A Case Study: Shaggy's "Hotshot" and the RIAA Diamond certification

Shaggy, the Jamaican reggae and dancehall artist, is a household name in the music industry. 

He has had a long and successful career, releasing hit after hit and establishing himself as one of the most popular and beloved artists in the world. 

One of his most successful albums to date is "Hotshot" released in 2000, which sold over 21 million records and has since been certified 21 times by the RIAA.

Despite the impressive sales of "Hotshot" it seems to be a nagging fact that Shaggy has not yet received a Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), considering the fact the RIAA has recognised 21 million records sold which equals two Diamond certifications.

And the misnomer is compounded by a common misconception that an RIAA certification is automatic.

but this is not the case. 

Athough the rules have changed over the course of two decades, at the time of "Hotshot" success the RIAA certifications were based on wholesale shipments of records to retailers, not on actual retail sales to consumers. 

However the process of certification still requires a submission from the artist's record and/or managment label to this very day.

The lack of a Diamond certification from the RIAA for Shaggy's "Hotshot" album does not detract Shaggy's "Diamond Status" or his success and impact on the music industry. 

The album's sales of 21 million copies since its release in 2000 speak for themselves and demonstrate the lasting popularity and appeal of Shaggy's music. 

While a Diamond certification may be considered as a recognition of commercial success for some, it is just one way to measure the impact that an album or artist has had on the music industry. 

The lack of a Diamond certification does not mean that "Hotshot" was a not a "Diamond Selling" album with 21 platinums certifications in tow.

In addition, it is possible that the actual number of retail sales to consumers could be even higher than the 21 million records sold by "Hotshot" as the RIAA certifications were based on wholesale shipments to retailers, not actual retail sales, coupled with the fact that "Hotshot" is still enjoyed and now being streamed by two entire new generations of music lovers worldwide, iit has become as undisputed mainstream classic in its own right, and that is what truly matters.

In conclusion, the lack of a Diamond certification from the RIAA for Shaggy's "Hotshot" album does not overshadow the fact that it has sold an impressive 21 million copies since its release in 2000. 

The album's commercial success and impact on the music industry speaks for itself, and the lasting popularity and appeal of Shaggy's music is a testament to his talent and legacy as an artist.