In 1999, everyone takes back seat to Backstreet

Back - Index - Submissions - - What is RSS? Date: Dec 22, 2099 Source: The Hollywood Reporter Submitted By: NoMoon1412@aol.com Teen favorites Backstreet Boys, on a massive roll since their U.S. debut in 1997, were the best-selling recording act of 1999, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. This month, the Jive Records quintet's sophomore U.S. album, "Millennium," achieved diamond status for sales in excess of 10 million copies, while its 1997 eponymous debut advanced from U.S. sales of 9 million to 12 million during the past year. With the notable exception of Backstreet Boys and Ricky Martin, female artists dominated the year. Backstreet Boys were only given a run for best-selling album of the year by label mate Britney Spears, who also is awarded diamond status in December for her debut set, "... Baby One More Time." The achievement makes the 18-year-old the youngest artist to hit the 10 million sales mark, and she's also the top-selling female act of 1999. Spears breaks the age record held by Alanis Morissette, who was 21 when she released diamond album "Jagged Little Pill" in 1995. Shania Twain, who has the best-selling country album of the year with the 1997 release "Come on Over," sold 9 million copies in 1999, bringing its total to 16 million. Comment on this item. Next Item: Hugs and kisses for your favorite Backstreet Boy? Prev Item: The year's best in music