Robbie Williams overtakes Bowie as most successful UK solo act
Robbie Williams has become the most successful British solo artist in history, with The Heavy Entertainment Show album becoming his 12th solo UK #1.
That moves him past David Bowie’s tally of eleven. But Williams still has two Americans to contend with: he’s now level with Madonna, and one below Elvis Presley, who three weeks ago notched up his 13th UK chart topper.
The Beatles lead the all-time list with 15 albums going to the top.
The Heavy Entertainment Show had a first week sales tally of 67,000. It is the fourth fastest-selling album of 2016, behind Bowie’s Blackstar, Drake’s Views and Beyoncé’s Lemonade.
The record debuted at #4 on the ARIA chart on Saturday.
Williams said: “I’m chuffed that this album is #1 and I’m humbled by these amazing statistics and facts. Thank you to the wonderful, wonderful team at Sony.
“I’m as proud of this album as much as any other, and hope that the fans enjoy it as much as I loved making it… this is for the friendlies. I’m very excited to be taking The Heavy Entertainment show on tour next year.”
The chart success caps a memorable week for Williams, who received the BRIT Icon award – presented by Take That – during a gig at London’s Troxy. Elton John and David Bowie are the only previous winners of the title.
Williams will embark on an arena tour in 2017, with seven dates confirmed between June 2 and 23.
Demand for tickets for these instantly sold-out shows saw 500 of these being resold 30 minutes later for between £385 (A$642. 95) and £98.89 ($165.15).
One single seller had got his or her hands on eight standing tickets, looking to offload them for £273.90 ($457.40) each. The original price was £71.50 ($119.60).
Robbie Williams has been confirmed as a guest at this month’s ARIA awards in Sydney, and may perform.
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