BEST SELLING MUSICAL ARTISTS!

1. Paul McCartney

Soundtrack | Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band

Sir Paul McCartney is a key figure in contemporary culture as a singer, composer, poet, writer, artist, humanitarian, entrepreneur, and holder of more than 3 thousand copyrights. He is in the "Guinness Book of World Records" for most records sold, most #1s (shared), most covered song, "Yesterday," ...

The Beatles (English Band 1960-1970) sold 600 million albums (most successful music art in the shortest amount of time.

2. John Lennon

Actor | A Hard Day's Night

John Winston (later Ono) Lennon was born on October 9, 1940, in Liverpool, England, to Julia Lennon (née Stanley) and Alfred Lennon, a merchant seaman. He was raised by his mother's older sister Mimi Smith. In the mid-1950s, he formed his first band, The Quarrymen (after Quarry Bank High School, ...

The Beatles (English Band 1960-1970) sold 600 million albums (most successful music art in the shortest amount of time.

3. George Harrison

Actor | A Hard Day's Night

A master musician, a film producer and actor, best known as the lead guitarist and occasionally lead vocalist of The Beatles, George Harrison was born February 25, 1943, in Liverpool, Merseyside, England. He was also the youngest of four children, born to Harold Harrison and Louise Harrison.

Like ...

The Beatles (English Band 1960-1970) sold 600 million albums (most successful music art in the shortest amount of time.

4. Ringo Starr

Actor | A Hard Day's Night

Ringo Starr is a British musician, actor, director, writer, and artist best known as the drummer of The Beatles who also coined the title 'A Hard day's Night' for The Beatles' first movie.

He was born Richard Starkey on July 7, 1940, in a small two-storey house in the working class area of Liverpool...

The Beatles (English Band 1960-1970) sold 600 million albums (most successful music art in the shortest amount of time.

5. Elvis Presley

Soundtrack | Girls! Girls! Girls!

Elvis Aaron Presley was born on January 8, 1935 in East Tupelo, Mississippi, to Gladys Presley (née Gladys Love Smith) and Vernon Presley (Vernon Elvis Presley). He had a twin brother who was stillborn. In 1948, Elvis and his parents moved to Memphis, Tennessee where he attended Humes High School. ...

American musician (1954-1977) 600 million albums sold (He is considered by many to be the King of Rock and Roll, which is disputable. There is another legend who is also consider the architect of rock and roll as well). RIP Elvis.

6. Michael Jackson

Soundtrack | Michael Jackson: Thriller

Michael Joseph Jackson was born on August 29, 1958 in Gary, Indiana, and entertained audiences nearly his entire life. His father, Joe Jackson (no relation to Joe Jackson, also a musician), had been a guitarist, but was forced to give up his musical ambitions following his marriage to Michael's ...

American musician (1968-2009) 400 million albums sold (He is the King of Pop. He was the most award male entertainer of all time. He won 13 Grammies). RIP Michael Jackson

7. Madonna

Soundtrack | A League of Their Own

The remarkable, hyper-ambitious Material Girl who never stops re-inventing herself, Madonna has sold over three hundred million records and CDs to adoring fans worldwide. Her film career, however, is another story. Her performances have consistently drawn scathing or laughable reviews from film ...

American musician (1979-present) 300 million albums sold (Most successful female entertainer of all time)

8. Elton John

Soundtrack | Kingsman: The Golden Circle

Sir Elton John is one of pop music's great survivors. Born 25 March, 1947, as Reginald Kenneth Dwight, he started to play the piano at the early age of four. At the age of 11, he won a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music. His first band was called Bluesology. He later auditioned (...

English musician (1964-present) 300 million albums sold

9. Led Zeppelin

Soundtrack | The Song Remains the Same

Led Zeppelin are a popular British band best known for their iconic "Stairway to Heaven" as well as for co-creating the music genre of heavy metal. Since their nine albums were recorded between 1968 and 1979, Led Zeppelin has been one of the most popular bands of all time, having sold more than 300...

Led Zeppelin (English Band from 1968-1980) 300 million albums sold

10. Roger Waters

Soundtrack | Pink Floyd: The Wall

Roger Waters was born on September 6, 1943 in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, England, UK. He is a music artist and composer, known for Pink Floyd: The Wall (1982), The Squid and the Whale (2005) and The Big Boss (1971). He was previously married to Laurie Durning, Pricilla Phillips, Carolyn Christie ...

Pink Floyd (English Band) 250 million albums sold

11. David Gilmour

Soundtrack | Pink Floyd: The Wall

David Jon Gilmour was born on 6th March, 1946, in Grantchester Meadows, Cambridge. As the lead guitarist of Pink Floyd, he is by many considered one of the most influential guitarists on the rock stage. Right up to "The Dark Side of The Moon", Dave wrote his own songs, but from then up to "The ...

Pink Floyd (English Band) 250 million albums sold

12. Nick Mason

Soundtrack | Tang shan da xiong

Nick Mason was born on January 27, 1944 in Birmingham, England, UK. He is an actor and composer, known for The Big Boss (1971), Eternals (2021) and Doctor Strange (2016). He has been married to Annette Lynton since May 23, 1990. They have two children. He was previously married to Lindy Rutter.

Pink Floyd (English Band) 250 million albums sold

13. Richard Wright

Soundtrack | Tang shan da xiong

Richard William Wright was born on 28th July, 1943, in Hatch End, London. His parents, Bridie and Cedric Wright had two other children, Selina and Guinevere. He quickly developed an interest in jazz and classical piano.

Studying architecture at Regent Street Polytechnic in London, he met and formed ...

Pink Floyd (English Band) 250 million albums sold

14. Mariah Carey

Soundtrack | Glitter

Mariah Carey was born in Long Island, New York on March 27, 1969. Her parents are Patricia Hickey (Irish-American) and Alfred Roy Carey (African-American/Venezuelan). Mariah attended Greenlawn's Harborfields High School. In June 1990, Mariah made her debut with her self-titled album, Mariah Carey ...

American musician (1988-present) sold 200 million albums throughout the world (She is well know for her five octave vocal ability, which slightly surpasses Whitney Houston as the Songbird Supreme. This means many people consider Mariah the Ultimate Soprano since a lot of singers cannot sing like her. Do not get me start with preaching the difference between Soprano and Alto).

15. Céline Dion

Soundtrack | Titanic

Hailing from the small town of Charlemagne, Québec, Céline Dion has become one of the all-time greatest singers. Céline was born in 1968, the youngest of 14 children. Early in childhood, she sang with her siblings in a small club owned by her parents. From these early experiences, Céline gained the...

Canadian musician (1981-present) sold 200 million albums globally

16. Whitney Houston

Soundtrack | The Bodyguard

Whitney Elizabeth Houston was born into a musical family on 9 August 1963, in Newark, New Jersey, the daughter of gospel star Cissy Houston (née Emily Lee Drinkard) and John Russell Houston, Jr., and cousin of singing star Dionne Warwick.

She began singing in the choir at her church, The New Hope ...

American musician (1977-2012) sold 200 million albums worldwide (She was the most awarded female entertainer ever. She was the queen of gospel, pop, and r and b. Whitney did it all in the industry, which included acting. She did a lot in her short amount of time on earth). RIP with Aaliyah, another female icon who died too soon. Do not make me get my tissues.

17. AC/DC

Soundtrack | Iron Man

AC/DC is a legendary rock band from Australia, formed in Sydney in 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. AC/DC have sold more than 200 million records worldwide, including 71.5 million albums in the United States, adding them to the list of highest-certified music artists in the United States ...

Australian Band (1973-present) sold 200 million albums universally

18. Queen

Soundtrack | Flash Gordon

Queen were one of the longest-lasting and most commercially successful bands to emerge from the British heavy rock scene of the early 1970s, but unlike their contemporaries such as Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, they soon became just as popular with pop fans as fans of hard rock and ...

English Band (1971-present) sold 200 million albums globally

19. The Rolling Stones

Soundtrack | Pirate Radio

The Rolling Stones are the legendary British rock band known for many popular hits, such as Paint it Black, Lady Jane, Ruby Tuesday, and (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction. Almost everyone who attended their shows is quick to comment on their ability to start you up and shake your hips. Their song "...

English Band (1962-now) sold 200 million albums worldwide

20. ABBA

Soundtrack | Muriel's Wedding

ABBA is a Swedish pop group, formed in Stockholm in 1972 by Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. The group's name derives from the first letter in each of the first names of its members. They became one of the most commercially successful acts in the history of ...

Swedish Band (1972-1982) Sold 200 million albums worldwide

21. Eminem

Soundtrack | 8 Mile

Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III in St. Joseph, Missouri, to Deborah R. (Nelson) and Marshall Bruce Mathers, Jr., who were in a band together, Daddy Warbucks. He is of English, as well as some German, Scottish, and Swiss-German, ancestry. Marshall spent his early childhood being shoved ...

American rapper (1995-present) Sold 155 million albums worldwide (as of October 17, 2014, Belated Happy Birthday Em). (Perhaps, the most successful rapper of all time. He has won 15 Grammies, an Oscar, and Golden Globe).

22. Garth Brooks

Soundtrack | Frequency

Troyal Garth Brooks is an American country music singer and songwriter. His integration of pop and rock elements into the country genre has earned him popularity, particularly in the United States with success on the country music single and album charts, multi-platinum recordings and ...

American musician (1989-present) sold 150 million albums worldwide

23. Eagles

Soundtrack | Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

The Eagles are an American rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1971. With five number-one singles and six number-one albums, six Grammy Awards and five American Music Awards, the Eagles were one of the most successful musical acts of the 1970s in North America.

Founding members-were recruited by ...

American music group (1971-present) sold over 150 million albums globally

24. Rihanna

Actress | Battleship

Rihanna was born Robyn Rihanna Fenty on February 20, 1988 in Bridgetown, St. Michael, Barbados to Monica Braithwaite, an accountant & Ronald Fenty, a warehouse supervisor. Her mother is Afro-Guyanese and her father is of Afro-Barbadian and British Isles ancestry. Rihanna lived the life of a normal ...

Barbadian/American singer (2005-present) sold over 150 million albums worldwide (One of the fastest selling and youngest selling artists ever).

25. U2

Soundtrack | Morning Joe

U2 has been perhaps the biggest music act in the world since the late 1980s to the current day. They take prominent stands on human rights issues, expressed through their lyrics and other public statements and actions. The band's lead singer, Bono, has become quite prominent in charity movements ...

Irish band (1976-present) sold over 150 million albums worldwide

26. Billy Joel

Soundtrack | Oliver & Company

William Martin Joel is an American singer, pianist, composer and songwriter. Commonly nicknamed the "Piano Man" after his single and signature song of the same name, he has led a commercially successful career as a solo artist since the 1970s, having released 12 pop and rock studio albums from 1971...

American musician (1964-present) sold 150 million albums globally

27. Phil Collins

Soundtrack | Tarzan

Phil Collins was born in Chiswick, London, England, to Winifred (Strange), a theatrical agent, Greville Philip Austin Collins, an insurance agent. He spent most of his early entertainment life as a young actor and model. He played the "Artful Dodger" in the West End production of "Oliver!" ...

English musician (1980-2011) and member of Genesis (Sold 150 million albums globally)

28. Aerosmith

Soundtrack | Armageddon

Aerosmith is an American rock band, sometimes referred to as "the Bad Boys from Boston" since they were formed in Boston, Massachusetts in 1970. Aerosmith is the best-selling American hard rock band of all time, having sold more than 150 million records worldwide, including over 70 million records ...

American band (1970-present) sold 150 million albums worldwide

29. Frank Sinatra

Actor | From Here to Eternity

Frank Sinatra was born in Hoboken, New Jersey, to Italian immigrants Natalina Della (Garaventa), from Northern Italy, and Saverio Antonino Martino Sinatra, a Sicilian boxer, fireman, and bar owner. Growing up on the gritty streets of Hoboken made Sinatra determined to work hard to get ahead. ...

American singer (1935-1995) sold 150 million albums worldwide (He was almost as successful as Barbra Streisand since he also won an Oscar and Golden Globe as an actor).

30. Barbra Streisand

Actress | Yentl

Barbra Streisand is an American singer, actress, director and producer and one of the most successful personalities in show business. She is the only person ever to receive all of the following: Oscar, Tony, Emmy, Grammy, Golden Globe, Cable Ace, National Endowment for the Arts, and Peabody awards,...

American musician (1960-present) sold over 145 million albums globally (One of the most successful female entertainers in the show business, behind Madonna, Mariah Carey, Céline Dion, and Whitney Houston. When it comes to all the awards she has done, she might be the overall most successful artist for both males and females. She has won 2 Oscars, Special Tony Award, 5 Emmys, and 8 Grammies, which includes her in that rare group of artists who won an Oscar, Tony, Emmy, and Grammy).

31. Genesis

Soundtrack | Palm Springs

One of the most successful British bands of all time, Genesis made their mark in the 1970s as a progressive rock band influenced by classical music, folk and even jazz fusion, before becoming a huge stadium band in the 1980s with a series of big pop hits fronted by a singer who was also a solo ...

English Band (1967-1999, 2006-2011) sold over 130 million albums globally

32. Neil Diamond

Soundtrack | The Jazz Singer

Neil Leslie Diamond was born in the Coney Island section of Brooklyn, New York City, on January 24, 1941. His father, Akeeba "Kieve" Diamond, was a dry-goods merchant. Both he and wife Rose were Jewish immigrants from Poland. The Diamond family temporarily relocated to Cheyenne, Wyoming, because of...

American musician (1966-prescent) Sold over 125 million albums worldwide

33. Bruce Springsteen

Soundtrack | Blinded by the Light

Bruce Frederick Joseph Springsteen was born September 23, 1949 in Long Branch, New Jersey, USA. His father, Douglas Frederick Springsteen, worked as a bus driver, and was of Irish and Dutch ancestry. His mother, Adele Ann (Zerilli), worked as a legal secretary, and was of Italian descent. He has an...

American musician (1972-present) Sold over 120 million albums globally

34. Barry Gibb

Soundtrack | Grease

If you were to try and summarize Barry Gibb's forty-five year career in the music industry in a single phrase you would probably come up with something such as "versatile". Barry Gibb continues to remain an important, relevant figure in the music industry due to his willingness to adapt his music, ...

Member of English band Bee Gees (1963-2003, 2009-2012) Sold over 120 million albums globally

35. Julio Iglesias

Soundtrack | Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Julio Iglesias is a Spanish singer, songwriter and former professional footballer.

Iglesias is recognized as the most commercially successful Continental European singer in the world and one of the top ten record sellers in music history, having sold more than 300 million records worldwide in 14 ...

Spanish musician (1968-present) (father of Enrique Iglesias) Sold 120 million albums worldwide

36. Dire Straits

Soundtrack | Kingsman: The Secret Service

Dire Straits is known for Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014), Hot Fuzz (2007) and Spy Game (2001).

British band (1977-1995) Sold 120 million albums worldwide

37. Metallica

Soundtrack | Mission: Impossible II

Metallica is an American heavy metal band. The band was formed in 1981 in Los Angeles, California by drummer Lars Ulrich and vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield, and has been based in San Francisco, California for most of its career. The group's fast tempos, instrumentals and aggressive musicianship ...

American band (1981-present) Sold 110 millions albums worldwide

38. Taylor Swift

Soundtrack | Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour

Taylor Alison Swift is a multi-Grammy award-winning American singer/songwriter who, in 2010 at the age of 20, became the youngest artist in history to win the Grammy Award for Album of the Year. In 2011 Swift was named Billboard's Woman of the Year. She also has been named the American Music Awards...

American singer-songwriter-musician (2006-present) Sold 110 millions albums worldwide in her young career

39. Britney Spears

Soundtrack | Crossroads

Britney Jean Spears was born on December 2, 1981 in McComb, Mississippi & raised in Kentwood, Louisiana. As a child, Britney attended dance classes, and she was great at gymnastics, winning many competitions and the like. But, most of all, Britney loved to sing. At age 8, Britney tried out for The ...

American singer (1998-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

40. Jay-Z

Soundtrack | The Harder They Fall

Jay-Z was born Shawn Corey Carter on December 4, 1969 in Brooklyn, New York City, New York. Carter was a school friend of The Notorious B.I.G.. He first started releasing records in the late 1980s. In 1990, he appeared on records by his close friend, Jas ("The Originators") and Original Flavor ("...

American rapper (1996-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (Perhaps, the second most successful rapper after Eminem. Kanye West better make something hot fast since Jay Z has caught up with him at the Grammys. Kanye has won 21 Grammies, while Jay Z is tied winning 21 Grammies). He is worth $520 million dollars.

41. Rod Stewart

Soundtrack | Innerspace

Rod Stewart was born on January 10, 1945 in Highgate, London, England, UK. He is a music artist and actor, known for Innerspace (1987), The Three Musketeers (1993) and No Way Out (1987). He has been married to Penny Lancaster since June 16, 2007. They have two children. He was previously married to ...

English musician (1964-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

42. Jon Bon Jovi

Soundtrack | Young Guns II

Jon Bon Jovi, was born John Francis Bongiovi, Jr. On March 2, 1962, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey to parents John Francis Bongiovi, Sr. and Carol Sharkey.

Family: Jon's mother, Carol Sharkey, was a former model and one of the first Playboy Bunnies. She met Bon Jovi's father after she enlisted in the ...

American musician (1983-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

43. Fleetwood Mac

Soundtrack | Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Fleetwood Mac are a British-American rock band, formed in London in 1967. The band has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, making them one of the world's best-selling bands. In 1998, select members of Fleetwood Mac were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received the Brit ...

English/American music band (1967-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

44. Backstreet Boys

Soundtrack | This Is the End

The Backstreet Boys is an American boy group consisting of A.J. McLean, Howie Dorough, Nick Carter, Kevin Scott Richardson and Brian Littrell. They became famous in the 90's with their debut international album, Backstreet Boys (1996). They released their second international album, Backstreet's ...

American boy band (1993-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

45. Guns N' Roses

Soundtrack | Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Guns N' Roses is an American hard rock band from Los Angeles, California, formed in 1985. The lineup, when first signed to Geffen Records in 1986, consisted of vocalist Axl Rose, lead guitarist Slash, rhythm guitarist Izzy Stradlin, bassist Duff McKagan, and drummer Steven Adler. Guns N' Roses has ...

American music band (1985-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

46. Prince

Soundtrack | Under the Cherry Moon

Prince Rogers Nelson was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Mattie Shaw, a jazz singer and social worker, and John L. Nelson, a lyricist and pianist. His father's stage name was "Prince Rogers". His parents were both from African-American families from Louisiana. They separated during his youth, ...

American musician (1976-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

47. Kenny Rogers

Soundtrack | Polar

Born in Houston, Texas on August 21, 1938, Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, actor, record producer and entrepreneur Kenneth Ray Rogers was the fourth of eight children born to a carpenter father who worked in a shipyard and a mother who was a hospital nurse's assistant. Of humble Irish and Native...

American musician (1958-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

48. Paul McCartney

Soundtrack | Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band

Sir Paul McCartney is a key figure in contemporary culture as a singer, composer, poet, writer, artist, humanitarian, entrepreneur, and holder of more than 3 thousand copyrights. He is in the "Guinness Book of World Records" for most records sold, most #1s (shared), most covered song, "Yesterday," ...

English musician (1960-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (He is one of three artists, Michael Jacksons and Phil Collins, to belong to a group who also sold more than a 100 million albums globally).

49. Janet Jackson

Soundtrack | Poetic Justice

Janet Damita Jo Jackson was born on May 16, 1966 in Gary, Indiana, to Katherine Jackson (née Katherine Esther Scruse) and Joe Jackson, a musician. She is the youngest of ten children. Before her birth, her brothers formed a band later called The Jackson 5. She lived at home with her sisters, while ...

American singer-dancer (1982-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

50. Chicago

Soundtrack | Deadpool

Chicago is known for Deadpool (2016), Three Kings (1999) and Exit Wounds (2001).

American music group (1967-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

51. The Carpenters

Soundtrack | In the Mouth of Madness

The Carpenters were brother and sister Richard Carpenter and Karen Carpenter. Both grew up in Downey, California and were very musical at an early age. Richard Carpenter started his own instrumental band with his sister Karen called "The Richard Carpenter Trio." Richard played the piano and ...

American vocal duo (1969-1983) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

52. Bob Dylan

Soundtrack | Renaldo and Clara

Robert Allen Zimmerman was born 24 May 1941 in Duluth, Minnesota; his father Abe worked for the Standard Oil Co. Six years later the family moved to Hibbing, often the coldest place in the US, where he taught himself piano and guitar and formed several high school rock bands. In 1959 he entered the...

American musician (1959-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

53. George Michael

Soundtrack | Beverly Hills Cop II

George Michael was born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou in Finchley, north London, in the United Kingdom, to Lesley Angold (Harrison), a dancer, and Kyriacos Panayiotou, a restaurateur. His father was a Greek Cypriot, and his mother was of English background. He first discovered fame as a musician ...

English musician (1981-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

54. Bryan Adams

Soundtrack | Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams rose to fame with the release of his third album, "Cuts Like a Knife" (1983). The album made him popular throughout the United States. However, it was his fourth album "Reckless" (1984), which is referred to as one of the best albums of the decade that made ...

Canadian musician (1979-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (most successful Canadian rock artist of all time)

55. Def Leppard

Soundtrack | Last Action Hero

Def Leppard is an English rock band formed in 1977 in Sheffield as part of the new wave of British heavy metal movement. Since 1992, the band has consisted of Joe Elliott (lead vocals), Rick Savage (bass, backing vocals), Rick Allen (drums, backing vocals), Phil Collen (guitars, backing vocals), ...

English rock band (1977-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

56. Cher

Actress | Moonstruck

The beat goes on ... and on ... and as strong as ever for this superstar entertainer who has well surpassed the half-century mark while improbably transforming herself from an artificial, glossy "flashionplate" singer into a serious, Oscar-worthy, dramatic actress ... and back again! With more ups ...

American entertainer (1964-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (She has done it all. Sold albums. Sell out concerts. Won Grammies. Won Golden Globes. Oscars. Her reinvention is an inspiration, which means she probably influenced Madonna, Lady Gaga, Brittney Spears, and Christina Aguilera).

57. Lionel Richie

Soundtrack | The Color Purple

Lionel Brockman Richie, Jr. is an American singer, songwriter, musician, record producer, and television judge. He rose to fame in the 1970s as a songwriter and the co-lead singer of funk band the Commodores; writing and recording the hit singles "Easy", "Sail On", "Three Times a Lady" and "Still",...

American musician (1968-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (Musical gifted legend who made a big name for himself after he parted ways with his band, which made him into an even bigger star. I would also put him on the same caliber up there with the musical genius, such as Stevie Wonder and Prince. He is the father of Nicole Richie).

58. Olivia Newton-John

Soundtrack | Grease

Olivia Newton-John was an English singer and actress who was born on September 26, 1948, in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, England, UK. In 1954, her family relocated to Australia when her father was offered a job as the dean of a Presbyterian college in Melbourne. After winning a singing talent contest...

Australian entertainer (1966-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (She is also well known for starring in the huge Grease musical with John Travolta in the late 1970s. Therefore, it is safe to say, she has done it all in the entertainment industry. He sings, dances, and acts).

59. Stevie Wonder

Soundtrack | Wild Wild West

Born Stevland Hardaway Judkins in Saginaw, Michigan, United States, to Calvin Judkins and Lula Mae Hardaway. Due to being born six weeks premature, Stevie Wonder was born with a condition called retinopathy of prematurity, which made him blind. Stevie Wonder, even with this disability, made his ...

American musician (1961-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (Really? This man really do not need no introduction, but I do it anyway because I am that type of guy. Here it goes. He is one of the most decorated artists in terms of the Grammies. He has won a Grammy 22 times so that is where Kanye West gets his motivation from. Hmm interesting. He also won an Oscar. Do I need to go further. I think readers get the point. The man is the ultimate genius when it comes to music. I cannot think of one bad Stevie Wonder song. Even if there was one, I bet I still would enjoy listening to it).

60. Linda Ronstadt

Soundtrack | The Pirates of Penzance

Linda Ronstadt was born on July 15, 1946 in Tucson, Arizona, USA. She is a music artist and actress, known for The Pirates of Penzance (1983), An American Tail (1986) and The Abyss (1989).

American singer (1967-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (She has enjoyed an extremely successful music career by winning 11 Grammies on top of all those high charting albums).

61. Tina Turner

Soundtrack | Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome

With almost fifty years in the music business, Tina Turner became one of the most commercially successful international female rock stars. Her sultry, powerful voice, her incredible legs, her time-tested beauty and her unforgettable story all contributed to her legendary status.

Born to a ...

American entertainer (1955-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (She was the Janet Jackson of her time or generation. People can say she also paved the way for Ciara, Brandy, Monica, and Mya, if they want).

62. Donna Summer

Soundtrack | Thank God It's Friday

Donna Summer rocketed to international super-stardom in the mid-1970s when her groundbreaking merger of R&B, soul, pop, funk, rock, disco and avant-garde electronica catapulted underground dance music out of the clubs of Europe to the pinnacles of sales and radio charts around the world.

Maintaining...

American disco entertainer (1968-2012) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (She was the Beyonce and Rihanna of the 1970s. She is the Queen of Disco. It is disappointing, she died the same year as Whitney Houston. Losing one legend is bad enough, losing another is tragic). RIP Donna Summer.

63. The Beach Boys

Soundtrack | Pirate Radio

The Beach Boys is an American rock band formed in Hawthorne, California, in 1961. The group's original lineup consisted of brothers Brian Wilson, Dennis Wilson, and Carl Wilson; their cousin Mike Love; and their friend Al Jardine. The Beach Boys are one of the most critically acclaimed, ...

American music band (1961-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (Before Backstreet boys and New Kids on the Block, they made it happen by producing top charts on the Top Billboard 100).

64. KISS

Soundtrack | The Nice Guys

KISS is an American rock band formed in New York City in January 1973 by Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Peter Criss, and Ace Frehley. Well known for its members' face paint and stage outfits, the group rose to prominence in the mid-to-late 1970s with their elaborate live performances, which featured ...

American rock band (1972-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

65. The Who

Soundtrack | The Who : The Kids Are Alright

Roger Daltrey formed the Detours in 1962, with several member changes and role swaps abound, John Entwistle joined. Sometime later, on John's recommendation, Pete Townshend was added to the line up. In the meantime, The Detours had become a four-piece band; the drummer was changed with Keith Moon ...

English band (1964-present) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

66. Johnny Hallyday

Actor | L'homme du train

Johnny Hallyday was born on June 15, 1943 in Paris, France. He was a music artist and actor, known for Man on the Train (2002), The Pink Panther 2 (2009) and The Walk (2015). He was married to Laeticia Hallyday, Adeline Blondieau, Elisabeth Etienne and Sylvie Vartan. He died on December 5, 2017 in ...

French singer (1957-2007) Sold 100 million albums worldwide

67. Barry White

Soundtrack | Baby Driver

Barry White first made his mark in the music business in the 1960s as a session musician, even serving for a spell as an A&R man for a small, independent Los Angeles record label. He first hit it big in 1973 with a series of albums and singles emphasizing lush orchestrations and elaborate ...

American singer (1972-2003) Sold 100 million albums worldwide (He was a musical icon and legend who died too song. He along with Isaac Hayes paved the way for deep voiced singers).

68. Katy Perry

Actress | The Smurfs

Katy Perry was born Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson on October 25, 1984 in Santa Barbara, California to Mary Christine Hudson (née Perry) & Maurice Keith Hudson. She has a big sister named Angela & a little brother named David, and has English, Portuguese, German, Irish, and Scottish ancestry. Her ...

American singer (2001-present) Sold 92 million albums worldwide (She is the new edition to the best selling artist list. I was waiting for her name to appear on this list for a few years now. I knew she would be here. The question was when she would be considered a top charting artist. If her albums continue to sell well, she may move high up the ranks in no time).

69. Santana

Soundtrack | The Long Kiss Goodnight

Santana is known for The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996), The Fast and the Furious (2001) and Zodiac (2007).

American music band (1966-present) Sold 90 million albums worldwide

70. Gloria Estefan

Soundtrack | Music of the Heart

Gloria Estefan was born on September 1, 1957 in Havana, Cuba. She is a music artist and actress, known for Music of the Heart (1999), Poseidon (2006) and The Specialist (1994). She has been married to Emilio Estefan Jr. since September 2, 1978. They have two children.

American singer-dancer (1977-present) Sold 90 million albums worldwide (one of the most successful Latin artists in the world. Before Shakira, JLO, and Selena, she made Spanish songs catchy, entertaining, and even understandable at times).

71. Earth Wind & Fire

Soundtrack | Ready Player One

Earth Wind & Fire is known for Ready Player One (2018), Doctor Strange (2016) and Polar (2019).

American musician band (1969-present) sold 90 million albums worldwide. They have received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

72. Ye

Soundtrack | The Great Gatsby

Kanye Omari West (born June 8, 1977) is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur and fashion designer. His musical career has been marked by dramatic changes in styles, incorporating an eclectic range of influences including soul, baroque pop, electro, indie rock, ...

American rapper, producer, songwriter, musician, director, and fashion designer. One of the most successful rappers of all time (did I get it right with Beyoncé having the best video of all time, LOL). He has sold over 87 million records as well as won 21 Grammies. He is one win away from tying Stevie Wonder's records at the Grammies. If he keeps on making those hits, he may very well have 25 or more Grammies by the time he is 40 years old.

73. Shania Twain

Soundtrack | I Heart Huckabees

Shania Twain was born as Eilleen Regina Edwards in 1965 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, one of three daughters of Clarence and Sharon (Morrison) Edwards (sister Jill is two years older and Carrie-Ann three years younger). When she was age six, her mother remarried Jerry Twain, a full-blooded Ojibwa ...

Canadian musician (1993-present) Sold 85 million albums (She probably would have sold 100 million or more albums by now if she released another album or two. Her last biggest album was in 2002, which is surprising. She had three consecutive albums, which went diamond status by selling more than 20 million albums. She is referred as the Queen of Country Pop. She has went on tour, but fans want to know when she will release another album).

74. R.E.M.

Soundtrack | Man on the Moon

R.E.M. was an American rock band from Athens, Georgia, that was formed in 1980 by drummer Bill Berry, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist/backing vocalist Mike Mills, and lead vocalist Michael Stipe. R.E.M. was pivotal in the creation and development of the alternative rock genre. In 2007, the band was ...

American rock band (1980-2011) Sold 85 million albums

75. B.Z.

Producer | Masquerade

B.Z. is known for Masquerade (1967).

Japanese music group (1988-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

76. Edward Van Halen

Soundtrack | Twister

Edward Van Halen was a musician who along with his brother Alex Van Halen, and Michael Anthony and David Lee Roth, formed the band Van Halen in the early '70s, with Eddie on guitar, Alex on drums, Michael on bass and David on vocals. The band had different members over the years, but the core (...

He is member of the American rock band Van Halen (1972-present) sold 80 million albums

77. Lady Gaga

Soundtrack | A Star Is Born

Lady Gaga, born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, is an American songwriter, singer, actress, philanthropist, dancer and fashion designer.

Gaga was born on March 28, 1986 in Manhattan, New York City, to Cynthia Louise (Bissett), a philanthropist and business executive, and Joseph Anthony ...

American musician (2005-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

78. Red Hot Chili Peppers

Soundtrack | Twister

Red Hot Chili Peppers are an American rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1983. The group's musical style primarily consists of rock with an emphasis on funk, as well as elements from other genres such as punk rock and psychedelic rock. Currently, the band consists of founding members vocalist ...

American rock band (1983-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

79. Foreigner

Soundtrack | Eternals

Foreigner is an English-American rock band, originally formed in New York City in 1976 by veteran English musician Mick Jones ex-Spooky Tooth and fellow Briton and ex-King Crimson member Ian McDonald along with American vocalist Lou Gramm. Jones came up with the band's name as he, McDonald and ...

British American music group (1976-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

80. The Doors

Soundtrack | The Doors

The Doors were an American rock band formed in 1965 in Los Angeles, with vocalist Jim Morrison, keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger, and John Densmore on drums. The band got its name, at Morrison's suggestion from the title of Aldous Huxley's book The Doors of Perception. They were ...

American band (1965-1973) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

81. Reba McEntire

Actress | Reba

Reba Nell McEntire was born on Monday, March 28th, 1955, in McAlester, Oklahoma. The reigning queen of country music has pursued a musical career since she was 5. In Junior High school, she performed with her musical siblings, aka the Singing McEntires. A fine athlete, Reba McEntire followed in the...

American musician (1975-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

82. Meat Loaf

Actor | The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Meat Loaf was born Marvin Lee Aday in Dallas, Texas, to Wilma Artie (Hukel), a teacher and gospel singer, and Orvis Wesley Aday, a police officer. He moved to Los Angeles in 1967 to play in local bands. In 1970, he moved to New York and appeared in the Broadway musicals "Hair", "Rockabye Hamlet" ...

American musician (1968-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

83. Barry Manilow

Soundtrack | Thumbelina

Barry Manilow was born on June 17, 1943 in New York City, New York, USA. He is a music artist and actor, known for Thumbelina (1994), Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) and Transsiberian (2008). He has been married to Garry Kief since April 2014. He was previously married to Susan Deixler.

American singer (1973-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

84. Tom Petty

Actor | The Postman

Thomas Earl Petty was an American musician and actor who was the lead vocalist and guitarist of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, formed in 1976. He previously led the band Mudcrutch, was a member of the late 1980s super-group the Traveling Wilburys, and had success as a solo artist.

Petty had many ...

American musician (1976-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

85. New Kids on the Block

Soundtrack | It

New Kids on the Block is known for It (2017), Free Willy (1993) and It Chapter Two (2019).

American boy band (1984-present) Sold 80 million albums worldwide

86. Bruno Mars

Soundtrack | Rio 2

Peter Gene Hernandez known professionally as Bruno Mars, is an American singer-songwriter, record producer, musician, dancer, and music video director. He is known for his stage performances, retro showmanship, and for performing in a wide range of musical styles, including pop, R&B, funk, soul, ...

American singer and musician (2004-present) 79 million albums sold worldwide (he sure did reach the charts fast, which is rare. I usually takes artist years a decade to master 75 million albums. He did some within 5 years, which I call talent. I looks like Bruno Mars is here to stay).

87. Robbie Williams

Soundtrack | Coronation Street

Robert Peter Williams was born in Stoke-on-Trent, on February 13th 1974, to his mother: Jan and father: Pete. Robbie attended Mill Hill Primary School, followed by St. Margaret Ward's Roman Catholic School in Tunstall. At secondary school he became labeled as mischievous and a jester and ...

English singer (1990-present) 77 million albums sold worldwide

88. The Black Eyed Peas

Soundtrack | G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra

The Black Eyed Peas is known for G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (2009), The Rundown (2003) and Taxi (2004).

American Dance Group (1995-present) Sold 76 million albums worldwide (featuring Fergie and Will IAM

89. Journey

Soundtrack | Tron

Journey is known for Tron (1982), Armageddon (1998) and The Losers (2010).

American rock band (1972-present) Sold 75 million albums worldwide

90. Beyoncé

Soundtrack | Dreamgirls

Beyoncé Giselle Knowles was born on September 4, 1981 in Houston, Texas. Her mom, Tina Knowles designs their glittering costumes & her dad, Mathew Knowles manages Destiny's Child. Solange, her sister (they're 4 years apart) has released her debut album. She dances with her big sister during DC-3 ...

American singer-danger (2003-present) Sold 75 million albums worldwide (She is the Diana Ross and Tina Turner of her generation. She has won 17 Grammies to her resume. She shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon). She is worth $350 million dollars. As of early 2014, she is said to be the richest African American entertainer of all time.

91. Kenny G

Soundtrack | The Bodyguard

Kenny G was born on June 5, 1956 in Seattle, Washington, USA. He is a music artist and actor, known for The Bodyguard (1992), A Bad Moms Christmas (2017) and Pretty Woman (1990). He was previously married to Lyndie Benson and Janice Deleon.

American musician (1982-present) Sold 75 million albums worldwide

92. Enya

Soundtrack | The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Eithne Pádraigín Ní Bhraonáin, the fourth youngest of nine children, comes from the small village of Dore (Dobhar in Irish) in the Gweedore (Gaoth Dobhair) region of County Donegal in northwestern Ireland. She now lives in Killiney, a coastal district on the southern outskirts of Dublin The family ...

Irish musician (1982-present) Sold 75 million albums worldwide

93. Alabama

Soundtrack | Road House

Alabama is known for Road House (1989), Fire Down Below (1997) and Alabama: Dixieland Delight (1983).

American band (1972-present) Sold 75 million albums worldwide

94. Green Day

Soundtrack | Shoot 'Em Up

Green Day is an American punk rock band formed in 1987 by lead vocalist and guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong and bassist Mike Dirnt. For much of the band's career, they have been a trio with drummer Tré Cool, who replaced John Kiffmeyer in 1990 prior to the recording of the band's second studio album...

American band (1987-present) Sold 75 million albums worldwide

95. Tupac Shakur

Actor | Juice

Born in New York City, Tupac grew up primarily in Harlem. In 1984, his family moved to Baltimore, Maryland where he became good friends with Jada Pinkett Smith. His family moved again in 1988 to Oakland, California. His first breakthrough in music came in 1991 as a member of the group Digital ...

American rapper (1988-1996) Sold 75 million albums worldwide

96. Nirvana

Soundtrack | The Batman

Nirvana was an American rock band formed by lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987. Nirvana went through a succession of drummers, the longest-lasting and best-known being Dave Grohl, who joined in 1990. Despite releasing only three ...

American band (1987-1994) Sold 75 million albums worldwide (The group abruptly ended their career when Kurt Cobain, member, died from drug overdose. They disbanded when they were at the height of their career).

97. Spice Girls

Soundtrack | Spice World

Spice Girls is the biggest female girlgroup of all time. Their albums "Spice" (1996), "Spice World" (1997) and "Forever" (2000) was sold at 86 millions worldwide and all singles including "Wannabe", "Say You'll Be There", "2 Become 1", "Mama", "Who Do You Think You Are", "Spice Up Your Life", "Too ...

English musical group (1996-2000, 2007-2008) Sold 75 million albums worldwide

98. Andrea Bocelli

Soundtrack | The Nutcracker and the Four Realms

Andrea Bocelli, as born in Lajatico, Italy, in 1958, is one of the greatest singing talents in the world today. He has been blind since age 12, owing to congenital glaucoma and a blow to the head while tending goal during a soccer game. Andrea did not begin his singing career until the late 1980s, ...

Italian musician (1994-present) Sold 75 million albums worldwide

99. Bob Marley

Soundtrack | I Am Legend

Bob Marley was born on February 6, 1945, in Nine Miles, Saint Ann, Jamaica, to Norval Marley and Cedella Booker. His father was a Jamaican of English descent. His mother was a black teenager. The couple were married in 1944 but Norval left for Kingston immediately after. Norval died in 1957, seeing...

Jamaican musician (1962-1981) Sold 75 million albums worldwide (He changed the music industry when he debuted reggae to the music world. He is one of the most important artists of all time due to pioneering reggae music. He paved the way for Sean Paul, Sean Kings, Will IAM, Beenie Man, and Shaggy. If it was not for him, the world may not know anything about soca).

100. Mötley Crüe

Soundtrack | Hellboy

Mötley Crüe was an American hard rock band formed in Los Angeles, California, on January 17, 1981. The group was founded by bassist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee, lead singer Vince Neil and lead guitarist Mick Mars. Mötley Crüe has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, including 25 ...

American rock band (featuring Tommy Lee as the drummer) (1981-present) Sold 75 million albums worldwide