Snow Man Secures 14th Million-Seller: RIAJ Unveils April 2026 Gold Disc Certifications

The Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) announced its Gold Disc certifications for April 2026 on May 15, 2026. This month’s announcement was highlighted by Snow Man achieving a Million certification, while other popular groups like INI, SixTONES, and Travis Japan also received high-tier certifications, sparking a wave of celebration from fans across social media.

Snow Man: A Monumental 14th Million-Seller

The standout achievement of this cycle belongs to Snow Man’s latest release, "BANG!! / SAVE YOUR HEART / Odorouze!" The work was officially certified Million, marking the group’s 14th release to reach this prestigious milestone. Fans flooded social media with messages such as "I’m so happy for them" and "Thank you as always, Snow Man," propelling the group to the top of trending topics.

INI Hits Triple Platinum, SixTONES Achieves Double Platinum After Three Years

Several other high-ranking certifications caught the public eye. INI’s "PULSE" earned a Triple Platinum certification. In a rare development, SixTONES’ "ABARERO" reached Double Platinum status three years after its initial release. This delayed achievement drew significant praise, with fans commenting, "Achieving this after three years is incredible" and "I hope their charm continues to reach even more people."

A Diverse Range of Artists: Travis Japan, =LOVE, and Takahisa Masuda

In the Platinum category, Travis Japan’s "In ni mo Hinata ni mo" and =LOVE’s "Gekiyaku Chudoku" were recognized. Gold certifications were awarded to a wide variety of genres, including Takahisa Masuda’s (NEWS) cover album, MAZZEL’s "Banquet," and CANDY TUNE’s third single, "HAPPY BOUNCE BIRTHDAY."

The lineup representing the spring 2026 music scene also included a mini-album by virtual YouTuber Lauren Iroas, a live concert video from Naniwa Danshi, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s 16th career certification. Following the RIAJ announcement, official social media accounts and fan communities have been in full celebratory mode, with many anticipating further sales growth for these artists.

The context

The Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) issues certifications based on the number of copies shipped to retailers. In Japan, a "Gold" certification requires 100,000 units, "Platinum" requires 250,000, "Double Platinum" requires 500,000, "Triple Platinum" requires 750,000, and the coveted "Million" requires 1,000,000 units. While global trends have shifted heavily toward streaming, the Japanese music market remains unique for its robust physical CD sales, particularly within the idol and "fandom" culture. Groups like Snow Man and SixTONES (formerly under Johnny & Associates, now STARTO Entertainment) and INI (formed via the "Produce 101 Japan" reality show) have incredibly dedicated fanbases that actively support physical releases to help their favorite artists reach these industry milestones.

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