NSYNC Secures First Platinum-Certified Single in the United States
In a surprising twist, three of NSYNC's most iconic tracks have recently been given long-overdue platinum certifications by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America). "Bye Bye Bye," "This I Promise You," and "It's Gonna Be Me" have finally earned their platinum status in the United States.
Beloved as they are, it's hard to believe that NSYNC hadn't secured any platinum-certified songs in the U.S. up until now. But, better late than never, these new certifications serve as a testament to the enduring popularity of these songs.
Triple Platinum for "It's Gonna Be Me"
Interestingly, "It's Gonna Be Me" was the only one among the trio to have previously earned any RIAA recognition, having gone gold back in 2000. However, it didn't stop there. It took over two decades for this smash hit, which was NSYNC's only Hot 100 No. 1 single, to soar past gold and earn triple platinum status.
"Bye Bye Bye" Disappointingly Late to the Game
Bittersweet news surrounds "Bye Bye Bye." Despite being arguably NSYNC's most recognizable anthem, the track had never been certified by the RIAA, not even at the entry-level. Now, over two decades after its release, it not only goes platinum but skips every intermediate milestone and jumps directly to five-times platinum.
"This I Promise You" Breaking Through
New to the RIAA honor roll is "This I Promise You," the group's heartfelt ballad. Although it was somewhat overshadowed by some of NSYNC's flashier releases at the time, the universal appeal of "This I Promise You" has helped it achieve this long-awaited platinum certification, two decades after its first appearance on the Billboard charts.
No Strings Attached Rises Again
As these tracks soar, one of NSYNC's albums also earns a new honor. No Strings Attached moves up from 11-times platinum to 12-times platinum in the U.S. This blockbuster full-length, which was named a diamond title back in December 2000, continues to prove its appeal years after its release.
Additional Platinum Certifications
These new wins significantly boost NSYNC's tally of certified songs, but they're not the only ones. A handful of their other hits, like "I Want You Back" and "Music of My Heart" (their collaboration with Gloria Estefan), have also garnered gold certifications but haven't progressed beyond that yet.
Recently, the Ubiquity of NSYNC's music has been evident with the addition of plaques on the walls of the RIAA. In addition to the recent triple platinum certification for "It's Gonna Be Me," "Bye Bye Bye" finally received its five-times platinum recognition, while "This I Promise You" broke through to achieve its platinum status. As these certifications highlight, the contribution of NSYNC to Billboard history continues to stand the test of time, with many of their songs expected to receive more in the coming years. The RIAA music awards are bound to have NSYNC's name etched on them well into the future.
