2018
in MusicAlbums
23
Artists
28
Milestones
48
Notable Releases
Shawn Mendes
Shawn MendesHis self-titled third album that debuted at number one in the US, making Mendes the third-youngest artist to achieve three number-one albums. Led by the single 'In My Blood.'
Sì
Andrea BocelliBocelli's album that debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart and US Billboard 200, becoming his first number-one album in both countries.
One Kiss
Dua LipaA collaboration with Calvin Harris that became the best-selling song of 2018 in the UK and won the Brit Award for Song of the Year. The single topped the UK Singles Chart for eight consecutive weeks and became a massive commercial success.
If I Know Me
Morgan WallenWallen's debut studio album that included four singles and reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart after a record-breaking 114 weeks on the chart.
Whiskey Glasses
Morgan WallenHis breakthrough single that reached the top spot on both Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay charts, marked his first top 40 appearance on the Hot 100, and was Billboard's 2019 top Hot Country song.
Man of the Woods
Justin TimberlakeHis fifth studio album incorporating Southern American music and country influences. Topped Billboard 200 with biggest first week sales of 2018 and marks his fourth consecutive #1 album.
Liberation
Christina AguileraHer eighth studio album incorporating R&B and hip-hop elements, debuting at number six on the Billboard 200. The album marked her musical comeback after personal struggles.
Promises
Sam SmithA collaboration with Calvin Harris that became Smith's seventh number one hit on the UK Singles Chart and their first top song on Billboard's Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart.
Thank U, Next
Ariana GrandeGrande's first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100. The song's music video broke records for most-watched music video within 24 hours and became a cultural phenomenon.
Sex & Cigarettes
Toni BraxtonEighth studio album released on Def Jam Recordings that debuted at number 22 on the Billboard 200 and number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
Egypt Station
Paul McCartneySolo album that became McCartney's first to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 in 36 years, demonstrating continued commercial relevance.
Shallow
Lady GagaA duet with Bradley Cooper for the A Star Is Born soundtrack that topped charts worldwide. Won the Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Grammy Award for Best Original Song, making her the first woman to win all four awards in one year.
A Star Is Born (Soundtrack)
Lady GagaSoundtrack album co-written and produced with Bradley Cooper featuring 34 tracks and 17 original songs. Debuted at number one in the US and won multiple Grammy Awards, establishing her credibility as an actress and songwriter.
Significant Milestones
EGOT Achievement
Grammy WinBecame first Black male and second youngest recipient of Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards
Jesus Christ Superstar
TourPortrayed titular character in NBC's live concert production of rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar
First Gospel Artist Tony Award Nomination
DebutBecame the first gospel artist nominated for a Tony Award for her work on *SpongeBob SquarePants.*
Wyoming Sessions
AchievementRecorded multiple albums in Jackson Hole, Wyoming with diverse collaborators; released Ye, Kids See Ghosts, and produced Nasir and K.T.S.E.
Hollywood Walk of Fame Star and Gospel Album
DebutSnoop Dogg was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and released his first gospel album, Bible of Love, after becoming a born-again Christian. This represented another spiritual reinvention.
Time's 100 Most Influential People
Cultural MomentTime magazine named Mendes one of the 100 most influential people in the world, recognizing his cultural impact and artistic achievements.
Album Sì Debuts at Number One
DebutThe album debuted at number one on both the UK Albums Chart and US Billboard 200, becoming Bocelli's first number-one album in both countries.
Brit Awards Recognition
DebutWon two Brit Awards at the 2018 Brit Awards, including British Female Solo Artist and British Breakthrough Act. She received five nominations total, making her the first female artist to receive five nominations in a single year.
'One Kiss' Becomes Best-Selling UK Song
CollaborationThe Calvin Harris collaboration 'One Kiss' became the best-selling song of 2018 in the UK and topped the chart for eight consecutive weeks. The single won the Brit Award for Song of the Year.
If I Know Me Album Release
DebutWallen's debut studio album was released and achieved major commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart after 114 weeks and establishing him as a rising country star.
Super Bowl LII Halftime Show
AchievementHeadlined Super Bowl LII halftime show in Minneapolis, performing medley of songs with Tennessee Kids and Minnesota Marching Band. Featured tribute to Prince.
Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
AchievementReunited with NSYNC bandmates to receive star on Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 30, 2018, cementing his legacy as major entertainer.
Liberation Album and Tour
TourReleased her eighth studio album Liberation to favorable reviews and embarked on her first tour in 10 years, marking a significant musical comeback.
Las Vegas Residency
TourStefani launched her first concert residency, Just a Girl: Las Vegas, at the Zappos Theater, running through November 2021 with proceeds supporting Cure4Kids.
American Idol Judge Appointment
AchievementSigned to serve as a judge on American Idol starting with the sixteenth season in March 2018 for a $25 million salary, maintaining the position through the twenty-second season in 2024.
First Grammy Award
Grammy WinWon her first Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album for 'Sweetener.' This marked a major milestone in her career recognition and critical acclaim.
The Voice Coach Debut
DebutJoined The Voice as a coach for season 14, eventually winning four consecutive seasons and becoming the female coach with the most winning contestants in show history.
