Billboard is making some serious changes.
In recent years, record labels have packaged artists’ merchandise and ticket sales with the intent to increase their sales and chart position. The music publication has since caught wind of this advantage. As a result, they are no longer contributing these bundles to artist’s albums sales. The bundles will now count as add-ons.
Billboard states:
“Under the new rules, which will be implemented at a start date to be announced, all albums bundled with either merchandise or concert tickets must be promoted as an add-on to those purchases in order to be counted on the charts. Those included as part of a baked-in, single-price option (along with the merchandise or ticket), with the album cost undisclosed to the consumer, will no longer be counted. It is Billboard’s belief that the resulting charts will more accurately reflect consumer choice.”
Last month, Tekashi 6ix9ine went on a rant in an attempt to expose both Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber. The three artists were racing to atop the Billboard Hot 100 at the time. Although it took some time for immediate change, it has come nevertheless. According to Billboard, all three artists used the tactic of offering vinyl or physical CDs. Typically, these CDs are counted in sales but are promised to be shipped months after the initial sale is made.
The changes are to take effect immediately. DJ Akademiks reported that Drake’s Dark Lane Demo Tapes, which debuted at No.2 on the Billboard 200 will now be considered No.1 under the new changes. Drake initially got beat out of the top spot by Country singer, Kenny Chesney. Chesney used the ticket bundle tactic to boost sales. He later canceled his tour following achieving the No. 1 feat, thus, “cheated Aubrey of a #1.”
