Well, well, well – it’s a debate that has been going on for decades now: who sold more records, Elvis Presley or Michael Jackson? Fans of both legendary artists continue to battle it out, each claiming their favorite artist to be the ultimate bestseller of all time. But with so many years since they both graced us with their timeless tunes, who reigns supreme in terms of record sales?
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself, has been an integral part of our music history since the 1950s, pushing boundaries and captivating millions of fans with his electrifying performances. With a career spanning over two decades, his albums have been selling like hotcakes since the release of his first record. But did he sell more records than Michael Jackson, the undisputed King of Pop, who stole our hearts with his dance moves and iconic hits like “Thriller” and “Billie Jean”?
Michael Jackson made his debut in the music industry in the 1960s, wowing audiences with his incredible talent and unique style. He went on to produce some of the most successful albums of all time and broke numerous records, including selling over 750 million records worldwide. But was it enough to surpass Elvis, who also holds impressive record sales to date? Let’s dive deeper into the numbers and see who really sold more records – Elvis Presley or Michael Jackson!
Overall record sales of Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, also known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” is one of the best-selling solo artists in the history of recorded music. Throughout his career, he sold over 600 million records worldwide, making him one of the highest-selling artists in history.
Presley began his music career in the 1950s, where he quickly gained popularity with his unique blend of rock, country, and blues. His debut album, “Elvis Presley,” released in 1956, became a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. From there, his career continued to skyrocket, with numerous hit singles and albums throughout the following years.
- Elvis Presley had 18 number one hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, as well as multiple top 10 hits.
- He has the most charted songs (162) and most top 40 hits (114) on the Hot 100 among all artists.
- He has the most gold certified albums (131) and the most platinum certified albums (57) among all artists.
In addition to his success with singles, Presley also had numerous successful albums throughout his career. His album “Elvis’s Christmas Album,” released in 1957, became one of the best-selling Christmas albums of all time. Another notable album was “Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite,” which was a live television broadcast and album that became one of his most successful releases.
Overall, Elvis Presley’s record sales are a testament to his impact and influence on the music industry, and his legacy continues to live on long after his death in 1977.
Overall record sales of Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson is widely regarded as one of the most successful musicians of all time. Throughout his career, he sold over 350 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists ever. This is a testament to his musical prowess and the impact he had on the industry.
- Thriller: Michael Jackson’s biggest album, Thriller, was released in 1982 and went on to sell over 66 million copies worldwide. It remains the best-selling album of all time.
- Other top-selling albums: Jackson’s other albums, such as Bad, Dangerous, and Off the Wall, were also hugely successful, with each selling over 20 million copies worldwide.
- Singles: Some of Jackson’s most successful singles include “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “Thriller,” all of which sold millions of copies around the world.
In addition to his phenomenal success with record sales, Jackson was also a trendsetter in terms of music videos. His iconic video for “Thriller” is widely regarded as one of the best music videos of all time and helped establish the medium as an art form in its own right.
All in all, Michael Jackson’s success in terms of record sales is a testament to his talent and enduring popularity. Despite facing controversy in his personal life, his music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, decades after his death.
| Album | Year Released | Number of Copies Sold |
|---|---|---|
| Thriller | 1982 | 66 million |
| Bad | 1987 | 35 million |
| Dangerous | 1991 | 32 million |
| Off the Wall | 1979 | 20 million |
Source: https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/chart-beat/9439479/michael-jackson-sold-records-albums-singles
Comparison of albums sold by Elvis and Michael
When it comes to the world of music, there are few names that are more iconic than Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Both legendary musicians had a massive impact on the industry, and their music continues to be enjoyed by fans today. But when it comes to who sold more records, there has always been some debate.
Let’s take a deeper look into the album sales of Elvis and Michael:
- Elvis Presley – Over the course of his career, Elvis released 24 studio albums and 11 live albums. He also had countless compilation albums that featured his greatest hits. In total, it is estimated that Elvis sold over 1 billion records worldwide.
- Michael Jackson – Michael’s discography is slightly smaller than Elvis’s, with 10 studio albums and 2 live albums. However, his album Thriller is the best-selling album of all time, with over 110 million copies sold worldwide. In total, Michael sold over 750 million records worldwide.
While Elvis outsold Michael in terms of the total number of records sold, it is important to note that Michael achieved incredible success with fewer albums. His impact on the music industry cannot be overstated, and his album Thriller broke countless records when it was released in 1982.
Another interesting point of comparison is the cultural impact that both Elvis and Michael had. Both musicians were widely regarded as cultural icons, and their fashion, hairstyles, and even dance moves influenced the generations that followed. The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and the King of Pop will forever be remembered as two of the greatest musicians of all time.
| Artist | Studio Albums | Live Albums | Compilation Albums | Total Album Sales |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elvis Presley | 24 | 11 | N/A | 1 billion |
| Michael Jackson | 10 | 2 | N/A | 750 million |
In conclusion, while Elvis Presley sold more albums in total, Michael Jackson’s impact on the music industry and culture cannot be overstated. Both musicians had incredible careers and will be remembered as two of the greatest artists to ever grace the stage.
Popularity of Elvis in the 1950s and 1960s
During the 1950s and 1960s, Elvis Presley took the music world by storm. He had a unique sound that blended elements of rock and roll, country, and rhythm and blues. He was also a dynamic performer, famous for his signature moves on stage that combined gyrating hips, leg shakes, and fist pumps. His music and style captured the imagination of the younger generation and gave rise to the “Elvis phenomenon” that continues to this day.
- Elvis Presley’s early career: Elvis Presley started his career in the mid-1950s with Sun Records, a small label based in Memphis, Tennessee. He recorded his first hit, “That’s All Right,” in 1954, which quickly gained popularity and helped establish him as a rising star in the music industry.
- Hits in the 1950s: In the late 1950s, Elvis had a string of hits that included “Heartbreak Hotel,” “All Shook Up,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Hound Dog.” He also appeared in several movies during this period, further expanding his fame and popularity.
- The 1960s comeback: In the early 1960s, Elvis’s popularity began to wane as his music became less edgy and more formulaic. However, he had a comeback in 1968 with his TV special, also known as the ’68 Comeback Special, which showcased his early rock and roll sound and renewed his popularity among fans.
Over the years, Elvis Presley continued to release hit singles, and his albums continued to sell well. He became known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” and his legacy has endured long after his death in 1977. His impact on music and popular culture cannot be overstated, and his popularity in the 1950s and 1960s helped establish rock and roll as a major force in the music industry.
Popularity of Michael Jackson in the 1980s and 1990s
Michael Jackson, also known as the King of Pop, dominated the music industry in the 1980s and 1990s. With his distinctive voice, unique dance moves, and electrifying performances, he captivated music listeners worldwide. During this time, he released some of the best-selling albums in history, setting records that still stand today.
Below are some of the reasons why Michael Jackson was an icon during the 1980s and 1990s:
- Thriller album: Released in 1982, Thriller remains one of the best-selling albums of all time, with an estimated 66 million copies sold worldwide. The album’s success was largely due to its groundbreaking music videos, which transformed the way music was viewed and marketed.
- Moonwalk: Michael Jackson popularized the iconic dance move during his performance of “Billie Jean” at the Motown 25th Anniversary celebration in 1983. The move became synonymous with his name and was imitated by fans worldwide.
- Charitable efforts: Michael Jackson was well-known for his philanthropic efforts during the 1980s and 1990s. He supported a variety of causes, including AIDS research, child welfare, and disaster relief.
Michael Jackson continued to release successful albums and singles throughout the 1990s, cementing his status as one of the biggest names in music. Despite facing personal and legal troubles later in his career, his impact on the music industry cannot be denied.
| Album | Year | Copies Sold |
|---|---|---|
| Thriller | 1982 | 66 million |
| Bad | 1987 | 35 million |
| Dangerous | 1991 | 32 million |
Michael Jackson’s music continued to influence countless artists and fans long after his death in 2009. His unparalleled talent and innovative creativity made him an irreplaceable force in the world of music.
Impact of Elvis on the music industry
Elvis Presley is without a doubt one of the most influential and impactful figures in the history of music. His contributions to the music industry are still felt today, over 40 years after his passing. Here are some of the ways in which Elvis impacted the music industry:
- He popularized rock and roll music, a genre that revolutionized the music industry and became a cultural phenomenon.
- He brought black music to a wider audience, helping to break down racial barriers at a time when segregation was still rampant in America.
- He helped to popularize the use of electric guitars and amplified sound in music.
Elvis’s impact on the music industry can be seen not only in the countless artists who have been influenced by him, but also in the sales of his own music. Even after his death in 1977, his music continues to sell at an astonishing rate, with millions of albums and singles sold every year.
| Album | Certified Sales (millions) |
|---|---|
| Elvis’ Christmas Album | 20 |
| Elvis Presley | 17 |
| Elvis’ Golden Records | 6 |
| Blue Hawaii | 3 |
Even today, decades after his death, Elvis continues to be a cultural icon and a beloved figure in the music industry. His impact on music and popular culture is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Impact of Michael Jackson on the Music Industry
It’s safe to say that Michael Jackson revolutionized the music industry in many ways. He was influential in changing the face of pop music, and his impact can still be felt today. Here are some of the ways in which Michael Jackson impacted the music industry:
- Breaking racial barriers: Michael Jackson was one of the first Black musicians to achieve mainstream success. He opened doors for other Black artists and paved the way for greater diversity in the music industry.
- Music videos: Michael Jackson is often credited with popularizing the music video as an art form. His iconic video for “Thriller” set the standard for what a music video should be and paved the way for generations of artists to come.
- Dance: Michael Jackson’s dance moves were just as influential as his music. The Moonwalk, in particular, became an iconic dance move that is still recognized and imitated today.
These are just a few examples of the impact Michael Jackson had on the music industry. His mark can be seen in everything from the way albums are produced to the types of artists who are popular today.
In terms of record sales, Michael Jackson is often compared to Elvis Presley, who is considered by many to be one of the most successful musicians of all time. However, there is some debate over who actually sold more records over the course of their careers.
According to the Guinness World Records, Michael Jackson holds the title for best-selling album of all time with his album “Thriller,” which has sold over 66 million copies worldwide. However, Elvis Presley holds the title for most total records sold, with an estimated total of 1 billion records sold worldwide.
| Artist | Total Records Sold (Est.) | Albums Sold (Est.) | Singles Sold (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Jackson | 750 million | 195 million | 200 million |
| Elvis Presley | 1 billion | 400 million | 600 million |
Regardless of the numbers, there’s no denying the impact that both Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley have had on the music industry. They both pushed the boundaries of what was possible and left an indelible mark on popular music that is still felt today.
Critical reception of Elvis’ music
Elvis Presley is acknowledged as a music icon in American history, having sold millions of records and shaped the sound of popular music in the 20th century. Despite this commercial success, critical reception of Elvis’ music has been varied over the years. Here are some of the reasons why:
- Elvis was often criticized for borrowing heavily from African American music genres, particularly rhythm and blues and gospel. This led to accusations of cultural appropriation and exploitation.
- Some critics felt that Elvis’ voice lacked the technical range and depth of other vocalists, such as Frank Sinatra or Roy Orbison.
- Elvis’ image and style were often viewed as “kitsch” or excessively flashy, with critics pointing to his ostentatious clothing and swiveling hips as evidence of this.
Despite these criticisms, many music critics and scholars now recognize Elvis as a key innovator and influencer in popular music. His fusion of diverse musical genres and styles, as well as his high-energy stage performances, helped pave the way for artists like The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, and Madonna.
Below is a table comparing critical and commercial success for several of Elvis’ albums:
| Album Title | Commercial Success | Critical Reception |
|---|---|---|
| Elvis Presley (1956) | 5x Platinum | Positive |
| From Elvis in Memphis (1969) | Gold | Positive |
| Elvis’ Christmas Album (1957) | 10x Platinum | Mixed |
| Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite (1973) | 5x Platinum | Mixed |
Overall, Elvis’ critical reception may have been mixed, but his contribution to the world of music cannot be denied. His influence and legacy continue to be felt to this day.
Critical reception of Michael Jackson’s music
Michael Jackson is often regarded as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, and his music has received critical acclaim throughout his career. Let’s take a closer look at the critical reception of Michael Jackson’s music:
- Thriller, released in 1982, is often cited as Jackson’s greatest achievement and one of the greatest albums of all time. Rolling Stone Magazine gave the album a glowing review, stating that it “outperforms his previous best by far” and calling it a “modern masterpiece.”
- Bad, released in 1987, received mixed-to-positive reviews from critics. While some praised Jackson’s innovation and energy, others criticized the album for being too formulaic and commercially-driven. It wasn’t until later that the album was recognized as a classic of the pop genre.
- Dangerous, released in 1991, received mostly positive reviews from critics, who praised Jackson’s ability to innovate while still staying true to his pop roots. The album’s hard-hitting themes and socially conscious lyrics were also celebrated.
In addition to critical acclaim, Michael Jackson’s music has also been recognized with a multitude of awards and honors. He has won 13 Grammy Awards, including a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010. He has also been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, first as a member of The Jackson 5 and later as a solo artist.
Overall, the critical reception of Michael Jackson’s music has been overwhelmingly positive, and his contributions to the pop music landscape will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
Here is a table showcasing the critical reception of some of Michael Jackson’s most iconic albums:
| Album | Release Year | Rolling Stone Review | Metacritic Score (out of 100) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thriller | 1982 | 5/5 | 91 |
| Bad | 1987 | 3.5/5 | 52 |
| Dangerous | 1991 | 4/5 | 68 |
As you can see, while Michael Jackson’s music has sometimes received mixed reviews, his impact on the music industry and his contributions to the pop genre cannot be denied.
Legacy of Elvis and Michael Jackson in popular culture
Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson are undoubtedly two of the most iconic figures in music and entertainment history. They both revolutionized the industry, transcending cultural and generational boundaries with their unique sounds, electrifying performances, and larger-than-life personalities. Decades after their deaths, their legacies continue to thrive in popular culture, inspiring new generations of artists and entertainers.
- 1. Influence on music
- 2. Fashion trends and styles
- 3. Film and television
1. Influence on music
Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson are the two most successful solo artists in the history of recorded music. Elvis sold over 600 million records worldwide, while Michael Jackson sold over 350 million records. Both artists left an indelible mark on music, influencing numerous genres and styles. Elvis helped to popularize rock and roll, while Michael Jackson revolutionized pop music. His album “Thriller” remains the best-selling album of all time, with over 110 million copies sold worldwide. Their music continues to be heard on radio stations, streaming services, and in commercials, films, and television shows. Their influence can be observed in the work of contemporary artists such as Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, and Lady Gaga.
2. Fashion trends and styles
Elvis’s signature style, including his pompadour hairstyle, leather jackets, and jumpsuits, continues to inspire fashion trends to this day. Michael Jackson’s iconic outfits, including his sequined gloves, military jackets, and red leather ‘Thriller’ jacket, have become timeless symbols of pop culture. Both artists’ fashion choices have been replicated and referenced in various fashion shows, magazine spreads, and music videos. Brands such as H&M and Gucci have even paid homage to their iconic looks in recent collections.
3. Film and television
Elvis and Michael Jackson’s impact on film and television can be seen in documentaries, biopics, and music-themed shows that continue to air on networks around the world. Elvis Presley appeared in over 30 films and TV shows, helping to introduce his music and style to new audiences. Michael Jackson’s music videos, such as “Thriller,” “Bad,” and “Billie Jean,” revolutionized the medium and set the standard for future music videos. His appearances in films such as “The Wiz” and “Moonwalker” helped to cement his status as one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
The numbers
While it is well known that Elvis Presley sold more records than Michael Jackson, the exact numbers remain a matter of dispute among fans and insiders. Presley sold over 600 million records worldwide, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. Jackson sold over 350 million records, according to various sources including the Guinness World Records.
| Elvis Presley | Michael Jackson | |
|---|---|---|
| Albums sold (worldwide) | 150 million | 350 million |
| Singles sold (worldwide) | 1 billion | 80 million |
| Number one hits | 18 | 13 |
| Grammy Awards | 3 | 30 |
Regardless of the actual numbers, the fact remains that both Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson made a profound impact on the music industry and popular culture as a whole. Their legacies continue to be celebrated and studied, and their music and style will continue to influence future generations of performers and artists for years to come.
FAQs about Who Sold More Records: Elvis or Michael Jackson
1. Who sold more records, Elvis or Michael Jackson?
According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), Elvis Presley has sold over 146.5 million certified units in the US alone. Michael Jackson, on the other hand, has sold over 84 million certified units in the US.
2. Who has sold more records overall, Elvis or Michael Jackson?
While Elvis has sold more records in the US, Michael Jackson has sold more records globally. According to various sources, Michael Jackson has sold over 350 million records worldwide, while Elvis has sold over 600 million records worldwide.
3. Who has more number one hits, Elvis or Michael Jackson?
Elvis Presley has 18 number one hits, while Michael Jackson has 13 number one hits.
4. Who has won more Grammy Awards, Elvis or Michael Jackson?
Elvis Presley won three Grammy Awards in his career, while Michael Jackson won 13 Grammy Awards.
5. Who has sold more concert tickets, Elvis or Michael Jackson?
Elvis Presley is estimated to have sold around 1.5 billion concert tickets over his career, while Michael Jackson is estimated to have sold around 385 million concert tickets.
6. Who has sold more albums, Elvis or Michael Jackson?
Elvis Presley has sold more albums in the US, while Michael Jackson has sold more albums globally.
7. Who had a bigger impact on music, Elvis or Michael Jackson?
Both Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson had a significant impact on music, and it is difficult to compare them. Elvis is often regarded as the “King of Rock and Roll,” while Michael Jackson is often regarded as the “King of Pop.”
Closing Title: Who Sold More Records: Elvis or Michael Jackson
In conclusion, while Elvis Presley sold more records in the US, Michael Jackson sold more records globally. Both artists had a significant impact on music and continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide. We hope this article has provided some insight into the debate of who sold more records between Elvis and Michael Jackson. Thank you for reading, and please visit us again for more music-related content.