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| The best selling Beatles album in the U.S.A. |
The late Sir George Martin wanted to have the Beatles'"White album" as "one super single album" by weeding out the songs he felt were surplus and below par. Now the ultimate proof of how wrong he was is delivered by RIAA who, based on sales, February 21, 2019 have certified that the album is the most successful of all Beatles albums, at least in USA.
The "White album", probably helped by last year's 50th anniversary editions has been certified as to have achieved Diamond status 24 times over. Only three more albums in the RIAA history has achieved 24 x Diamond, the other ones being Eagles "Their Greatest Hits 1971 - 1975" 38 x Diamond, Michael Jackson's "Thriller" at 33 x Diamond and then Eagles again, with "Hotel California" at 26 x Diamond.
The Beatles already hold top honours as the highest certified band in Gold and Diamond Award history, with 178 million certifications across a wide range of titles, including the iconic "White Album." Other albums by The Beatles that have surpassed Diamond certification include "The Beatles 1967-1970" ("Blue album") at 17 X Diamond, "The Beatles 1962-1966" ("Red album") at 15 X Diamond, "Abbey Road" at 12 X Diamond, "1" at 11 X Diamond, and "Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band" at 11 X Diamond.
"The Beatles are undoubtedly one of the most influential bands of all time, with music that stands the test of time,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman and CEO, RIAA. “The magic of John, Paul, George, and Ringo continues to be experienced by new fans across the country and we are honoured to present them with this milestone achievement. Diamond status is already a rare feat – for an album to go 24X Platinum it has truly become part of America’s cultural fabric. Congratulations to the band and their families, Apple Corps, Capitol and UMe, and all who helped create this album and bring it to the world."
Now why they are calling it 24 x Platinum when all other sources say 24 x Diamond and the press release shows the album with a "24 x Diamond" badge, we have no idea. Maybe RIAA are rattling their jewellery.
Sources:
RIAA Press release
RIAA Top sellers