Worldwide Best Selling Albums Ever

by **Edu** » Thu Sep 14, 2006 9:14 pm

under construction

Introduction

This thread would like to be a kind of database of all the information available (both from public sources and from the posters in this forum) regarding this fascinating subject of which albums are the most popular in the history of recorded music and how much they have sold in the last 50 years.

I propose two goals:
The first one will be to build the most complete sales database possible.
The second goal is to build a ordered list of the best-selling albums ever in the world.
In this list, more important than to show the exact sales of each album will be to discover (or calculate) the saleswise position of each album in that list (did a particular album sold less than the album above it and more than the album below it?).
Get the ideia? Obviously we will try to estimate a figure for the sales of each album but its position will be the most important.

This thread will deal with sales in the range 15 million or higher.

The help and collaboration of EVERYBODY will be extremely necessary.

This thread couldn't exist without all the facts, figures and opinions provided by all members of this forum with a special salute to:

AutomaticBR, davidalic, Nelson, MJDangerous, RollingBob, seattleboy, zeus555
(maybe i forgot someone...)

and a big big "THANK YOU" to:

Basil, Dane, jimmypage59, mario and obviously Hanboo without whom this thread would be impossible to make.

*****

The Worldwide Best-Selling Albums Ever
(ordered according to the sales posted in this thread)

WORK IN PROGRESS

Note: the sales total of each album (and its correspondent position on the list) can be altered at any moment as consequence of additional data. More albums will still be added to the list.

Top-97

50,302,000 Thriller Michael Jackson (1982) >>>UPDATED (June 2010)<<<

32,125,000 The Bodyguard Soundtrack (1992)
32,039,000 Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 Eagles (1976)

30,745,000 Come On Over Shania Twain (1997)

29,272,000 Led Zeppelin IV Led Zeppelin (1971)

28,600,000 The Dark Side Of The Moon Pink Floyd (1973) >>>UPDATED (12 May 2009)<<<
28,320,000 Jagged Little Pill Alanis Morissette (1995)

27,060,000 Rumours Fleetwood Mac (1977) >>>UPDATED (10 May 2009)<<<

25,990,000 Back In Black AC/DC (1980)
25,330,000 1 The Beatles (2000)
25,290,000 Saturday Night Fever Soundtrack (1977) >>>UPDATED (7 May 2009)<<<

23,605,000 Supernatural Santana (1999)
23,470,000 Let's Talk About Love Celine Dion (1997)

22,965,000 Titanic Soundtrack (1997)
22,715,000 Grease Soundtrack (1978) >>>UPDATED (7 May 2009)<<<
22,700,000 Falling Into You Celine Dion (1996)
22,469,000 Appetite For Destruction Guns'N'Roses (1987)
22,000,000 Hotel California Eagles (1976) >>>UPDATED (11 May 2009)<<<

21,977,000 Bat Out Of Hell Meat Loaf (1977)
21,610,000 Gold - Greatest Hits ABBA (1992) >>>UPDATED (8 May 2009)<<<

20,680,000 Born In The U.S.A. Bruce Springsteen (1984) >>>UPDATED (8 May 2009)<<<
20,376,000 ...Baby One More Time Britney Spears (1999)
20,302,000 Dirty Dancing Soundtrack (1987)
20,230,000 Bad Michael Jackson (1987) >>>UPDATED (13 May 2009)<<<
20,130,000 The Wall Pink Floyd (1979)

19,757,000 Music Box Mariah Carey (1993)
19,675,000 The Immaculate Collection Madonna (1990)
19,570,000 Millenium Backstreet Boys (1999)
19,467,000 The Marshall Matters LP Eminem (2000)
19,065,000 Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band The Beatles (1967) >>>UPDATED (12 May 2009)<<<
19,030,000 Brothers In Arms Dire Straits (1985)
19,004,000 Legend - The Best Of Bob Marley & The Wailers (1984)

18,988,000 Greatest Hits Queen (1981)
18,917,000 Metallica Metallica (1991)
18,826,000 Come Away With Me Norah Jones (2002)
18,464,000 Simon & Garfunkel's Greatest Hits Simon & Garfunkel (1972)
18,408,000 Spice Spice Girls (1996)
18,110,000 No Jacket Required Phil Collins (1985) >>>UPDATED (9 May 2009)<<<
18,100,000 Boston Boston (1976)
18,080,000 Dangerous Michael Jackson (1991) >>>UPDATED (13 May 2009)<<<

17,665,000 Abbey Road The Beatles (1969) >>>UPDATED (12 May 2009)<<<
17,555,000 A Decade Of Song Celine Dion (1999) >>>UPDATED (9 May 2009)<<<
17,400,000 Greatest Hits Elton John (1974)
17,200,000 Unplugged Eric Clapton (1992)
17,100,000 Cracked Rear View Hootie & The Blowfish (1994)

16,995,000 The Joshua Tree U2 (1987)
16,833,000 Whitney Houston Whitney Houston (1985)
16,700,000 No Fences Garth Brooks (1990)
16,327,000 Daydream Mariah Carey (1995)
16,280,000 Slippery When Wet Bon Jovi (1986) >>>UPDATED (11 May 2009)<<<

15,980,000 Oops!...I Did It Again Britney Spears (2000)
15,965,000 The Eminem Show Eminem (2003)
15,923,000 The Sign / Happy Nation Ace Of Base (1993)
15,919,000 Purple Rain Prince & The Revolution (1984)
15,888,000 Nevermind Nirvana (1991)
15,268,000 Led Zeppelin II Led Zeppelin (1969)
15,245,000 Cross Road Bon Jovi (1994)
15,116,000 True Blue Madonna (1986)
15,083,000 Like A Virgin Madonna (1984)

14,570,000 Ropin' The Wind Garth Brooks (1991)
14,500,000 Can't Slow Down Lionel Richie (1983) >>>UPDATED (9 May 2009)<<<
14,300,000 The Woman In Me Shania Twain (1995)
14,241,000 Romanza Andrea Bocelli (1997)
14,150,000 The Lion King Soundtrack (1994)
14,150,000 Breathless Kenny G (1992)
14,139,000 Hysteria Def Leppard (1987)
14,000,000 Greatest Hits Journey (1988)
14,000,000 Greatest Hits 1974-1978 Steve Miller Band (1978)

13,950,000 Eliminator ZZ Top (1983)
13,864,000 The Beatles 1962-1966 The Beatles (1973)
13,799,000 The Beatles 1967-1970 The Beatles (1973)
13,714,000 ...But Seriously Phil Collins (1989)
13,705,000 Faith George Michael (1987)
13,670,000 Tracy Chapman Tracy Chapman (1988)
13,626,000 Greatest Hits II Queen (1991)
13,570,000 The Colour Of My Love Celine Dion (1993)
13,526,000 The Best Of 1980-1990 U2 (1998)
13,407,000 Whitney Whitney Houston (1987)
13,175,000 Ten Pearl Jam (1991)
13,056,000 The Score The Fugees (1996)

12,979,000 Dookie Green Day (1994)
12,900,000 No Need To Argue The Cranberries (1994)
12,641,000 Bridge Over Troubled Water Simon & Garfunkel (1970)
12,559,000 Please Hammer Don't Hurt'Em MC Hammer (1991)
12,513,000 Acthung Baby U2 (1991)
12,406,000 Ray Of Light Madonna (1998)
12,096,000 (What's The Story) Morning Glory? Oasis (1995)

11,892,000 Ricky Martin Ricky Martin (1999)
11,446,000 HIStory Michael Jackson (1995)
11,156,000 Use Your Illusion II Guns N'Roses (1991)

11,100,000 The Hits Garth Brooks (1994)

10,850,000 Use Your Illusion I Guns N'Roses (1991)
10,822,000 The Beatles (White Album) The Beatles (1968)
10,655,000 #1's Mariah Carey (1998)
10,000,000 Tapestry Carole King (1971)

9,885,000 Off The Wall Michael Jackson (1979)
9,412,000 Wish You Were Here Pink Floyd (1975)

**********

The Worldwide Best-Selling Albums Ever DATABASE
(see following posts)

Key

ALBUM TITLE
(Artist, Year of Release)

IMPORTANT:
the albums are listed in 7 categories, but any album can be moved to other category (either up or down) everytime new information about its sales appears, the category to which an album appears below must be seen generally as provisory, as we find more and more data about sales the albums can change category any time.
I created this categories in order to be more easy to describe all the albums which i believe have reached the minimum sales plateau of 15 MILLION copies sold worldwide necessary to be present in this thread.
In each category the albums are listed in ALPHABETIC order, only later a list will appear in the first post in which the albums will be ordered according to their estimated global sales. Also in the first post will appear a list with the albums ordered by the sales posted below.

1. Albums that have sold 30 MILLION copies or more
(by alphabetic order)

THRILLER (Michael Jackson, 1982)

Posted Sales = 50,302,000

THRILLER , Michael Jackson (1982)

29,000,000 ... USA (29xP , 2009)
4,075,000 ... UK (1)
2,500,000 ... Japan (2)
2,400,000 ... Canada (3) (2xDiamond, 1984)
2,000,000 ... France (4)
1,720,000 ... Mexico (2009)
1,500,000 ... Germany (3xP , 1995)
1,230,000 ... Brazil (5)
1,225,000 ... Italy (6)
1,050,000 ... Australia (15xP , 2009)
800,000 ... Netherlands (8xP , 1996)
600,000 ... Argentina (7) (Diamond, 1999)
420,000 ... Sweden (8) (4xP , 2008)
400,000 ... Austria (8xP , 2008)
395,000 ... Belgium
315,000 ... Switzerland (9) (6xP , 1995)
180,000 ... Denmark (6xP , 2008)
165,000 ... New Zealand
115,000 ... India (2009)
92,000 ... Finland
80,000 ... Portugal
40,000 ... Singapore

Total = 50,302,000

(1) = 3,607,000 (OCC, in Music Week) + 240k (Club Sales) + 230k (T25)
(2) Billboard , 11 July 2009 , page 19
(3) Billboard , 20 December 1986 , page 39
(4) = 1,800,000 (1984) + 200k (T25)
(5) = 1,200,000 (August 2001, Brazilian mag "Época") + 30k (T25)
(6) = 1,190,000 + 35k (T25)
(7) = 577k (1999) + 20k (T25)
(8) = 400k (4xP, 2008) + 20k (T25)
(9) = 300k (6xP , 1995) + 15k (T25)

*****
Career sales of 1.4-million albums in Australia
(1992, Billboard: January 4)
Career sales of 110 million albums worldwide
(1993, Billboard: May 29)

*****
1 (The Beatles, 2000)

Posted Sales = 25,330,000

1 , The Beatles (2000)

11,385,000 ... USA (April 2009, Soundscan)
9,000,000 ... Europe (9xPlatinum, 2008)
2,000,000 ... Japan (2000)
1,060,000 ... Canada (Soundscan, 2001)
700,000 ... Australia (10xP , 2009)
605,000 ... Korea
250,000 ... Brazil (Platinum , 2001)
210,000 ... New Zealand (7xPlatinum)
120,000 ... Argentina (2xPlatinum)

Total = 25,330,000

*****
Falling Into You (Celine Dion, 1996)

Posted Sales = 22,700,000

FALLING INTO YOU , Celine Dion (1996)

11,770,000 ... USA (1)
7,000,000 ... Europe (7xPlatinum, 1997)
1,400,000 ... Canada (2)
1,000,000 ... Japan (3) (1xMillion, 1996)
840,000 ... Australia (12xPlatinum, 1997)
420,000 ... South Africa (4)(1999)
180,000 ... New Zealand
90,000 ... Argentina 90,000

Total = 22,700,000

(1) 10,780,000 (2009, Soundscan) + 990,000 (BMG club sales)
(2) 1997, Billboard: March 22
(3) ORICON sales = 710,000
(4) Billboard

*****

17 million worldwide (with 1.3-million in Canada)
(1997, Billboard: January 18)
27 million worldwide (1999, Billboard: November 6)
30 million worldwide (2002, Billboard: January 26)

*****
Let's Talk About Love (Celine Dion, 1997)

Posted Sales = 23,470,000

Code: Select all: LET'S TALK ABOUT LOVE , Celine Dion (1997) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 10,535,000 Europe (*) 9,000,000 (1998) Canada (2) 1,700,000 (1998) Japan 1,030,000 Taiwan (3) 500,000 Australia 420,000 (1998) Argentina 150,000 New Zealand 135,000 >>> 23,470,000 = Posted sales (1) 9,425,000 (2006, Soundscan) + 1,110,000 (BMG club sales) (2) 1998, Billboard: December 26 (3) 1998, Billboard: October 24 (*) sales in UK= 1,984,000 (2006, OCC) ***** 12 million worldwide (Billboard, February 1998) 24 million worldwide with 8 million in US (1998, Billboard: October 17) 27 million worldwide (1999, Billboard: November 6) Career sales of 110 million albums worldwide, including almost 9 million in Canada (Billboard, January 2000) Career sales approaching 130 million albums worldwide (Billboard, January 2002) 30 million worldwide (2002, Billboard: January 26) 150 million albums worldwide (2003, Billboard: March 22)

*****
THEIR GREATEST HITS 1971-1975 (Eagles, 1976)

Posted Sales = 32,039,000

Code: Select all: THEIR GREATEST HITS 1971-1975 , Eagles (1976) Confirmed Estimated USA 29,000,000 (2006) Canada 2,000,000 (1997) Australia 490,000 (1996) UK 360,000 (1977) New Zealand 165,000 Japan 24,000 >>> 32,039,000 = Posted sales

*****
Rumours (Fleetwood Mac, 1977)

Posted Sales = 27,060,000

RUMOURS , Fleetwood Mac (1977)

19,000,000 ... USA (19xPlatinum, 2003)
3,300,000 ... UK (11xPlatinum, 2004)
2,000,000 ... Canada (2xDiamond, 1995)
1,250,000 ... Germany (5xGold, 2006)
840,000 ... Australia (12xPlatinum, 2001)
300,000 ... France (Platinum, 2001)
165,000 ... Netherlands (1)
105,000 ... New Zealand
100,000 ... Japan (Gold) (2)
Gold ... Belgium (2)

Total = 27,060,000

(1) Billboard 21-Jan-78 page 116
(2) Billboard 25-Feb-78 page SW-15

*****
Led Zeppelin IV (Led Zeppelin, 1971)

Posted Sales = 29,272,000

LED ZEPPELIN IV , Led Zeppelin (1971)

23,000,000 ... USA (RIAA, 2003)
2,000,000 ... Canada (2xDiamond , 1995)
1,800,000 ... UK (6xP , 2007)
750,000 ... Germany (3xG , 2003)
600,000 ... France (2xP , 2001)
560,000 ... Australia (8xP , 2004)
147,000 ... Japan
105,000 ... New Zealand
100,000 ... Spain (Platinum , 2000)
100,000 ... Netherlands (Platinum , 2006)
60,000 ... Argentina (Platinum)
50,000 ... Switzerland (Platinum , 1997)

Total = 29,272,000

*****
BAT OUT OF HELL (Meat Loaf, 1977)

Posted Sales = 21,977,000

Code: Select all: BAT OUT OF HELL , Meat Loaf (1977) Confirmed Estimated USA 14,000,000 (2001) UK 2,837,000 (2006) Canada 2,000,000 (1995) Australia 1,610,000 (2007) Netherlands (1) 750,000 (2006) Germany 500,000 (1983) New Zealand 255,000 Switzerland 25,000 (1994) >>> 21,977,000 = Posted sales (1) Universal Music Nederland (http://www.universalmusic.nl/p-detail.php?pid=0602517121003) ***** 28-million worldwide (Soundscan sales in US: 1.1-million CDs and 1.5-million cassettes sold since 1991 for a total of 2.6-million) (1995, Billboard: October 7) 35 million worldwide (1996, Billboard: June 29)

*****
Jagged Little Pill (Alanis Morissette, 1995)

Posted Sales = 28,320,000

Code: Select all: JAGGED LITTLE PILL , Alanis Morissette (1995) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 17,355,000 (2007) Europe (2) 7,000,000 (2002) Canada (3) 2,100,000 (1997) Australia 980,000 (1998) Brazil 500,000 (2005) New Zealand 210,000 Argentina 120,000 Japan 55,000 >>> 28,320,000 = Posted sales (1) 16,000,000 (1998, RIAA) + 1,355,000 (1999-2007, Soundscan) (2) UK= 3,000,000 (2002, BPI) ; Italy= 500,000 (1997, Billboard: June 14) (3) 1997, Billboard: January 18 ***** 23-million worldwide (with 2.1-million in Canada) (1997, Billboard: January 18) 28-million worldwide (1998, Billboard: October 3) 30-million worldwide (2004, Billboard: May 8)

*****
THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON (Pink Floyd, 1973)

Posted Sales = 28,600,000

THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON , Pink Floyd (1973)

Confirmed Estimated

19,800,000 ... USA (1)
3,925,000 ... UK (2008, OCC)
2,000,000 ... Canada (2xDiamond, 2003)
1,000,000 ... Germany (2xPlatinum, 1993)
770,000 ... Australia (11xPlatinum, 1993)
400,000 ... France (Platinum, 1980)
240,000 ... Argentina (4xPlatinum)
240,000 ... New Zealand (16xPlatinum)
125,000 ... Japan
100,000 ... Austria (2xPlatinum, 1993)

Total = 28,600,000 = Posted sales

(1) 11,000,000 (19xPlatinum, 1990) + 8,800,000 (April 2009, Soundscan)

*****
THE BODYGUARD (Soundtrack, 1992)

Posted Sales = 32,125,000

Code: Select all: THE BODYGUARD , Soundtrack (1992) Confirmed Estimated 17,000,000 USA (17xPlatinum, 1999) 2,800,000 Japan (1) 2,140,000 UK (2006, OCC) 1,700,000 Germany (2) 1,000,000 Canada (Diamond, 1993) France 1,000,000 (1993) South Korea (3) 1,000,000 (1993) Italy 800,000 (1993) Brazil 750,000 (2004) Spain 600,000 Mexico (4) 500,000 (1994) Netherlands 400,000 (1993) Australia 350,000 (1993) Sweden 340,000 (1993) Indonesia 320,000 (1993) Switzerland 300,000 (1995) Taiwan 300,000 (1993) Argentina 300,000 Austria 200,000 (2002) Denmark 160,000 (1993) South Africa (5) 110,000 (1993) Finland 57,000 >>> 32,125,000 = Posted sales (1) Billboard 23-Jan-99 , page 49 (2) Billboard 13-May-2000 (3) 1993, Billboard: August 21 (4) 1994, Billboard: November 26 (5) 1993, Billboard: february 21 ***** 16 million worldwide, with 9-million outside US (1993, Billboard: February 27) 21-million worldwide (1993, Billboard: July 10) 28-million worldwide (1994, Billboard: July 23) "The Bodyguard" becomes the best-selling English-speaking album ever in Mexico, with 500,000 sales (1994, Billboard: November 26) 20-million sales outside US (2000, Billboard: May 13)

*****
GREASE (Soundtrack, 1978)

Posted Sales = 22,715,000

GREASE , Soundtrack (1978)

Confirmed Estimated

14,720,000 USA (1)
2,375,000 UK (2006, OCC)
1,750,000 Germany (2)
1,000,000 Canada (Diamond, 1978)
850,000 Netherlands (3)
770,000 Australia (11xPlatinum, 1991)
440,000 Japan (Oricon)
300,000 Spain (3xplatinum, 1991)
200,000 Belgium (4)
160,000 New Zealand (5)
150,000 Sweden (6)

Total = 22,715,000

(1) 8,000,000 (1984, RIAA)
+ 5,820,000 (April 2009, Soundscan) + 900,000 (BMG Record Club)
(2) Billboard 8-Dez-79 , page G-10
(3) Billboard 8-Sep-79 , page ABBA-14
(4) Billboard 2-Dec-78
(5) Billboard 10-Mar-79 , page 78
(6) Billboard 20-Jan-79 , page 106

*****
28 million worldwide (1997, Billboard: March 1 and February 10)

*****
SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER (Soundtrack, 1977)

Posted Sales = 25,290,000

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER , Soundtrack (1977)

15,000,000 USA (15xPlatinum , 1999)
2,150,000 UK (2006, OCC)
1,750,000 Germany (1)
1,300,000 Canada (2)
1,000,000 France (3)
800,000 Mexico (4)
770,000 Australia
700,000 Japan (5)
650,000 Netherlands (6)
250,000 Belgium (7)
250,000 India (8)
250,000 New Zealand (9)
150,000 Sweden (10)
150,000 Southeast Asia (11)
120,000 Greece (12)

Total = 25,290,000

(1) Billboard 8-Dez-79 , page G-10
(2) Billboard 19-Aug-78 , page 64
(3) Billboard 2-Sep-78
(4) Billboard 3-Nov-79 , page LA-46
(5) Billboard 26-May-79 , page J-6
(6) Billboard 8-Sep-79 , page ABBA-14
(7) Billboard 2-Dec-78
(8) Billboard 18-Jul-81 , page 70
(9) Billboard 17-Mar-79 , page SA-4
(10) Billboard 20-Jan-79 , page 106
(11) Billboard 6-Jan-79 , page 63
(12) Billboard 19-Sep-81 , page 74

*****
COME ON OVER (Shania Twain, 1997)

Posted Sales = 30,745,000

COME ON OVER , Shania Twain (1997)

Confirmed Estimated

20,000,000 USA (20xPlatinum, 2004)
7,000,000 Europe (7xPlatinum, 2001)
2,000,000 Canada (2xDiamond, 2000)
1,050,000 Australia (15xPlatinum, 2000)
300,000 New Zealand (20xPlatinum)
240,000 Argentina (4xPlatinum)
125,000 Brazil (Gold, 1999)
30,000 Japan

Total = 30,745,000

*****
18 million worldwide (1999, Billboard, October 9)
26 million worldwide (2000, Billboard, March 16)
34 million worldwide
(2002, Universal: http://new.umusic.com/News.aspx?NewsId=128)

by **Edu** » Thu Sep 14, 2006 9:15 pm

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

5. Albums that probably have sold around 25 MILLION or more

GOLD - GREATEST HITS (ABBA, 1992)

Posted Sales = 21,610,000

GOLD - GREATEST HITS , ABBA (1992)

7,815,000 ... US (1)
4,580,000 ... UK (OCC, Apr-2009)
2,500,000 ... Germany (10xGold , 2008)
1,000,000 ... Canada (Diamond , 2000)
1,000,000 ... France (Diamond , 1996)
770,000 ... Australia (11xP , 1999)
750,000 ... Japan (3xPlatinum, Feb-2009)
500,000 ... Spain (5xPlatinum , 2000)
500,000 ... Switzerland (10xPlatinum , 2008)
500,000 ... Sweden (5xPlatinum , 1999)
300,000 ... Belgium (6xPlatinum)
250,000 ... Mexico (Platinum, 2000)
240,000 ... New Zealand (16xPlatinum, 2008)
180,000 ... Argentina (3xPlatinum)
170,000 ... Norway (1993)
150,000 ... Austria (3xPlatinum , 1994)
140,000 ... Finland
125,000 ... Brazil (Gold , 1994)
100,000 ... Netherlands (Platinum , 1992)
40,000 ... Chile (2)

Total = 21,610,000

(1) 6,000,000 (2002, RIAA) + 1,715,000 (Feb-2003 through Apr-2009)
(2) 2000, Billboard: April 29

NOTES:
1 - In the Netherlands the compilation "25 Jaar na Waterloo" replaced "Gold" (both have similar track list) as ABBA best selling compilation in the country, with sales that can be as high as 500,000.
2 - In Japan the 2001 collection "S.O.S. - The Best of ABBA" sold 566,000 copies.

*****
10 million worldwide (1997, Billboard, November)
20 million worldwide (2001, Billboard: February 3)

*****
BACK IN BLACK (AC/DC, 1980)

Posted Sales = 25,990,000

Code: Select all: BACK IN BLACK , AC/DC (1980) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 22,000,000 (2007) Canada 1,000,000 (1989) Germany 1,000,000 (2003) Australia 900,000 France 600,000 (2001) Argentina 150,000 UK 100,000 (1980) Switzerland 100,000 (1996) New Zealand 90,000 Austria 50,000 (1991) >>> 25,990,000 = Posted sales ***** Career sales of 80-million albums worldwide, with 30-million outside USA (including 4.5-million in Australia) (1995, Billboard: October 21)

*****
MUSIC BOX (Mariah Carey, 1993)

Posted Sales = 19,757,000

Code: Select all: MUSIC BOX , Mariah Carey (1993) Confirmed Estimated USA 10,000,000 (1997) Japan (1) 2,030,000 (1996) UK 1,500,000 (1994) Germany 1,000,000 (1994) France 1,000,000 (1995) Australia 770,000 (1994) Canada 700,000 (1996) Netherlands 600,000 (1996) South Korea (2) 600,000 (1994) Spain 400,000 (1994) Taiwan (2) 320,000 (1994) Switzerland 200,000 (1994) Brazil 125,000 (1994) Singapore (2) 110,000 (1994) Sweden 100,000 (1994) Austria 100,000 (1995) Hong Kong (2) 80,000 (1994) New Zealand 75,000 Finland 47,000 >>> 19,757,000 = Posted sales (1) 1996, Billboard: January 27 (2) 1994, Billboard: July 30 ***** About 20 million worldwide (1994, Billboard: November 26) 23 million worldwide (1995, Billboard: September 9) 13.5 million outside USA (1996, Billboard: September 7) 80 million albums+singles sold worldwide (1996, Billboard: September 7)

*****
BROTHERS IN ARMS (Dire Straits, 1985)

Posted Sales = 19,030,000

Code: Select all: BROTHERS IN ARMS , Dire Straits (1985) Confirmed Estimated USA 9,000,000 (1996) UK 3,957,000 (2006) Canada 1,000,000 (1986) France 1,000,000 (1994) Australia 980,000 Brazil* 850,000 Germany 500,000 (1985) Netherlands 400,000 (1988) New Zealand 360,000 Switzerland 300,000 (1994) Spain 300,000 (1987) Austria 200,000 (1994) Finland 115,000 Japan 38,000 Argentina 30,000 >>> 19,030,000 = Posted sales ***** Career sales of 85 million albums worldwide (1996, Billboard, May 18)

*****
BAD (Michael Jackson, 1987)

Posted Sales = 20,230,000

BAD , Michael Jackson (1987)

8,000,000 ... USA (8xPlatinum, 1994)
4,170,000 ... UK (1)
2,000,000 ... Germany (4xPlatinum, 1995)
1,280,000 ... Italy
1,000,000 ... France (Diamond, 1989)
700,000 ... Canada (7xPlatinum, 1988)
700,000 ... Brazil (2)
630,000 ... Japan (Oricon)
420,000 ... Australia (6xPlatinum, 1996)
300,000 ... Spain (3xPlatinum, 1988)
250,000 ... Switzerland (5xPlatinum)
200,000 ... Sweden (1988)
200,000 ... Austria (1995)
120,000 ... New Zealand (8xPlatinum)
100,000 ... Netherlands (Platinum, 1987)
60,000 ... Argentina (Platinum)
50,000 ... Finland
50,000 ... Singapore
Gold ... Thailand (1993)

Total = 20,230,000 = Posted sales

(1) 3,900,000 (1992) + 272,000 (Music Week, 1994-2004)
(2) 2001, Brazilian magazine "Epoca": August 27

*****
DANGEROUS (Michael Jackson, 1991)

Posted Sales = 18,080,000

DANGEROUS , Michael Jackson (1987)

7,000,000 ... USA (7xPlatinum, 2000)
2,000,000 ... Germany (4xPlatinum, 1993)
1,985,000 ... UK (2006, OCC)
1,000,000 ... France (Diamond, 1992)
790,000 ... Italy
630,000 ... Australia (9xPlatinum, 1996)
600,000 ... Canada (6xPlatinum, 1993)
600,000 ... Spain (6xPlatinum, 1993)
500,000 ... Southeast Asia (1
500,000 ... Mexico (2xPlatinum, 1993) 83)
450,000 ... Brazil (1)
430,000 ... Japan (Oricon)
300,000 ... Netherlands (3xPlatinum, 1996)
300,000 ... Sweden (2)(1992)
250,000 ... Switzerland (5xPlatinum, 1995)
200,000 ... Austria (1997)
190,000 ... Singapore
180,000 ... Malasya (1993)
75,000 ... New Zealand (5xPlatinum)
60,000 ... Finland
40,000 ... Hungary
2xPlatinum ... Thailand (1993)

Total = 18,080,000

(1) 1993, Billboard: May 15
(2) 2001, Brazilian magazine "Epoca": August 27
*****
7 million outside USA (1992, Billboard: June 6)
11 million outside USA (1992, Billboard: December 26)
22 million worldwide (1995, Billboard: May 20)

*****
THE WALL (Pink Floyd, 1979)

Posted Sales = 20,430,000

THE WALL , Pink Floyd (1979)

Confirmed Estimated

USA (1) 13,505,000 (1996)
Canada 2,000,000 (1995)
Germany 2,000,000 (1995)
France 1,000,000 (1991)
UK (2) 920,000
Australia 420,000 (1991)
New Zealand 210,000
Netherlands 100,000 (1979)
Greece 100,000 (BB, 18 Sep 1981, p74)
Argentina 90,000
Japan 85,000

>>> 20,430,000 = Posted sales

(1) 8,000,000 (RIAA, 1991) + 5,505,000 (1991-2009, Soundscan)
(2) 300,000 (1979) + 620,000 (1992-2006) = 920,000

*****
SUPERNATURAL (Santana, 1999)

Posted Sales = 23,605,000

Code: Select all: SUPERNATURAL , Santana (1999) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 15,254,000 (2005) Europe 6,000,000 (2001) Canada 1,000,000 (2000) Mexico 300,000 (2000) Australia 280,000 (2000) Brazil 250,000 (2004) Argentina 150,000 Korea 157,000 Japan 154,000 New Zealand 60,000 >>> 23,605,000 = Posted sales (1) 15,000,000 (2003) + 254,000 (2004-2005, Soundscan)

*****
TITANIC (Soundtrack, 1997)

Posted Sales = 22,965,000

Code: Select all: TITANIC , Soundtrack (1997) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 11,047,000 (2005) Europe 5,000,000 (1998) Asia (2) 4,000,000 (1998) Japan 1,418,000 Canada 1,000,000 (1998) Australia 350,000 (1998) Argentina 90,000 New Zealand 60,000 >>> 22,965,000 = Posted sales (1) 10,096,000 (2005, Soundscan) + 971,000 (BMG) (2) including 1.2-million in Taiwan and 1-million in China, sales in Japan not included (1998, Billboard: June 20 and October 24) ***** More than 9.2 million worldwide (Billboard, February 1998) Nearly 25 million worldwide (1998, Billboard: July 25)

by **Edu** » Thu Sep 14, 2006 9:18 pm

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

6. Albums that probably have sold around 20 MILLION or more

THE SIGN / HAPPY NATION (Ace Of Base, 1993)

Posted Sales = 15,923,000

Code: Select all: THE SIGN / HAPPY NATION , Ace Of Base (1993) Confirmed Estimated USA 9,000,000 (1996) Canada (1) 1,750,000 (1994) Germany 1,500,000 (1994) France 1,000,000 (1994) Japan (2) 1,000,000 UK 600,000 (1994) Mexico (3) 300,000 (1994) Brazil 250,000 (1995) Netherlands 200,000 (1994) Spain 100,000 (1994) Switzerland 100,000 (1994) Finland 83,000 Austria 25,000 (1994) New Zealand 15,000 South Africa Platinum (4) >>> 15,923,000 = Posted sales (1) 1994, Billboard: July 23 (2) 800,000 (1996, Billboard: September 7) (3) 1994, Billboard: November 26 (4) Billboard, 6-Apr-96 ***** 19 million worldwide (1995, Billboard: October 28) 21 million worldwide (1998, Billboard: May 30)

*****
MILLENIUM (Backstreet Boys, 1999)

Posted Sales = 19,570,000

Code: Select all: MILLENIUM , Backstreet Boys (1999) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 13,687,000 Europe 2,000,000 (1999) Canada 1,000,000 (1999) Japan (2) 1,000,000 (2000) Mexico 675,000 (2000) Brazil 500,000 (1999) Korea 215,000 Australia 210,000 (2000) Argentina 180,000 Chile (3) 58,000 (2000) New Zealand (4) 45,000 (2000) >>> 19,570,000 = Posted sales (1) 12,097,000 (2007, Soundscan) + 1,590,000 (BMG) (2) 2000, Billboard: August 5 (3) 2000, Billboard: February 19 (4) 2000, Billboard: May 13 ***** Their 1996 self-titled debut album, not released in US, sold 7.5-million copies worldwide; the non-US follow-up "Backstreet's Back" and the US-only "Backstreet Boys" sold together 22-million; "Millenium" stands currently at 14.5-million worldwide; (total worldwide sales= 44-million) (1999, Billboard: October 30) "The Hits - Chapter One" sold 5-million worldwide (2002, Billboard: February 16) 73-million albums sold worldwide (2005, Billboard: June 4)

*****
SGT. PEPPERS LONELY HEARTS CLUB BAND (The Beatles, 1967)

Posted Sales = 19,065,000

SGT. PEPPERS LONELY HEARTS CLUB BAND , The Beatles (1967)

11,875,000 ... USA (1)
5,195,000 ... UK (2)
800,000 ... Canada (8xPlatinum, 1995)
500,000 ... Germany (Platinum, 1993)
250,000 ... Brazil (Platinum, 1997)
190,000 ... Japan
180,000 ... Argentina (3xPlatinum)
75,000 ... New Zealand (5xPlatinum)

Total = 19,065,000 = Posted sales

(1) 11,000,000 (11xPlatinum, 1997) + 875,000 (Soundscan, imcomplete data, 2003-2009)
(2) 4,910,000 (April 2009, OCC) + 285,000
(Club sales, June 1992 - September 2005)

*****
ABBEY ROAD (The Beatles, 1969)

Posted Sales = 17,665,000

ABBEY ROAD , The Beatles (1969)

13,025,000 ... USA (1)
2,030,000 ... UK (2)
1,000,000 ... Canada (Diamond, 1995)
610,000 ... Japan
500,000 ... Germany (Platinum, 1993)
500,000 ... Argentina (Diamond, 1999)

Total = 17,665,000 = Posted sales

(1) 12,000,000 (12xPlatinum, 2001) + 1,025,000 (Soundscam, incomplete data, 2003-2009)
(2) 1,930,000 (2006, OCC) + 100,000 (Club sales, 1993-2005)

*****
SLIPPERY WHEN WET (Bon Jovi, 1986)

Posted Sales = 16,280,000

SLIPPERY WHEN WET , Bon Jovi (1986)

13,010,000 ... USA (1)
1,000,000 ... Canada (Diamond, 1987)
900,000 ... UK (3xPlatinum, 1993)
500,000 ... Germany (Platinum, 1992)
420,000 ... Australia (6xPlatinum, 1993)
150,000 ... Switzerland (3xPlatinum, 1995)
125,000 ... Japan
105,000 ... New Zealand (7xPlatinum)
70,000 ... Finland

Total = 16,280,000

(1) 12,000,000 (12xPlatinum, 1995) + 1,010,000 (Soundscan, imcomplete data, 2003-2009)

*****
NO JACKET REQUIRED (Phil Collins, 1985)

Posted Sales = 18,110,000

NO JACKET REQUIRED , Phil Collins (1985)

12,000,000 ... USA (12xPlatinum, 2001)
1,935,000 ... UK (2006, OCC)
1,500,000 ... Germany (3xPlatinum, 2005)
1,000,000 ... Canada (Canada, 1986)
600,000 ... France (2xPlatinum, 1993)
300,000 ... Australia (1)
220,000 ... Japan
180,000 ... Argentina (3xPlatinum)
120,000 ... New Zealand (8xPlatinum)
100,000 ... Netherlands (Platinum, 1996)
100,000 ... Switzerland (2xPlatinum, 1989)
35,000 ... Finland
20,000 ... Austria (Gold, 1993)

Total = 18,110,000

(1) Billboard, 15-Nov-86 page A-6

*****
HOTEL CALIFORNIA (Eagles, 1976)

Posted Sales = 22,000,000

HOTEL CALIFORNIA , Eagles (1976)

Confirmed Estimated

16,000,000 ... USA (16xPlatinum, 2001)
1,500,000 ... UK (5xPlatinum, 2004)
1,000,000 ... Canada (Diamond, 1988)
1,000,000 ... France (Diamond, 1993)
560,000 ... Australia (8xPlatinum, 1996)
500,000 ... Germany (Platinum, 1986)
575,000 ... Japan
400,000 ... Spain (4xPlatinum, 2001)
275,000 ... Netherlands (1)
135,000 ... New Zealand (9xPlatinum)
30,000 ... Finland
25,000 ... Austria (Gold, 1991)

Total = 22,000,000

(1) Billboard, 21-Jan-78 page 116

*****
THE MARSHALL MATTERS LP (Eminem, 2000)

Posted Sales = 19,467,000

Code: Select all: THE MARSHALL MATTERS LP , Eminem (2000) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 11,610,000 (2007) Europe 6,000,000 (2007) Canada 800,000 (2001) Australia 280,000 (2003) Brazil 250,000 (2001) Mexico 150,000 (2001) Japan 120,000 Korea 107,000 New Zealand 90,000 Argentina 60,000 >>> 19,467,000 = Posted sales (1) 10,070,000 (2007, Soundscan) + 1,540,000 (2000-2003, BMG Record Club) ***** 16-million sold worldwide (2002, Billboard: February 16)

*****
APPETITE FOR DESTRUCTION (Guns N'Roses, 1987)

Posted Sales = 22,469,000

Code: Select all: APPETITE FOR DESTRUCTION , Guns'n'Roses (1987) Confirmed Estimated USA 18,000,000 (2008) UK 1,945,000 (2006) Canada 1,000,000 (1992) Germany 500,000 (1992) Brazil 250,000 (1996) Argentina 210,000 New Zealand 135,000 Netherlands 100,000 (1996) Austria 100,000 (1998) Mexico 100,000 (1999) Australia 70,000 Japan 34,000 Finland 25,000 >>> 22,469,000 = Posted sales

*****
WHITNEY HOUSTON (Whitney Houston, 1985)

Posted Sales = 16,833,000

Code: Select all: WHITNEY HOUSTON , Whitney Houston (1985) Confirmed Estimated USA 13,000,000 (1999) UK 1,200,000 (1989) Canada 1,000,000 (1987) Japan 559,000 Germany 500,000 (1986) Australia 280,000 France 100,000 (1986) Netherlands 100,000 (1986) Austria 50,000 (1992) Finland 29,000 New Zealand 15,000 >>> 16,833,000 = Posted sales

*****
GREATEST HITS (Elton John, 1974)

Posted Sales = 17,400,000

Code: Select all: GREATEST HITS , Elton John (1974) Confirmed Estimated USA 16,000,000 (2003) Canada 1,000,000 (1988) UK 300,000 (1975) France 100,000 (1979) >>> 17,400,000 = Posted sales

*****
COME AWAY WITH ME (Norah Jones, 2002)

Posted Sales = 18,826,000

Code: Select all: COME AWAY WITH ME , Norah Jones (2002) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 10,311,000 (2003) Europe 6,000,000 (2004) Canada 1,000,000 (2007) Australia 630,000 (2004) Japan 353,000 New Zealand 180,000 Argentina 150,000 Brazil 125,000 (2003) Korea 77,000 >>> 18,826,000 = Posted sales (1) 10,000,000 (2005, RIAA) + 311,000 (2006, Soundscan) ***** From "EMI Annual Report": March 2003 = 11.8 million worldwide March 2004 = 17.5 million worldwide March 2005 = 19.3 million worldwide

*****
TRUE BLUE (Madonna, 1986)

Posted Sales = 15,116,000

Code: Select all: TRUE BLUE , Madonna (1986) Confirmed Estimated USA 7,000,000 (1995) UK 2,100,000 (1992) Italy 1,300,000 Canada 1,000,000 (1987) Germany 1,000,000 (1987) France 1,000,000 (2001) Japan 707,000 Spain 300,000 (1987) Argentina 300,000 Australia 280,000 (1996) New Zealand 75,000 Finland 54,000 >>> 15,116,000 = Posted sales

*****
THE IMMACULATE COLLECTION (Madonna, 1990)

Posted Sales = 19,675,000

Code: Select all: THE IMMACULATE COLLECTION , Madonna (1990) Confirmed Estimated USA 10,000,000 (2001) UK (1) 3,927,000 France 1,000,000 (2005) Japan 1,000,000 (1990) Australia 770,000 (1999) Germany 750,000 (2007) Canada 700,000 (2003) Brazil 500,000 (1998) Spain 300,000 (2003) Netherlands 300,000 Argentina 180,000 New zealand 105,000 Finland 93,000 Austria 50,000 (2000) >>> 19,675,000 = Posted sales (1) 3,402,000 (2006, OCC) + 525,000 (Club sales 1990-2002)

*****
LEGEND (Bob Marley and The Wailers, 1984)

Posted Sales = 19,004,000

Code: Select all: LEGEND , Bob Marley & The Wailers (1984) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 13,566,000 (2006) UK 2,521,000 (2006) France 1,000,000 (1995) Germany 500,000 (1992) Australia 280,000 New Zealand 270,000 Argentina 240,000 Canada 200,000 (1989) Switzerland 200,000 (1999) Netherlands 100,000 (1986) Austria 100,000 (1993) Finland 37,000 >>> 19,004,000 = Posted sales (1) 10,000,000 (1999, RIAA) + 3,566,000 (2000-2006, Soundscan) ***** 10 million worldwide (1994, Billboard, February 5) 15 million worldwide (9xPlatinum in US)(1996, Billboard, November 26)

*****
METALLICA (Metallica, 1991)

Posted Sales = 18,917,000

Code: Select all: METALLICA , Metallica (1991) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 15,042,000 (2007) Canada 1,000,000 (1998) Australia 560,000 (2007) Germany 500,000 (1992) UK 300,000 (1993) France 300,000 (1994) Argentina 270,000 Mexico (2) 210,000 (1994) Netherlands 200,000 (1996) Japan 127,000 New Zealand 120,000 Switzerland 100,000 (1995) Austria 100,000 (2000) Finland 88,000 >>> 18,917,000 = Posted sales (2) 1994, Billboard: November 26 ***** 5.2 million outside US (1996, Billboard, May 25)

*****
GREATEST HITS (Queen, 1981)

Posted Sales = 18,988,000

Code: Select all: GREATEST HITS , Queen (1981) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 8,464,000 (2006) UK (2) 4,864,000 (2004) Germany 1,500,000 (1993) Australia (3) 980,000 (2007) Canada (4) 700,000 Korea 563,000 Argentina 390,000 Brazil 250,000 (1999) Netherlands (5) 242,000 (2003) Switzerland 200,000 (1993) Austria 200,000 (2000) Spain (6) 183,000 (2004) New Zealand 150,000 Japan 147,000 Denmark 100,000 Finland 55,000 >>> 18,988,000 = Posted sales (1) Combined sales of the 1981 and 1992 (different) versions ; 7,000,000 (2002, RIAA) + 1,464,000 (Soundscan: 2003-2006) (2) UK= 3,300,000 (1992, BPI) + 1,419,000 (1993-2004 + 2006) (3) sales since 1984 australia (4) sales since 1992 (5) CD sales (6) sales since 1985 ***** GREATEST HITS I & II , Queen Confirmed Estimated USA 886,000 (2007) Germany 250,000 (1996) Spain 198,000 (2004) Netherlands 120,000 France 100,000 (1994) New Zealand 66,000 Japan 33,000 >>> 1,653,000 = Posted sales ***** THE PLATINUM COLLECTION , Queen (199) Confirmed Estimated UK 1,532,000 (2007) USA 463,000 (2006) Italy 400,000 Spain 198,000 (2004) Netherlands 160,000 New Zealand 21,000 Finland 17,000 >>> 2,791,000 = Posted sales

*****
SIMON & GARFUNKEL'S GREATEST HITS (Simon & Garfunkel, 1972)

Posted Sales = 18,464,000

Code: Select all: SIMON & GARFUNKEL'S GREATEST HITS , Simon & Garfunkel (1972) Confirmed Estimated USA 14,000,000 (2003) UK 1,841,000 (2006) Germany 1,000,000 (1980) France 1,000,000 (1988) Canada 500,000 (1979) Japan 123,000 >>> 18,464,000 = Posted sales

*****
DIRTY DANCING (Soundtrack, 1988)

Posted Sales = 20,302,000

Code: Select all: DIRTY DANCING , Soundtrack (1987) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 13,232,000 UK (2) 2,620,000 Germany 2,000,000 (1990) Canada 1,000,000 (1988) France 1,000,000 (1993) Switzerland 250,000 (1994) Netherlands 100,000 (1988) Brazil 100,000 (2004) >>> 20,302,000 = Posted sales (1) 10,000,000 (1988, RIAA) + 904,000 (1988-2002, BMG Record Club) + 2,328,000 (2007, Soundscan) (2) 2,435,000 (2006, OCC) + 185,000 (Club sales July 1993 - 2003)

*****
SPICE (Spice Girls, 1996)

Posted Sales = 18,408,000

Code: Select all: SPICE , Spice Girls (1996) Confirmed Estimated USA 7,388,000 (2007) Europe 8,000,000 (1997) Canada 1,000,000 (1998) Brazil 500,000 (1998) Japan 490,000 Australia 420,000 (1998) Mexico 100,000 (1999) New Zealand 90,000 (1997) Indonesia 75,000 (1997) Singapore 60,000 (1997) Colombia 60,000 (1997) South Africa 50,000 (1997) Malasya 50,000 (1997) Hong Kong 40,000 (1997) Argentina 30,000 (1997) India 30,000 (1997) Chile 25,000 (1997) >>> 18,408,000 = Posted sales ***** 35-million combined sales worldwide for "Spice" and "Spiceworld" (1999, Billboard: February 13)

*****
...BABY ONE MORE TIME (Britney Spears, 1999)

Posted Sales = 20,376,000

Code: Select all: ...BABY ONE MORE TIME , Britney Spears (1999) Confirmed Estimated USA 14,000,000 (2004) Europe 4,000,000 (2000) Canada 1,000,000 (1999) Mexico 375,000 (2000) Australia 280,000 (2000) Japan 274,000 Brazil 250,000 (1999) Argentina 120,000 Korea 77,000 >>> 20,376,000 = Posted sales

*****
BORN IN THE U.S.A. (Bruce Springsteen, 1984)

Posted Sales = 20,680,000

BORN IN THE U.S.A. , Bruce Springsteen (1984)

15,000,000 ... USA (RIAA, 1995)
1,000,000 ... Canada (Diamond, 1985)
1,000,000 ... Germany (2xPlatinum , 1989)
900,000 ... UK (3xPlatinum , 1985)
840,000 ... Australia (12xPlatinum , 2008)
400,000 ... Japan (2xPlatinum, 1985)
400,000 ... France (Platinum , 1988)
240,000 ... New Zealand
200,000 ... Netherlands (2xPlatinum, 1985)
200,000 ... Sweden (2xPlatinum, 1985)
150,000 ... Switzerland (3xPlatinum, 1991)
110,000 ... Finland (2xPlatinum)
100,000 ... Italy (Platinum, 1985)
90,000 ... Argentina
50,000 ... Norway (Platinum, 1985)
... South Africa (Platinum)

Total = 20,680,000

*****
"While "Tunnel Of Love" did a mere 3 million units (6 million worldwide), 1984's "Born In The U.S.A." has hit the 12-million mark (20 million worldwide) and "Live 1975-1985" has reached 3 million domestically, a massive number for a three-CD/cassette box."
(1992, Billboard: March 7)

*****
THE JOSHUA TREE (U2, 1987)

Posted Sales = 16,995,000

Code: Select all: THE JOSHUA TREE , U2 (1987) Confirmed Estimated USA 10,000,000 (1995) UK 2,666,000 (2006) Canada 1,000,000 (1987) Germany 1,000,000 (1994) France 600,000 (1992) Australia 350,000 Spain 300,000 Brazil* 250,000 New Zealand 210,000 Japan 151,000 Austria 150,000 (1990) Netherlands 100,000 (1987) Mexico 100,000 (1999) Argentina 90,000 Finland 28,000 >>> 16,995,000 = Posted sales

*****
7. BUBBLING UNDER:
Albums that probably have sold 15 MILLION or more

THE BEATLES (The White Album) (The Beatles, 1968)

Posted Sales = 10,822,000

Code: Select all: THE BEATLES (WHITE ALBUM) , The Beatles (1968) Confirmed Estimated USA 9,500,000 (2001) Canada 800,000 (1995) UK (1) 404,000 Argentina 60,000 Japan 58,000 >>> 10,822,000 = Posted sales (1) sales since 1992

*****
THE BEATLES 1962-1966 (The Beatles, 1973)

Posted Sales = 13,864,000

Code: Select all: THE BEATLES 1962-1966 , The Beatles (1973) Confirmed Estimated USA 7,500,000 (2001) Germany 2,000,000 (1994) Japan (1) 1,341,000 Canada 1,000,000 (1995) UK (2) 903,000 France 600,000 (1993) Spain (3) 200,000 Austria (3) 150,000 (1997) Argentina (3) 60,000 New Zealand 60,000 Switzerlad (3) 50,000 >>> 13,864,000 = Posted sales (1) 841,000 (vynil) + 500,000 (CD) (2) 300,000 (1981, BPI) + 603,000 (1993-2006) (3) CD sales only ***** CD reissue sold more than 5-million worldwide (1994, Billboard: June 4)

*****
THE BEATLES 1967-1970 (The Beatles, 1973)

Posted Sales = 13,799,000

Code: Select all: THE BEATLES 1967-1970 , The Beatles (1973) Confirmed Estimated USA 8,000,000 (2001) Germany 1,500,000 (1993) Japan (1) 1,232,000 Canada 1,000,000 (1995) UK (2) 897,000 France 600,000 (1993) Spain (3) 200,000 Austria (3) 150,000 (1997) Argentina (3) 60,000 New Zealand 60,000 Netherlands (3) 50,000 Switzerlad (3) 50,000 >>> 13,799,000 = Posted sales (1) 732,000 (vynil) + 500,000 (CD) (2) 300,000 (1981, BPI) + 597,000 (1993-2006) (3) CD sales only ***** CD reissue sold more than 5-million worldwide (1994, Billboard: June 4)

by **Edu** » Thu Sep 14, 2006 9:19 pm

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

7. BUBBLING UNDER:
Albums that probably have sold 15 MILLION or more
(continued)

SPIRITS HAVING FLOWN
(Bee Gees, 1979)

*****
ROMANZA
(Andrea Bocelli, 1997)

Posted Sales = 14,241,000

Code: Select all: ROMANZA , Andrea Bocelli (1997) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 4,530,000 (2006) Europe 6,000,000 (2001) Canada (2) 1,116,000 (2007) Brazil (3) 900,000 (2001) Mexico (3) 650,000 (2001) Argentina (3) 500,000 (2001) Australia 350,000 (2000) Chile (3) 120,000 (2001) New Zealand 75,000 >>> 14,241,000 = Posted sales (1) 2006, Soundscan (2) 2007, Soundscan Canada (3) 2001, Billboard: October 4

Sales Timeline
3.5 million worldwide (Billboard, September 1997)
10 million worldwide (Billboard, January 1998)
with 2.4-million sold in Latin America, this album is the biggest record ever, by a non-latino artist, in the history (Billboard, March 1999)
16 million worldwide (Billboard, September 1999 and link)
career sales of 43 million albums worldwide (Billboard, January 2003)
career sales of 50 million albums worldwide (Billboard, November 2004)

*****
CROSS ROAD
(Bon Jovi, 1994)

Posted Sales = 15,245,000

Code: Select all: CROSS ROAD , Bon Jovi (1994) Confirmed Estimated Europe 8,000,000 (2007) USA (1) 4,300,000 (2007) Japan 1,150,000 Canada 1,000,000 (2000) Australia 280,000 Argentina 240,000 Thailand (2) 200,000 New Zealand 75,000 >>> 15,245,000 = Posted sales (1) 2007, Soundscan (2) 1996, Billboard: February 24

Sales Timeline
18.5 million worldwide (2004, Billboard: November 20)

*****
BOSTON
(Boston, 1976)

Posted Sales = 18,100,000

Code: Select all: BOSTON , Boston (1976) Confirmed Estimated USA 17,000,000 (2003) Canada 1,000,000 (1997) Uk 100,000 (1979) >>> 18,100,000 = Posted sales

*****
NO FENCES
(Garth Brooks, 1990)

Posted Sales = 16,700,000

Code: Select all: NO FENCES , Garth Brooks (1990) Confirmed Estimated USA 17,000,000 (2007) Canada 700,000 (2000) >>> 17,700,000 = Posted sales

*****
ROPIN' THE WIND
(Garth Brooks, 1991)

Posted Sales = 14,570,000

Code: Select all: ROPIN' THE WIND , Garth Brooks (1991) Confirmed Estimated USA 14,000,000 (1998) Canada 500,000 (1996) Australia 70,000 (2005) >>> 14,570,000 = Posted sales

*****
DAYDREAM
(Mariah Carey, 1995)

Posted Sales = 16,327,000

Code: Select all: DAYDREAM , Mariah Carey (1995) Confirmed Estimated USA 10,000,000 (1998) Europe 3,000,000 (1996) Japan 2,202,000 Canada (2) 700,000 (1997) Australia 350,000 New Zealand 75,000 >>> 16,327,000 = Posted sales

Sales Timeline
14 million worldwide (1996, Billboard: May 25)

*****
#1's
(Mariah Carey, 1998)

Posted Sales = 11,097,000

America = 5,425,000
Certified Sales
USA= 5,000,000 (2003) Canada= 300,000 (2000) Brazil= 125,000 (1999)

Europe = 2,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 2,000,000 (2003, IFPI)

Other Countries = 3,672,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 70,000 (1998)
Other Sales
Japan= 3,250,000 (including imports; 1999, Billboard: January 16) Korea= 352,000

*****
TRACY CHAPMAN
(Tracy Chapman, 1988)

Posted Sales = 13,670,000

Code: Select all: TRACY CHAPMAN , Tracy Chapman (1988) Confirmed Estimated USA 6,000,000 (2001) UK 2,400,000 (2004) Germany 2,000,000 (2001) France 1,000,000 (2000) Australia 490,000 (2001) Italy 420,000 Canada 300,000 (1988) Spain 300,000 (2000) Brazil 250,000 (1998) Switzerland 200,000 (1994) New Zealand 165,000 Netherlands 100,000 (1988) Japan 45,000 >>> 13,670,000 = Posted sales

*****
UNPLUGGED
(Eric Clapton, 1992)

Posted Sales = 17,200,000

Code: Select all: UNPLUGGED , Eric Clapton (1992) Confirmed Estimated USA 10,000,000 (1996) Germany 1,250,000 (2006) Canada 1,000,000 (1993) Japan 1,000,000 UK 900,000 (1995) France 600,000 (2001) Australia 560,000 (2005) Asia (1) 450,000 Netherlands 400,000 (1995) Spain 300,000 (1995) Brazil 250,000 (1998) Argentina 180,000 New Zealand 165,000 Switzerland 100,000 (1994) Finland 45,000 >>> 17,200,000 = Posted sales (1) sales in Southeast Asia (1993, Billboard: May 15)

*****
...BUT SERIOUSLY
(Phil Collins, 1989)

Posted Sales = 13,714,000

Code: Select all: ...BUT SERIOUSLY , Phil Collins (1989) Confirmed Estimated USA 4,000,000 (1994) Germany 3,000,000 (1994) UK 2,738,000 (2006) France 1,000,000 (1991) Canada 700,000 (1991) Spain 700,000 (1990) Italy 360,000 Australia 350,000 Brazil 250,000 (1990) Switzerland 250,000 (1990) Japan 116,000 Netherlands 100,000 (1989) Finland 75,000 New Zealand 75,000 >>> 13,714,000 = Posted sales

*****
NO NEED TO ARGUE
(The Cranberries, 1994)

Posted Sales = 12,900,000

Code: Select all: NO NEED TO ARGUE , The Cranberries (1994) Confirmed Estimated USA 7,000,000 (1996) Europe 5,000,000 (1997) Canada 500,000 (1995) Australia (1) 400,000 >>> 12,900,000 = Posted sales (1) 1995, Billboard: September 30

Sales Timeline
15 million worldwide (with career sales of 28-million albums worldwide)
(1999, Billboard: March 13)

*****
HYSTERIA
(Def Leppard, 1987)

Posted Sales = 14,019,000

Code: Select all: HYSTERIA , Def Leppard (1987) Confirmed Estimated USA (1) 12,375,000 Canada 1,000,000 (1988) UK 600,000 (1989) New Zealand 120,000 Japan 44,000 >>> 14,139,000 = Posted sales (1) 10,000,000 (1990, RIAA) + 2,375,000 (2006, Soundscan)

*****
THE COLOUR OF MY LOVE
(Celine Dion, 1993)

Posted Sales = 13,570,000

America = 7,500,000
Certified Sales
USA= 6,000,000 (1999) Canada= 1,500,000 (1997, Billboard: January 18)

Europe = 4,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 4,000,000 (1996)
UK= 1,817,000 (2006, OCC)

Other Countries = 2,070,000
Other Sales
Japan= 1,000,000 (RIAJ / Oricon= 850,000)
Australia= 500,000* (1995) Korea= 167,000* (1995) South Africa= 106,000* (1995)
Indonesia= 95,000* (1995) New Zealand= 57,000* (1995) Malasya= 42,000* (1995)
Thailand= 33,000* (1995) Singapore= 25,000* (1995) Taiwan= 23,000* (1995)
Hong Kong= 22,000* (1995)

Sales Timeline
close to 13 million worldwide (1996, Billboard: November 9)
14 million worldwide (with 1.5-million in Canada) (1997, Billboard: January 18)

*****
A DECADE OF SONG
(Celine Dion, 1999)

Posted Sales = 17,555,000

8,950,000 ... USA (1)
5,000,000 ... Europe (5xPlatinum, 2004)
2,000,000 ... Japan (2xMillion, May-2007)
900,000 ... Canada (9xPlatinum, 2000)
250,000 ... Brazil (Platinum, 2000)
210,000 ... Australia (3xPlatinum, 1999)
95,000 ... Korea
90,000 ... New Zealand (6xPlatinum)
60,000 ... Argentina (Platinum)

Total = 17,555,000

(1) 7,850,000 (April 2009, Soundscan) + 1,100,000 (2002, BMG Record Club)

Sales Timeline
17 million worldwide (2002, Billboard: January 26)

*****
DOOKIE
(Green Day, 1995)

Posted Sales = 12,979,000

America = 11,125,000
Certified Sales
USA= 10,000,000 (1999) Canada= 1,000,000 (1995) Brazil= 125,000 (1996)

Europe = 1,450,000
Certified Sales
Germany= 750,000 (2005) UK= 600,000 (2004) France= 100,000 (1998)

Other Countries = 404,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 280,000 (1999)
Other Sales
Japan= 124,000

*****
THE EMINEM SHOW
(Eminem, 2002)

Posted Sales = 15,965,000

America = 10,808,000
Certified Sales
USA= 9,608,000 (2006, Soundscan) Canada= 1,000,000 (2003) Brazil= 125,000 (2002)
Mexico= 75,000 (2002)

Europe = 4,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 4,000,000 (2003, IFPI)

Other Countries = 1,157,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 560,000 (2003)
Other Sales
Japan= 390,000 Korea= 207,000

*****
THE SCORE
(Fugees, 1996)

Posted Sales = 13,056,000

America = 7,056,000
Certified Sales
USA= 5,734,000 (2005, Soundscan) + 822,000 (BMG Record Club) = 6,556,000
Canada= 500,000 (1996)

Europe = 6,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 6,000,000 (2004, IFPI)

Sales Timeline
12 million worldwide (1997, Billboard: 14 June)

*****
BREATHLESS
(Kenny G, 1992)

Posted Sales = 14,150,000

America = 12,550,000
Certified Sales
USA= 12,000,000 (1998) Canada= 300,000 (1994) Brazil= 250,000 (1995)

Europe = 100,000
Certified Sales
UK= 100,000 (1993)

Other Countries = 1,500,000
Other Sales
Asia= 1,500,000 (1996, Billboard: February 24)

*****
USE YOUR ILLUSION I
(Guns N'Roses, 1991)

Posted Sales = 10,850,000

America = 8,600,000
Certified Sales
USA= 7,000,000 (1997) Canada= 1,000,000 (2001) Mexico= 350,000 (1999)
Brazil= 250,000 (1998)

Europe = 1,900,000
Certified Sales
Germany= 1,000,000 (1993) UK= 300,000 (1992) France= 300,000 (1995)
Netherlands= 200,000 (1994) Switzerland= 100,000 (1993)

Other Countries = 350,000
Other Sales
Japan= 350,000

*****
USE YOUR ILLUSION II
(Guns N'Roses, 1991)

Posted Sales = 11,156,000

America = 8,400,000
Certified Sales
USA= 7,000,000 (1997) Canada= 900,000 (2001) Mexico= 250,000 (1999)
Brazil= 250,000 (1996)

Europe = 2,400,000
Certified Sales
Germany= 1,250,000 (1996) France= 600,000 (1997) UK= 300,000 (1992)
Switzerland= 150,000 (1997) Netherlands= 100,000 (1992)

Other Countries = 356,000
Other Sales
Japan= 356,000

*****
CRACKED REAR VIEW
(Hootie & The Blowfish, 1994)

Posted Sales = 17,100,000

America = 17,000,000
Certified Sales
USA= 16,000,000 (1999) Canada= 1,000,000 (1996)

Europe = 100,000
Certified Sales
UK= 100,000 (1996)

*****
WHITNEY
(Whitney Houston, 1987)

Posted Sales = 13,407,000

America = 9,700,000
Certified Sales
USA= 9,000,000 (1995) Canada= 700,000 (1988)

Europe = 3,298,000
Certified Sales
Germany= 500,000 (1987) France= 300,000 (1989) Netherlands= 100,000 (1987)
Switzerland= 100,000 (1998) Austria= 60,000 (1990)
Other Sales
UK= 2,238,000 (2006, OCC)

Other Countries = 409,000
Other Sales
Japan= 409,000

*****
OFF THE WALL
(Michael Jackson, 1979)

Posted Sales = 9,885,000

America = 7,160,000
Certified Sales
USA= 7,000,000 (1995) Canada= 100,000 (1979)
Other Sales
Brazil= 60,000

Europe = 2,200,000
Certified Sales
UK= 1,800,000 (1979) France= 300,000 (1995) Netherlands= 100,000 (1986)

Other Countries = 525,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 280,000 (2001)
Other Sales
Japan= 170,000 New Zealand= 75,000

*****
HISTORY
(Michael Jackson, 1995)

Posted Sales = 11,446,000

America = 4,250,000
Certified Sales
USA= 3,500,000 (1999) Canada= 500,000 (1995) Brazil= 250,000 (1995)

Europe = 6,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 6,000,000 (1996)

Other Countries = 1,196,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 490,000 (2001)
Other Sales
Japan= 586,000 New Zealand= 120,000

*****
GREATEST HITS
(Journey, 1988)

Posted Sales = 14,000,000
America = 14,000,000
Certified Sales
USA= 14,000,000 (2006)

*****
TAPESTRY
(Carole King, 1971)

Posted Sales = 10,000,000

America = 10,000,000
Certified Sales
USA= 10,000,000 (1995)

Sales Timeline
13 million worldwide (1976, Time Magazine: February 23)
about 20 million worldwide (combined sales on Ode/A&M and Epic/Sony labels) ;
average sales of 1 million each year (1995, Billboard: October 21)

*****
LED ZEPPELIN II
(Led Zeppelin, 1969)

Posted Sales = 15,268,000

LED ZEPPELIN II , Led Zeppelin (1969)

12,000,000 ... USA (RIAA, 1999)
1,200,000 ... UK (4xP , 2008)
900,000 ... Canada (9xP , 2000)
500,000 ... Germany (Platinum, 2003)
280,000 ... Australia (4xP , 2007)
200,000 ... France (2xG , 2001)
133,000 ... Japan (Oricon)
30,000 ... Argentina (Gold)
25,000 ... Austria (Gold , 1991)

Total = 15,268,000

*****
LIKE A VIRGIN
(Madonna, 1984)

Posted Sales = 15,083,000

America = 11,000,000
Certified Sales
USA= 10,000,000 (1998) Canada= 1,000,000 (1992)

Europe = 2,726,000
Certified Sales
Germany= 500,000 (1985) France= 600,000 (2001)
Other Sales
UK= 1,626,000 (2006, OCC)

Other Countries = 1,357,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 490,000 (2000) New Zealand= 75,000
Other Sales
Japan= 792,000

*****
RAY OF LIGHT
(Madonna, 1998)

Posted Sales = 12,806,000

America = 4,950,000
Certified Sales
USA= 4,000,000 (2000) Canada= 700,000 (1999) Brazil= 250,000 (2005)

Europe = 7,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 7,000,000 (2002)

Other Countries = 856,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 210,000 (1999)
Other Sales
Japan= 246,000 Asia Pacific= 400,000 (1998, Billboard: Ocotber 24)

*****
RICKY MARTIN
(Ricky Martin, 1999)

Posted Sales = 12,106,000

America = 9,422,000
Certified Sales
USA= 6,935,000 (2005, Soundscan) + 987,000 (BMG Record Club) = 7,922,000
Canada= 1,000,000 (1999) Mexico= 375,000 (1999) Brazil= 125,000 (2000)

Europe = 2,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 2,000,000 (1999)

Other Countries = 684,000
Certified Sales
Australia + New Zealand= 424,000 (2006, Billboard: November 4)
Other Sales
Korea= 260,000

Sales Timeline
11-million worldwide (1999, Billboard: October 28)
15-million worldwide (2003, Billboard: June 7)

*****
PLEASE HAMMER DON'T HURT'EM
(MC Hammer, 1990)

Posted Sales = 12,559,000

America = 10,800,000
Certified Sales
USA= 10,000,000 (1991) Canada= 800,000 (1991)

Europe = 1,100,000
Certified Sales
UK= 600,000 (1991) Germany= 250,000 (1991) France= 100,000 (1991)
Spain= 100,000 (1991) Netherlands= 50,000 (1991)

Other Countries = 659,000
Other Sales
Japan= 559,000 Australia= 100,000 (1991, Billboard: May 18)

*****
BAT OUT OF HELL II : BACK INTO HELL
(Meat Loaf, 1993)

Posted Sales = 9,659,000

America = 6,409,000
Certified Sales
USA= 4,600,000 (2003, Soundscan) + 909,000 (BMG Record Club) = 5,509,000
Canada= 900,000 (1995)

Europe = 2,900,000
Certified Sales
UK= 1,800,000 (1994) Germany= 1,000,000 (1994) Netherlands= 100,000 (1994)

Other Countries = 350,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 350,000*

Sales Timeline
15-million worldwide (1996, Billboard: June 29)

*****
FAITH
(George Michael, 1987)

Posted Sales = 13,705,000

America = 11,000,000
Certified Sales

USA= 10,000,000 (1996) Canada= 1,000,000 (1991)

Europe = 2,150,000
Certified Sales
UK= 1,200,000 (1993) France= 600,000 (1989) Germany= 250,000 (1988)
Netherlands= 100,000 (1987)

Other Countries = 555,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 350,000 (2004)
Other Sales
Japan= 205,000

Sales Timeline
14-million worldwide (1995, Billboard: July 29)

*****
NEVERMIND
(Nirvana, 1991)

Posted Sales = 15,888,000

America = 11,713,000
Certified Sales
USA= 10,000,000 (1999) + 143,000 (2006, Soundscan) = 10,143,000
Canada= 1,000,000 (2001) Brazil= 250,000 (1998) Mexico= 200,000 (1999)
Argentina= 120,000 (2004)

Europe = 4,034,000
Certified Sales
Germany= 1,000,000 (1998) France= 1,000,000 (1997) Netherlands= 100,000 (1994) Switzerland= 50,000 (1990) Austria= 30,000 (1993)
Other Sales
UK= 1,807,000 (2006, OCC) Finland= 47,000

Other Countries = 141,000
Other Sales
Japan= 141,000

*****
(WHAT'S THE STORY) MORNING GLORY?
(Oasis, 1995)

Posted Sales = 12,096,000

America = 4,800,000
Certified Sales
USA= 4,000,000 (1996) Canada= 800,000 (1997)

Europe = 6,663,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 6,000,000 (1997, IFPI)
Other Sales
UK= 663,000 (1998-2005)

Other Countries = 633,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 420,000 (1999) New Zealand= 105,000
Other Sales
Japan= 108,000

*****
TUBULLAR BELLS
(Mike Oldfield, 1973)

*****
TEN
(Pearl Jam, 1991)

Posted Sales = 13,175,000

America = 12,825,000
Certified Sales
USA= 12,000,000 (2003) Canada= 700,000 (2006) Brazil= 125,000 (1993)

Europe = 350,000
Certified Sales
Germany= 250,000 (1994) UK= 100,000 (1992)

*****
WISH YOU WERE HERE
(Pink Floyd, 1975)

Posted Sales = 9,412,000

America = 7,092,000
Certified Sales
USA= 4,000,000 (1989) + 2,792,000 (1991-2006, Soundscan) = 6,792,000
Canada= 300,000 (1979)

Europe = 2,213,000
Certified Sales
France= 1,000,000 (1989) UK= 100,000 (1975) + 613,000 (1992-2006) = 713,000
Germany= 500,000 (1990)

Other Countries = 107,000
Other Sales
Japan= 107,000

*****
PURPLE RAIN
(Prince and The Revolution, 1984)

Posted Sales = 15,919,000

America = 14,036,000
Certified Sales
USA= 13,000,000 (1996) + 436,000 (2003-2007, Soundscan) = 13,436,000
Canada= 600,000 (1984)

Europe = 1,546,000
Certified Sales
UK= 600,000 (1990) + 146,000 (1997-2005) Germany= 500,000 (1993)
France= 300,000 (1993)

Other Countries = 337,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 140,000
Other Sales
Japan= 197,000

Sales Timeline
career sales of 800,000 albums in Australia (including 200,000 for "Diamonds & Pearls") (1992, Billboard: May 9)

*****
GREATEST HITS II
(Queen, 1991)

Posted Sales = 13,626,000

Code: Select all: GREATEST HITS II , Queen (1992) Confirmed Estimated USA 3,274,000 (2006) UK (1) 2,603,000 Germany 2,000,000 (1993) France 1,000,000 (1992) Canada 700,000 Spain 661,000 (2004) Australia 560,000 (2007) Argentina 510,000 (1999) Brazil 500,000 (1997) Italy* 500,000 Netherlands 500,000 Denmark 250,000 Austria 200,000 (1997) New Zealand 152,000 Finland 137,000 Korea 50,000 Japan 29,000 >>> 13,626,000 = Posted sales (1) 2,400,000 (2000, BPI) + 203,000 (2001 - Aug 2006) ***** GREATEST HITS I & II , Queen Confirmed Estimated USA 886,000 (2007) Germany 250,000 (1996) Spain 198,000 (2004) Netherlands 120,000 France 100,000 (1994) New Zealand 66,000 Japan 33,000 >>> 1,653,000 = Posted sales ***** THE PLATINUM COLLECTION , Queen (199) Confirmed Estimated UK 1,532,000 (2007) USA 463,000 (2006) Italy 400,000 Spain 198,000 (2004) Netherlands 160,000 New Zealand 21,000 Finland 17,000 >>> 2,791,000 = Posted sales

*****
CAN'T SLOW DOWN
(Lionel Richie, 1983)

Posted Sales = 14,500,000

10,430,000 ... USA (1)
1,895,000 ... UK (2006, OCC)
1,000,000 ... Canada (Diamond, 1984)
400,000 ... Australia (2)
250,000 ... Germany (Gold, 1984)
200,000 ... France (2xGold, 1984)
200,000 ... South Africa (3)
125,000 ... Japan

Total = 14,500,000

(1) 10,000,000 (10xPlatinum, 1985) + 430,000 (Soundscan)
(2) Billboard, 9-Nov-85 page A-20 , page A-26
(3) Billboard, 13-Sep-86 page 77

Sales Timeline
"According to Motown, Richie's solo albums -- 1982's "Lionel Richie", 1983's "Can't Slow Down", and 1986's "Dancing On The Ceiling'', have sold a total of 25 million copies worldwide" (1992, Billboard: August 27)

by **Edu** » Thu Sep 14, 2006 9:20 pm

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

*****

7. BUBBLING UNDER:
Albums that probably have sold 15 MILLION or more
(continued)

BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER
(Simon & Garfunkel, 1970)

Posted Sales = 12,641,000

America = 8,400,000
Certified Sales
USA= 8,000,000 (2001) Canada= 400,000 (1979)

Europe = 3,801,000
Certified Sales
Germany= 500,000 (1977) France= 300,000 (1995)
Other Sales
UK= 3,001,000 (2006, OCC)

Other Countries = 440,000
Other Sales
Japan= 440,000

*****
THE LION KING
(Soundtrack, 1994)

Posted Sales = 14,150,000

America = 11,000,000
Certified Sales
USA= 10,000,000 (1995) Canada= 1,000,000 (1995)

Europe = 3,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 3,000,000 (1996)

Other Countries = 150,000
Other Sales
Japan= 150,000 (1995, Billboard: April 29)

*****
OOPS!...I DID IT AGAIN
(Britney Spears, 2000)

Posted Sales = 15,980,000

America = 11,302,000
Certified Sales
USA= 9,173,000 (2006, Soundscan) + 1,210,000 (BMG Record Club) = 10,377,000
Canada= 500,000 (2000) Mexico= 300,000 (2000) Brazil= 125,000 (2000)

Europe = 4,000,000
Certified Sales
Europe= 4,000,000 (2001)

Other Countries = 672,000
Certified Sales
Australia= 210,000 (2001)
Other Sales
Japan= 242,000 Korea= 220,000

*****
GREATEST HITS 1974-1978
(Steve Miller Band, 1978)

Posted Sales = 14,000,000

America = 14,000,000
Certified Sales
USA= 13,000,000 (2003) Canada= 1,000,000 (2003)

*****
BREAKFAST IN AMERICA
(Supertramp, 1978)

*****
THE WOMAN IN ME
(Shania Twain, 1995)

Posted Sales = 14,300,000

America = 14,000,000
Certified Sales
USA= 12,000,000 (2000) Canada= 2,000,000 (1999)

Europe = 300,000
Certified Sales
UK= 300,000 (2000)

*****
ACHTUNG BABY
(U2, 1991)

Posted Sales = 12,513,000

Code: Select all: ACHTUNG BABY , U2 (1991) Confirmed Estimated USA 8,000,000 (1997) UK 1,200,000 (2001) Canada 1,000,000 (2000) France 600,000 (1995) Germany 500,000 (1992) Italy 450,000* Australia 350,000 (1998) Brazil 125,000 (1992) Japan 123,000 Argentina 90,000 New Zealand 75,000 >>> 12,513,000 = Posted sales

*****
THE BEST OF 1980-1990
(U2, 1998)

Posted Sales = 13,526,000

Code: Select all: THE BEST OF 1980-1990 , U2 (1998) Confirmed Estimated Europe 7,000,000 (2004) USA 4,330,000 (2007) Canada 600,000 (1998) Japan 376,000 Australia 350,000 (1999) Argentina 300,000 Brazil 250,000 (1998) Mexico 200,000 (1999) New Zealand 120,000 >>> 13,526,000 = Posted sales

13.8 million worldwide (2002, link)

*****
ELIMINATOR
(ZZ Top, 1983)

Posted Sales = 13,950,000

Code: Select all: ELIMINATOR , ZZ Top (1983) Confirmed Estimated USA 10,000,000 (1996) UK 1,200,000 (2004) Canada 1,000,000 (1992) Germany 750,000 (2006) France 600,000 (2001) Australia 280,000 (2000) New Zealand 120,000 >>> 13,950,000 = Posted sales

by **jszmiles** » Thu Sep 14, 2006 9:23 pm

- COMMENT UNDER CONSTRUCTION - :oops:

by **jarvis** » Thu Sep 14, 2006 11:47 pm

this is good maybe someone will finally get to the real album sales totals and finish it to the end.

by **seattleboy** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 2:43 am

Sony Music Japan reported that 'Thriller' sold 46 million copies worldwide, whenever the special edition came out.

http://www.sonymusic.co.jp/Music/Intern ... index.html

Translated version:
http://translate.google.com/translate?u ... uage_tools

by **bergkamp2004** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 9:47 am

I know you havent heard of this guy

A R Rehman - Indian composer

he did a soundtrack for a film called BOMBAY in the mid 1990's

It sold over 24 million in India alone
http://www.rediff.com/money/2002/sep/21bizsp.htm

"The music maestro also notched up a record of sorts when the music for Bombay - a bilingual film in Hindi and Tamil - sold a massive 12 million copies in both languages."

He has sold over 300 million albums as he does the soundtarck to many indian films

My advice - check our Dil Se - It has Shahrukh Khan in, who is the biggest Movie star in the world!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A._R._Rahm ... _accolades

by **MJDangerous** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 2:42 pm

Hi Edu, some other stats about "Thriller" :

UK : 3,850,000 (look at Basil thread)
France : Officialy 2,500,000 sold in 1988 when it hit the diamond award, said to be at 3,000,000 since the releases of the special edition.
Canada : 2,000,000 certified, since 1rst April 1984. Over 3,000,000 copies sold by now.
Mexico & Argentina : Said to be at 1,7m and 0,6m respectively in those countries.
Japan : 2,500,000 copies shipped.
NZ : 180,000 certified.
Belgium : 550,000 certified.

Others 'unofficial' figures : 1,2m in Spain, 1m in Italia, 0,2m in Austria, 0,6m in South Africa, 0,3m in Turkey.

"Sales Timeline" :
- 30,000,000 by Feb 1984.
- 40,000,000 end of 1984.
- 54,000,000 by 1996.
- 60,000,000 by 2003.

by **Lewis17** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 4:18 pm

Great thread

For THRILLER, I have the following certifications to add:

France: Diamond = 1 million.
Holland: 11 x Platinum = 770,000.
New Zealand: 10 x Platinum = 150,000.
Belgium: 11 x Platinum = 550,000.
Finland: 3 x Platinum = 90,000.
Portugal: 3 x Platinum = 120,000.
Spain: 6 x Platinum = 480,000.
Mexico: Diamond = 500,000.

Check out the site below for info on certifications for Michael's BAD & DANGEROUS albums, which are both around the 29-30 million mark.

by **MJDangerous** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 4:44 pm

Lewis17 wrote:Holland: 11 x Platinum = 770,000.
New Zealand: 10 x Platinum = 150,000.
Finland: 3 x Platinum = 90,000.
Spain: 6 x Platinum = 480,000.
Mexico: Diamond = 500,000.

Those 5 are wrong.

by **nelson** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 5:22 pm

Lewis17 wrote:Belgium: 11 x Platinum = 550,000.
Portugal: 3 x Platinum = 120,000.

Hi, Lewis17, where did you find Belgium?
And Portugal when it started the certifications for 2003.

by **seattleboy** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 5:29 pm

'The Bodyguard' sold 600,000 in Taiwan.

Worldwide Sales:
1995: 34 million
1999: 37 million

by **Lewis17** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 6:13 pm

MJDangerous wrote:
Lewis17 wrote:Holland: 11 x Platinum = 770,000.
New Zealand: 10 x Platinum = 150,000.
Finland: 3 x Platinum = 90,000.
Spain: 6 x Platinum = 480,000.
Mexico: Diamond = 500,000.
Those 5 are wrong.

So what are the correct certifications/numbers for these countries, according to your info?

by **Lewis17** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 6:17 pm

nelson wrote:
Lewis17 wrote:Belgium: 11 x Platinum = 550,000.
Portugal: 3 x Platinum = 120,000.
Hi, Lewis17, where did you find Belgium?
And Portugal when it started the certifications for 2003.

Most of the certifications I have are taken from official chart web-sites or various ukmix threads, which I like to think I can trust

I've just noticed MJDangerous has posted the same figure for Belgium, so at least we agree on this one

by **Popspops** » Sat Sep 16, 2006 3:22 am

Beatles 1
Korea Sales

The Beatles 1
Total: over 565,291 copies

2000 year end - 229,452 copies #2
2001 year end - 262,006 copies #1
2002 year end - 47,828 copies #26
2003 year end - 15,785 copies #45
2004 year end - 10,220 copies #46
2005 year end - not enter

by **josecharts** » Sun Sep 17, 2006 2:37 am

I remember Hanboo posted a top 100 of this kind of list back in the time of dotmusic.

by **stevyy** » Sun Sep 17, 2006 10:31 am

always the same.. mariahs sales are downgrade to a not existable standard. really always the same

by **TheRock1984** » Sun Sep 17, 2006 11:33 am

stevyy wrote:always the same.. mariahs sales are downgrade to a not existable standard. really always the same

what do you mean?

by **seattleboy** » Sun Sep 17, 2006 6:43 pm

Sony Music Annual Report - March 1995

...
Mariah Carey's Music Box album sold an additional 11 million copies during the fiscal year, with aggregate sales exceeding 20 million units worldwide (23 million).
...

Sony Music Annual Report - March 1996

...
Mariah Carey's worldwide success continued to build with Daydream, which sold more than 14 million units worldwide during the year under review, while her 1993 and 1994 Music Box (24 million) and Merry Christmas (10 million) each sold over an additional million units worldwide.
...

Columbia Blitz For Carey's 'Daydream' A Global Reality

The 25-year-old singer's 1993 release, Music Box has sold 23.5 million copies worldwide, according to the label. Carey also issued the seasonal Merry Christmas last year, which moved 8 million units worldwide. Those releases sold 6.3 million and 2 million units, respectively, in the US, according to SoundScan.

Source: Billboard - September 9, 1995

Sony Music Japan also confirmed in 1996, that Music Box had sold 24 million worldwide (2.3 million in Japan).

The press release in 1998 for '#1's' said Music Box sold over 24 million copies worldwide.

Sony Music China reported in 2001, that Music Box had sold 25 million copies worldwide.

Universal Music Korea reported in 2002, that Music Box has sold 25 million copies worldwide (1 million in Korea)

by **seattleboy** » Sun Sep 17, 2006 6:51 pm

Madonna's official site reported in 2001, that True Blue sold 19 million copies worldwide

by **seattleboy** » Sun Sep 17, 2006 6:58 pm

Eminem's The Eminem Show sold 19 million copies worldwide (900,000 in France), according to Universal France.

by **seattleboy** » Sun Sep 17, 2006 7:02 pm

U2's Joshua Tree sold over 20 million copies worldwide, according to Universal Canada.

by **seattleboy** » Sun Sep 17, 2006 7:06 pm

Backstreet Boys albums Backstreet Boys and Millenium sold 24 million copies worldwide each, according to Sony Music Australia.