With a Bullet: Today's Charts

Posted on May 23rd 2007 11:30AM by Beville Darden

Experimenting with different genres and different band mates usually does not equal a recipe for longevity in the music business. Wilco is an exception. The band's sixth studio album, 'Sky Blue Sky,' debuts at an impressive No. 4 on the charts this week, with more than 87,000 sold. The album abandons the genre-crossing, experimental sound typical of the country-rockers in favor of a more mellow, soft-rock edge. It's Wilco's first collaborative songwriting effort, as well as the first to feature all members of the touring band, including new guitarist Nels Cline and new guitarist/keyboardist Pat Sansone.

Metal-rockers Linkin Park claim the No.1 spot this week with their much-hyped third album, 'Minutes to Midnight,' which sold a whopping 624,000+ in its first week. That's the highest album debut of 2007, beating out previous record-holder Norah Jones by more than 200,000 copies.

Country's rebel-licious Gretchen Wilson debuts at No. 5 this week with her third studio album, 'One of the Boys.' That's a disappointing showing for the 'Redneck Woman' whose five-times platinum debut album debuted at No.2 and sophomore effort debuted at No.1. The country star who truly shines this week is teen queen Taylor Swift, who continues to rise on the charts after 30 weeks, now in the No.13 spot and closing in on platinum sales.

Spinner's favorite lush, Amy Winehouse, also went up in sales this week, jumping to the No.12 spot with 38,000+ sales in the last week. Looks like marriage suits her well.

And with tonight's 'American Idol' finale, it's no surprise that three former contestants are all in this week's Top-20: Carrie Underwood, Daughtry and Elliot Yamin.

The top five albums for the week ending May 20, 2007:

1. 'Minutes to Midnight,' Linkin Park (624,000 in 1st week)
2. 'Sex Love & Pain,' Tank (103,000 in 1st week)
3. 'Call Me Irresponsible,' Michael Buble (88,000 in 3rd week; 445,000 total)
4. 'Sky Blue Sky,' Wilco (87,000 in 1st week)
5. 'One of the Boys,' Gretchen Wilson (74,000 in 1st week)