Cher has returned to the Top 20 of the UK Singles Chart for the first time in over 20 years with DJ Play A Christmas Song.
The latest release from the pop legend is her highest-charting single since 2001’s The Music’s No Good Without You, which peaked at No. 8, from her 24th album ‘Living Proof’.
In doing so, she becomes the first female artist to achieve a Top 40 hit with new material on the Official Singles Chart across seven consecutive decades.
It also means Cher surpasses Shirley Bassey as the oldest solo female performer to secure a Top 40 on the chart.
Speaking on Cher’s record-breaking success, Martin Talbot, Chief Executive Officer, Official Charts Company, says: “Cher cements her position as a living legend this week, notching up two spectacular landmark chart feats.
With Top 40 hits now in seven consecutive decades, it’s incredible to consider that Wham!’s Andrew Ridgeley and George Michael were barely taking their first steps when Cher was enjoying her first UK No. 1; almost 20 years before Last Christmas was released.
“Cher, we salute you!”
This week also sees Cher reaches a new peak with its parent album, ‘Christmas’, which becomes the first female holiday album ever to reach the Top 5 of the UK Official Albums Chart.
Alongside its lead track, ‘Christmas’ includes a selection of original recordings and cover versions, plus collaborations with Stevie Wonder, Darlene Love, Michael Bublé, Tyga and Cyndi Lauper.
In a review of the album, RETROPOP wrote of ‘Christmas’: “Overwhelmingly festive and quintessentially Cher – there’s a new Queen Of Christmas in town!”
