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- Elvis Presley – Often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll,” Elvis Presley’s estimated record sales exceed 500 million units worldwide.
- Michael Jackson – Known as the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson’s global record sales are estimated around 350 million units.
- Madonna – The “Queen of Pop” has sold over 300 million records globally, making her one of the best-selling female artists in history.
- Eagles – This rock band is renowned for their album “Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975),” is one of the best-selling albums of all time. Their total sales are estimated to be over 200 million units.
- Billy Joel – Prominent singer-songwriter and pianist, Billy Joel has sold over 150 million records worldwide.
- Garth Brooks – Top-selling country artist, Garth Brooks has sold approximately 170 million records globally.
- Whitney Houston – An iconic pop and R&B singer, her record sales are estimated to be around 200 million units worldwide.
- Bruce Springsteen – Known as “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen has sold around 150 million records globally.
- Barbra Streisand – Accomplished singer and actress, Barbra Streisand has sold over 150 million records worldwide.
- Mariah Carey – With her impressive vocal range and numerous hit singles, Mariah Carey has sold over 200 million records globally
1. Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, born in 1935, was an American singer and actor who became a cultural icon of the 20th century. Known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” Elvis revolutionized popular music with his charismatic stage presence and fusion of rockabilly, gospel, and rhythm and blues. His best-selling album, “Elvis’ Christmas Album,” released in 1957, remains a timeless classic. Elvis achieved unprecedented success with hits like “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” selling over 500 million records worldwide.
He starred in numerous films, including “Jailhouse Rock” and “Blue Hawaii,” solidifying his status as a global superstar. Elvis Presley’s influence on music and culture continues to resonate, making him one of the most celebrated and enduring figures in entertainment history.
2. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, born in 1958, was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who became a global phenomenon in pop music. Known as the “King of Pop,” Jackson rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of the Jackson 5 before embarking on a solo career. His best-selling album, “Thriller,” released in 1982, remains the best-selling album of all time, showcasing hits like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the title track. With an estimated 350 million records sold worldwide, Jackson’s influence transcended music, pioneering iconic dance moves like the Moonwalk.
He earned numerous awards, including multiple Grammys, and his humanitarian efforts made him a beloved figure. Michael Jackson’s legacy continues to inspire artists and fans globally, solidifying his place as one of the greatest entertainers in history.
3. Madonna
Madonna, born in 1958, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who emerged as a cultural icon in the 1980s. Known as the “Queen of Pop,” Madonna’s career spans decades, marked by hits like “Like a Virgin,” “Material Girl,” and “Vogue.” Her best-selling album, “Like a Virgin,” released in 1984, solidified her status as a pop superstar. Madonna’s provocative style and reinventions in music and fashion have influenced generations.
With over 300 million records sold worldwide, she holds records for the highest-grossing concert tours by a female artist. Madonna’s impact extends beyond music into film and philanthropy, making her a trailblazer in the entertainment industry and a constant presence in pop culture.
4. Eagles
The Eagles, formed in Los Angeles in 1971, are a seminal American rock band renowned for their harmonious sound and influential contributions to music. Their best-selling album, “Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975),” released in 1976, remains one of the highest-selling albums worldwide. Hits like “Hotel California,” “Take It Easy,” and “Desperado” defined their success, blending country, rock, and folk elements.
With multiple Grammy Awards and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, The Eagles’ legacy includes their ability to create timeless classics that resonate across generations. Despite lineup changes over the years, their impact on the rock genre and commercial success inspires musicians and fans globally.
5. Billy Joel
Billy Joel, born in 1949, is an American singer-songwriter and pianist known for his extensive career in pop rand soft rock genres. With hits like “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” and “Just the Way You Are,” Joel has sold over 150 million records worldwide. His best-selling album, “52nd Street,” released in 1978, won the Grammy for Album of the Year and includes popular tracks such as “My Life” and “Big Shot.”
Joel’s distinctive voice and storytelling lyrics have earned him multiple Grammy Awards and a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His concerts, characterized by energetic performances and musical proficiency, continue to draw large audiences globally, solidifying Billy Joel as a legendary figure in American music history.
6. Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks, born in 1962, is a prominent American country music artist celebrated for his impactful career and influence on the genre. Known for hits like “Friends in Low Places,” “The Dance,” and “If Tomorrow Never Comes,” Brooks has sold over 170 million records worldwide. His best-selling album, “No Fences,” released in 1990, features signature tracks like “The Thunder Rolls” and “Unanswered Prayers.” Brooks’ dynamic stage presence and ability to blend country with rock elements have earned him numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
With record-breaking concert tours and a dedicated fan base, Garth Brooks continues to shape country music’s landscape and remains a defining figure in American popular culture.
7. Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston, born in 1963, was an American singer and actress achieving success in pop and R&B. Known for her powerful vocals and chart-topping hits like “I Will Always Love You,” “Greatest Love of All,” and “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me),” Houston sold over 200 million records worldwide. Her best-selling album, “Whitney Houston,” released in 1985, featured several iconic songs and solidified her as a global superstar.
Houston won multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year for “I Will Always Love You.” Her influence on music and culture remains profound, as she continues to be celebrated for her unparalleled voice and impact on the music industry.
8. Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen, born in 1949, is an American rock singer-songwriter known for his poetic lyrics and energetic performances. His career spans over five decades, marked by hits like “Born to Run,” “Thunder Road,” and “Born in the U.S.A.,” blending rock, folk, and Americana influences. Springsteen’s best-selling album, “Born in the U.S.A.,” released in 1984, catapulted him to global fame with songs addressing social and political themes.
He has won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for “The Rising” in 2003. Springsteen’s concerts are legendary for their marathon length and emotional intensity, drawing loyal fans worldwide. His impact on rock music and commitment to storytelling through song have cemented Bruce Springsteen as a defining figure in American music history.
9. Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand was born in 1942 and is an iconic American singer, actress, and filmmaker renowned for her versatile talent and distinctive voice. Her career spans decades, featuring hit songs like “The Way We Were,” “People,” and “Evergreen.” Streisand’s best-selling album, “The Barbra Streisand Album,” released in 1963, showcased her powerful vocals and launched her to international acclaim.
With over 150 million records sold worldwide, she has won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for “The Barbra Streisand Album.” Streisand’s contributions to music and film, and her activism, have solidified her as a cultural icon. Her influence on popular music and her status as one of the best-selling female artists of all time underscore Barbra Streisand’s enduring legacy in entertainment.
10. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey, born in 1969, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer recognized for her five-octave vocal range and chart-topping hits in pop and R&B genres. Her career highlights include record-breaking singles such as “One Sweet Day,” “We Belong Together,” and “Hero.” Carey’s best-selling album, “Music Box,” released in 1993, solidified her as a global superstar with its blend of powerful ballads and upbeat tracks.
With over 200 million records sold worldwide, she holds multiple Grammy Awards and distinctions as one of the best-selling music artists. Carey’s influence on contemporary pop music, with her vocal prowess and songwriting skills, continues to resonate in the industry, making her a celebrated figure in popular culture.
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