With MTV’s Video Music Awards coming up this weekend, here are some fascinating facts and scintillating stats on the impact of British music on the U.S. Spoiler alert: it’s BIG.
Ten
Number of times Adele’s album 21 has gone platinum in the US. It has been certified ‘Diamond’ by the RIAA. After Adele both performed and won at the 2013 Oscars, the album again re-entered the Billboard top 10, marking its 81st week in the top 10, a record (excuse the pun) exceeded only by two albums: Born in the USA and The Sound of Music.
BONUS STAT: 21 has been the best-selling recording in the US (and indeed the world) two years in a row (2011 & 2012), the only time that has happened since records began.
Kevin Winter / Getty
250%
Since 1999, international royalties earned by UK acts have more than doubled, and global earnings for UK songwriters have grown by over 250 per cent!
Via tumblr.com
$8.00
Cost of Rolling Stones concert ticket in the 1970s. When their trousers (and faces) were wrinkle-free.
$637.50
Average cost of a Rolling Stones ticket today! (Can we borrow some money?) Ambassador Westmacott, a big fan, wrote a blogabout their recent 50th anniversary tour when it came to Washington D.C. in June.
BONUS STAT: The combined age of today’s lineup is 277. In other words, the same age as American patriot Patrick Henry. Truth.
