50 Best Selling Singers Of All Time (Album Sales)

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?

The Beatles are the highest selling music artists with over 600 million album records sold, followed by Elvis Presley holds over 500 million records sold, making him the best selling solo artist.

The Beatles – Over 600 Million Album Copies Sold

The Beatles hold the title of the best-selling music act ever, with estimated global sales of 600 million to 1 billion records. While the exact figures are debated, considering the sales record-keeping practices before 1990s, their dominance in the global album sales market is rarely contested.

Their cultural impact and timeless catalog, including albums like Abbey Road and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, solidify their unparalleled legacy.

While Elvis Presley remains the best-selling solo artist in history, The Beatles are the highest selling music artists ever. Michael Jackson, and Madonna follow as the top-selling solo performers.

Elvis Presley – Over 500 Million Album Copies Sold

Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll,” wasn’t just a singer – he was a cultural phenomenon. Elvis 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, making him one of the greatest music artists of all time. Elvis has claimed to have sold over a billion records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling solo 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.

Artists	Total Albums Sold	Total Streams
The Beatles	Over 600 million	25,267,000
Elvis Presley	Over 500 million	13,025,000
Michael Jackson	400 to 500 million	23,486,000
Queen	Over 300 million	33,376,000
Madonna	Over 400 million	12,103,000
The Rolling Stones	More than 250 million	12,149,000
Pink Floyd	Over 250 million	13,528,000
Frank Sinatra	Estimated 150 million	11,911,000
Taylor Swift	Around 114 million	131,491,000
Eminem	Over 220 million	66,067,000
Elton John	More than 300 million	19,052,000
Led Zeppelin	Over 300 million	9,678,000
AC/DC	Over 200 million	17,493,000
Mariah Carey	Over 220 million	15,706,000
Céline Dion	Around 200-250 million	9,384,000
Eagles	Over 200 million	8,051,000

Note: Sales figures are approximate and vary by source due to differing methodologies (e.g., certifications, streaming equivalents, pre-digital era estimates). Legacy artists’ totals may include singles, albums, and compilations, while modern acts reflect digital/streaming dominance.

Sources like Wikipedia, RIAA, IFPI, and Chartmasters were cross-referenced, but exact numbers remain debated industry-wide.

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. Elvis Presley

Years Active	1954 – 1977
Physical Singles units sold	Over 600 million
Digital Single Units sold	Estimated 400 million+
Key Accomplishments	18 #1’s on Billboard charts, 3 Grammy Awards, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Presidential Medal of Freedom (posthumously)

Elvis Presley, “The King of Rock and Roll,” revolutionized music by blending country, blues, and gospel into a groundbreaking sound. His signature hip movements sparked controversy while songs like “Hound Dog” showcased his versatility. 

With over 500 million records sold across multiple genres, Elvis’s impact extends beyond music to his 31 films and cultural legacy.

3. 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. 

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

Did you know – Taylor Swift is officially the most streamed artist in the world on Spotify and Apple Music!

10. 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

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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.

16. 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.

#	Artist	Estimated Album Sales	Key Highlights
17	ABBA	150–200 million	Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia musical
18	Whitney Houston	200 million	Best-selling female R&B artist
19	Metallica	150 million	Thrash metal legends (Master of Puppets)
20	U2	170–200 million	Most Grammy Awards for a rock band (22)
21	Bee Gees	120–220 million	Disco pioneers (Stayin’ Alive)
22	Drake	170 million+	Most Billboard Hot 100 entries ever (300+)
23	Rihanna	250 million+	Umbrella, Fenty Beauty founder
24	Bruno Mars	130 million+	24K Magic, Super Bowl halftime star
25	Justin Bieber	150 million+	Youngest solo artist with 8 #1 albums
26	Ed Sheeran	150 million+	Shape of You (3B+ streams)
27	Billy Joel	150 million+	Piano Man, Madison Square Garden residency
28	Phil Collins	150 million+	Genesis + solo (In the Air Tonight)
29	Aerosmith	150 million+	I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing (1998 #1 hit)
30	Bruce Springsteen	140 million+	Born in the U.S.A., “The Boss”
31	Guns N’ Roses	100–150 million	Sweet Child o’ Mine (1B+ streams)
32	Bob Dylan	125 million+	Nobel Prize in Literature (2016)
33	Coldplay	100–120 million	Viva la Vida, eco-friendly tours
34	Fleetwood Mac	120 million+	Rumours (40M+ sales)
35	Katy Perry	100 million+	Teenage Dream (5 #1 Hot 100 hits)
36	Lady Gaga	100 million+	Shallow (Oscar winner), jazz collaborations
37	Prince	100–150 million	Purple Rain (25M+), genre-blending genius
38	BTS	100 million+	First K-pop act to top Billboard 200
39	Journey	100 million+	Don’t Stop Believin’ (10M+ digital sales)
40	Adele	100 million+	21 (31M+ sales), vocal powerhouse
41	Bon Jovi	100 million+	Livin’ on a Prayer, stadium rock anthems
42	Earth, Wind & Fire	90–100 million	September, funk/soul pioneers
43	Simon & Garfunkel	100 million+	The Sound of Silence (folk-rock icons)
44	The Doors	80–100 million	Light My Fire, psychedelic rock legends
45	Nirvana	75–100 million	Nevermind (grunge revolution)
46	Santana	100 million+	Smooth (Latin-rock fusion)
47	Def Leppard	100 million+	Hysteria (12x Platinum)
48	Dire Straits	100 million+	Money for Nothing (MTV pioneers)
49	Tina Turner	100 million+	What’s Love Got to Do with It (comeback hit)
50	Stevie Wonder	100 million+	Songs in the Key of Life (1976 classic)

Related Reads:

• TV Girl Concert 2025
• Linkin Park World Tour 2025

Conclusion: The Beatles Are The Highest Selling Music Artists With Over 600 Million Copies Sold!

Selling over 600 million album records is a a testament to the timeless influence of The Beatles.

From Elvis Presley’s revolutionary rock ‘n’ roll to Michael Jackson’s pop mastery, and from Madonna’s boundary-pushing artistry to Taylor Swift’s record-shattering dominance, these icons didn’t just create hits—they defined eras. Their legacies transcend numbers, shaping culture, inspiring generations, and proving that great music knows no expiration date.

Whether through vinyl, cassettes, or streams, their voices echo across decades, uniting fans worldwide. These legends didn’t just break records; they rewrote the very blueprint of musical greatness.

FAQs