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Ed Sheeran is announced best-selling artist of 2017
By Tempus | 28 February 2018 | Culture, Wealth
The BRIT Award winner is among the highest grossing international artists of the year
* Ed Sheeran at the Berlinale International Film Festival, sponsored by Glashutte Original
Ed Sheeran has been announced as the best-selling artist of 2017, certified as multi-platinum in 36 global markets, thanks to his hit album ÷ and single Shape of You. Sheeran made history as he won the Global Recording Artist of the Year honour, as it is the first time the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) has seen a best-selling album and single record set by the same artist.
According to Forbes, 27-year-old Sheeran made $37 million (£28m) last year, ranking on the publication's celebrity rich list at number 71. He broke Spotify records with two singles, which totalled a combined streaming total of more than 13 million in 24 hours. Earlier this month he was honoured by the BRITs with a Global Success Award.
IFPI chief executive Frances Moore said: "It's wonderful to be able to announce Ed Sheeran as the IFPI Global Recording Artist 2017. The success Ed has achieved is astonishing and testament to his ability to write and perform songs that connect with a truly global fanbase." >>
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* Ed Sheeran performs at the BRIT Awards 2018
"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 channelling through their work. I congratulate them all for such a successful year."
Coming in second on the best-seller list was last year's winner Drake, followed by Sheeran's close friend Taylor Swift, who topped charts with her sixth studio album Reputation last year. Completing the top five were Kendrick Lamar, who recently scored the soundtrack to box office hit Black Panther, and rapper Eminem.