As of 2024, the ranking of artists by the number of Gold and Platinum record awards issued by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) reflects their monumental commercial success and enduring influence.
The RIAA awards Gold and Platinum certifications based on sales attained in the United States. Sales outside the U.S. are not included in the calculation. While the sales figures to achieve Gold or Platinum have varied over the years (you can read more about that in our extensive guide here), generally 500,000 copies sold for albums resulted in a Gold certification, and one million copies sold of an album resulted in a Platinum certification.
Here’s a look at the top 10 artists with the most albums sold as recognized by the RIAA with Gold or Platinum Album awards, including their respective numbers sold in the U.S. (in millions):
#1. The Beatles
Albums Sold: 183M
It is not surprising to see The Beatles at the top of this list. With their innovative approach to music and recording, the Fab 4 achieved an impressive number of Gold and Platinum certifications. Albums like Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles (White Album), and Abbey Road clearly contributed significantly to their total. Their influence on modern music and culture is immense, and their numerous chart-topping hits and iconic albums continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Check out all our Beatles memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#2. Garth Brooks
Albums Sold: 162M
Garth Brooks, a major figure in country music, has achieved a very impressive number of Gold and Platinum certifications and also holds the record for most Diamond album certifications, which represent 10 million units sold of each title. His influential albums, such as No Fences, Ropin' the Wind, and The Hits, have seen massive commercial success. Brooks’s blend of traditional and contemporary country music has resonated with a wide audience, leading to his significant number of certifications. Check out all our Garth Brooks memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#3. Elvis Presley
Albums Sold: 146.5M
In addition to this impressive number, the “King of Rock and Roll” holds the record for the most Gold and Platinum combined single and album certifications at 211. His catalog includes numerous hit singles and albums, such as "Heartbreak Hotel," Elvis Presley, and Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite. Presley’s enduring popularity and influence on rock and roll are reflected in his staggering number of certifications. His vast and varied discography, from early rock hits to later recordings, contributes to his leading position in this category. Check out all our Elvis memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#4 Eagles
Albums Sold: 120M
In addition to the group’s monumental success with albums such as Hotel California, Eagles Greatest Hits Vol. 2, and Hell Freezes Over, it’s also worth noting that Eagles hold a significant record: The biggest-selling album of all time in the U.S. with their album Eagles/Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975, with an incredible 38 million copies sold. Their signature blend of country, rock and finely polished recordings has made them one of the most successful acts of all time. Check out all our Eagles memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#5 Led Zeppelin
Albums Sold: 112.5M
Rock royalty Led Zeppelin put themselves on the map in the late 60s and continued as a massive force in music until the untimely death of John Bonham in 1980 but their legacy lives on. With a discography including #1 releases II, III, IV, Houses Of The Holy and Physical Graffiti, they accumulated a remarkable number of Gold and Platinum certifications. Further, their impact on rock musicians everywhere is undeniable. Check out all our Led Zeppelin memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#6 Michael Jackson
Albums Sold: 89M
Michael Jackson, known as the “King of Pop,” has accumulated a remarkable number of Gold and Platinum certifications, thanks in large part to the success of his albums like Thriller, Bad, and Dangerous. Jackson’s impact on pop music, dance, and music videos is profound, and his enduring popularity is reflected in his impressive record certification totals. Check out all our Michael Jackson memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#7 Billy Joel
Albums Sold: 86M
Prolific songsmith and piano man Billy Joel has moved through many eras in his career, but consistently delivered hits to his loyal fan base. Albums such as 52nd Street, The Stranger, Glass Houses, and biggest seller Greatest Hits Vol. 1 and Vol. 2, among others, all generated an incredible number of Gold and Platinum certifications. Check out all our Billy Joel memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#8 AC/DC
Albums Sold: 83M
Australian hard rock heavyweights AC/DC were already hugely successful with albums such as Highway To Hell and Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap before enduring the loss of singer Bon Scott in 1980. However, they managed to deliver their biggest seller ever with Back In Black, an album designed as a tribute to their fallen vocalist, after bringing in Englishman Brian Johnson to handle vocal chores. Follow up successes such as For Those About To Rock and Black Ice added to their catalog, racking up a serious number of Gold and Platinum certifications. Check out all our AC/DC memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#9 Elton John
Albums Sold: 80M
Elton John has had a long and successful career, resulting in a significant number of Gold and Platinum certifications. Key albums contributing to his total include Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Greatest Hits, and The Lion King soundtrack. John’s distinctive style, songwriting success with writing partner Bernie Taupin, and extensive catalog have earned him a prominent place among top artists with numerous record certifications. Check out all our Elton John memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
#10. Mariah Carey
Albums Sold: 75M
Mariah Carey’s extraordinary vocal range and numerous chart-topping hits have resulted in a large number of Gold and Platinum records. Her ultra popular albums, including Music Box, Daydream, and The Emancipation of Mimi, have achieved significant commercial success. Carey’s influence on pop and contemporary music is reflected in her substantial record certifications. Check out all our Mariah Carey memorabilia and record awards (as available) here.
While some major artists seem strangely missing from this list, you’ll see many of them in the next ten on the list. They are, in order of albums sold, Pink Floyd, Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, George Strait, Barbra Streisand, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Metallica, Eminem, and Whitney Houston.
All these artists have achieved remarkable success and have left a lasting impact on the music industry. Their extensive catalogs of RIAA Gold and Platinum records not only highlight their commercial achievements but also underscore their significant influence on music and popular culture.
Interested in collecting music memorabilia? Check out our selection here. How about genuine RIAA Gold and Platinum and other record awards? Check out our selection here. We typically have several hundred in stock.
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Data Source: RIAA.com
