Sam Fender’s Impressive Chart Achievement
Sam Fender burst into the top of the British charts with his latest album “People Watching,” marking the largest first-week sales for a British act since Harry Styles’ “Harry’s House.”
Read more: Sam Fender is an overview of the album “People Watch”: a reflective and insightful indie-rock gem from the North Shields’ radiant star.
Record-Breaking Sales and Critical Acclaim
Fender shifted 107,100 units in the first week of his third album, achieving his third consecutive number one, according to the Official Chart Company. This debut surpassed the initial sales of both his previous albums: “Hypersonic Missiles” in 2019 and “Seventeen Going Under” in 2021. Moreover, this is the largest first week of 2025 and the highest first-week sales for a British artist since Harry Styles sold 113,000 units nearly three years ago. Only nine artists, including Fender, have surpassed 100,000 album sales in a week during this decade—joining the ranks of Taylor Swift, Adele, Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Harry Styles, Take That, ABBA, and Arctic Monkeys.
In addition, “People Watching” has become the best-selling vinyl album by a British act this century.
Fender expressed his gratitude, stating, “This is completely stunning. Thanks to everyone who supported us and listened to the album this week.”
Future Projects and Tour Dates
Earlier this week, reports indicated that “People Watching” was on track to dominate the UK charts. In a four-star review, NME described it as “reflective, analytical, and vulnerable,” highlighting how the album encapsulates the experiences of characters, friends, and family that shape who he is today. Each track is approached with sensitivity, allowing Fender to reflect on his life, even touching on feelings of guilt and self-exploration.
In other news, the musician recently teased another forthcoming album, expressing his desire to explore a more punk-inspired sound. During an interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, he talked about collaborating with Adam Granduciel from The War on Drugs and confirmed that he was already working on new material.
Fender has also added more dates to his upcoming British stadium tour this summer, including stops at Wythenshawe Park in Manchester, Edinburgh Summer Sessions, and Boucher Road Playing Fields. Visit here to purchase tickets and find a list of tour dates. Furthermore, he is nominated for two Brit Awards at next month’s ceremony: Artist of the Year and Alt/Rock Act. Fender has been announced as the official ambassador for Record Store Day UK 2025, which will take place on April 12, coinciding with the release of two new songs in a special EP. Additionally, he is set to headline at this year’s Formula 1 Grand Prix.
https://www.nme.com/news/music/sam-fenders-people-watching-earns-biggest-uk-opening-week-for-british-act-since-harry-styles-harrys-house-3842384?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sam-fenders-people-watching-earns-biggest-uk-opening-week-for-british-act-since-harry-styles-harrys-house
