The Weeknd has made history as the first Canadian artist to achieve seven diamond-certified singles. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) recently certified “Save Your Tears” and “Die For You” as diamond, meaning each track has sold at least 10 million equivalent units. This milestone underscores The Weeknd’s significant impact on the music industry and places him among an elite group of global artists.
In addition to his diamond certifications, The Weeknd‘s collaboration with Madonna and Playboi Carti, “Popular,” has achieved platinum status. According to the RIAA, platinum certification is awarded when a song reaches 1 million units in the U.S., with one unit equating to either one permanent download sold or 150 on-demand audio and/or video streams. Released on June 2, 2023, via XO and Republic Records, “Popular” was the second single from the planned soundtrack album The Idol, Vol. 1 for The Weeknd’s HBO drama series, The Idol.
“Save Your Tears” and “Die For You” are the latest additions to The Weeknd’s collection of diamond-certified singles. The RIAA’s diamond certification reflects a combination of sales and streaming figures, highlighting tracks that have reached 10 million units. This achievement places The Weeknd as the fourth artist overall to earn seven or more diamond singles, showcasing his consistent ability to produce hits that resonate globally.
The Weeknd‘s journey to this level of recognition includes several notable accomplishments. The song’s success, along with other hits from his album “After Hours“, solidified his position as a leading figure in contemporary music.
“Popular” also saw significant success since its release. The track gained additional attention when its official music video debuted exclusively during Fortnite Festival in February, part of The Weeknd’s takeover of the event’s Season 1. This innovative approach to music video premieres highlights The Weeknd’s strategies for engaging with his audience and promoting his music.
Collaborations have played a crucial role in The Weeknd’s widespread acclaim. His team-up with Madonna and Playboi Carti for “Popular” brought together diverse styles and fan bases, expanding his reach. These collaborations, along with other successful partnerships, demonstrate his versatility and ability to appeal to a broad range of musical tastes.
The Weeknd‘s achievements reflect his talent, dedication, and ability to adapt to the changing landscape of the music industry. His use of new platforms for promotion and continuous connection with his audience have been key to his sustained success. As he continues to break records and set new standards, The Weeknd’s influence on the music industry remains strong.
Looking forward, fans and industry observers are eager to see what The Weeknd will achieve next. With seven diamond singles to his name, he has cemented his legacy as one of the most successful and influential artists of his generation.