Jay-Z may have new rules when Magna Carta Holy Grail drops on July 4th, but the same “old” rules apply.
When it was first announced that Samsung bought a million copies of Magna Carta to give away to their ‘Galaxy’ subscribers, our immediate reaction was that Hov somehow managed to find a cheat code to album releases. Those ideas were soon laid to rest as it was revealed that Nielsen SoundScan’s regulated it would not count the million towards actual album sales. The reasoning behind that? Billboard does not count bulk sales. The RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) also commented on the matter stating a release can only become eligible for certification 30 days after it’s release.
Check after the jump for more.
If 1 Million records gets SOLD and billboard doesnt report it, did it happen? Ha. #newrules #magnacartaholygrail Platinum!!! VII IV XIII
— Mr. Carter (@S_C_) June 17, 2013
Many thought a loophole was found when it was reported Samsung purchased the albums at $5 a piece. After Lady Gaga released her album Born This Way via Amazon for 99 cents, a rule was set in place that albums must be purchased a minimum of one-third retail price, or $3.99. However, after the 30-day time period has passed, Jay can submit his album for review and the RIAA will determine if it was in fact platinum or not.
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