Ed Sheeran | Mark Surridge/Atlantic
Given the monstrous, worldwide success of his “Divide” project, it should come as no surprise that Ed Sheeran was the top-selling global artist of 2017.
The IFPI made that unsurprising news official Monday morning.
In addition to confirming Sheeran’s position as the world’s best-selling artist, the IFPI revealed that the aforementioned “Divide” was 2017’s best-selling album across the globe.
Grammy-winning single “Shape Of You,” meanwhile, ranks as the year’s top-selling song.
“It’s wonderful to be able to announce Ed Sheeran as the IFPI Global Recording Artist 2017,” says Frances Moore, chief executive for the IFPI. “The success Ed has achieved is astonishing and testament to his ability to write and perform songs that connect with a truly global fanbase.
“This year’s Global Top 10 really is a ‘who’s who’ of popular music. Each artist has a unique impact on the music industry through the talent and energy they are channeling through their work. I congratulate them all for such a successful year.”
This year’s IFPI Global Top 10 follows:
1) Ed Sheeran
2) Drake
3) Taylor Swift
4) Kendrick Lamar
5) Eminem
6) Bruno Mars
7) The Weeknd
8) Imagine Dragons
9) Linkin Park
10) The Chainsmokers