Kanye West’s streak of consecutive number one albums has been disrupted by Taylor Swift, who reclaimed the top spot on the Billboard 200.
West’s collaboration with Ty Dolla $ign, Vultures 2, debuted at number two, marking a significant shift in the music chart landscape.
Kanye West’s Streak Ends
Kanye West’s remarkable run of consecutive number one albums has come to an end. The streak, which began with his second album, Late Registration, in 2005, was halted by none other than Taylor Swift.
West’s latest album, Vultures 2, created in collaboration with Ty Dolla $ign, debuted at number two on the Billboard 200. This made it the first album under West’s name to not debut at the top of the chart since his phenomenal debut, The College Dropout, in 2004.
Taylor Swift’s Dominance
Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department returned to the summit of the Billboard 200 for its 14th non-consecutive week. It moved 142,000 equivalent units in the past week, bringing its total to over 5.3 million. This impressive feat underscores Swift’s enduring popularity and commercial success.
In contrast, Vultures 2 garnered 107,000 equivalent units in its debut week. Despite solid numbers, it fell short of matching Swift’s colossal figures. This outcome was a surprise as many expected Vultures 2 to continue West’s unbroken chain of chart-toppers.
A Look at Vultures 2
Vultures 2 was initially projected to sell around 68,000 units in its first week. However, a late surge in streams and purchases boosted its final tally.
The increase in numbers was partly due to last-minute changes and multiple digital deluxe editions with different bonus tracks, keeping fans engaged.
Comparatively, the first Vultures album, released in February, debuted at number one with 148,000 units, cementing West’s reputation as a consistent hitmaker. It also featured the chart-topping single, Carnival, with Playboi Carti and Rich The Kid.
Kanye’s Chart History
If Vultures 2 had secured the number one spot, Kanye West would have moved up the ranks in the all-time list of artists with the most number one albums.
Currently, The Beatles hold the record with 19 number one albums. Swift and JAY-Z have 14 each, while Drake follows with 13. Vultures 2 reaching number one would have placed West in joint fourth position with these music giants. This highlights the competitive nature of the music industry.
Industry Reactions
Despite missing out on the top spot, Vultures 2‘s sales exceeded initial projections, proving its commercial potential.
However, the album’s commercial success is under a cloud due to contractual disputes. According to West, Atlantic Records is threatening to remove both Vultures 1 and Vultures 2 from streaming platforms due to compensation issues involving Ty Dolla $ign, who is signed to Atlantic.
In a text shared on social media, West’s manager, John Monopoly, revealed that 40% of all revenue from the Vultures albums needs to be paid to Atlantic. The label has reportedly given no grace period to resolve this issue, leading to potential takedowns.
Future Implications
This ongoing dispute raises questions about the future availability of these albums on streaming services. As of now, both albums are still accessible on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and TIDAL.
West has expressed frustration over the issue, claiming that such actions are detrimental to independent artists. The resolution of this conflict will be closely watched by fans and industry insiders.
The end of Kanye West’s number one albums streak marks a significant moment in music history. Taylor Swift’s continued dominance on the charts exemplifies her lasting appeal and success.
As for West, the future remains uncertain due to ongoing contractual disputes. Fans and industry observers alike will be keen to see how these developments unfold.
