Taylor Swift has made history once again, securing her place as the IFPI’s Biggest-Selling Global Recording Artist of the Year for 2024.
Taylor Swift clinches highest-selling artist in the world title for the fifth year
This marks her fifth time receiving the prestigious honour, following wins in 2014, 2019, 2022, and 2023. No other artist has claimed the top spot as many times since the award’s inception.
The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which tracks global music sales across physical purchases, downloads, and streaming, announced Swift as the No. 1 recording artist worldwide.
She finished ahead of Drake and SEVENTEEN, who placed second and third, respectively.
In a statement, IFPI Chief Executive Frances Moore acknowledged Swift’s historic achievement, stating:
“Taylor Swift’s impact on the global music industry continues to be unprecedented. Her ability to connect with audiences across generations and markets is a testament to her artistry, dedication, and innovation.”
A defining year for Taylor Swift
Swift’s dominance in 2024 was fuelled by a combination of record-breaking music releases, an unprecedented global tour, and major award wins.
In April, she released her highly anticipated eleventh studio album, The Tortured Poets Department, which became an instant commercial success. The album contributed significantly to her streaming numbers and physical sales, reinforcing her standing as the best-selling artist of the year.
Her Eras Tour, which broke the record for the highest-grossing concert series in history, played a massive role in her commercial success.
The tour included stops in Cardiff, London, and Dublin in June and was revamped in May to feature songs from The Tortured Poets Department. The tour shattered records for ticket sales and attendance, further cementing Swift’s position as a global superstar.
Beyond her music, Swift was a central figure in pop culture, attending the Super Bowl to support Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, a moment that captured widespread media attention but ended in a marquee victory for the Philadelphia Eagles. She also publicly participated in the 2024 US Presidential Election, endorsing Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.
Additionally, Swift became the most decorated artist in Billboard Music Awards history, increasing her total wins to 49. She took home the Top Artist Award at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards for the first time, a significant milestone in her already illustrious career.
With this latest IFPI honour, Swift continues to set records and redefine global success in the music industry.
