Many people may not realize that before 1976, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) did not have a sales award higher than gold. It is a fact that may surprise music lovers and industry professionals alike, considering the popularity and success of many artists and albums before that time. It makes one think, how did the RIAA determine the success of a music release before that year?
To understand the significance of the RIAA’s decision to introduce a higher sales award, we must first delve into the history of the organization. The RIAA was founded in 1952 as a trade organization representing the major record labels in the United States. Its main purpose was to protect the interests of these companies and to serve as a liaison between them and the government. One of their major tasks was to monitor record sales and certifications, which is where the gold and platinum records come in.
A gold record was introduced in 1958, and it represented sales of 1 million copies of a single or album. The platinum record, representing sales of 2 million copies, was added in 1976. This meant that for almost two decades, the RIAA’s highest sales award was gold. So, what changed in 1976 that led to the development of the platinum record?
The answer lies in the music industry itself. The 1970s saw the rise of the concept album, with artists like Pink Floyd, The Who, and Yes pushing the boundaries of traditional album-making. These albums were often longer, more complex, and required more resources to produce and promote. As a result, they were also more expensive to purchase, which meant fewer sales in comparison to shorter, more traditional albums. This posed a problem for the RIAA’s gold record, as it became increasingly difficult for artists to achieve this level of sales.
In recognition of this shift in the music landscape, the RIAA decided to introduce the platinum record in 1976. This new award brought a higher level of prestige and recognition for artists who worked hard to create these complex and ambitious albums. It also provided a more accurate representation of their success and impact in the music industry.
The first platinum record was awarded to Eagles’ “Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975)” album, which had sold over 1 million copies in just its first three weeks of release. It was an impressive achievement, and it set the bar high for other artists to reach for. The platinum record soon became a coveted symbol of success and achievement in the music industry, with many artists striving to attain this level of sales.
One of the most significant aspects of the RIAA’s introduction of the platinum record was its effect on the perception of success in the music industry. It was no longer a one-size-fits-all approach, with only the gold record as the ultimate measure of achievement. The platinum record acknowledged the diverse and innovative work being produced by artists and broke away from the traditional mold of what constituted a successful album.
The impact of this change was felt immediately. In the following years, music sales reached unprecedented heights, with artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Billy Joel achieving multiple platinum records. The platinum record became a hallmark of a successful artist and helped elevate the music industry to new heights.
Today, the RIAA further recognizes the changing landscape of the music industry by introducing a diamond award for sales of 10 million copies. This award, first given to Whitney Houston’s “The Bodyguard” soundtrack in 1999, is the highest certification and reflects the continuing evolution and success of music.
In conclusion, the introduction of the platinum record in 1976 by the RIAA was a pivotal moment in the music industry. It not only celebrated the success of artists who created complex and innovative albums, but it also helped redefine the standards of success in the industry. The platinum record continues to be a symbol of achievement and is a testament to the ever-changing and evolving landscape of the music world. As music lovers, we can only imagine the impact it will have in the years to come.
