2016
in MusicAlbums
25
Artists
32
Milestones
43
Notable Releases
Glory
Britney SpearsNinth studio album featuring the lead single "Make Me" with G-Eazy, marking Spears' continued musical evolution.
The Journey
Donnie McClurkinHis seventh solo release that debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart, featuring live performances of his classics.
Illuminate
Shawn MendesMendes's second album that debuted at number one in the US, featuring hit singles 'Treat You Better' and 'There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back' that reached top 10 in several countries.
Can't Stop the Feeling!
Justin TimberlakeLead single from Trolls soundtrack that debuted at #1 on Billboard Hot 100 and became the best-selling song of 2016 with 2.4 million downloads. Earned Academy Award nomination.
This Is What the Truth Feels Like
Gwen StefaniHer third solo album and first to debut at number one on the Billboard 200, addressing her divorce and new relationship
Dangerous Woman
Ariana GrandeGrande's third studio album that debuted at number two on the Billboard 200. A mature, confident record that showcased her vocal range and featured the hit single 'Side to Side.'
This Town
Niall HoranHoran's debut solo single that peaked at number 9 in the UK and number 20 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
Anti
RihannaEclectic album featuring lo-fi beats and influences from soul and trap, released exclusively on Tidal, marking her second number-one album in the US.
Work
RihannaLead single from Anti featuring Drake, topping the US Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of her defining songs of the 2010s.
Lemonade
BeyoncéExperimental album incorporating rock, country, gospel, reggae, and blues; best-selling album globally in 2016 and sparked sociopolitical discourse.
Formation
BeyoncéLead single from Lemonade performed at Super Bowl 50, sparking cultural conversation about police brutality and Black Lives Matter.
24K Magic
Bruno MarsMars's third studio album that won Grammy Award for Album of the Year, establishing him as a major award-winning artist. The album sold over five million copies globally and spawned multiple hit singles.
Significant Milestones
UK Chart History Record
DebutBecame the first artist to occupy the entire top three of the UK Singles Chart simultaneously with 'Love Yourself,' 'Sorry,' and 'What Do You Mean?' charting at positions 1, 2, and 3.
Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award
AwardAwarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award by President Barack Obama for her volunteer service.
The Life of Pablo
AchievementReleased album exclusively on Tidal February 14, 2016, described as "living breathing changing creative expression."
Record Label Deal
AchievementSigned to Darkroom and Interscope Records by Justin Lubliner. The label developed her rollout inspired by hip-hop artists, establishing her distinctive persona and aesthetic.
Glastonbury Headlining & Tour Success
TourHeadlined Glastonbury Festival with 90-minute set in front of 150,000 people, describing it as "by far, the best moment of my life so far." Completed world tour with record-breaking shows in Australia and finale at Wembley Stadium.
Named Artist to Watch
AchievementRecognized as one of Sounds Like Nashville's 'Artists to Watch', signaling industry recognition of his potential.
The Journey Album Chart Success
DebutReleased 'The Journey' which debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart, marking his continued commercial success.
Illuminate Release and World Tour
TourHis second album Illuminate debuted at number one in the US and Canada. Mendes's Shawn Mendes World Tour sold out 38 shows in North America and Europe within minutes.
Number One Album Achievement
DebutThis Is What the Truth Feels Like debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, becoming Stefani's first solo album to achieve this milestone.
The Voice Coach
AchievementBecame youngest coach to appear in any incarnation of The Voice as a replacement for Gwen Stefani on the eleventh season
Record Label Launch
AchievementLaunched Gingerbread Man Records in partnership with Warner Music Group, signing artists including Jamie Lawson and Foy Vance.
One Direction Indefinite Hiatus
AchievementBand went on indefinite hiatus after completing promotional activities for Made in the A.M., allowing Styles to pursue solo career. Styles suggested the hiatus to avoid exhausting the fanbase.
Solo Career Launch
DebutFollowing One Direction's indefinite hiatus, Horan released his debut solo single 'This Town' with Capitol Records, marking the beginning of his solo career.
Presidential Medal of Freedom
AwardPresident Barack Obama awarded Ross the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor.
