[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 21st and below (1–10)
Paper DollThe Mills Brothers

The Mills Brothers, who have captivated many hearts with their beautiful harmonies and sweet vocals.
This song, released by the American group in January 1948, delicately expresses the pain and loneliness of heartbreak.
The lyrics are strikingly symbolic, with a protagonist wounded by real-life love who turns to a paper doll.
It became a source of comfort for soldiers during the war and has been cherished for many years.
In the film “Two Girls and a Sailor,” there is also a scene where Lena Horne performs the song.
It’s a piece I highly recommend to anyone with a wounded heart or those seeking pure love.
The Last FarewellRoger Whittaker

This is a song performed in 1971 by the British folk singer Roger Whittaker.
It’s a love song about parting, written about a lover heading off to war.
It’s a classic that has been covered by many artists, including Elvis Presley.
Rankings 21st and below (11–20)
FernandoABBA

ABBA, the world-famous pop group from Sweden.
Released in March 1976, this song is a deeply emotive piece that depicts the reminiscences of warriors from the Mexican Revolution.
It opens with a striking fife-and-drum intro, followed by a melody infused with folk-pop elements that truly resonates.
The lyrics, which look back on a past fought for freedom, leave a profound impression on listeners.
The fact that ABBA’s manager, Stig Anderson, wrote the Swedish lyrics also adds to the song’s appeal.
It achieved major success, reaching number one in 13 countries and spending 14 consecutive weeks at the top in Australia.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to recall youthful memories or feel the bonds with someone dear.
Wabash CannonballRoy Acuff
Roy Acuff, known as a legendary figure in American country music and nicknamed the “King of Country Music,” released a gem of a song in 1938 that depicts America’s railroad culture and people’s passion for travel.
During the Great Depression, this song gave hope to many, marked by Acuff’s distinctive voice and a rhythmic accompaniment.
It became popular at the Grand Ole Opry and later earned a place among the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll, securing its spot in music history.
Through the journey of trains crossing America’s vast landscapes, the lyrics interweave people’s stories and deeply resonate with listeners.
Embodying the American dream, hope, and the spirit of adventure, this song remains a beloved country music classic today.
DianaPaul Anka

The song released in 1957 is known as a signature work by Canadian singer-songwriter Paul Anka.
Written when he was 15, it features memorable lyrics that capture the tenderness of first love.
Lines like “I’m young and you’re older,” which highlight the age gap, and the pure declaration of love, “We don’t care what people say,” resonated with young listeners of the time.
It topped the music charts in both Canada and the United States and became a massive hit, selling over nine million copies.
Covered in various languages around the world, it continues to be loved by many to this day.
This song, which portrays pure love, is recommended for anyone struggling with matters of the heart.
Un-Break My HeartToni Braxton

This work, known as one of the signature songs by Toni Braxton, a leading American R&B singer, is a memorable track featuring her rich vocals and heartrending lyrics.
Upon its release in November 1996, it became an instant smash hit.
Included on the album “Secrets,” it spent 11 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.
S.
Billboard charts.
With lyrics that sing of the pain of heartbreak and a desperate wish for reconciliation, the song resonated deeply with many listeners.
It’s a recommended track for those who can’t quite recover from a breakup or who feel like reminiscing about someone special.
My Sweet LordGeorge Harrison

Released six months after the Beatles broke up, this song by George Harrison became a huge hit that announced his presence to the world.
Its melody, which beautifully fuses gospel with Vedic prayers, conveys a universal message that transcends religious boundaries.
Issued as a single in November 1970, it became the best-selling single in the UK the following year.
It was also included on the album All Things Must Pass, marking the beginning of Harrison’s solo career.
Featuring contributions from Eric Clapton and Ringo Starr, the song is a gem filled with the deeply faithful Harrison’s heartfelt conviction.






