Dave overtakes Taylor Swift at the top of the UK Albums Chart, becoming the first British rapper to have a debut album reach number one three times and set a vinyl record sales record.
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Dave knocked Taylor Swift off the UK Album Chart and became the first British rapper to have three debut albums at No. 1, while also setting a vinyl sales record with his latest album, The Boy Who Played The Harp.
The 27-year-old South London artist has sold 15,500 vinyl copies since releasing the album on October 25, making it the fastest-selling vinyl rap album this century, according to the UK’s Official Charts Company.
The number helped his third studio album displace Swift’s “Life of a Showgirl” at the top of the charts.
The achievement also sees his previous records (2019’s Psychodrama and 2021’s We Are All Alone Together) return to the Top 40, marking the first time a British rap artist has held three chart positions simultaneously.
The album, a blend of biblical allegory and storytelling, has been widely described as Dave’s most personal work to date.
Its title references the biblical King David, and the fourth track, “Chapter 16,” is taken directly from the Book of Samuel, in which David is appointed king. The 14-song project explores themes of faith, identity and self-awareness, while also reflecting on why his mother named him David.
Physical formats like vinyl records are experiencing a renaissance, especially among hip-hop collectors. Dave’s success shows that physical media still has an important place in an increasingly digital music industry.
The Boy Who Played the Harp is available now on streaming platforms, vinyl and CD.
