[2025] Best-selling Singles Worldwide: Western Music Physical Sales Ranking
Suddenly, but do you know which is the best-selling single in the world?
Only those who are quite knowledgeable about music history and data could probably answer right away, but if you like music, you’ve likely wondered at least once how much those famous songs actually sold.
This article researches and introduces the world’s best-selling singles in a ranked format.
The ranking is limited strictly to physical sales, so digital sales and streaming play counts are excluded, which naturally makes the lineup centered around older music.
They’re all songs almost everyone has heard at least once, so take this opportunity to check them out!
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Ranking 11th and below (1–10)
Bei Mir Bist Du SchönThe Andrews Sisters

This is a timeless classic by the Andrews Sisters, the celebrated American female vocal group.
Released in 1937, it has remained a beloved standard around the world.
Adapted from a Yiddish musical number into English, it’s a heartwarming love song that expresses deep feelings for a cherished partner.
Its lively rhythm, blending swing and boogie-woogie, and the trio’s superb harmonies are truly captivating.
During World War II, it is said to have helped boost soldiers’ morale.
It’s the perfect swing-jazz masterpiece to enjoy as background music for happy moments with friends or a loved one!
Wind of ChangeScorpions

This is the Scorpions’ best-hit ballad.
They are a band from Germany, and this song became such a monumental work that no one has yet surpassed its single sales.
The song expresses a wish for the reunification of Germany, which was divided into East and West, and it is well known for often being used by the media as background music for footage of the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Sweet MotherPrince Nico Mbarga

Here’s a masterpiece that shines in the history of African music.
“Sweet Mother,” released in 1976 by Prince Nico Mbarga, a Cameroonian–Nigerian artist, is a gem that expresses gratitude and love for mothers.
Riding on a lively rhythm that blends highlife with Congolese music, Mbarga’s soulful vocals strike a chord.
Written in Nigerian Pidgin English, the lyrics portray a mother’s unconditional love and devotion, resonating with countless listeners.
With estimated sales of over 13 million copies, the song became a national anthem across Africa.
It remains a beloved, moving piece for occasions like Mother’s Day and weddings.
SukiyakiKyu Sakamoto

Also known as Sukiyaki, with lyrics by Rokusuke Ei and music by Hachidai Nakamura.
On the Billboard chart dated June 15, 1963, it reached No.
1 for the week—not only for a Japanese artist but for any singer from the Asian region.
It is still often used as material for foreign impersonations.
It is frequently used as a memorial song for Kyu Sakamoto, who died suddenly in a plane crash, and for Rokusuke Ei.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed ReindeerGene Autry

As the Christmas season approaches, the whole city glitters with festivity, doesn’t it? When it comes to classic songs that enhance that atmosphere, this one surely comes to mind.
Released in 1947 by Gene Autry, known as the “Singing Cowboy,” this song tells the story of a reindeer with a red nose.
Autry, an American singer, scored a massive hit with it—selling 2.
5 million copies in its first year and 25 million over the following 40 years.
Its lyrics, which teach the importance of embracing differences, have been beloved by generations from children to adults.
It’s perfect as background music for a Christmas party the whole family can enjoy.
Dragostea din teiO-Zone

When it comes to signature songs by the Moldovan pop group O-Zone, many people can only think of this one.
Released in February 2004, the track became a massive hit across Europe.
With its catchy melody and the “Numa Numa” phrase, it captured the hearts of music fans worldwide.
The lyrics, themed around love and longing, celebrate the love and freedom symbolized by the linden tree, beautifully blending traditional elements with contemporary pop.
The song’s appeal lies in its simple yet powerful message and a melody anyone can hum along to, making it perfect for when you want to feel upbeat or get the energy going at a party.
Ranking 21st and below (1–10)
I Want to Hold Your HandThe Beatles

It’s their fifth original single, released in November 1963.
It ranks 16th on the All-Time 500 Greatest Songs list.
Since its release on November 29, it held the number-one spot for five consecutive weeks, and it’s said to be the song that prompted Bob Dylan to shift from folk to rock.





