Single (music)

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Single (music)

A single is a type of music release typically featuring one main song or track. Singles are often released by record labels to promote an upcoming album or to highlight a particular song from an album. Historically, singles were released on vinyl records, but they are now commonly available in digital formats.

History

The concept of the single dates back to the early days of the music industry. In the 1950s and 1960s, singles were primarily released on 7-inch vinyl records, which played at 45 RPM. These records usually contained one song on each side, known as the A-side and B-side. The A-side typically featured the main track intended for radio play, while the B-side often included a secondary track or a song not available on the album.

Formats

Over the years, the format of singles has evolved. Some of the common formats include:

• Vinyl: 7-inch, 12-inch
• CD: CD single
• Digital: MP3, streaming

Purpose

Singles serve several purposes in the music industry:

• **Promotion**: They are used to promote an artist's upcoming album or tour.
• **Radio Play**: Singles are often sent to radio stations to gain airplay and increase an artist's exposure.
• **Sales**: Successful singles can generate significant revenue through sales and streaming.

Chart Performance

Singles are often tracked on various music charts, such as the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States or the UK Singles Chart. Chart performance can significantly impact an artist's career, influencing future opportunities and sales.

Notable Singles

Some singles have had a profound impact on the music industry and popular culture. Examples include:

• "Hey Jude" by The Beatles
• "Like a Rolling Stone" by Bob Dylan
• "Thriller" by Michael Jackson

Related Pages

• Album
• Extended play
• Music industry
• Record label
• Billboard Hot 100
• UK Singles Chart