Billboard Instates New Rules to Prevent Album Fraud and Manipulation – ONTD
Billboard has recently announced significant changes in its chart rules to address the issue of album variants and chart manipulation tactics employed by artists in the music industry. These changes, in partnership with Luminate, are aimed at promoting fairness and accuracy in the Billboard 200 album chart.
According to Chart Data, a reliable source for music chart information, here are the key modifications set to take effect:
One of the immediate changes involves holding D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) stores accountable for submitting illegitimate data. Any store found submitting false data three times within 12 months may face a minimum 90-day reporting suspension. Additionally, physical D2C shipments deviating from established sales trends will now require stores to provide enhanced tracking information, including geo-location data and details on VPN usage during purchases.
Another notable rule change, effective from February 28, pertains to digital albums sold through an artist, label, or official web store. To qualify for chart consideration, these digital albums must now be redeemed, with a mandatory verification process using hCaptcha to prevent automated bot activities.
Further changes, set to come into effect on April 4, include restrictions on the number of “digital exclusive versions” that an album can have. Only four digital exclusive versions, including deluxe editions, will be permitted throughout an album’s lifetime. Moreover, digital D2C exclusive versions must either be available for pre-order or delayed for release in a later week, with a minimum price requirement of $7.99.
In tandem with these changes, the minimum pricing for albums across various platforms is also being adjusted to prevent undercutting. The minimum prices are set at $7.99 for CDs and cassettes and $15.99 for vinyl records.
The implementation of these updated rules by Billboard and Luminate marks the beginning of a comprehensive effort to address the longstanding issue of manipulation and unfair tactics in album chart rankings. Initial adjustments were quietly introduced starting February 28, with additional changes anticipated to roll out in the coming months.
The music industry is eagerly awaiting the impact of these revised chart rules, as they signal a shift towards greater transparency and integrity in the evaluation of album sales and performances. By curbing album variants and manipulation tactics, Billboard aims to uphold the credibility and accuracy of its album charts, ensuring that deserving artists receive due recognition for their work.