Certifications meet the "RIAA 1 billion figure statement"
Ok, now it's still on 229.5 million certified units, good enough to support the RIAA 1 billion figure 2015 statement (comply with the 20% rules). Let's put it that way :

- Claimed sales : 400 million, 1 billion|talk]]) 20:17, 23 August 2018 (UTC)


 * Since you're here, why don't you take some time to go over the Definitions on the main page. That should explain why those inflated figures are not used here.--Harout72 (talk) 20:21, 23 August 2018 (UTC)

Correct Harout72, figures seem to look highly inflated that's why it's called "claimed sales", and it always will be. Anyway, as you said here, Jackson has sold around 50 million copies since his death, then RIAA just added another 40 million certified copies, right? Ok, then claimed sales should be up to 440 million sold (350 + 50 + 40), fair enough? Moreover, I suggest to add another figure, the 750 million statement from the World Music Award back in 2006, I think it meets fairly the 229.5 million certified units, besides we have thousands of top sources all around the internet for this one

Since I follow this page from its creation, I suggest Harout72 that we should add another column called "Wikipedia estimated sales" (or something like that) based on serious calculations as you did above for example so as to make the big difference between the certified sales and claimed sales. Let's talk about it if you'd find it improving

Readerweb (talk) 10:44, 24 August 2018 (UTC)


 * Since you're still talking about adding another inflated figure such as 750 million, I take it you didn't bother to read the Definitions on the main page. And if you've been following this page since its creation, then you should know all the significant changes that have been made over the years. That said, when Jackson's certt=ified sales reach 250 million, we will add 400 million claimed figure. For the time being 40 million streaming generated certified units doesn't scream for any major changes.--Harout72 (talk) 13:14, 24 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Harout72 But his 229.5M certification is not enough to support his 450 claims?.--Akhiljaxxn (talk) 16:08, 24 August 2018 (UTC)

Jackson has now more than Elvis on certification basis but still needs to prove claims sales over 400 million??? Harou72, before you go and talk again about "Definition" we need to get more perspective around here, Jackson has been nominated best selling solo artist of all time by official organizations and institutions such as RIAA and World Music Awards (IFPI countings) but that doesn't keep you from putting Elvis over 500 million units sold, right? with some very questionable sources. So I THINK fairly that Jackson need to be update at least to 450 million records sold if not I'm asking to change the rule and "definitions" of this page. Thank you for your time

Readerweb (talk) 21:53, 24 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Well, I'm gonna go straight back to the Definitions because had you read the Definitions, you would've already known that Presley has less certifications because even markets like Germany, UK, France, Canada, Netherlands, Finland didn't have certification systems during the period when Presley was charting. Like I said, once Jackson has reached 250 million with his certified sales, we'll add the source that claims 400 million. Until then no action is required as there is still 70 million units sitting between Jackson's current certified sales and his lowest claim, and 120 million between his certified sales and the current higher sales claim.--Harout72 (talk) 22:02, 24 August 2018 (UTC)


 * The articles defnition says All artists included on this list, which have begun charting on official albums or singles charts have their available claimed figures supported by at least 20% in certified units.And the requirements says  Editors should expect all artists' claimed figures to be supported by the following specified percentage of certified units.  To be on this list, artists who began charting:before 1975 are required to have their available claimed figures supported by 20% in certified units.   So now Michael Jackson has enough certification to support his 1 billion/750/500 or 450M claims . These figures may be inflated but there is sources from  almost every relaible sources to back up his claims. And there was a  consensus | here that once MJ have the 200-220 certificates you guys will consider to bring his 400m-claim back to the list.And now he has 229.5 million certificates and i hope you do so.  Presley has less certifications because even markets like Germany, UK, France, Canada, Netherlands, Finland didn't have certification systems during the period when Presley was charting. Well its seems like bit of an assumption. Even  if its true the same logic can apply for Michael Jackson also.Because some asian countries like India and china  were more than 2.7 billion people living still have no proper certification system to track the album sales.According to Mangalam news paper Michael Jackson had sold  albums worth of 4 million Indian Rupee in Kozhikode where i live, only within 5 days of his death.Majority of these sales may be illiegal but the fact remains the same so don't assume Elvis has sold most of his albums during this period or he would've sold more if there was a proper certification system existed.I've seen lots of article saying most of his record sales happend after his death.And most of the Elvis Presley's records have been sold within the United States.His available certificates proves that too.-Akhiljaxxn (talk) 17:34, 25 August 2018 (UTC)
 * The Definitions also clearly states This list uses claimed figures that are closest to artists' available certified units: inflated claimed figures that meet the required certified units amount but are unrealistically high, are not used.. India and China may have large populations, but their music markets are not large. China's music market today generates as much sales as Italy or the Netherlands, and India generates smaller sales than Switzerland, see Global music industry market share data. The population of countries do not determine the size of the music markets, it's the economy and per capita that do. The 400 million claim is the figure that will be considered here soon. But anything higher than that will not be used.--Harout72 (talk) 18:08, 25 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Read WP:NOTFORUM. I have already told you enough times before not to use your personal opinion or off-topic stories to derail the threads.
 * I think 400 million would be pretty soon, it should remain between 300 - 350 million unless he reaches 250 million certified units. Excelse (talk) 10:19, 28 August 2018 (UTC)
 * Oh sorry Sir but is this I think 400 million would be pretty soon, it should remain between 300 - 350 million unless he reaches 250 million certified units your opinion or what?.Myself, harout and the other user were discussing the things related to this subject. And there was a | consensus here that once MJ have the 200-220 certificates they will consider to bring his 400m-claim back to the list.And now MJ has 229.5 million certificates and we just remembered him their old consensus whether they forgot or not.- Akhiljaxxn (talk) 10:58, 29 August 2018 (UTC)

Harout72, may I know Jackson's additional 30 million certified sales currently is based on streaming or pure sales?. Because if it come from the sales then with 230m in his certified sales, it is enough to erase his 300m claim and add his 400m claim. Thanks Politsi (talk) 14:42, 31 August 2018 (UTC)
 * They are all streaming generated these days. That's why I didn't want to bring the 400 million back just yet. Because 50 million certified units by the RIAA these days for an artist, translates into less than 20 million in actual sales.--Harout72 (talk) 16:30, 31 August 2018 (UTC)

Janet Jackson sales
Janet Jackson has sold 160 million records Khaleel akbar (talk) 06:27, 2 September 2018 (UTC)

Shouldn't Drake be on this list?
Just wondering why Drake hasn't been included on this list. I read somewhere he is over 200 million. Dadondinah (talk) 05:12, 6 September 2018 (UTC)
 * We still don't have a figure published for his worldwide sales.--Harout72 (talk) 13:52, 6 September 2018 (UTC)

Thanks for following up. Hopefully they will publish it soon. I would like to see where he ranks at. Dadondinah (talk) 17:50, 7 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Drake will rank according to the claim sales which published by a reliable source, so although he has over 200m in certified sales but still only 96m claim sales available then he will still ranked with 96m claim. Politsi (talk) 07:32, 8 September 2018 (UTC)

Lady Gaga and Britney Spears Claimed Sales to Be Updated
According to MGM Resorts (which is going to host Gaga's upcoming Vegas residency), Gaga has sold over "31 million albums and 171 million singles". This would put her claimed sales at 202 million. The source was published this year (2018) as opposed to the source for her current claimed sales which was published in 2013.

At the 2016 Billboard Music Awards before Britney performed her medley, the backdrop introducing her claimed she has "140 million records sold worldwide". As the awards show is produced by Billboard, I'm assuming this data is reliable. The performance has been uploaded to Spears's official YouTube account but it cuts out the introductory backdrop portion.

If this is still not considered a reliable source for Britney, Billboard itself has claimed that Britney has sold over 70 million records in the US alone, so her US certifications should be updated to 70 million, increasing her total certified units to 106 million. Bibimbophop (talk) 09:42, 16 September 2018 (UTC)

Sort order for images
Given that the sort order of each table under "Artists by reputed sales" is "claimed sales", would it not be better to sort the associated images in the same order rather than by "certified sales"? GTHO (talk) 06:49, 17 September 2018 (UTC)
 * It's been this list's consensus amongst the main editors and other infrequent editors that the order of the images at least should be based on certified sales as we've been dealing with way too many inflated sales figures. Inflated sales figures which are frequently practiced by record companies for promotional reasons cannot represent accurate ranking. But in the recent years, the certified sales of the newer artists especially have been jumping forward too quickly mainly because the streaming is now being counted towards Gold and Platinum thresholds. For this reason, we might in the future switch to basing the order of the images on claims also.--Harout72 (talk) 13:11, 17 September 2018 (UTC)

Rihanna
In October 2017, Politsi and Harout72 decided Rihanna shouldn't be considered for the 250m-club until she was well above 240 million with her certified units. In February 2018, Politsi and Harout72 amended their previous stipulation for Rihanna and decided her certified units should at least be 250 million to use a 250 million sales claim. I couldn't find any further purposed stipulations for moving Rihanna to the 250m-club.

So, as of September 15, 2018, Rihanna has 263.9 million certified units. Now that she has achieved the two previously mentioned stipulations by passing 240 and 250 million in certified units, isn't it time to move her to the 250m-club? TJ 20:24, 15 September 2018 (UTC)
 * There is actually another discussion that took place in April 2018. So based on that last discussion, once Rihanna passes the 265 million mark with her certified sales, we'll move her up. All her certified sales coming from the recent years are aggressively streaming generated just like it is the case with all newer artists.--Harout72 (talk) 21:43, 16 September 2018 (UTC)
 * It appears the agreement in April 2018 was for Rihanna to reach between 260 and 265 million certified units. She's done that by reaching 263.9 million certified units and is much closer to the latter than the former. Based on all three previous stipulations, Rihanna has qualified to be moved to the top tier. Is this not true? TJ 22:15, 16 September 2018 (UTC)
 * There really is no reason to rush into moving Rihanna up on the list as her US certified sales drop by 45 million units when I take into account the actual sales of some singles and almost all albums that have actual sales figures. If we had access to checking the actual sales of all her US singles, I'm quite sure the US total certified sales would drop by good 60 million. Let's bear in mind that streaming plays a major role in all newer artists' certified sales, not only in the US but all over the globe. So the 230 million is actually more than where Rihanna's actual sales are. But per my discussion back in April 2018, she will be moved up once she hits 265 million units with her certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 13:25, 17 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Per the April 2018 discussion, Rihanna reaching 265 million certified units wasn’t the agreement. You’re amending what was previously discussed. This is a clear failure to follow through on the previous agreement. The first benchmark for Rihanna to qualify was 240 million certified units. The second benchmark was 250 million certified units. The third benchmark was between 260 and 265 million certified units. Now you want to place a fourth benchmark of hitting 265 million certified units. Based on the noncompliance with previous agreements once Rihanna’s qualifications were met, what’s to prevent the placement of a fifth, sixth or seventh benchmark? It’s hard not to formulate the perception that some bias is being implemented. Please help me understand otherwise. TJ 19:46, 17 September 2018 (UTC)
 * If we sometimes need to re-visit any of our previously discussed threads to make more changes, then we will do that, that has nothing to do with being biased, it is simply matter of keeping the list as realistic as we can. It is undoubtedly true that the streaming pushes the certified sales of the newer artists forward faster than we anticipated in the past. However, in this case, as I mentioned above, once the 265 million in certified sales is reached, she will be moved up on the list without any further amendments. The fact of the matter is that Rihanna's current actual sales is below the currently listed claimed figure, the 230 million units. This list, by the way, should not be viewed as a competition list.--Harout72 (talk) 20:26, 17 September 2018 (UTC)

Maroon 5
Harout. I see that Maroon 5's certified sales nearly touch 100m. Surely they deserved to be in the 100m club, but still there is no reliable source yet speak about it. I will update Maroon 5's claim sales to 90m. Meanwhile, need your help to look Shakira and Green Day perhaps they are ready to be in the list. Thanks Politsi (talk) 14:31, 24 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Shakira is very close to be listed with 75 million claim. She's already at 50.1 million with her certified sales, she needs to have 50.250 million as she's begun appearing on the official sales charts in 1995. So if we have a reliable source that claims 75 million for her let me know, we can put her up once she collects the remaining 150,000 units. It might take a month or two though.
 * Green Day are already at 48.6 million with their certified sales. They need to have 49.8 million as they've begun charting on official sales charts in 1994. So just another 1.2 million left.--Harout72 (talk) 15:51, 24 September 2018 (UTC)

Christina Aguilera (75m)
Harout. Today, I just read the Atlantic City Weekly, and in the nightlife section that weekly free newspaper said that Aguilera sold 75m albums and singles / https://www.atlanticcityweekly.com/nightlife/christina-aguilera/article_2ed79842-d3dd-5b1a-a569-5725c5ef985a.html The source is not a very prestigious broadsheet newspaper but it is usable for temporary because it is a newspaper that part of Berkshire Hathaway. It's time for Aguilera join the club and once I found the better source for her, I will replace it immediately. Need your help. Thank Politsi (talk) 14:26, 24 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Yes, I agree, I'll go ahead and put her up today or tomorrow latest.--Harout72 (talk) 15:56, 24 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Thanks. Well now it means only Drake and Eric Clapton still left out of the list. Hopefully I can bring Drake to the list soon. Politsi (talk) 17:30, 24 September 2018 (UTC)

Drake
Harout, I believe that Drake's certified sales perhaps already pass 150m but still I can not find any newspaper interesting to talk about his sales. Today, I see a source from Realtor.com / https://www.realtor.com/news/celebrity-real-estate/drake-toronto-mansion/ it is a real estate listings website and notable assets from News Corp,  is an American entertainment company, formed as a spin-off of the original News Corporation (as founded by Rupert Murdoch in 1979) focusing on newspapers and publishing. Inside that source, it is said that Drake has sold 96m records. The source is not a news website but operated by a news organization. What do you think? is it possible to use it for temporary? because Drake should be in the list now. Thanks Politsi (talk) 14:50, 26 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Actually Drake's certified sales are already at 240 million, with 202.7 million coming from the US. His US certified sales especially are aggressively streaming generated. But overall the 96 million is probably where his actual sales are, I would think that his actual sales are somewhere around 100-120 million. Should we wait for a better source? I'm hesitant about using Realtor.com as a source.--Harout72 (talk) 15:20, 26 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Realtor.com is a part of News Corp, it means the website operated like CNNMoney which is operated by CNN. I think it's okay to used it temporary because with 240m certified sales, surely Drake supposed to be standing next to Ed Sheeran and Bruno Mars. When the better source coming, I will replace it immediately. But, this is only my personal suggestion. Politsi (talk) 15:30, 26 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Normally would not agree using this source, but since they seem to have gotten Drake's actual sales right around the neighborhood where it should be, let's use it only temporarily.--Harout72 (talk) 15:47, 26 September 2018 (UTC)
 * Thanks, I will find the better source immediately. Politsi (talk) 15:51, 26 September 2018 (UTC)

Britney Spears update
Can someone please move Britney Spears into the 120+ category, she is reported with over 140 million now. This article from US Magazine shows it, but this was announced in the intro for her 2016 Billboard Music Awards performance, which is based on Billboard charts. --73.228.151.202 (talk) 04:01, 4 October 2018 (UTC)

Bob Seger
Harout, I found the 75m claim source for Bob Seger / http://www.pjstar.com/news/20180918/bob-seger-coming-to-peoria-civic-center-arena Journal Star (Peoria), need your help to add him to the list. And I need your help to look at Aguilera's 75m claim source from Atlantic City Weekly, it looks error. And here the source for Shakira's 75m claim https://www.berliner-zeitung.de/die-kolumbianische-saengerin-steckt-viele-millionen-dollar-in-bildungsprojekte---sie-baut-schulen-in-ihrer-heimat-shakiras-kinder-15192896# Thanks Politsi (talk) 15:38, 6 October 2018 (UTC)
 * I'll put Bob Seger on the list either today or tomorrow. I replaced Aguilera's source with the archived version.--Harout72 (talk) 18:30, 6 October 2018 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 7 October 2018
Please change Rihanna's total record sales from "230 Million to 280 Million", the link is "https://rocnation.com/rihanna/" Adrieos (talk) 12:00, 7 October 2018 (UTC)
 * Go over the Definitions on the main page, it explains how the list is operated.--Harout72 (talk) 12:14, 7 October 2018 (UTC)

Avril Lavigne has sold 90 million records worldwide
According to discography, Avril Lavigne has sold 90 million records worldwide.

Katy Perry has sold 165 million records worldwide
Throughout her career, Perry has sold more than 40 million albums and over 125 million singles globally,  making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 13 October 2018
Britney Spears was stated by Billboard to of sold over 140 million records worldwide, yet is still in the wrong bracket on the list. She should be in the bracket for 120-199 million records sold worldwide. This should be changed. Britneyanon (talk) 13:20, 13 October 2018 (UTC)
 * Once you go over the Definitions on the main page and read about the requirements of certified sales, you will have a better understanding as to how this list is operated.--Harout72 (talk) 15:28, 13 October 2018 (UTC)

The backdrop for her intro at the 2016 Billboard Music Awards claimed she sold 140 million records worldwide as supported by this recap in US Magazine. Billboard itself has also reported that Britney has sold over 70 million records in the US alone, so her US certifications should be updated to 70 million, increasing her total certified units to 106 million. This would mean that her worldwide claimed sales are supported by 75.7% in certified units and since Britney debuted in 1998, she is required to be supported by 68.8% in certified units. Since she exceeds her criteria, she should be moved into the right category. Bibimbophop (talk) 16:39, 14 October 2018 (UTC)


 * Spears' US certified sales are up to date standing at 46.2 million, of that is 34.5 million certified albums, 10.2 million singles, 1.5 million videos. The Billboard speaks of actual sales, not certified sales. When the RIAA certifies the remaining 34 million for Spears' US sales, we can have a discussion then. As her worldwide certified sales stand at the moment, there is no reason to have her claimed figure upgraded. Also note that the Definitions on the main page states This list uses claimed figures that are closest to artists' available certified units: inflated claimed figures that meet the required certified units amount but are unrealistically high, are not used.--Harout72 (talk) 19:44, 14 October 2018 (UTC)

Rihanna
Shouldn't Rihanna be bumped up to the next level, seeing as the verified sales shown in her statistics are above the 250 million mark; and especially considering the verified sales of others in that bracket aren't at 250 million themselves? Isingness (talk) 01:11, 18 October 2018 (UTC)
 * Yes, she'll be moved up as soon as she hits 265 with her certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 13:23, 18 October 2018 (UTC)

Year of Nirvana's first charted release.
The listed year for Nirvana's first charted release is 1989, presumably in reference to Bleach. That was the first album that Nirvana ever released but it was not the first release of theirs to chart (that was the Sliver non-album single in 1990). So should the year given for Nirvana's first charted release not be altered to 1990?

JoeyofScotia (talk) 15:49, 18 October 2018 (UTC)
 * The album Bleach has not charted in 1989? I did a little research into it, and it seems like it hasn't. If that's the case, then yes, it should be changed to 1990.--Harout72 (talk) 16:22, 18 October 2018 (UTC)


 * The article for Bleach says that the release 'did not chart in the United States upon its initial release', which implies that it did chart elsewhere. Though any direct documentation of this (in the article or elsewhere) is lacking.JoeyofScotia (talk) 23:04, 18 October 2018 (UTC)
 * OK then we should change their first year of charting to 1990.--Harout72 (talk) 13:15, 19 October 2018 (UTC)

Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga's sales have now been updated on the official Park Theater website where she is starting a residency in the winter. They've updated her global single sales to 171 Million and Album sales to 31 Million. This is a very credible source and should be taken into consideration. https://www.parkmgm.com/en/entertainment/lady-gaga.html

Billboard state her sales to be 146 Million singles & 27 Million Albums https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/6836620/lady-gaga-signs-caa — Preceding unsigned comment added by 51.9.131.40 (talk • contribs) 22:13, 27 October 2018 (UTC)

Tina Turner sold more than 200 record worldwide
pls update for her  GoodWrite009 (talk) 02:04, 28 October 2018 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 28 October 2018
I recommend editing Celine Dion's country/market to Canada / USA. This is consistent with Justin Bieber, and consistent with her main career being based in Las Vegas since 2000. Canad alone implies she records and manages her business from Canada, overstating the importance of Canada to her professional life. Rrz789234 (talk) 02:48, 28 October 2018 (UTC)
 * Celine Dion career being based in Las Vegas doesn't mean her music is being produced in the States, or having been signed in the States. Therefore, the two are different cases.--Harout72 (talk) 05:38, 28 October 2018 (UTC)

Spice Girls
How many certificied sales need Spice Girls to be include at the list Elmisterioso1979 (talk) 20:19, 28 October 2018 (UTC)

Charles Aznavour
How about Charles Aznavour? Aparently 180-190 million records of him were sold (see e.g. https://www.rtl.fr/culture/arts-spectacles/charles-aznavour-a-son-etoile-quand-on-m-apporte-quelque-chose-je-suis-ravi-7789960070 ). — Preceding unsigned comment added by Darwwin (talk • contribs) 20:37, 4 November 2018 (UTC)

Queen
In light of Queen being in the spotlight through the biopic "Bohemian Rhapsody", I think it's worthwhile to revisit this issue. By this point they should be put in the 250+ million records column. They have more certified units than Pink Floyd, and Queen was started around the same time. I mean, I think the 300 million figure has been used in enough reliable sources for it to be considered a legitimate claim. Here's a lineup: BBC, The Mirror, The Telegraph, The Hollywood Reporter, NME, and Express. I understand that two of them say between 150 million and 300 million, and we usually put the most conservative estimate available, but I see that the highest estimates are also posted, so it is a range. Would it not be a good idea to put Queen at 250+ records, with the lowest estimate, 150 million, and the highest, 300 million, posted? Anyways, I think the fact that BBC has said they sold 300 million records is a big deal, because they are a very reliable source. -- Bobtinin  (talk)  11:44, 15 November 2018 (UTC)
 * Actually, Pink Floyd have begun charting in 1967 six years before Queen. In 1967, no market other than the US had a certification system. In 1973, the UK and France and even Finland had begun certifying records. So the two bands should not be compared. Queen's certified sales are only 129 million, so there is no possible way they could have sold 300 million units of records even if BBC claims. News services claim what's given to them by the record companies, not because they analyze the sales themselves. BBC just like many other news agencies has a bad reputation of publishing inflated figures, this is nothing new, here is another one. Also, the rules posted in the definitions are clear enough I think which state This list uses claimed figures that are closest to artists' available certified units: inflated claimed figures that meet the required certified units amount but are unrealistically high, are not used. By the way, we use two lower available sales figures, not the lowest and the highest.--Harout72 (talk) 14:14, 15 November 2018 (UTC)
 * Right, I understand what you're saying now. But I'm not sure it's inflated when you take into account that there were many countries where Queen clearly commanded popularity, which also did not have an official music certification system in place. Either way, what point do you think they would have to hit in certified units before the 300 million figure is accurate? I see you updated the minimum number a year ago from 150 to 170, or maybe I'm wrong, so it seems there's a conceivable scenario in which you'd accept that number were their sales to escalate (and again, many outlets reported the 300 number. I don't think any of us could prove they received that number from a record label) -- Bobtinin  (talk)  21:26, 15 November 2018 (UTC)
 * Based on my years of research, they all copy from each other, and originally it get published by one news agency which sometimes does and sometimes doesn't mention that according to the artist's records company they've sold X number of records. The rest of the news outlets never mention anything about that figure coming from the record company when they publish the same sales. Queen have to have at least 200 million certified units in order for the 300 million claim to sound reasonable. Anyways, our next step would first be removing the 170 million claim, but that is when they reach at least 155-160 with their certified sales. Once the 170 is removed, we'll see if we can find a reliable source that's published a figure somewhere in the neighborhood of 220-250 million, which then will be added alongside of the current 200 million.--Harout72 (talk) 23:38, 15 November 2018 (UTC)
 * Yeah, that sounds reasonable. I'll keep a lookout for any sources that post those numbers. It's a little bit hard with the 300 number in circulation, but even if that is a problem down the line, maybe it wouldn't be a stretch to use sources which put them at a range of 150 to 300 as evidence of a 200 or 250 million claim. I would think sometime in the next year Queen will request the RIAA to update their certifications after all the streaming that's going on as a result of their biopic, so I'll keep an eye on the website. I'm sure they'll be asking to update their certs in many other countries as well, so I'll try to help out by posting them on your talk page if I ever happen to come across them before you. -- Bobtinin  (talk)  01:53, 16 November 2018 (UTC)

Christina Aguilera
Hi! The source for Christina Aguilera's sales record seems to be moved to a new article within the same publishing house. You may refer to: https://www.atlanticcityweekly.com/arts_and_entertainment/maxwell-refuses-to-play-it-safe-but-then-again-neither/article_25e3d238-85f8-54e6-9c62-a7680bee4ff9.html. The headline also mentions Maxwell and Janet Jackson which is why I'm not sure if we can use this link as replacement to the old one. Thanks! — Preceding unsigned comment added by Joshay.16 (talk • contribs) 09:25, 16 November 2018 (UTC)

Drake
Drake has sold over 241 million certified units but is placed in the "80 million to 99 million records" section because his claimed figure is 96 million. Why does his claimed figure matter when the actual figure is known? He should be placed among The Beatles and Elvis Presley. Flooded  with them hundreds 11:54, 25 November 2018 (UTC)
 * Drake's certified sales are aggressively streaming generated. His actual sales are really low.--Harout72 (talk) 13:32, 25 November 2018 (UTC)
 * Even 96 million records is too high for Drake Esambuu (talk) 12:43, 26 November 2018 (UTC)

Kylie Minogue
Now (December 2018), Kylie Minogue meets the requirements to the article. Since 2011 she has recorded three albums and few concert tours, I am sure that the official number of certified units is already sufficient. Now, in article there is Barry White (Total available certified units: 21.7 million) with the source of 100 million and also some other artists with total available certified units of twenty-few million, I think, Kylie Minogue has a similar number of certified units (or even more) + many sources for 80 million total selling. Please, check the information and add Kylie Minogue to the article. Greetings :) Subtropical -man  (talk / en-2 ) 23:33, 4 December 2018 (UTC)
 * 30 October 2011, say: "I replaced Kylie Minogue's 68 million claimed sales figures with 60 million claims as Minogue has begun charting in 1987 and her available certified sales ([19.1 million) can support sales figures of up to 61 million."
 * 5 July 2018, say: "Kylie Minogue will be at the list. she sold 80 million records [1][2][3]" ..... and no reaction.
 * Barry White has begun charting in 1973, not 1987. Kylie Minogue has begun charting in 1987, therefore, her claimed figures (in this case 80 million) needs to be supported by 57.7% certified sales, that is 46.1 million certified sales. Minogue's certified sales are only 23.8 million, she's not even close to being qualified for this list. By the way, the requirements of certified sales are posted above in one of the yellow boxes. One more thing, the requirements have changed significantly since 2011 as Japan has made all of its certified sales available.--Harout72 (talk) 03:35, 5 December 2018 (UTC)

Mariah Carey
Hello Mariah Carey's certified sales should be updated as Merry Christmas Album is now certified 2x Platinum (40,000) in Denmark and All I want for Christmas is You is now 5x Platinum in Australia up 70,000... so She is 110,000 or 139.9. Thanks fidelovkurt 19:28, 5 December 2018 (UTC)
 * In Denmark Merry Christmas album was certified 2x Platinum long time ago, but that's 100,000 units, not 40,000. Where is Australia's 5x Platinum for "All I Want for Christmas Is You" posted?.--Harout72 (talk) 21:21, 5 December 2018 (UTC)

It is here https://www.auspop.com.au/2018/12/aria-chart-watch-501/ fidelovkurt 22:04, 5 December 2018 (UTC)

Ed Sheeran
Harout. I want to raise Ed's claim to 138m. Is that okay? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 09:25, 9 December 2018 (UTC)
 * Yeah I think that's gonna be fine. His certified sales will still be 10 million above that figure.--Harout72 (talk) 13:25, 9 December 2018 (UTC)

Celine Dion 250 million records
Hi, Celine Dion would be at the 250 million list???. I think that the 128.2 million of certificied sales are enough to be added ath the list https://ca.hellomagazine.com/music/02017063036970/celine-dion-career-by-the-numbers/4 Elmisterioso1979 (talk) 04:29, 13 December 2018 (UTC)

Obvious vandalism: Rihanna's picture in place of where Elvis should be
Can someone please fix that? The row of images should correspond to the list below it.

100.12.249.14 (talk) 00:48, 17 December 2018 (UTC)
 * Images are listed based on certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 04:20, 17 December 2018 (UTC)

Eric Clapton 2018
Hello, Harout72. I want to ask your help of evaluating two sources, and an article from Real Clear life that someone already brought in 2017.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4hlX9ns3j3mMT9PbfTkYWYH/18-reasons-to-feel-cheerful-about-2018

https://nysmusic.com/2018/01/12/eric-clapton-reveals-career-threatening-medical-issues/

These clips were written in 2018, just after someone took an article in 2016 like,

http://www.realclearlife.com/real-estate/eric-clapton-former-california-home-paloma-avenue/#1

Harout72, you have near 500 references. However, in 2017 there was only one source— which was Real Clear Life —for claiming Eric Clapton's estimated sales reached 130 million records. Furthermore, a possible problem of inflation kept us from adding him in this list. Now, I want to read your conclusion whether these sources are available for us, as Eric's certificated sales points near 70 million and it is up to 20% since his charting have stated from mid-1960s.

Thanks for reading it. --222.102.96.175 (talk) 12:53, 15 December 2018 (UTC)
 * The nysmusic.com source which puts Clapton's albums sales at 130 million is useless as it is highly inflated when speaking of album sales only. As for the other source, realclearlife.com/ isn't a source to be used here and it's been discussed before. Overall, the 130 million records claimed for Clapton is still inflated as his worldwide available certified sales stand at 69.7 million. The 69.7 million certified units covers the 130 million by 53%, but it is clearly inflated. We'd need a claimed figure for Clapton that falls somewhere around 100-110 million, at least with his current certified sales. If in the future, he reaches at least 70-75 million with his certified sales, then yes, we can definitely consider the 130 million. As it stands right now, there is a 60 million units of gap between the 130 million and his certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 16:32, 15 December 2018 (UTC)
 * Just found a reliable source in German for Clapton that claims 100 million records, I added him to the list.--Harout72 (talk) 17:15, 15 December 2018 (UTC)

Coldplay Reference
i found few sources

https://www.bustle.com/p/have-coldplay-split-up-chris-martin-has-hinted-it-could-soon-be-the-end-of-the-road-11974887 https://www.radiotimes.com/news/on-demand/2018-11-09/coldplay-a-head-full-of-dreams-a-film-that-reaches-out-to-the-fans/ https://www.msn.com/en-ie/entertainment/music/coldplay-release-music-under-a-new-name/ar-BBQbsNh https://en.festileaks.com/2018/11/coldplay-to-return-in-2019-with-a-new-album/

could be better claimed sales? Esambuu (talk) 00:30, 20 December 2018 (UTC)

Pearl Jam
From what I read Pearl Jam has sold over 85 million so they should be on this list. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 2604:6000:8880:2100:3D47:E863:587B:56C9 (talk) 05:18, 30 December 2018 (UTC)

What's with inflated sales of Madonna?
She sold 275 million records as of 2012 according to Guinness - http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2012/4/madonna-beats-elviss-no1-albums-record-as-mdna-tops-uk-chart

She sold 305.6 million albums only as of 2013 according to Guinness - http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2016/4/record-store-day-as-artists-like-madonna-and-david-bowie-release-exclusive-vinyl-424981

Where did 30.6 million records suddenly come within a year?

She sold 335 million albums and singles only as of 2015 according to Guinness - http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/best-selling-female-recording-artist

Where did 19.4 million records suddenly come in couple of years?

She has 172.9 million certified records only.

Is Guinness inflating her records? — Preceding unsigned comment added by 116.72.226.123 (talk) 07:10, 3 January 2019 (UTC)

Nicky Minaj
Harout, I just thinking that her certified units already near 94m. I want to bring her to 100m club now. It's already too close to 95m like we are talking before. Is it okay?. Thanks Politsi (talk) 19:33, 11 January 2019 (UTC)
 * Let's please wait until she hits the 100 million mark with her certified sales also. These newer artists' certified sales (mainly because of the RIAA) jump forward so quickly and easily due to streaming that it's quite clear that the RIAA should consider raising the bar to 500 streams equivalent to one download. I'm sure Minaj's actual sales are not more than some 60 or maximum 70 million at the moment.--Harout72 (talk) 21:23, 11 January 2019 (UTC)

Simon & Garfunkel are no longer together
Change the 'end' year for Simon & Garfunkel's 'Period active' from 'present' to '1970'. They are no longer an active group. This is supported by the source cited for that piece of information. Smithjeremym (talk) 19:58, 14 January 2019 (UTC)
 * I Changed it to 2004 as they seem to have held they last concert that year.--Harout72 (talk) 20:26, 14 January 2019 (UTC)

Lady Gaga updated sales
Hello Harout72. Lady Gaga is at 114M records sold, but a new source given by her team has the updated numbers: https://events.sap.com/sapandasug/en/concert?url_id=ctabutton-eventsite-billboard-concert-performing-sanow19

According to that, she has sold a total of 33M albums worldwide and 229M units of singles worldwide, wich would take her total units to 262M records sold.

I hope someone can update it, thanks! — Preceding unsigned comment added by 190.16.147.163 (talk) 20:32, 15 January 2019 (UTC)

Korean boy band Big Bang have 140 million confirmed units sold so why are they missing from here?
Big Bang have 140 million sales so I was wondering why they aren't here? I have seen some sources even claim they have sold up to 160 million units. Source: https://twitter.com/k_life88/status/1044448682828070920 --H.M. 1832 (talk) 23:45, 19 January 2019 (UTC) — Preceding unsigned comment added by H.M. 1832 (talk • contribs) 23:33, 19 January 2019 (UTC)


 * 1. Most importantly, you need reliable source (Forbes, Billboard etc). Twitter and other social media platforms are not official.
 * 2. This list based on music certification. Read more at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_music_recording_certifications. Most of Asian countries does not have certification system. In South Korea, they started music certification in January 2019. Esambuu (talk) 08:25, 24 January 2019 (UTC)


 * OK thanks for the info. I did find some more reliable sources here though:
 * 1. Vogue: "With Big Bang, G-Dragon and his bandmates—T.O.P., Taeyang, Seungri, and Daesung—went on to sell more than 140 million records" source: https://www.vogue.com/article/g-dragon-act-3
 * 2. CNN: "The group have surpassed 150 million records sold worldwide." source: https://edition.cnn.com/2017/06/21/sport/big-bang-taeyang-south-korea-pyeongchang-winter-olympics/index.html (look for the caption under the sixth image of the slideshow)
 * 3. Rolling Stone India: "Big Bang are veterans in the K-pop industry with a career spanning more than 10 years and 140 million records sold." source:http://rollingstoneindia.com/10-k-pop-groups-you-need-to-add-to-your-playlist/
 * 4. Variety: "The five-member group is one of the most popular boy bands in the world, with over 140 million records sold" source: https://variety.com/2017/digital/news/bigbang-kpop-youtube-red-reality-show-1202399581/
 * Is this enough or should I send all of my sources?

--H.M. 1832 (talk) 20:30, 24 January 2019 (UTC)

H.M. 1832, I suggest you read The Definitions on the main page where it clearly explains that all artists on the list are required to have certain amount of certified sales based on the first year they've begun charting.--Harout72 (talk) 20:48, 24 January 2019 (UTC)
 * Ok I see, so is there no way for them to make this list? --H.M. 1832 (talk) 21:44, 24 January 2019 (UTC)
 * I'm afraid no, because they need to have certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 22:49, 24 January 2019 (UTC)

Chris Brown
https://www.instagram.com/p/BspXHCpDEde/

https://www.rcarecords.com/news/chris-brown-releases-new-single-video-undecided/

Chris Brown has sold over a 120 records he even confirm this by putting it on his Instagram and also RCA record (his label) confirmed that he sold over 30 million albums WW so can yall changed this because it's incorrect please and thank you

Bhris breezy (talk) 20:29, 17 January 2019 (UTC)
 * Do you have a reliable source from a highly regarded news organization? Politsi (talk) 21:53, 17 January 2019 (UTC)
 * Harout, what do you think if raise Brown's claim sales to 105m. Is it a right time now? Thanks Politsi (talk) 04:33, 20 January 2019 (UTC)
 * Let's wait for him to reach also 105 million with his certified sales, and then we do that.--Harout72 (talk) 13:25, 20 January 2019 (UTC)

But it will be okay if we put him with 100m claim. His certified sales already over 100m. I will bring him to the 100m club. Politsi (talk) 10:18, 25 January 2019 (UTC)

Maroon 5
Harout. I want to bring them with a new claim sales at 136m now. Is it okay?. However I have a source for 100m claim sales for them also. Thanks. Politsi (talk) 10:28, 25 January 2019 (UTC)


 * Wow, i'm surprised. But mostly comes from streaming. Esambuu (talk) 12:54, 25 January 2019 (UTC)
 * 100 million is ok for them, their certified sales are not as streaming generated as new artists' who have begun charting after 2010.--Harout72 (talk) 15:08, 25 January 2019 (UTC)

Shakira
Harout, any update of her certified sales which able to make her entering the list with 75m? https://www.berliner-zeitung.de/die-kolumbianische-saengerin-steckt-viele-millionen-dollar-in-bildungsprojekte---sie-baut-schulen-in-ihrer-heimat-shakiras-kinder-15192896# Thanks. Politsi (talk) 11:40, 25 January 2019 (UTC)
 * Yup, she finally reached her required amount of certified sales. I'll put her on the list either today or tomorrow. Is that the source we use above?--Harout72 (talk) 15:18, 25 January 2019 (UTC)
 * It's the only source so far for her 75m claim. We use it only for temporary and I will change it when the new one come out. That source is a german newspaper. Politsi (talk) 15:40, 25 January 2019 (UTC)
 * Ok, no problem, it's a reliable source.--Harout72 (talk) 15:53, 25 January 2019 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 26 January 2019
Lady Gaga's sales should be moved up to 173 million claimed sales from 114 million sales, due to this article from Billboard in 2016. https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/6836620/lady-gaga-signs-caa 5.43.111.115 (talk) 09:15, 26 January 2019 (UTC)
 * Read The Definitions on the main page where it explains about the requirements of certified sales.--Harout72 (talk) 13:08, 26 January 2019 (UTC)

ABBA to 150m claim
Harout, we already talk about this issue many times. ABBA's claim sales always inflated a lot, even reported by several big news organization like BBC, ABC News, The Telegraph, Times Group. Abba always said by them has sold around 200m-500m. But, it will be end. Today, I was searching by mobilephone and I find a reliable source released in early 2019. The source is The Luxembourg Chronicle, it is an online newspaper published in English in Luxembourg. ABBA's claim sales reported more than 150m by that online news. We are not using the most reliable source here but the best claim sales that near with their certified but still should published by news organization. Once I reach my computer, I will put ABBA with 150m claim. What do you think? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 19:21, 3 February 2019 (UTC)
 * If it's a reliable source, then yes, we can definitely downgrade them as they clearly have not sold more than 150 million based on their available certified sales. Post the source here first though, let us both be in agreement.--Harout72 (talk) 20:00, 3 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Here is the source http://www.chronicle.lu/category/things-to-see-do/27952-abba-tribute-announced-for-river-moselle The Luxembourg Chronicle still hasn't a profile page in wikipedia but it is a reliable source and is one of the english-media in Luxembourg/ https://www.angloinfo.com/how-to/luxembourg/lifestyle/entertainment/english-language-media that type of online news also exactly same like koeln.de that you found for Eric Clapton. Let's use it to put ABBA to 150m claim. But if there is a bigger and better source with same claim sales reported for ABBA, I will change it. Need you help to change it on the list if you agree with me. I'm not in my computer anytime soon. Thanks Politsi (talk) 11:35, 4 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Yes, that source is reliable. We should definitely use that to place them where they always belonged to being with.--Harout72 (talk) 14:11, 4 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Thanks for placing them to 150m club. But I notice that the 100m claim of them still attached. I think we should remove their 100m claim since we already have the best claim sales. I will remove it. Politsi (talk) 16:20, 4 February 2019 (UTC)
 * I temporarily left it there so people seeing ABBA downgraded could also see that there are reports about their sales out there for 100 million.--Harout72 (talk) 16:28, 4 February 2019 (UTC)

Harout, I'm sorry I don't see your explanation in the edit summary. I see the good reason why we should let the 100m claim still attached. I'm using mobilephone now. Need your help to revert my edit, if needed. Thanks Politsi (talk) 16:32, 4 February 2019 (UTC)

Taylor Swift
I've seen the comment another user made about her getting bumped to 200m or above, and I think the source is reliable, but regardless, when you say all of her post-2015 sales are streaming generated, what does that mean exactly? Would it mean her sales would actually be much lower than they show it on that page? Also, when can we expect Taylor getting updated? Thanks. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 5.43.111.115 (talk) 22:05, 5 February 2019 (UTC)

Green Day
Harout, any updated from their certified sales? In case they had enough for 75m claim. Thanks Politsi (talk) 10:53, 7 February 2019 (UTC)
 * They're getting closer. They need another 800,000 certified units. At the moment, their available certified sales are 49 million, once they reach 49.8 million, we can put them on the list.--Harout72 (talk) 14:32, 7 February 2019 (UTC)

Taylor Swift
Harout, Swift's certified sales already pass 200m. Is it possible for her to entering the 200m club in this time? please look at this source https://inews.co.uk/culture/music/taylor-swift-record-deal-contract-big-machine-expires-new-label/ from i (newspaper). Inside, the source saying that Swift is a 200m-records selling artist, but if you look down on the article. It is said, Swift has sold 80m albums and 200m singles. What do you think? We can use this source to put Swift to the 200m club with only 200m claim? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 12:16, 4 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Let's wait for another source also to publish 200 million for her, that doesn't look all that reliable to me. Anyways, we're not in a hurry with Swift, because all her certifications, especially the ones certified after 2015 are streaming generated.--Harout72 (talk) 14:14, 4 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Harout, I found a better source for her 200m claim. It is reliable, and She deserve now to join the 200m club. This source is very reliable https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/gk-current-affairs/story/taylor-swift-quotes-357202-2016-12-13 from India Today. I will put her to the 200m club. Since she is very active artists, her certified sales will raise very quickly. Am I right?. Thanks Politsi (talk) 11:18, 8 February 2019 (UTC)
 * But I will still keep her 175m claim in the list until her certified sales reach at least 210m. Politsi (talk) 11:20, 8 February 2019 (UTC)

Maroon 5
Harout. I want to raise their sales claim to 132m. Since I feel the 101m claim is too low for them and they are very active since 2002 before the streaming era begin. Is it now the right time for them to claim new records sales? They have 112m certified sales. What do you think? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 16:35, 8 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Politsi, you already upgraded their claim from 90 million to 101 million on January 25, 2019. All of their recent certifications are streaming generated. Why should we upgrade their claim from 101 million to 132 million? Their actual sales at the moment should not be more than 80 million.--Harout72 (talk) 18:15, 8 February 2019 (UTC)
 * If most of their current certification are streaming, well then it's okay to hold them at 101m. However, I already have the reliable source for their 132m claim and if their certified sales pass 120m. We should discuss about this again. Politsi (talk) 19:23, 8 February 2019 (UTC)

Coldplay
Recently, Coldplay's german albums sales are updated. Good news. I hope other countries especially US update their certifications in someday.

Harout, i need Coldplay's sales file. Thank you. Esambuu (talk) 06:55, 11 February 2019 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 11 February 2019
Avril Lavigne to be added to the list, with 90 million claimed sales. Source: https://avrillavigne.com/about/. This is the same source the page about Avril's discography noted about her sales. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avril_Lavigne_discography 5.43.89.69 (talk) 13:26, 11 February 2019 (UTC)
 * That's not a third party source, plus she doesn't have enough certified sales for a claim that high.--Harout72 (talk) 14:05, 11 February 2019 (UTC)

New Zealand
Is there any chance to view certificates non-charted albums & singles?. Currently i can see only top 40 from https://nztop40.co.nz Esambuu (talk) 06:42, 21 February 2019 (UTC)

Drake
There are claims that Drake has sold up to 150 million records, isn’t it time to upgrade him to the 150 million records group? Jay el rey (talk) 06:12, 19 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Where is the source? Bring it here. Politsi (talk) 11:35, 19 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Harout, actually I have a reliable source for new sales claim of Drake. It is reportedly he has sold 107m. However, his certified sales are amazing. He will pass Rihanna as the highest certified sales solo artist soon. Exactly with 255m in certified, how much of his best sales claim? What do you think? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 15:15, 19 February 2019 (UTC)

Harout, are you there? I decide to bring Drake to the 100m club with 107m claim. I'm waiting your opinion actually but it seems you are busy. Need your opinion for the best sales claim for Drake. Politsi (talk) 10:34, 21 February 2019 (UTC)
 * I'm sorry Politsi, I hadn't even seen your post. Is it a reliable source? If it is, then yes by all means, he deserves the upgrade.--Harout72 (talk) 14:01, 21 February 2019 (UTC)
 * I already move Drake to 100m club, but I will still searching a better sales claim for him. Because based on his certified sales, he deserve to get at least 150m claim. Politsi (talk) 15:25, 21 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Yes, 150 million is the highest we should consider because Drake's certified sales unlike many other newer artist are unusually streaming generated. It seems like youngsters that listen to Drake's music, somehow avoid buying his downloads instead prefer streaming.--Harout72 (talk) 16:29, 21 February 2019 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 23 February 2019
Pearl Jam meets all your criteria. The band claims 85M+ (And is not known to be braggadocios). Certified in the US alone is 35M. Nycjjames (talk) 20:12, 23 February 2019 (UTC)
 * Red information icon with gradient background.svg Not done for now: please provide a list to their article and reliable sources to support the claim. Thanks, DannyS712 (talk) 20:16, 23 February 2019 (UTC)

Katy Perry
Harout. Is it now the right time to upgrade her sales claim? I need your opinion. There is a reliable source stating Perry sold 140m, but the statement is seems unclear. The Manila Times said, Perry sold 40 million albums and 100 million records. What is that means? 140m in total?. What do you think? Thank. Politsi (talk) 13:27, 27 February 2019 (UTC)
 * 40 million albums and 100 million records? That's a new. 140 million would work for Perry although some of her certified sales are also based on Streaming. But you're right, that statement sounds confusing. I think with the 100 million records they mean all of her records sales combined (both for albums and digital downloads).--Harout72 (talk) 21:08, 27 February 2019 (UTC)
 * I have another reliable source for Perry's new sales claim, in range 143m. But I think we should use it when Perry's certified pass 140m. Politsi (talk) 07:18, 28 February 2019 (UTC)

Paid Website
Several world's prestigious newspaper like The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Times, The Daily Telegraph (premium) now has become a paid website. We must register to see the article and paid for it. I will change several source in the list which using those news website. Politsi (talk) 11:50, 18 March 2019 (UTC)

Ed Sheeran
Harout. I see that Ed's certified sales has pass 155m. I think he deserve to claim 150m sales, however there is no news organization publish it at the time. British Pornographic Industry (BPI) on their website announce that Ed has sold 150m, I think we could use website from BPI for temporary until I found the better one. What do you think? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 11:46, 18 March 2019 (UTC)
 * Are you there? If there's no response I will put Ed to the 150m with source from BPI for temporary. Politsi (talk) 15:59, 18 March 2019 (UTC)
 * No need to rush into upgrading his sales figure as it's the streaming that helps his certified sales go up so quickly.--Harout72 (talk) 21:31, 18 March 2019 (UTC)
 * Harout, I have a reliable source from news organization for Ed's 150m claim. I want to move him up. It's okay I think. What do you think? Thanks Politsi (talk) 19:46, 26 March 2019 (UTC)
 * Let's upgrade his claimed figure when he reaches 160 million with his certified sales, that way the upgrade will somewhat make sense. As it stands now, his actual sales should not be more than 110-120 million.--Harout72 (talk) 20:18, 26 March 2019 (UTC)

Avril Lavigne.
Recently I have been counting Avrils complete certified discography if I'm not mistaken which I could be but at this current count I have done, she has sold 47 million certified records, including singles, Album sales and one dvd live disc, I'm not sure if this is enough to get avril onto the 75 million sales on wiki best selling artists list, I hope it is if so please message me if I am wrong on the certifications or if I'm right, sorry for bothering if this has been a waste of your time. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 2A02:C7F:8E05:CB00:219F:A099:A09:B4ED (talk) 17:54, 30 March 2019 (UTC)
 * Her certified sales are only 37.2 million. She'd need 53.4 million certified units to get on the list with 75 million claim as she's begun charting in 2002.--Harout72 (talk) 15:46, 31 March 2019 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 8 April 2019
Britney Spears' sales to be bumped to 150 million due to: https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/awards/7751608/britney-first-icon-award-2017-radio-disney-music-awards-rdmas ? 5.43.91.111 (talk) 20:51, 8 April 2019 (UTC)
 * Go over The Definitions on the main page.--Harout72 (talk) 21:18, 8 April 2019 (UTC)

Lady Gaga
I found a reputable source, Billboard, claiming (in 2016) she had 173 album and single sales worldwide, which would jump her up the list. This page currently shows only 114. I started checking certified totals by country, the US is up-to-date at 71.5 million, but the UK is now at 21.18 million. Anyone from other countries able to navigate the respective websites to update totals to see if it's within 80% of claimed? I started adding up the current German certifications, but their totals include streaming, is this okay to include? Chrshghs (talk) 21:35, 8 April 2019 (UTC)


 * Please go over The definitions on the main page in order to understand the requirements of the list. Lady Gaga cannot be listed with such inflated claimed figures, even if they come from Billboard or any other well known news outlets. Her certified sales are up to date, see her detailed certified sales here.--Harout72 (talk) 22:15, 8 April 2019 (UTC)

Oasis
Is Oasis eligible for the 75 million range on wiki yet, if not how many more records would they need to sell to get on the list. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 2A02:C7F:8E05:CB00:A5B1:8872:E1A4:8281 (talk) 17:04, 15 April 2019 (UTC)

Spice Girls
Excuse me. how many certificied sales need the spice girls to be added at the list. Because they are the best selling girl group in history and one of the best selling british act of all-time200.8.216.77 (talk) 03:52, 17 April 2019 (UTC)

The Doors
Excuse me. The rock band The Doors have sold 100 million Records worldwide not 80. Look 93.47.218.43 (talk) 09:59, 18 April 2019 (UTC)
 * Chartmasters is not a reliable source. It is a blog and it is not know from where they are taking their numbers from. – Sabbatino (talk) 08:38, 18 April 2019 (UTC)

Miley Cyrus
I was wondering if Miley Cyrus is eligible for the 75 million list on wiki, if you add her sales from Hannah Montana I'm sure there's enough there.2A02:C7F:8E05:CB00:65DE:7DA8:9CAC:6A9E (talk) 19:37, 30 April 2019 (UTC)
 * Please find a reliable source to support your argue. And Cyrus's certified sales perhaps still under requirement for entering the list.Politsi (talk) 00:02, 1 May 2019 (UTC)

Garth Brooks
Harout. Brooks's certified sales has passed 156m, it's make the 160m claim is too low. I will raise him to 170m claim. What do you think? Politsi (talk) 11:48, 6 May 2019 (UTC)
 * Let's do that when he hits 160 million units with his certified sales. Let's keep in mind that the RIAA counts each disc in multi-disc CD sets as one unit towards certification. In other words, if Double CD set sells 500,000 units, the RIAA applies double that amount to certification (1 million units). And Garth Brooks has quite a few multi-disc sets.--Harout72 (talk) 13:05, 6 May 2019 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 2 May 2019
ABBA Paianni (talk) 19:38, 2 May 2019 (UTC)
 * Red question icon with gradient background.svg Not done: it's not clear what changes you want to be made. Please mention the specific changes in a "change X to Y" format and provide a reliable source if appropriate. Note that ABBA is already listed in this article. &#8209;&#8209; El Hef  ( Meep? ) 19:55, 2 May 2019 (UTC)
 * Something went wrong with the request form, it probably didn't like me attempting to include a section of the source code of the article. For the ABBA entry the years active should include 2018-present, as with the article corresponding to the artist. Paianni (talk) 21:14, 2 May 2019 (UTC)
 * There is no a single source provided at ABBA's main page for them being active in 2018-present. Do they have a new material scheduled to be released?--Harout72 (talk) 19:00, 6 May 2019 (UTC)
 * ABBA's main page includes a source for the claim of 'two new songs' being recorded in 2018 (currently citation 16). Paianni (talk) 11:32, 7 May 2019 (UTC)
 * If you wish to continue this discussion, that's fine, but you should not refresh Extended-confirmed-protected tag by turning Yes to No. That's actually disruptive editing as you have people answering replying your request. As for the change you're speaking of, we should make the change when at least one of the songs is released.--Harout72 (talk) 13:05, 7 May 2019 (UTC)
 * My original request went nearly four days without a response until I reactivated it. If I left the answered tag on 'yes' then it would leave no indication that I had received a response I was satisfied with. Paianni (talk) 13:13, 7 May 2019 (UTC)

Quoted sales do not match their reference/citation
The RIAA figures quoted for artists in the total certified units part of the table do not match the actual figures on the RIAA site when you follow the reference (11). The figures in the table are often much higher than on RIAA. For Instance. Queen in the table are 69.5 million but on RIAA site are 35 million. Rihanna is 195.55 million in the table but 22.5 million on RIAA site. It seems to me that the whole table of artists needs adjusting to take into account the real RIAA figures. Wisbottle (talk) 20:47, 8 May 2019 (UTC)
 * Exactly where are you looking at for this information? If you're looking here, then those certified units are for albums alone. It doesn't include singles nor videos. For Queen's detailed certified sales refer to this file, for Rihanna's refer to this. In other words, you need to look here for Queen's RIAA certifications, and for Rihanna, here.--Harout72 (talk) 23:08, 8 May 2019 (UTC)

Britney Spears 120 million claim
Is Britney Spears very near to be added to the 120m club???. 200.8.216.130 (talk) 00:11, 9 June 2019 (UTC)

Bruno Mars certifications
Hello,

At this point, The singer has received new certifications, mainly due to the new singles "Wake Up in The Sky" and "Please Me", in several countries such as the US and UK and even Australia. On top of that, in Switzerland, the sales are wrong as Marry You is taken into consideration as Platinum and it's Gold only. Of course, taking into consideration the original document some user here gave me of his sales.

Kind Regards, MarioSoulTruthFan (talk) 16:11, 21 June 2019 (UTC)
 * The certified sales are updated here at this list on daily bases whenever there are new certifications issued by certifying bodies. For Bruno Mars' detailed certified sales which are included in the list, refer to this document.--Harout72 (talk) 01:57, 22 June 2019 (UTC)

Just for example in the US finesse numbers are incorrect. it's four times platinum and it has 3 million units next to it. Bubble Butt is not there why? MarioSoulTruthFan (talk) 13:32, 22 June 2019 (UTC)
 * The single "Finnesse" is actually 4x Platinum on the document, I had simply forgotten to update the 3,000,000 to 4,000,000 in the 3rd column. The total is updated and correct, however. The single "Bubble Butt" has four artists, therefore, any certifications issued for that will not be included on the list due to too many artists being involved. The details about how the list is operated can be found in The Definitions on the main page.--Harout72 (talk) 17:11, 22 June 2019 (UTC)

Bieber and Sheeran
Harout. I want to raise Bieber's and Sheeran's sales claim to 150m. What do you think? Politsi (talk) 04:48, 23 June 2019 (UTC)
 * It's ok for Sheeran to be listed with 150 million, although his actual sales should not be more than 120 million max. But we should wait for Bieber to reach a similar number with his certified sales, then we'll consider the 150 for him.--Harout72 (talk) 12:28, 23 June 2019 (UTC)

Roberto Carlos (singer)
The brazilian singer was certified recently 140 million sells. Therefore has to be added to the list. Ref. https://brasil.elpais.com/brasil/2019/05/20/cultura/1558364058_525432.amp.html Rodericus Gartzea (talk) 14:37, 26 June 2019 (UTC)

Lady gaga to 120m club
Harout, I think it's time for Gaga go inside 120m club with 124m claim. Is it right? Politsi (talk) 17:12, 5 July 2019 (UTC)
 * Yeah, we can do that, her earlier certifications for singles and even albums are not streaming generated anyways.--Harout72 (talk) 01:24, 6 July 2019 (UTC)

Extended-confirmed-protected edit request on 15 July 2019
85.246.81.169 (talk) 23:14, 15 July 2019 (UTC)

Can you please add the band "Duran Duran" to 100 million sales board ? look at the link down to confirm.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/music/artists/duran-duran-interview/
 * Red information icon with gradient background.svg Not done: Thank you for providing a source. The problem is this page has stricter guidelines about adding an artist to the list: the claimed sales figure (100 million here) needs to also be supported by a more reliable certified unit figure collected from certification databases, as explained at the top of this page. —Nizolan (talk · c.) 01:11, 16 July 2019 (UTC)

Kylie Minogue
Kylie Minogue has sales at 85 Million and she should be added to this list. Matthew1625 (talk) 06:13, 19 July 2019 (UTC)

Green Day
Harout, any updated from them in case they are ready to join the list? thanks https://www.mercurynews.com/2015/04/14/green-days-road-to-the-rock-and-roll-hall-of-fame/ Politsi (talk) 12:09, 29 July 2019 (UTC)
 * Just another 550,000 units left and we can put them up on the list. They are currently at 49,269,000 with their certified sales, they need 49.8 million.--Harout72 (talk) 13:00, 29 July 2019 (UTC)
 * I think it's okay to put them at the list now, since the gap already less than 1 million and the band success already since early 1990s. Politsi (talk) 14:08, 29 July 2019 (UTC)

200m Club
Harout, I noticed that several claim sales of those artists in the 200m club such as Queen, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston already pass 130m. I think we should erase their 170m-175m claim sales and just leave them with 200m sales. What do you think? Thanks. Politsi (talk) 12:17, 7 August 2019 (UTC)
 * We should consider doing that when their certified sales are closer to 170-175 million. As it stands right now, there is still over 30 million units for Mariah Carey's certified sales and her lower claim, and and some 28 million for Queen's certified sales and their lower claim. The gap is even bigger for Whitney Houston and Celine Dion. We can consider removing Queen's lower claim once their certified sales reach 155-160 million.--Harout72 (talk) 13:04, 7 August 2019 (UTC)
 * Okay, and by the way I put Reba Mcentire to 75m club, I think the source for her lower claim is reliable. Politsi (talk) 13:15, 7 August 2019 (UTC)

Andrea Bocelli
Harout, he just released several new records currently. Need your help if he able to get back to the list with 75m. https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-19508008 Thank you Politsi (talk) 12:14, 8 August 2019 (UTC)
 * Actually his certified sales are only 41.4 million units, he'll need 49.8 million certified units to be on the list with 75 million claim.--Harout72 (talk) 13:31, 8 August 2019 (UTC)
 * Okay and by the way I put Katy Perry to 140m club, her certified sales already enough. Politsi (talk) 13:39, 8 August 2019 (UTC)

Taylor Swift's sales are the same as Mariah, Whitney and Celine?
Where does this sales come from? there's no way Taylor has sold that amount, she is local, only in the USA is big. So I think she has hardly sold like 70 millions albums.
 * I'm agree with you, Taylor only big in US. But she is modern artist. So her sales data available more. That's why her claimed sales are higher. Esambuu (talk) 01:38, 12 August 2019 (UTC)