Sales of physical singles meanwhile were more than double last year's total - with RSD exclusive releases accounting for nine out of the Top 10 vinyl albums and eight out of the Top 10 physical singles of the week.

Around180 stores took part in RSD 2011 - 30 more than last year - and some reported sale increases up around 70% on last year's event.

There were around 250 exclusive releases available in participating stores, more than double last year's ...