When Christmas albums become hits, they ignite strong sales in a short period — and then offer returns for years to come. In the time since it sold nearly 2.5 million in 2011, Michael Buble’s “Christmas” has moved another 650,000 units; Susan Boyle’s “The Gift” has added 350,000 to its initial sales; and Andrea Bocelli’s “My Christmas” has tacked on an additional 690,000. Here’s how the big sellers of the last five years sold during the season of their release.
2012
Rod Stewart
“Merry Christmas Baby” (Verve)
First Christmas: 858,000
2011
Michael Buble
“Christmas” (Reprise)
First Christmas: 2.5 million
To date: 3.1 million
2010
Susan Boyle
“The Gift” (Columbia)
First Christmas: 1.9 million
To date: 2.2 million
2009
Andrea Bocelli
“My Christmas” (Decca)
First Christmas: 2.2 million
To date: 2.9 million
2008
Josh Groban
“Noel” (Reprise)
First Christmas: 915,000
To date: 5.6 million