The 25 Best Selling Artists of All Time

When it comes to music, some artists have achieved incredible success, selling millions of albums worldwide.

These musicians have shaped the music industry, breaking records and capturing the hearts of fans across the globe.

These artists represent various styles and decades, showcasing the diversity and evolution of music over time.

Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, country, or any other genre, you'll find familiar names that have left a lasting impact.

So without further ado, let's explore the best selling artists of all time!

1. The Beatles

The Beatles are recognized as the best-selling music artists of all time. They have sold over 400 million records worldwide.

Their music has influenced many generations. Songs like "Hey Jude," "Let It Be," and "Yesterday" are timeless classics.

The Beatles formed in Liverpool in 1960. The original lineup included John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr.

You can find their music in various formats, from vinyl to digital. This wide distribution has helped them reach a vast audience.

Their popularity remains strong even decades after they disbanded in 1970. Their lasting impact on music and culture is undeniable.

2. Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley, known as the "King of Rock and Roll," has left an indelible mark on the music world. His influence spans generations, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Elvis sold an estimated 1 billion records worldwide. In the USA alone, he sold around 129.5 million units.

Between 2000 and 2016, he sold 4.5 million singles in the UK. Elvis' music remains popular decades after his passing.

Songs like "Hound Dog," "Love Me Tender," and "Jailhouse Rock" are iconic. These tracks continue to inspire musicians and capture the hearts of fans.

His impact on popular culture is undeniable. You can see his influence in fashion, music, and film.

Elvis' legacy is also reflected in his chart-topping singles and albums. His blend of different music styles made him a versatile and beloved artist.

His status as a cultural icon is further solidified by his appearances in numerous movies and concerts. He was a pioneer in blending country, blues, and gospel into rock and roll. This innovation reshaped popular music.

3. Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson, also known as the "King of Pop," is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His global influence spans across generations and genres. He has sold over 300 million records worldwide.

"Thriller," released in 1982, is Jackson's best-selling album. It has sold over 66 million copies, making it the best-selling album ever. Tracks like "Billie Jean" and "Beat It" helped propel its success.

In the United States, Jackson sold more than 81 million records. His influence also reached the United Kingdom, where he sold over 21 million records. His career includes hits from the early days with the Jackson 5 to his solo achievements.

Jackson's signature style, moonwalk dance, and music videos set trends in the entertainment industry. Hits like "Bad," "Smooth Criminal," and "Black or White" continue to be popular. His work not only defined pop music but also influenced artists across various genres.

Despite his passing in 2009, Michael Jackson's legacy endures. His music continues to be celebrated and remembered by fans worldwide. His contributions to music and pop culture are timeless.

4. Madonna

Madonna, often called the "Queen of Pop," has a remarkable career with over 300 million records sold worldwide. She started her career in the early 1980s and quickly rose to fame with hits like "Like a Virgin" and "Material Girl."

Her success continued through the decades, making her one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Madonna's ability to reinvent herself has kept her relevant in the ever-changing music industry.

You might recognize her for her iconic performances and music videos. She's won numerous awards, including Grammys and MTV Video Music Awards, showcasing her influence in pop culture.

From "Vogue" to "Hung Up," her songs are anthems that have left a significant mark in music history. Madonna's versatility and persistence have cemented her place among the top-selling musical artists.

5. Elton John

Elton John is one of the world's most successful music artists. Born as Reginald Kenneth Dwight, he chose the stage name "Elton John" early in his career. Over the years, he has sold over 200 million records globally.

His hit single "Candle in the Wind" is among the best-selling singles ever. Elton John has released an impressive 30 studio albums.

His album "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" topped charts, selling 8 million copies in the U.S. Elton's music spans various genres, including rock, pop, and glam rock, showcasing his versatility.

Elton has not only dominated the charts but also embarked on some of the highest-grossing tours. His farewell tour, "Farewell Yellow Brick Road," has been particularly successful.

Elton John’s influence extends beyond music. He is also known for his efforts in philanthropy, especially in the fight against AIDS. Through the Elton John AIDS Foundation, he has raised millions to combat the disease.

6. Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin, formed in London in 1968, is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. They are known for their iconic rock sound and influential albums.

Their music blends blues, hard rock, and folk, creating a unique style that has inspired countless other musicians.

The band consisted of Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham. They released their self-titled debut album in 1969, which quickly gained popularity. Their fourth album, often referred to as "Led Zeppelin IV," features the legendary track "Stairway to Heaven."

Led Zeppelin has sold over 111 million records in the United States alone. Worldwide, their total sales exceed 200 million. Their album "Led Zeppelin IV" is one of the best-selling albums ever, with over 37 million copies sold globally.

Their live performances were legendary and often included extended improvisations. Despite disbanding in 1980 after Bonham's death, their music continues to attract new fans to this day.

7. Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd is a band from the United Kingdom known for their unique sound and groundbreaking music. Formed in 1965, their career spans decades with a few breaks in between. Key members include David Gilmour, Roger Waters, Richard Wright, and Nick Mason.

Their most famous album, The Dark Side of the Moon, has sold over 50 million copies worldwide. This makes it one of the best-selling albums of all time. Besides this album, they have released several other popular ones like The Wall and Wish You Were Here.

You might have heard their iconic songs like "Comfortably Numb" and "Another Brick in the Wall." These tracks are well-loved and showcase their musical talent. The band has sold over 250 million albums globally, including 72 million in the United States alone.

Pink Floyd's influence on rock and progressive music is immense. The band members also pursued solo careers, but their collective work continues to be celebrated. Their experimental approach to music and stunning live shows made them legends.

8. Rihanna

Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty, is a Barbadian singer, actress, and businesswoman. She started her music career with her debut album "Music of the Sun" in 2005.

Her breakthrough came with the release of her third album, "Good Girl Gone Bad", featuring hits like "Umbrella". This album earned Rihanna her first Grammy Award.

Rihanna has released eight studio albums and sold over 250 million records worldwide. This places her among the best-selling music artists of all time.

Some of her notable singles include "We Found Love", "Diamonds", and "Stay". She has a total of 14 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100.

Apart from her music career, Rihanna is also known for her successful ventures in fashion and beauty. Her Fenty Beauty line, launched in 2017, was praised for its inclusivity.

Rihanna's influence extends beyond music and fashion. She is also deeply involved in philanthropy. She founded the Clara Lionel Foundation, which supports global education and emergency response programs.

9. Eminem

Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He has sold over 60 million albums in the United States alone. This makes him the top-selling rapper in the country.

Eminem's fame took off with his second album, "The Slim Shady LP," which was released in 1999. This album featured hit singles like "My Name Is" and won several awards.

His success continued with albums like "The Marshall Mathers LP" and "The Eminem Show."

Many of his songs tackle personal issues, social commentary, and conflicts with other artists. Tracks like "Stan," "Lose Yourself," and "Love the Way You Lie" have left a lasting impact on the music world.

His ability to change his style and experiment with different genres has kept his music fresh and relevant. Eminem is not just a rapper but also a producer and actor. He starred in the film "8 Mile," which was loosely based on his life.

Eminem’s influence extends beyond music. He has inspired countless other artists and is seen as a cultural icon. Even if you are not a fan, it’s hard to deny his impact on the music industry.

10. Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey is one of the best-selling musical artists of all time. With her exceptional voice and diverse music style, she has captivated audiences globally. She has sold over 200 million records throughout her career, making her one of the highest-selling female artists ever.

Carey is known for her remarkable five-octave vocal range and signature whistle notes. She has achieved numerous chart-topping hits, including 19 No. 1 singles on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Her debut album, released in 1990, set the stage for her sustained success.

Mariah Carey's album "Daydream," released in 1995, remains one of her most successful works. It sold over 20 million copies worldwide. Her holiday hit, "All I Want for Christmas Is You," has become a seasonal staple and consistently returns to the charts every year.

She has also won numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards. Carey has influenced many artists with her vocal technique and songwriting skills.

Her music combines pop, R&B, and soul, making it appealing to a wide audience.

In addition to her music career, Mariah Carey has appeared in movies and television, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer. Her lasting impact on the music industry and her ability to adapt to changing trends highlight her as a timeless artist.

11. Queen

Queen is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. The band is known for its unique blend of rock, opera, and pop. Formed in 1970 in London, the group's classic lineup included Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon.

Queen's popularity soared with hits like "Bohemian Rhapsody," "We Will Rock You," and "Another One Bites the Dust." Their music has left a lasting impact on rock and pop culture.

Their live performances are legendary. One of the most famous concerts was at Live Aid in 1985. Freddie Mercury's stage presence captivated millions around the world.

Queen has sold over 281 million records globally. This includes albums, singles, and digital downloads. Their music continues to reach new generations of fans.

Freddie Mercury passed away in 1991, but Queen remains active. Brian May and Roger Taylor still perform, now with Adam Lambert as their lead vocalist. The band's legacy lives on through their timeless songs and dynamic performances.

12. The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Formed in 1962, they became pioneers in rock and roll, blending blues and rock to create a unique sound.

You may know them for iconic hits like "Paint It Black," "Gimme Shelter," and "Satisfaction." Their albums, including "Let It Bleed" and "Sticky Fingers," are considered classics.

Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the band's primary songwriters, have crafted songs that resonate across generations. Their live performances are legendary, often filling stadiums around the world.

The Rolling Stones have sold over 240 million records globally. Their influence on music and culture continues, securing their place as enduring rock legends.

13. Billy Joel

Billy Joel is one of the best-selling artists of all time. Born in 1949, he is most famous for his work as a singer-songwriter and pianist. He has sold over 150 million records worldwide.

Joel's career took off with his 1973 hit, "Piano Man." This song has become an enduring classic.

Following this success, he released numerous albums that achieved both critical and commercial acclaim.

He has won five Grammy Awards. Two of these were for "Just the Way You Are" from his 1977 album, "The Stranger." This song earned Record of the Year and Song of the Year.

Albums like "52nd Street" and "Glass Houses" solidified his place in music history. Each new release demonstrated his versatility and talent.

Songs such as "Uptown Girl" and "We Didn’t Start the Fire" remain popular today.

Joel's music spans different genres, from rock to pop to jazz influences. His ability to write catchy, heartfelt songs has contributed to his lasting legacy. Even after his final studio album, "River of Dreams" in 1993, he continues to tour and draw large audiences.

14. Garth Brooks

Garth Brooks is one of the best-selling artists in music history. He has sold over 157 million albums in the United States alone. This makes him the top-selling solo artist in the country.

Brook's music blends rock and pop with traditional country. This mix has won him a massive fan base. Songs like "Friends in Low Places" and "The Dance" are crowd favorites.

His album "Double Live" is the best-selling live album ever. It is certified 21× Platinum. This shows how much fans love seeing him perform live.

Brooks has also been successful in the 21st century. He continues to release albums and sell out concert tours. His passion for music shines through in every performance.

You can't talk about country music without mentioning Garth Brooks. His influence on the genre is undeniable. He remains a major figure in the music world.

15. Barbra Streisand

Barbra Streisand, a legend in both music and film, stands out as one of the best-selling artists of all time. Born in 1942, she quickly rose to fame with her powerful voice and emotional depth.

You might know her for her hit songs and beloved albums. Over her career, Streisand has sold approximately 68.5 million albums in the United States.

Her discography includes 36 studio albums, 118 singles, and numerous live, compilation, and soundtrack albums. Albums like "Guilty" have sold over 15 million copies worldwide.

Besides her music career, Streisand has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry as an actress and director. She has won multiple awards, including Oscars and Grammys.

Barbra Streisand’s influence goes beyond just numbers. Her talent, dedication, and versatility set her apart, making her a lasting figure in the world of music and entertainment.

16. Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift has become one of the best-selling music artists in the world. You can see her impact through her impressive album sales. Her career began in 2006 and she has continued to dominate charts over the years.

Swift’s genre-spanning music appeals to a wide audience. "Fearless," "1989," and "Lover" are some of her top-selling albums. "Midnights" is her latest release, pushing her higher among the best-selling artists.

Her sales figures include millions of albums sold worldwide. You will find Swift’s music frequently topping charts and breaking records. She has more than 75 million records sold globally.

Taylor Swift’s influence is evident not just in album sales but also in digital singles. You can see her name among the highest-certified digital singles in the United States.

Her swift rise from country music to pop sensation highlights her versatility. Swift's impact on the music industry is undeniable, making her a prominent figure in modern music.

17. Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She began her career in the 1980s and quickly rose to fame with her powerful voice and impressive range.

Her debut album, "Whitney Houston," was released in 1985. This album is famous for producing three No. 1 singles: "Saving All My Love for You," "How Will I Know," and "Greatest Love of All."

Houston continued her success with her second album, "Whitney," released in 1987. It became the first album by a female artist to debut at the top of the Billboard 200.

One of her most iconic achievements is the soundtrack for "The Bodyguard." This album includes the hit single “I Will Always Love You” and sold over 45 million copies worldwide.

Throughout her career, Whitney Houston sold over 200 million albums globally. Her influence on the music industry is undeniable, earning her numerous awards and accolades.

18. The Eagles

The Eagles are one of the best-selling bands of all time, both in the U.S. and worldwide.

Formed in 1971, they have sold over 120 million records in the U.S. alone.

Their music blends rock, folk, and country, attracting a wide range of fans.

One notable album is "Hotel California," released in 1976. This album gained massive popularity, with hit singles such as "Hotel California" and "New Kid in Town." To date, the album has sold over 26 million copies worldwide.

The Eagles' success continued through the years, earning them numerous awards. They have five chart-topping songs on the Billboard Hot 100 and another 13 that reached the Top 40. Their influence on rock music is undeniable.

You can find their music in almost any rock music collection. Their timeless songs and unique sound have cemented them as legends in music history.

19. Celine Dion

Celine Dion is one of the top-selling music artists of all time. She has sold over 250 million albums worldwide. Her career began in the 1980s and took off globally in the 1990s.

Her album "Falling Into You" sold more than 32 million copies. It contains hits like "Because You Loved Me" and "It's All Coming Back to Me Now." These songs helped cement her place in music history.

In the United States alone, Celine has sold over 53 million albums since 1991. This makes her one of the top female artists in American music sales. Her powerful voice and emotional performances draw fans worldwide.

She is also famous for her song "My Heart Will Go On," the theme for the film Titanic. This song won multiple awards, boosting her fame even further.

Celine performs in multiple languages, including English and French. This broad appeal has helped her reach fans across different cultures and regions. She continues to tour and release new music, maintaining a strong presence in the industry.

20. AC/DC

AC/DC is an Australian rock band known for their high-energy performances and hard rock sound. Formed in 1973, the band includes notable members like Angus Young, who is famous for his schoolboy uniform stage outfit and powerful guitar riffs.

They gained massive popularity with albums like High Voltage and Highway to Hell.

Their 1980 album, Back in Black, is one of the best-selling albums of all time, with over 25 million copies sold in the US alone.

AC/DC's music often features strong guitar and drum performances, making it iconic in the rock genre. Songs like "Thunderstruck" and "You Shook Me All Night Long" are still popular today.

You can't talk about the history of rock without mentioning AC/DC. Their influence on the genre is undeniable, and their music continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

21. Adele

Adele is an English singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and soulful ballads. She gained worldwide fame with her second album, 21, which became the best-selling album of the 21st century, selling over 31 million copies globally.

Her follow-up album, 25, was also a huge success. Released in 2015, it sold over 23 million copies. Adele's ability to convey deep emotions through her music resonates with a wide audience.

Adele has won numerous awards, including 16 Grammy Awards. Her songs often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia. Her unique voice and relatable lyrics make her one of the best-selling artists ever.

Her impact goes beyond just sales. Adele's live performances are known for their emotional intensity and powerful vocals. She has sold out arenas around the world, showing her widespread appeal.

22. Kenny Rogers

Kenny Rogers was an iconic figure in music, crossing over multiple genres like jazz, folk, pop, rock, and country. With a career that spanned several decades, he left a significant mark in the music world.

You might know him best for his hit songs such as "The Gambler" and "Coward of the County." These songs topped the country charts for three weeks each.

He sold more than 100 million records worldwide. In the United States alone, he sold over 50 million records.

Kenny Rogers is remembered as one of the most successful crossover artists ever. His ability to blend different musical styles made him popular with a wide audience.

Besides his music career, Rogers also tried his hand at acting and appeared in several TV movies. His talent and versatility made him a beloved figure in both music and entertainment.

If you explore his discography, you'll find 39 studio albums and 80 singles. An impressive 24 of these singles reached Number One on the country charts. His influence and contributions to the music industry remain significant.

23. Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart is one of the best-selling artists of all time. With a career spanning over five decades, he has amassed impressive album sales. His charismatic voice and style have left a lasting impact on rock and pop music.

You might know Rod Stewart from hits like "Maggie May" and "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?". These songs showcased his unique blend of rock and pop. His music often includes heartfelt storytelling and catchy melodies.

Rod Stewart's success isn't limited to one era. He has consistently released popular albums throughout his career. In 1989, his cover of "Downtown Train" became a notable hit, reaching high chart positions in the US.

As of 2019, Rod Stewart's album and song sales were impressive. He has sold over 108 million records worldwide. This makes him one of the most successful British solo artists ever.

His long career includes various styles, from rock and folk to pop standards. Albums like "Every Picture Tells a Story" and "Atlantic Crossing" are considered classics. His ability to reinvent himself has kept his music fresh and relevant.

Rod Stewart's influence and popularity continue today, with a dedicated fan base and ongoing tours. His contribution to music is undeniable, and his best-selling status reflects his widespread appeal.

24. Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen, also known as "The Boss," has made an indelible mark on rock music. With a career spanning over five decades, he has released 19 studio albums.

His music often tells stories of working-class America, resonating with millions worldwide.

"Born in the U.S.A." is one of his best-selling albums, with around 15 million copies sold in the U.S. alone. This album produced hits like "Dancing in the Dark" and "Glory Days."

He has sold over 65.5 million albums in the U.S., making him one of the top-selling rock artists. Springsteen’s ability to connect with audiences through his lyrics and energetic performances helps maintain his enduring popularity.

25. Kanye West

Kanye West is one of the top-selling artists in music history. He sold over 39 million albums worldwide. In the U.S. alone, he sold around 32.5 million albums.

Kanye's best-selling album is "Late Registration," which sold over 6 million copies. He is also known for his singles, as he sold around 165 million digital singles globally.

Kanye's influence extends beyond his album sales. He is also a key figure in modern hip-hop. His innovative approaches to music production have set new standards.

With a career spanning over two decades, Kanye West remains a dominant force in the music industry. His work continues to shape and influence artists around the world.

Historical Influence of Best Selling Artists

The best selling artists have significantly shaped music genres, popular culture, and received numerous prestigious awards. Their influence goes beyond album sales, affecting the way music is consumed and appreciated.

Evolution of Music Genres

Best selling artists often lead the way in evolving music genres. The Beatles and Elvis Presley transformed rock and roll, making it a dominant force.

Michael Jackson and Madonna brought pop music to an international audience, blending dance, and visual appeal.

Hip-hop's rise is greatly credited to Eminem and Jay-Z.

Disco, thanks to artists like the Bee Gees, shifted the dance music landscape.

These artists didn't just follow trends; they set them, pushing the boundaries of what their genres could be.

Impact on Popular Culture

Their impact on popular culture is seen everywhere, from fashion to language.

Madonna's bold fashion choices influenced generations, while Michael Jackson's "Moonwalk" became iconic.

The Beatles, with their "British Invasion," changed the American music scene and influenced countless bands.

Artists such as Beyoncé and Rihanna have set new standards for style, advocacy, and music videos, proving that music and culture are deeply intertwined.

Awards and Recognitions

These artists have been honored with numerous awards. For instance, The Beatles have won multiple Grammy Awards and are members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Michael Jackson's album "Thriller" holds a record for the most Grammy nominations and wins.

Beyoncé has numerous accolades, including MTV Music Awards and Grammys, recognizing her influence.

These awards celebrate their contributions to music and their lasting legacies, proving their impact on the industry.

Factors Contributing to High Sales

High sales for music artists are influenced by their global reach, the quality of their music production, and the level of engagement and loyalty they sustain from their fans.

Global Reach and Marketing

Artists with a global presence sell more albums. Worldwide tours increase visibility and help artists gain fans in new regions.

Marketing strategies, including digital advertising and social media, are crucial.

Major record labels offer the support needed to penetrate international markets.

Translation of songs into different languages can also help. Collaborations with artists from different countries can introduce their music to new listeners.

Quality of Music Production

High-quality music production is key to attracting and retaining listeners.

Investing in top-tier producers, sound engineers, and studios results in better sound quality.

Consistency in releasing well-produced music builds a reliable brand for the artist.

Genre also plays a role; popular genres like pop and rock often see higher sales.

Awards and critical acclaim further validate an artist’s work, attracting new fans.

Fan Engagement and Loyalty

Engaging with your fans can significantly boost sales.

Regular updates on social media, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive releases keep fans interested.

Fan clubs and membership programs foster a community feeling.

Merchandise and limited edition items also strengthen the bond between artists and fans.

Personal interactions, like meet-and-greets and live Q&A sessions, deepen this relationship further.

Loyal fans are more likely to purchase multiple albums and attend concerts.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers common questions about the world's best-selling music artists, including record-breaking individuals and groups. You'll find details about the highest-selling artists, from global sales to specific achievements in the music industry.

Who are the top 25 best-selling music artists internationally?

The top 25 best-selling music artists internationally include legendary names like The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Elton John. These artists have sold millions of records worldwide and have made significant impacts on the music industry.

Which solo musician holds the record for the most records sold?

Elvis Presley holds the record for the most records sold by a solo musician. Known as the King of Rock and Roll, he has sold over 139 million units globally. His influence spans multiple generations, making him one of the top-selling solo artists in history.

What are the names of the top 10 artists in terms of global sales?

The top 10 artists in terms of global sales include:

1. The Beatles

2. Elvis Presley

3. Michael Jackson

4. Madonna

5. Elton John

6. Led Zeppelin

7. Pink Floyd

8. Rihanna

9. Queen

10. The Rolling Stones

For the full list, check out our full article above!

Which music artist has achieved the milestone of selling 1 billion records?

The Beatles have achieved the milestone of selling over 1 billion records globally.

They are considered the best-selling artists of all time, with their influence still evident in the music world today.

How do hip hop artists rank among the best-selling artists of all time?

Hip hop artists like Eminem and Kanye West have made it into the list of best-selling musicians. Eminem, in particular, is one of the best-selling hip hop artists, with millions of albums sold worldwide. They continue to shape the genre and achieve commercial success.

Who has been recognized as the greatest artist of all time in music industry rankings?

The Beatles are often recognized as the greatest artists of all time in various music industry rankings. Their innovation, cultural impact, and record-breaking sales have earned them this prestigious title.