The music industry evaluates success based on record sales, streaming numbers, and overall cultural impact. These legends didn’t just make music-they shaped it.
When we talk about the top-selling artists, we’re looking at Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, and a few others who absolutely crushed it in the sales department.
The industry’s constantly changing, but these artists have stayed at the top because their music connects with generations of fans. They didn’t just sell records-they built legacies!
Who Is The Best Selling Singer Of All Time?
Elvis Presley holds over 600 million records sold, making him the undisputed king of sales. He transformed the music era, and his legacy still resonates.
Michael Jackson, the “King of Pop,” has racked up over 350 million sales and redefined pop music with his iconic albums like Thriller. Meanwhile, Mariah Carey slays with over 200 million units sold, known for her insane vocal range and timeless hits.
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll,” wasn’t just a singer – he was a cultural phenomenon. This guy exploded onto the scene in the 1950s with his unique blend of rock and roll, country, and blues.
Songs like “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock” got everyone movin’ and groovin’, while ballads like “Love Me Tender” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” showed off his softer side. He basically invented rock and roll as we know it, and his music still slaps today. His hip-swiveling moves captivated audiences worldwide.
Elvis’s impact was massive. He sold over a billion records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His music transcended generations, and his influence can still be felt today. He also starred in numerous movies and became a global icon.
15 Top Selling Singers of All Time
You might not know who sold the most music in history. This list dives into the top 15 best-selling singers of all time. From rock legends to pop icons, these artists have not only entertained us but also left a lasting impact on the music world.
| Artist | Total Albums Sold | Total Streams |
|---|---|---|
| The Beatles | Around 600 million | 24,490,000 |
| Michael Jackson | Over 500 million | 23,486,000 |
| Queen | Over 300 million | 32,628,000 |
| Madonna | Over 400 million | 11,714,000 |
| The Rolling Stones | More than 250 million | 11,842,000 |
| Pink Floyd | Over 250 million | 13,124,000 |
| Frank Sinatra | Estimated 150 million | 11,579,000 |
| Taylor Swift | Around 114 million | 127,258,000 |
| Eminem | Over 220 million | 64,304,000 |
| Elton John | More than 300 million | 18,474,000 |
| Led Zeppelin | Over 300 million | 9,407,000 |
| AC/DC | Over 200 million | 16,994,000 |
| Mariah Carey | Over 220 million | 15,367,000 |
| Céline Dion | Around 200-250 million | 9,089,000 |
| Eagles | Over 200 million | 7,840,000 |
1. The Beatles
| Years Active | 1960 – 1970 |
| Physical Singles units sold | Over 600 million records worldwide |
| Digital Single Units sold | 38,990,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 13 #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 1007 #1 albums on the Billboard 200 |
The four lads of The Beatles from Liverpool revolutionized music with their catchy melodies, innovative songwriting, and incredible stage presence. Songs like “Hey Jude,” “Let It Be,” and “Yesterday” are still massive today. Their impact on music, fashion, and culture is undeniable. They basically defined a generation and continue to inspire artists and fans worldwide.
2. Michael Jackson
| Years Active | 1964 – 2009 |
| Physical Singles units sold | 79,350,000 |
| Digital Single Units sold | over 500 million |
| Key Accomplishments | 13 Grammy Awards13 #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100″Thriller” is the best-selling album of all time |
The “King of Pop” redefined music videos with his innovative choreography and special effects. Hits like “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” and “Bad” dominated the charts, and his iconic dance moves, like the moonwalk, are still imitated today.
3. Queen
| Years Active | 1970 – present |
| Physical Singles units sold | 17 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | Estimated 250 to 300 million |
| Key Accomplishments | 18 UK #1 singles10 UK #1 albumsGrammy Award for Lifetime Achievement |
Fronted by the legendary Freddie Mercury, Queen delivered high-energy live shows with theatrical flair. Their music, a blend of rock, opera, and glam, produced anthems like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You” that continue to resonate with audiences today.
4. Madonna
| Years Active | 1979 – present |
| Physical Singles units sold | more than 100 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | 42.1 million |
| Key Accomplishments | 7 #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 1009 #1 albums on the Billboard 200Multiple Grammy Awards |
The “Queen of Pop” constantly reinvented herself, pushing boundaries in music and fashion. Hits like “Like a Prayer,” “Vogue,” and “Material Girl” dominated the charts, and her influence on pop culture is undeniable. Madonna built a loyal fanbase and continues to inspire artists today.
5. The Rolling Stones
| Years Active | 1962 – present |
| Physical Singles units sold | 72,773,000 |
| Digital Single Units sold | 46,200,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 8 #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 10012 #1 albums on the Billboard 200 |
Known for their raw energy and rebellious image, The Rolling Stones have been rocking stages for decades. Hits like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” are timeless classics. Their influence on rock and roll is undeniable, and they remain one of the most enduring bands in music history.
6. Pink Floyd
| Years Active | 1965 to 2014 |
| Physical Singles units sold | Over 250 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | 23,360,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 15 Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement |
Pink Floyd created a unique and immersive sound with their innovative use of studio techniques and psychedelic visuals. Albums like “Dark Side of the Moon” and “The Wall” are considered masterpieces, and their influence on rock music is profound.
7. Frank Sinatra
| Years Active | 1935–1995 |
| Physical Singles units sold | 95,250,000 units |
| Digital Single Units sold | 26,210,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 150 singles on the Billboard Hot 10011 #1 albums on the Billboard 200 |
“The Chairman of the Board,” Sinatra’s smooth vocals and romantic ballads captivated audiences worldwide. Hits like “My Way” and “Fly Me to the Moon” remain timeless classics. His influence on popular music and American culture is undeniable.
8. Taylor Swift
| Years Active | 2003 – present |
| Physical Singles units sold | 150 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | 164,620,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 11 #1 albums on the Billboard 20012 Grammy Awards |
This modern-day superstar has captivated a global audience with her heartfelt songwriting, catchy melodies, and relatable lyrics. Hits like “Shake It Off,” “Blank Space,” and “All Too Well” have topped charts worldwide. Swift has built a dedicated fanbase and continues to break records with each new album.
9. Eminem
| Years Active | 1988–present |
| Physical Singles units sold | 14 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | 204,920,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 15 #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 10015 Grammy Awards |
10. Elton John
| Years Active | 1962–present |
| Physical Singles units sold | over 65 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | 26,250,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 57 Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 1005 Grammy Awards |
Elton John has delivered countless hits like “Rocket Man,” “Your Song,” and “Candle in the Wind.” His music blends pop, rock, and soul, and his enduring popularity has made him a global icon.
11. Led Zeppelin
| Years Active | 1968–1980 |
| Physical Singles units sold | 200 and 300 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | 32,030,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 2 #1 albums on the Billboard 200Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement |
This legendary rock band, known for their powerful sound and innovative guitar work, delivered iconic albums like “Led Zeppelin IV” and “Physical Graffiti.” Hits like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Kashmir” continue to inspire musicians today.
12. AC/DC
| Years Active | 1973–present |
| Physical Singles units sold | 411,000 |
| Digital Single Units sold | 33,450,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 19 Top 40 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 |
This high-energy rock band is known for their powerful riffs, raucous stage presence, and enduring popularity. Hits like “Highway to Hell” and “Back in Black” are anthems of rock and roll, and their live shows are legendary for their intensity.
13. Mariah Carey
| Years Active | 1988–present |
| Physical Singles units sold | Over 40 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | 81,490,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 18 #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 1005 Grammy Awards |
With her five-octave vocal range, Mariah Carey has delivered countless hits like “Hero,” “Without You,” and “We Belong Together.” She’s known for her powerful ballads and has broken numerous records in the music industry.
14. Céline Dion
| Years Active | 1980 – present |
| Physical Singles units sold | 39,290,000 |
| Digital Single Units sold | 26,660,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 5 #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 1005 Grammy Awards |
Known for her powerful and emotive vocals, Celine Dion has delivered numerous chart-topping hits like “My Heart Will Go On” and “The Power of Love.” Her voice has captivated audiences worldwide, and she remains one of the most successful singers of all time.
15. Eagles
| Years Active | 1971–1980, 1994–2016, 2017–present |
| Physical Singles units sold | 1.36 million |
| Digital Single Units sold | 20,440,000 |
| Key Accomplishments | 6 #1 albums on the Billboard 2006 Grammy Awards |
This iconic American rock band, known for their harmonies and classic rock sound, delivered timeless hits like “Hotel California” and “Desperado.” Their music continues to resonate with audiences today, and they remain one of the most successful bands in music history.
Related Reads:
Conclusion: Modern Artists Are Making Millions, But Elvis Presley Still Top The List
These artists aren’t just singers; they’re icons who’ve shaped the music industry. From Elvis Presley’s groundbreaking rock and roll to Taylor Swift’s modern pop domination, these legends have captivated audiences worldwide. They’ve sold millions of records, broken countless records, and left an indelible mark on music history.
FAQs
The Beatles are generally considered the biggest-selling music act of all time, with estimated sales exceeding 600 million records worldwide.
This is subjective and depends on individual preferences. There’s no single “greatest” singer. Many consider artists like Freddie Mercury, Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Michael Jackson among the most influential and talented vocalists.
The Beatles are the only music act widely recognized as having sold over 1 billion records.
“White Christmas” by Bing Crosby is often cited as the best-selling single of all time, with estimated sales exceeding 50 million copies.
Leave a Comment