British music sales fell by a staggering 13% in the first quarter of this year despite hits from Justin Timberlake and Norah Jones, as the sluggish economy and downward pressure on prices hit the industry.
Rampant piracy and competition from other entertainment also undermined the sector, dragging British music sales down to £216m in the first three months of 2003, the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) said.
Justin Timberlake's 'Justified' album was the best-seller of the quarter, scoring a victory for Zomba, the record label owned by Bertelsmann's BMG. EMI star Norah Jones was the second biggest title with 'Come Away With Me'.
The BPI said album sales, which make up the bulk of the total, fell 9.4% in value terms or 5% in units, with CD albums down 9.3%. Singles showed another heavy decline, falling 43%.
The trade body said the quarter was hit by tough comparisons with last year when sales were boosted by the talent spotting show 'Pop Idol'.
