Sam Fender’s “People Watching” achieves unprecedented success in its debut week.

Sam Fender has just achieved a remarkable milestone in his music career, marking the most successful opening week for a British artist since Harry Styles released his album “Harry’s House” three years ago, which sold 113,000 copies in its first week back in May 2022. With his new album “People Watching,” Sam joins a select group of only nine artists this decade who have sold over 100,000 albums in a week in the UK. This exclusive group includes stars like Taylor Swift, Adele, Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Harry Styles, Take That, ABBA, and Arctic Monkeys.
Not only has Sam reached this impressive sales figure, but he’s also set new records. “People Watching” has become the fastest-selling vinyl album by a British artist this century, with 43,000 vinyl copies sold in just one week. Because of this success, the album takes the number one spot on both the Official Vinyl Albums Chart and the Official Record Store Chart.
When interviewed by the Official Charts, Sam expressed his gratitude, saying, “This is completely overwhelming. Thank you to everyone who’s supported us and listened to the album this week.” His heartfelt words reflect how much he appreciates the support from his fans.
Martin Talbot, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Official Charts, commented on Sam’s achievement, stating, “What an incredible week for Sam Fender, who takes a place at the head of the top table this week by claiming the Number 1 spot in the Official Albums Chart with a blockbuster opening week. His new album ‘People Watching’ not only sets a new first-week high for himself, but it’s also a record-breaking first week on vinyl.”
Sam is also set to perform at the BRIT Awards, happening on Saturday, March 1. He has been nominated for two awards: Artist of the Year and Best Rock/Alternative Act, which adds to the excitement of his achievements this week.
In other music news, Tate McRae has reached a career-best with her third studio album “So Close To What,” debuting at number 2 on the charts. Previously, her albums “i used to think i could fly” and “Think Later” had also made it into the top ten in previous years.
Meanwhile, Fleetwood Mac’s 2018 compilation album “50 Years – Don’t Stop” made a strong return to the Top 10, climbing five spots after being on the charts for 328 weeks. Their classic album “Rumours” also saw a rise, moving up by seven places. Additionally, Pitbull’s “Greatest Hits” finally debuted in the Top 40 after 156 weeks on the charts, thanks to his announcements about new UK shows this summer.
Welcoming even more good news, Dublin rock band The Murder Capital has achieved their third Top 40 album with “Blindness,” which adds to their previous successful albums. Lastly, with the release of their new track “It’s Amazing To Be Young,” Fontaines D.C. saw their album “Romance” return to the Top 40, moving up five places.
Overall, it has been a significant week in the music industry, particularly for Sam Fender and other artists making waves on the charts.