The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) this week unveiled its Class of 2023, highlighting the artists who made the biggest impact with their music over the past year, with the latest inductees earning recognition from the institution for achieving top album sales and single, first placement and more.
K-pop has a clear presence in this year's category, with several Advertising sign the chart toppers that make the cut. Both Stray Kids and TOMORROW X TOGETHER earned gold certifications for the first time, with 5 stars and The Chapter Name: Temptation, respectively, with the latter group sharing in a statement, “It means so much to us not only to be certified Gold, but also to be a part of this program with amazing artists. We couldn't have joined them without all the love and support we've been getting from the world.”
BTS's Jung Kook and Jimin, who both released solo material for the first time this year, earned platinum certifications for the first time with their singles “Seven (feat. Latto)” and “Like Crazy” selling over 1 million units each. Other chart-topping singles that went platinum include PinkPantheress and 'Boy's a Liar, Pt.' by Ice Spice. 2″, Raye and 070 Shake's “Escapism” and GloRilla and Hitkidd's “FNF (Let's Go)”.
SZA earned the most certifications with 15 titles, with her album warning sign became the top album of 2023 for 3 times platinum and the single “Kill Bill” which went 5 times platinum. Latin also scored high on the list, with Peso Pluma's Genesis earning the highest album certifications for a debut artist, Karol G's Mañana Será Bonito became the top Latin album after going 5x platinum and Carin Leon & Grupo Frontera's 'Que Vuelvas' became the top Latin single.
“This is truly one of our favorite times of the year – the opportunity to celebrate great firsts!” RIAA COO Michele Ballantyne said in a press release. “This kind of certification represents the incredible connection between artists, labels, creative partners and fans. We are continually amazed by the unique talents that transcend and are honored to recognize the RIAA Class Of 2023… we can't wait to celebrate the next big milestones!”
Ice Spice represented hip-hop with “In Ha Mood” and his hit “Munch (Feelin' U)” securing gold status, and Luke Combs represented country with his cover of Tracy's “Fast Car” Chapman to be the country with the highest certification. single.
“Music moves culture and has the power to connect like never before. The RIAA is so proud to recognize the impact of the incredible voices and innovative dedication that captivated fans in 2023,” added RIAA President and CEO Mitch Glazie in the release. “These albums and singles earned the coveted RIAA Gold & Platinum certifications because they reflect the best!”
See the full RIAA Class of 2023 here.
