Official Singles Chart to include music videos

Streaming and downloading of videos and official audio clips will count towards the UK’s singles countdown starting from the chart published on July 6.

The change comes as services such as Apple Music and Spotify add video to their platform and as YouTube launches their first subscription service in the UK.

The Official Singles Chart is unveiled by Scott Mills on BBC Radio 1 from 4pm to 5.45pm every Friday afternoon.

Official Charts Company chief executive, Martin Talbot, said: “This is a significant step for the UK and ensures The Official Chart continues to be the most comprehensive and trusted chart in the UK, bar none. Consumption of recorded music via more than 15,000 retailers, download stores and streaming services of all kinds contribute to the weekly chart countdown.

“In the modern era, artists are increasingly multi-faceted creators, with a highly developed visual sense running in parallel with their music. The addition of video ensures that the Official Singles Chart reflects the creativity of the artist in the broadest way possible – and music fans’ engagement with that vision.”

Official Charts Company non-executive chairman Derek Allen added: “It’s always been important that the Official Charts keep pace with an ever-evolving and dynamic market, while also retaining their integrity, something which has set the UK charts apart from many of those operating elsewhere around the world. These latest changes are just another step down that road.”

The new rules will also apply to the Irish singles chart.

The Official Singles Chart is unveiled by Scott Mills on BBC Radio 1 from 4pm to 5.45pm every Friday afternoon.