New Susan Boyle Album, The Gift, Enters Billboard 200 at Number 1 With Best Selling Debut for a Holiday Album in SoundScan History

NEW YORK, Nov. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Record-breaking Susan Boyle has made music history again by becoming the first female artist ever to have the double Number 1 album spot in the US and UK twice in less than 12 months.

The only other act to have achieved this in the history of music were the Beatles in 1969.

The highly anticipated album The Gift (SYCO/Columbia Records), from international singing sensation Susan Boyle, has entered both the official UK chart and the US Billboard 200 chart at Number 1, making it the fastest selling holiday album, on both sides of the Atlantic, in the SoundScan era.

In 2009, the "Britain's Got Talent" star's debut album, I Dreamed a Dream, became the biggest selling album in the world and fastest selling album in the history of the charts – selling over 10 million copies - and breaking all pre-order sales records on Amazon.

Simon Cowell said, "I'm thrilled for Susan, she has once again defied the odds. She is my superwoman."

Susan Boyle said, "I've never felt happier in all my life. This is an amazing result and one I never expected."

Steve Barnett, Chairman of Columbia Records, said, "the overwhelming positive response to Susan's new album is a powerful testament to her unique talent. She's able to touch the hearts of her fans around the world who continue to show their loyal support and devotion."

SOURCE SYCO/Columbia Records