The Weeknd Breaks Records for Diamond and Platinum-Certified Singles
In a monumental achievement, The Weeknd has shattered two major records in the music industry. The Canadian singer, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, has surpassed Rihanna‘s record for the most Diamond-certified singles by an individual artist and Chris Brown‘s record for the most Platinum-certified singles by a male artist. This double triumph marks a significant milestone in The Weeknd’s career and cements his status as a leading force in contemporary music.
Breaking Rihanna’s Diamond Record
On May 31, The Weeknd’s singles “Needed Me,” “Stay,” “Umbrella,” and “Work” each reached Diamond certification, denoting sales of 10 million units in the United States. This brought Rihanna’s total of Diamond-certified songs to six, making her the artist with the most such hits in the Recording Industry Association of America’s (RIAA) 71-year history.
However, The Weeknd soon eclipsed Rihanna’s record. With seven Diamond singles to his name, he became the first singer to amass this many certifications. His Diamond-certified hits include chart-toppers like “Blinding Lights,” “Starboy,” and “The Hills.” This achievement underscores The Weeknd’s widespread popularity and enduring appeal in the music industry.
Surpassing Chris Brown’s Platinum Record
In addition to his Diamond success, The Weeknd also broke Chris Brown’s record for the most Platinum-certified singles by a male artist. Platinum certification, which signifies sales of 1 million units in the U.S., is another testament to an artist’s commercial success and popularity.
On June 20, the RIAA announced that The Weeknd’s singles “Popular” and “Girls” had achieved Platinum status, bringing his total count of Platinum-certified songs to 38. This surpasses Chris Brown’s previous record and highlights The Weeknd’s prolific output and consistent ability to produce hits that resonate with a broad audience.
Career Milestones and Sales Records
The Weeknd’s recent achievements add to an already impressive career. With these new certifications, his overall sales in the U.S. have reached 126 million units. This makes him the best-selling Black male singer in the history of recorded music for singles. His success is further emphasized when compared to other leading artists. Among all Black acts, only Drake (244 million), Rihanna (183 million), and Kanye West (160.5 million) have higher cumulative single sales.
The Impact of The Weeknd’s Music
The Weeknd’s music, characterized by its blend of R&B, pop, and alternative influences, has struck a chord with listeners around the world. His distinctive voice and innovative production have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Hits like “Blinding Lights,” which spent a record-breaking 90 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, have solidified his place in music history.
Looking Ahead
As The Weeknd continues to break records and push the boundaries of his artistry, fans and industry watchers alike are eager to see what he will achieve next. His recent accomplishments not only highlight his past success but also set the stage for future milestones.
In a rapidly evolving music landscape, The Weeknd’s ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial to maintaining his position at the top. Whether through new musical releases, collaborations, or live performances, The Weeknd is poised to continue his reign as one of the most influential and successful artists of his generation.
Conclusion
The Weeknd’s record-breaking achievements in Diamond and Platinum certifications are a testament to his talent, hard work, and enduring appeal. By surpassing the milestones set by Rihanna and Chris Brown, he has solidified his place in music history and set a new standard for success in the industry. As he continues to create and innovate, there is no doubt that The Weeknd will remain a dominant force in the music world for years to come.