If you haven’t made a trip to Virgin Megastore lately for some brand spanking new CDs, you’re not the only one.
According to Nielsen SoundScan’s year-end report, Latin album sales dropped 21.1% in 2008. Only country and classical albums experienced an even more devastating blow, with drops between 24-26%,
Despite the setback, reggaeton did get a major boost in sales. Out of the top 100 mastertones sold in 2008, the highest selling Latin title was Panamanian artist Flex with his single “Te Quiero,” followed by La Factoria’s “Perdoname.” Aside from Panama’s musical success, regional Mexico act Grupo Montez de Durango scored the top-selling ringtone of 2008 with “Adios Amor Te Vas.”
While Latinos suffered in musical sales, pop continued to reign supreme. The top selling digital song of 2008 was Leona Lewis’ “Bleeding Love,” while Rihanna was the top selling digital artist. British alternative rock band Coldplay’s Viva La Vida (remember those iTunes commercials?) was the highest selling digital album.
Thanks to the many of us who can’t give up our Limewire for new tracks, CDs continue to suffer drastically. On the other hand, this gives our favorite artists the chance to step up their game and release songs that are worth $20. Its 2009, so hop to it!
