Music is a universal language that transcends borders, tears down walls, and brings people together. This includes generational boundaries, as old genres are reborn by innovative contemporary artists into new songs, and former hits are remade or sampled in new tracks. However, when we talk about the best artists of all time, we're often stuck in the past, judging artists by metrics that no longer exist, such as album sales or radio airtime. So we thought it was time to mix things up and include a modern spin on our analysis of the greatest music artists of all time.
Because of the deep connection we all share with these artists, determining which of them are "the best" is impossibly subjective. So we've separated them into more objective groups that include both modern and traditional metrics, including the most albums sold, the most concert ticket sales, the most number 1 hit songs, the most Grammy awards, the most digital streams, and the largest social media followings to keep it relevant to contemporary artists. But before we get to our full list of the top 100, here's how the artists broke down in each of these categories.
Artists with Most Albums Sold
While streaming has replaced physical album sales over the past decade or so, throughout most of modern history, album sales were the primary indicator of a music artist's success. They not only resulted in financial wealth for the artist and their record label, but were also an objective way to know which artists the general public were most interested in. These are the top 10 artists with the most albums sold, including studio albums, EPs, and other significant commercial albums. *
* Data from ChartMasters
1. The Beatles
Over 360 million total albums sold
Often hailed as the greatest music artists of all time, The Beatles transformed the music landscape with their innovative songwriting and harmonies. With timeless albums like "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," they sold 160,650,000 copies. Their cultural and musical influence remains unparalleled, even decades after their peak.
2. Michael Jackson
Over 280 million total albums sold
Known as the King of Pop, Michael Jackson revolutionized the music industry with his innovative sound, groundbreaking music videos, and electrifying performances. His albums, including "Thriller" and "Bad," have sold a staggering 182,600,000 copies, making him one of the best-selling artists in history. His influence on pop culture is immeasurable.
3. Elvis Presley
Over 260 million total albums sold
Elvis Presley, known as the King of Rock 'n' Roll, revolutionized the music industry with his dynamic voice, charismatic performances, and groundbreaking blend of rock, country, and blues. With over 260 million albums sold, he remains one of the best-selling artists of all time. His enduring influence on music and popular culture is unparalleled, cementing his legacy as a true icon.
4. Pink Floyd
Over 220 million total albums sold
Pink Floyd, a legendary rock band, is celebrated for their complex music, philosophical lyrics, and elaborate live shows. Their iconic albums, such as "The Dark Side of the Moon" and "The Wall," have sold 169,600,000 copies. Their music has left a profound impact on rock and progressive music genres.
5. Madonna
Over 200 million total albums sold
The "Queen of Pop" has consistently pushed the boundaries of music and fashion. Her ability to reinvent herself has kept her relevant across generations. With 146,450,000 albums sold, including hits like "Like a Virgin" and "Ray of Light," she remains one of the top-selling female artists of all time.
6. Led Zeppelin
Over 190 million total albums sold
Led Zeppelin's powerful rock anthems and pioneering hard rock sound have cemented their place in music history. Their influential albums, including "Led Zeppelin IV" and "Physical Graffiti," have sold 141,500,000 copies. They are revered for their contributions to rock music and their lasting legacy.
7. AC/DC
Over 180 million total albums sold
AC/DC, the iconic rock band, is known for their high-energy performances and timeless rock hits like "Back in Black." With 132,470,000 albums sold, they are one of the best-selling rock bands in history. Their music continues to resonate with rock fans across generations.
8. U2
Over 180 million total albums sold
Led by Bono, U2 is renowned for their anthemic sound and socially conscious lyrics. Their albums, including "The Joshua Tree" and "Achtung Baby," have sold 127,100,000 copies. U2's ability to evolve with the times while maintaining their core message has made them a lasting force in rock music.
9. Mariah Carey
Over 150 million total albums sold
Mariah Carey's extraordinary vocal range and impressive songwriting skills have made her a pop icon. With hits like "Hero" and "We Belong Together," her albums have sold 121,913,000 copies. She holds the record for the most No. 1 singles by a solo artist, showcasing her enduring popularity and influence.
10. Metallica
Over 140 million total albums sold
Their aggressive sound and complex compositions have defined the thrash metal genre. Known for albums like "Master of Puppets" and "The Black Album," Metallica has sold 121,260,000 copies. Their relentless touring and dedication to their craft have earned them a loyal global fanbase and critical acclaim.
Artists with Most Number One Hits
In addition to album sales, the number of No. 1 hits has long been a key measure of an artist's success. Achieving a No. 1 hit signifies widespread popularity and cultural impact, reflecting which songs and artists resonate most with the public. Here are the top artists with the most number one hits, not including the following 4 that were already mentioned with the artists with the most albums sold. *
* Data from Billboard
- The Beatles (20 number 1 hits)
- Mariah Carey (19 number 1 hits)
- Michael Jackson (13 number 1 hits)
- Madonna (12 number 1 hits)
1. Rihanna
14 Number 1 hits
With an impressive 14 No. 1 hits, Rihanna one of the foremost artists with the most number one hits. Her versatile voice and ability to reinvent her sound have kept her at the top of the charts. Hits like "Umbrella" and "Diamonds" showcase her enduring appeal and global influence.
2. Drake
14 Number 1 hits
Drake unique blend of rap and R&B, coupled with introspective lyrics, has redefined the music landscape. With 14 number 1 hits, he has earned a spot among the best artists of all time.
3a. The Supremes
14 Number 1 hits
The Supremes, featuring Diana Ross, are celebrated as one of the artists with the most number one hits, with 12 chart-toppers. Their elegant harmonies and captivating performances defined the Motown sound, making them one of the most successful girl groups in history and leaving a lasting legacy in music.
3b. Taylor Swift
14 Number 1 hits
A contemporary name that needs no introduction, Taylor Swift has become an icon to music fans, with 14 number 1 hits. Her ability to cross genres from country to pop has garnered a massive following. Swift’s relatable lyrics and catchy melodies continue to dominate the charts and influence a new generation of musicians.
4. Whitney Houston
11 Number 1 hits
Whitney Houston, with 11 No. 1 hits, is one of the legendary artists with the most number one hits. Known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery, her music has touched millions. Hits like "I Will Always Love You" have cemented her place as an icon in pop and soul music.
5a. Stevie Wonder
10 Number 1 hits
Stevie Wonder, one of the most influential artists with the most number one hits, has created timeless classics that span decades. With 10 No. 1 hits, his soulful voice and innovative use of instruments have defined his music, making him a beloved figure in the world of R&B and pop.
5b. Janet Jackson
10 Number 1 hits
Janet Jackson is a powerhouse in pop and R&B, standing out among artists with the most number one hits, boasting 10 chart-toppers. Her dynamic performances and socially conscious lyrics have resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying her legacy in the music industry and influencing countless artists.
Most Streamed Artists on Spotify
Moving beyond traditional measures of success, it's important to also consider artists who are excelling in the digital age. The most streamed artists on Spotify highlight contemporary popularity and the changing landscape of music consumption. The following top 2 artists with the most streams have already been mentioned, and are not included:
- Taylor Swift (over 81,570,848,414 streams)
- Drake (over 75,888,958,728 streams)
Here are the next top 5 artists with the most streams on Spotify, that are showcasing immense appeal in today's music streaming era.*
* Data from ChartMasters
1. Bad Bunny
Over 72,085,724,598 streams on Spotify
Bad Bunny is a Puerto Rican reggaeton and Latin trap artist known for his innovative sound and genre-blending music. His infectious beats and catchy lyrics resonate deeply with fans, making him a dominant force on Spotify and a key figure in modern Latin music.
2. The Weeknd
Over 57,343,502,865 streams on Spotify
The Weeknd is known for his distinctive voice and dark, moody sound that blends R&B, pop, and electronic music. His ability to craft hit songs with emotional depth and innovative production has made him one of the most streamed artists on Spotify.
3. Ed Sheeran
Over 48,238,743,154 streams on Spotify
A British singer-songwriter whose heartfelt lyrics and acoustic melodies have captivated a global audience. Ed Sheeran's versatile sound, ranging from intimate ballads to upbeat pop tracks, has earned him a massive following and a place among the most streamed artists on Spotify.
4. Ariana Grande
Over 44,608,055,050 streams on Spotify
An American pop and R&B singer known for her powerful vocals and wide vocal range. Ariana Grande's ability to deliver hit after hit, combined with a strong social media presence, makes her a favorite among fans and one of the most streamed artists on Spotify.
5. Justin Bieber
Over 42,580,245,107 streams on Spotify
This Canadian pop sensation has evolved from teen idol to mature artist has kept him relevant in the music industry. His catchy tunes and collaborations with various artists have ensured his continued popularity and status as one of the most streamed artists on Spotify.
Artists with Most Concert Ticket Sales
You can't evaluate the best artists of all time, without including those that have bestowed us with amazing live experiences. Concert ticket sales are a great measure of an artist's popularity and ability to draw crowds. These are the greatest music artists of all time with the most concert ticket sales, excluding U2 with 26.84 million ticket sales and Metallica with 19.46 million ticket sales, as they have already been mentioned.*
* Data from Wikipedia
1. Bruce Springsteen
Over 24 million concert tickets sold
Bruce Springsteen aka "The Boss" is renowned for his electrifying live performances and deep connection with his audience. Known as "The Boss," his concerts are legendary for their length and energy, making him one of the top artists with the most concert ticket sales.
2. Dave Matthews Band
Over 23 million concert tickets sold
Dave Matthews Band has sold roughly 23.27 million concert tickets, reflecting their immense popularity as a live act. Their unique blend of rock, jazz, and jam band styles, along with their improvisational performances, has made them a favorite among fans and one of the most streamed artists on Spotify.
3. The Rolling Stones
Over 22 million concert tickets sold
It's no surprise that these iconic rock legends are on this list, having captivated audiences with energetic and timeless performances for over 60 years! Their ability to consistently sell out stadiums worldwide solidifies their status as one of the top artists with the most concert ticket sales.
4. Elton John
Over 20 million concert tickets sold
Throughout his career, Elton John has had an enduring appeal as a live performer. Known for his flamboyant stage presence and hit-filled performances, his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour is a testament to his lasting impact on music and his ability to draw massive crowds.
5. Coldplay
Over 19 million concert tickets sold
With so many tenured names on this list, it's highly impressive for a band that started in the late-90s to be included. and yet Coldplay continues to be a major force in contemporary live music. Their innovative shows, featuring spectacular visuals and immersive experiences, have made them one of the top artists with the most concert ticket sales, resonating with fans around the world.
Artists with Most Grammys
The artists with most Grammys represent a pinnacle of musical achievement, recognized by their peers for exceptional talent and contribution to the industry. This prestigious award highlights the creativity and excellence of musicians across various genres. Here are the top artists with the most Grammys, celebrating their significant impact on music and their impressive collection of awards (data from the Grammy Awards database).*
* Data from the Grammy's Official Website
1. Beyoncé
32 Grammy Awards
Beyoncé has become a household name by making history in 2023 as the artist with the most Grammys ever! Her versatile talent spans R&B, pop, and hip-hop, and her groundbreaking albums and powerful performances have earned her widespread acclaim. Beyoncé's influence on music and culture is unparalleled, making her a true icon.
2. Georg Solti
31 Grammy Awards
Georg Solti is a name many of you may not recognize, and yet he's a legendary conductor, holding 31 Grammy Awards. His exceptional work in classical music, particularly with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, has set a high standard for orchestral performances and recordings, cementing his legacy in the classical music world.
3. Quincy Jones
28 Grammy Awards
While not known as a musician, Quincy Jones stands out among best artists of all time, as a legendary producer and composer holding 28 Grammy Awards. His work spans jazz, pop, and film scores, and he has collaborated with numerous iconic artists. Jones's innovative contributions have profoundly shaped modern music, making him a revered figure in the industry.
4. Alison Krauss
27 Grammy Awards
Alison Krauss is a bluegrass and country music sensation with 27 Grammy Awards, placing her among the top artists with most Grammys. Her soulful voice and exceptional fiddle playing have captivated audiences, and her contributions to bluegrass have brought the genre to a wider audience, solidifying her as a music legend.
5. Chick Corea
27 Grammy Awards
A name our Jazz fans have seen listed as one of the top 50 jazz artists of all time, Chick Corea is the best artist of all time with most Grammys in the jazz genre. His virtuosity as a pianist and his innovative compositions have left a lasting impact on jazz music. Corea's ability to blend various styles and push musical boundaries has earned him a revered place in music history.
Artists with Largest Social Media Following
Record labels, radio stations and brick and mortar stores are yesterday's path to stardom. This list includes artists that are blazing a new trail for musicians towards fame by building the largest social media following. We've chosen not to include artists that gained fame as online personalities before launching their music careers, such as Bella Poarch and Kimberly Loaiza. But as the digital age continues to march on, the best artists of all time must include those that have launched their music careers by going viral on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and other online platforms.
1. Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez is a social media trailblazer. She was the first woman to reach 400 million followers on Instagram and was the most-followed person on Instagram in 2016. Additionally, she is one of the most-followed people on Twitter, Spotify, Facebook, and TikTok. She's known for her versatile talent in music and acting, with music often exploring emotional themes of love and self-empowerment. Her genuine connection and openness about mental health, has produced a lot of engaging, relatable and inspiring online content for her fans.
2. Justin Bieber
With over 73 million YouTube subscribers, Justin Bieber is often the face of social media music artists, as one of the first to get noticed on YouTube. His journey began when his mother posted videos of him singing on YouTube, which quickly gained a following. Talent agent Scooter Braun discovered him through these videos, leading to Bieber's rise to stardom. His story is one of the first examples of an independent music artist gaining fame through the internet, setting a precedent that many aspire to follow today. Known for his pop and R&B hits, Bieber's music often explores themes of love and personal growth, resonating with a wide audience.
3. Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish has over 64 million TikTok followers and 51 million YouTube subscribers, becoming a contemporary icon among music lovers on social media. Her unique sound, characterized by dark, introspective lyrics and a minimalist aesthetic, has resonated with a global audience. Her relatable, candid online presence has strengthened her connection with fans, making her a standout in today's music scene.
4. BTS
This global K-pop sensation boasts over 65 million TikTok followers and over 78 million YouTube subscribers. As one of the artists with the largest social media following, BTS has leveraged their online presence to build a dedicated fanbase worldwide. Their dynamic performances, heartfelt lyrics, and impressive choreography have captured the hearts of millions. Fans enjoy their socially conscious music and the members' candid interactions, making their content both entertaining and meaningful.
5. BLACKPINK
This K-pop group’s high-energy performances and catchy songs have earned them a massive global audience. Their music blends pop, hip-hop, and EDM, often accompanied by visually stunning music videos. Fans love their fierce stage presence and the group's charismatic personalities, which shine through their social media content and interactions. They have an extremely impressive 93 million YouTube subscribers, making them one of the leading artists on social media.
6. Jason Derulo
Jason Derulo has amassed 59 million followers on TikTok, making him one of the top artists with the largest social media following. Known for his catchy pop and R&B hits, Derulo's music often features infectious beats and danceable rhythms. His creative and entertaining videos, which frequently include dance challenges and viral trends, have resonated with a broad audience. His ability to blend music with engaging social media content keeps fans coming back for more.
7. Eminem
With nearly 60 million YouTube subscribers and over 43 million followers on Instagram, Eminem is one of the older names in music that has created a substantial presence via contemporary channels. Known for his raw and powerful lyrics, Eminem's music often addresses personal struggles, societal issues, and emotional intensity. His ability to adapt and maintain relevance in the digital age highlights his enduring appeal and influence, attracting fans who appreciate his authenticity and lyrical prowess.
8. Karol G
Karol G has amassed 69 million Instagram followers, 36 million YouTube subscribers, and 52 million TikTok followers. As one of the artists with the largest social media following, her vibrant personality and reggaeton hits have made her a favorite among fans. Her ability to connect with a diverse audience and her strong presence in the Latin music scene have driven her meteoric rise in the industry.
9. Katy Perry
Known for her catchy pop anthems and playful persona, Katy Perry has attracted a massive online audience. Her colorful and imaginative music videos, along with her charismatic presence, keep her at the forefront of popular music. She has accumulated 45 million YouTube subscribers and 69 million Instagram followers, becoming a pop sensation via social media channels.
10. Marshmello
Fans love Marshmello for his electronic dance music and distinctive marshmallow helmet, he has created a strong visual and musical brand. His ability to produce hit tracks and engage fans through his unique persona has garnered a vast following, making him a standout in the EDM scene. He boast an impressive 57 million subscribers on YouTube.
The 100 Best Artists of All Time
The greatest music artists of all time have shaped the music we know and love through both traditional and modern channels. While album sales, MTV, radio stations and the Billboard 100 have traditionally determined the best artists of all time, the digital age has introduced media streams and social media networks as new metrics. This list celebrates the old bands and musicians with the new, highlighting past champions, while welcoming newcomers, and ranking those that excel across multiple categories the highest.
- The Beatles:20 Number 1 hits, 160 million albums sold
- Michael Jackson:13 Number 1 hits, 182 million albums sold
- Madonna:146 million albums sold, 12 number 1 hits, 12 million concert tickets sold
- Stevie Wonder:10 Number 1 hits, 25 Grammy Awards, 65 million albums sold
- U2:22 Grammy Awards, 127 million albums sold, 26 million concert tickets sold
- Mariah Carey:19 Number 1 hits, 121 million albums sold
- Taylor Swift:12 Number 1 hits, 81 billion streams, 53 million YouTube subscribers
- Bruce Springsteen:20 Grammy Awards, 103 million albums sold, 24 million concert tickets sold
- Whitney Houston:11 Number 1 hits, 113 million albums sold
- The Rolling Stones:22 million concert tickets sold, 113 million albums sold
- Drake:13 Number 1 hits, 75 billion streams
- Barbra Streisand:140 million albums sold, 10 Grammy awards, 5 number 1 hits
- Rihanna:14 Number 1 hits, 32 billion streams
- Prince:86 million albums sold, 7 Grammys, 4 MTV Video Music Awards, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe
- Beyoncé:32 Grammy Awards, 13 million concert tickets sold, over 23 billion streams
- Eminem:98 million albums sold, nearly 60 million YouTube subscribers, 43 million Instagram followers
- Metallica:19 million concert tickets sold, 121 million albums sold
- Elvis Presley:over 280 million albums sold
- Elton John:22 million concert tickets sold, 88 million albums sold
- Paul McCartney:18 Grammy Awards, 61 million albums sold
- Bon Jovi:17 million concert tickets sold, 89 million albums sold
- Billy Joel:17 million concert tickets sold, 91 million albums sold
- The Supremes:12 Number 1 hits
- Queen: 230 million albums sold
- Janet Jackson:10 Number 1 hits
- Chick Corea:27 Grammy Awards, pioneered jazz fusion, inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999
- Céline Dion:136 million albums sold, 10 million concert tickets sold
- Frank Sinatra: 190 million albums sold
- Rod Stewart: 165 million albums sold
- Phil Collins: 152 million albums sold
- Led Zeppelin:141 million albums sold
- AC/DC:132 million albums sold
- Eagles:11 million concert tickets sold, 65 million albums sold
- Bee Gees:130 million albums sold
- Fleetwood Mac:130 million albums sold
- The Beach Boys:125 million albums sold
- Simon & Garfunkel:115 million albums sold
- The Doors:105 million albums sold
- Phil Collins:93 million albums sold, 8 Grammy Awards
- Rod Stewart & Faces:100 million albums sold
- Olivia Newton-John:100 million albums sold
- Jimi Hendrix:95 million albums sold
- Queen:90 million albums sold
- Aretha Franklin:18 Grammy Awards, over 60 million albums sold
- Ed Sheeran:48 billion streams, 53 million YouTube subscribers, 19 million concert tickets sold
- Jay-Z:24 Grammy Awards, over 50 million albums sold
- Santana:89 million albums sold
- Guns N' Roses:86 million albums sold
- Black Sabbath: Pioneered the Heavy Metal genre, 73 million albums sold
- The Police:85 million albums sold
- Deep Purple:85 million albums sold
- Fleetwood Mac:84 million albums sold
- Bob Dylan:83 million albums sold
- Nirvana:82 million albums sold
- Garth Brooks:81 million albums sold
- Henry Mancini:20 Grammy Awards, 4 Academy Awards, and a Golden Globe, often cited the greatest film composer of all time
- Iron Maiden:81 million albums sold
- Depeche Mode:80 million albums sold
- Van Halen:79 million albums sold
- Henry Mancini:20 Grammy Awards, 4 Academy Awards, and a Golden Globe, often cited the greatest film composer of all time
- Kanye West:24 Grammy Awards, 38 billion streams, over 25 million albums sold
- Creedence Clearwater Revival:78 million albums sold
- Genesis:78 million albums sold
- Eric Clapton:73 million albums sold
- BTS:65 million TikTok followers, 78 million YouTube subscribers, 45 million albums sold
- Bryan Adams:71 million albums sold
- Dire Straits:71 million albums sold
- Aerosmith:71 million albums sold
- David Bowie:71 million albums sold
- Journey:71 million albums sold
- The Weeknd: over 57 billion streams, 10 million albums sold, 7 number 1 hits
- Britney Spears:68 million albums sold
- Ariana Grande: over 44 billion streams, over 8 million albums sold
- R.E.M.:66 million albums sold
- Coldplay:19 million concert tickets sold, 31 billion streams
- Enya:65 million albums sold
- Roberto Carlos:65 million albums sold
- Alison Krauss:27 Grammy Awards
- Neil Young:65 million albums sold
- 2Pac:63 million albums sold
- Adele:63 million albums sold
- Shania Twain:63 million albums sold
- Red Hot Chili Peppers:61 million albums sold
- George Michael & Wham!:60 million albums sold
- Karol G:69 million Instagram followers, 36 million YouTube subscribers, 52 million TikTok followers
- Justin Bieber:73 million YouTube subscribers
- Lady Gaga: 13 Grammy Awards, over 21 billion streams, 35 million albums sold
- Green Day:58 million albums sold
- Backstreet Boys:58 million albums sold
- Vince Gill:22 Grammy Awards
- Dave Matthews Band: 23 million concert tickets sold
- Jason Derulo:59 million TikTok followers, 13 billion streams, 7 Billboard top 10 hits
- Selena Gomez:400 million Instagram followers, 58 million TikTok followers, 88 million Facebook followers
- Bruno Mars:26 billion streams, over 17 million albums sold
- Pat Metheny:20 Grammy Awards
- Kendrick Lamar:26 billion streams
- Maroon 5:26 billion streams
- Billie Eilish:64 million TikTok followers, 51 million YouTube subscribers
- Kenny Chesney:16 million concert tickets sold
- Tony Bennett:19 Grammy Awards
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