BTS are the global artist of the year

K-Pop sensations BTS have been named the IFPI Global Artist of the Year.

The South Korean boy band have won legions of fans around the world, since making their debut in 2013. The IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) global artist of the year award recognises that huge popularity, taking into account streaming numbers and physical sales, including vinyl, downloads and CDs.

There’s no doubt that BTS had an absolutely huge 2020. Their album Map of the Soul:7 was released in February, and was one of the most pre-ordered albums of all time. It went on to reach the number one spot in over 20 countries.

BTS’ first fully English-language single Dynamite became their first single to reach the top spot of the Billboard Hot 100 in the US, and their Japanese-language edition of Map of the Soul:7 sold over 500,000 copies, making it the best-selling album by a foreign male artist in that country. They also earned themselves a coveted Grammy nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for Dynamite, and a second number one album Be to finish off the year.

BTS (방탄소년단) 'Dynamite' Official MV

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BTS, also known as Bangtan Boys, are the first non-Western artist to win global artist of the year, and also the first to record primarily in a language other than English.

“BTS are a global phenomenon. They have had another outstanding year, releasing three albums, and continually finding creative and engaging ways to share their story with the world. They truly show the power that music has to bring joy and happiness to people the world over. We would like to congratulate RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook and we are excited to see what they have in store next.”
Frances Moore, IFPI Chief Executive

Last year’s winner, Taylor Swift, came second this time around, with Drake third. Check out the full top 10 below.