The History of ARIA

When I research album certification, I can guarantee the United States (RIAA) and UK (BPI) on the list.  I can generally guarantee France (SNEP) as well.  There is one country, however, that is always on the list - Australia.

In this post, I am focusing on the Australian Recording Industry Association - or simply ARIA.

ARIA was founded in 1983 by the record labels EMI, Festival, CBS, RCA, WEA, and Universal.

ARIA Purpose -

Collection, administration, and distribution of music licenses and royalties

ARIA History -

EMI (Universal Music Group incorporated)

Festival Records

CBS (a.k.a. Sony Music)

RCA (Part of Sony Music)

WEA (a.ka. Warner Music Group)

Polygram (a.k.a. Unversal)

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Now includes smaller record labels

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As of 1987, ARIA hosts the ARIA Music Awards

"recognize excellence and innovation in all genres of Australian music" (Wikipedia)

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As of 1988, ARIA Hall of Fame ceremony

"honors Australian musicians' achievements that have had a significant impact in Australia or around the world" (Wikipedia)

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As of 2002, ARIA No. 1 Chart Awards

"recognize Australian recording artists who reached number one the ARIA albums, singles and music DVD charts" (Wikipedia)

ARIA Certification (Album)

Gold - 35,000

Platinum - 70,000

Diamond - 500,000

ARIA Certification (Single)

Gold - 35,000

Platinum - 70,000

(Diamond - N/A)

ARIA Certification (Music DVD)

Gold - 7,500

Platinum - 15,000

(Diamond - N/A)

(Source - Wikipedia)

My take away -

The history of ARIA is similar to global music certification associations - with foundation by major music companies and representation of several smaller labels.  The certification process is similar as well, although in my opinion I find Gold and Platinum certification to be much lower than other associations.  The RIAA has truly set a profound standard.

My greatest take away, though, is the appreciation of the ARIA No. 1 Chart Awards - a unique honor local to Australia as opposed to worldwide recognition of top achievement.  The ARIA No. 1 Chart Awards is personalized and therefore more meaningful to those who achieve the award.