The History of Music Canada

When I research an album to feature on a given Set List post, I always include its earned certifications.  

In the certification list, the United States, UK, and France (among others) are guaranteed to show standing. 

There is one country that generally offers certification as well - Canada. 

And so in this post, I thought I would discuss Canada's certification process.

Music Canada is headquartered in Toronto and was founded in 1963 under the former name Canadian Recording Industry Association..  The organization's purpose includes -

"Represent the interests of companies  that record, manufacture, produce, promote and distribute music in Canada." (Wikipedia)

Album Certification 
Gold - 40,000
Platinum - 80,000
Diamond - 800,000

Physical Singles
Gold - 40,000
Platinum - 80,000
Diamond - 800,000

Digital Downloads
Gold - 40,000
Platinum - 80,000
Diamond - 800,000

Videos
Gold - 5,000
Platinum - 10,000
Diamond - 100,000

Point of interest -
Ring Tones are also awarded Gold, Platinum, and Diamond certification.  Gold is achieved as of 20,000.  Platinum is achieved as of 40,000.  Diamond is achieved as of 400,000.

My take away -

Music Canada has a complex certification process as Gold, Platinum, and Diamond requisites vary before and after certain years.  Refer to Wikipedia for more details.  

In the end, though, the bar is set fairly high by Music Canada and due honor - as always - is given to all artists who achieve Gold, Platinum, and especially Diamond.

(Refer to Wikipedia for an extensive list of certified albums in Canada.)