Travis Scott has successfully held off competition from Anne-Marie to secure his inaugural UK number one album with the release of “Utopia,” available exclusively in digital format.
Meanwhile, fellow rap artists Dave and Central Cee maintained their grip on the singles chart, retaining the title of the longest-reigning UK rap number one with their hit “Sprinter.”
In the wake of Sinéad O’Connor’s recent passing, her iconic track “Nothing Compares 2 U” re-emerged in the top 40, marking its return after three decades since 1990.
Lizzo’s track “Pink” experienced a remarkable surge, climbing 12 positions to claim the 27th spot on the charts, even amid allegations of misconduct. The singer, who contributed her latest creation to the Barbie movie soundtrack, is currently facing legal action from three former dancers who accuse her of sexual harassment and cultivating an unfavourable work environment—an assertion she vehemently denies. Additionally, a famous Prince cover by the late Irish singer O’Connor ascended 15 places to reach the 30th position.
Mirroring Lizzo’s trajectory, Travis Scott, a Houston native aged 32, clinched his debut UK number one album, with “Utopia” also commanding the most extensive streaming week for an LP thus far in the year.
Scott’s album release was preceded by an announcement to his fans that his cancelled live performance at the Egyptian Pyramids would eventually be realised. The highly anticipated desert concert, initially synchronised with the album’s launch, was abruptly cancelled due to intricate production challenges, according to organisers.
“Utopia,” his novel concept album, features prominent tracks like “K-pop” in collaboration with Bad Bunny and The Weeknd, as well as “Delresto (Echoes)” and “Meltdown,” which made a striking entrance at the tenth spot—the highest newcomer of the week. Two additional tracks from “Utopia,” “FE!N ft. Playboi Carti” and “HYAENA,” also achieved chart success on Friday.
The album made its debut the previous week, coupled with a complementary film named “Circus Maximus.” Interestingly, the eponymous Roman stadium known for chariot racing is now slated to host Scott’s performance next week in lieu of the originally planned Pyramids of Giza concert.