Drake Named World’s Best-Selling Artist of 2018

CThere’s no question that Drake absolutely dominated the charts last year, with multiple #1 hits and a smash album. So it’s no wonder that he’s now been officially named the world’s best-selling recording artist of 2018.

The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, or IFPI, which represents the recorded music industry worldwide, has given Drake the honor. He previously earned that title in 2016, making him the only artist to ever receive the designation twice.

In a statement, IFPI chief executive Frances Moore says, “That Drake has won this award for the second time is a testament to his continued global appeal and his ability to engage and connect with fans.”

The title is based on sales of albums across all formats, as well as physical single sales, downloads, and streams. Drake is the sixth artist to receive the award, which was first presented in 2013. That year’s winner was One Direction. Since then, winners have included Taylor Swift, Adele, and Ed Sheeran.

Including Drake at #1, the top five best-selling artists in the world in 2018 were, in order, the K-pop band BTS, Ed Sheeran, Post Malone, and Eminem.

Here’s the IFPI’s full list:

1. Drake
2. BTS
3. Ed Sheeran
4. Post Malone
5. Eminem
6. Queen
7. Imagine Dragons
8. Ariana Grande
9. Lady Gaga
10. Bruno Mars

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