And Finally Artist News Awards

Drake named Global Recording Artist Of 2018 by the IFPI

By Andy Malt | Published on Wednesday 27 February 2019

Drake has been named Global Recording Artist Of 2018 by global record industry trade group IFPI. Because that’s what Drake needs, yet more people telling him he’s great when he’s really not. Although, this prize doesn’t really do that. He just wins it by default because he sold more records (and got more streams, probably more of that actually) than everyone else in the world last year, like anyone could do.

He previously won the prize in 2016, making him the first double winner in the award’s seven year history. Other previous winners include One Direction, Taylor Swift, Adele and Ed Sheeran.

“Drake has had an incredible, record-breaking year, one that is more than worthy of the title of Global Recording Artist Of The Year”, insists IFPI CEO Frances Moore. “That Drake has won this award for the second time is testament to his continued global appeal and his ability to engage and connect with fans”.

She goes on: “This year’s top ten artists reflect the global appeal of music. From modern-day superstars like Drake, Ed Sheeran and Ariana Grande, to the rise of genres such as K-pop, to legacy acts like Queen, fans are exploring and enjoying music of all types and from all corners of the world”.

Yes, these names really do represent the full range of human musical creativity from across the entire globe. Here is the full top ten – why not put them in a playlist this afternoon, and then tell people you’ve heard all music (and Imagine Dragons):

1. Drake
2. BTS
3. Ed Sheeran
4. Post Malone
5. Eminem
6. Queen
7. Imagine Dragons
8. Ariana Grande
9. Lady Gaga
10. Bruno Mars