British folk-pop phenomenon Ed Sheeran on Monday was named the best-selling artist in the world in 2017 by the global recorded music industry group IFPI.
The album’s lead single, ‘Shape Of You’, was also the global best-selling single of last year, going multi-platinum in 32 countries.
IFPI Chief Executive, Frances Moore, comments: “It’s wonderful to be able to announce Ed Sheeran as the IFPI Global Recording Artist 2017. The success Ed has achieved is astonishing and testament to his ability to write and perform songs that connect with a truly global fanbase.This year’s Global Top 10 really is a ‘who’s who’ of popular music. Each artist has a unique impact on the music industry through the talent and energy they are channeling through their work.”
IFPI’s Top 10 Global Recording Artists of 2017
1. Ed Sheeran
2. Drake
3. Taylor Swift
4. Kendrick Lamar
5. Eminem
6. Bruno Mars
7. The Weeknd
8. Imagine Dragons
9. Linkin Park
10. The Chainsmokers
Drake was named by the IFPI as the second best-selling global artist for 2017, while Taylor Swift came third, despite her album ‘Reputation’ only being released in November.
The ranking includes digital and physical album and single sales, as well as audio streaming.
Max Lousada, chief executive of Warner Music UK, said Sheeran’s “ability to tell stories and make people feel is what stands him out from the crowd”.
Sheeran lost out to grime star Stormzy at the Brit Awards in London last week but earlier this month took Best Pop Solo performance at the Grammies in New York for “Shape of You”.
> Shiuly Akter
