SUSAN BOYLE AT #1

If early numbers are any indication, Britain's Got Talent runner-up Susan Boyle's debut album I Dreamed a Dream is set to break records. Amazon.Com (U.S. and Canada) has released an official statement proclaiming that the album, named after the Les Miserables tune which propelled her into overnight stardom, has received a record number of pre-orders. In fact, it is still at number one on their album sales chart and it isn't even out for a month.

The Sony/BMG release is due in-stores November 24, 2009, but don't expect a cakewalk for Boyle. She will be facing some very stiff pre-holiday competition starting with American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert who is also releasing his debut album For Your Entertainment that day. As blogged about previously, that album's cover is outright hideous and this just may hinder sales. And it doesn't get any easier for anybody aiming for the top as dueling princesses of pop Lady Gaga and Rihanna both have new releases due that day also. The former is re-releasing her multi-platinum debut album re-branding it The Fame Monster, while many eyes will be on the latter as she is releasing her new studio album Rated R. And let's not forget the amazing Shakira album She Wolf, reviewed here recently.

Although it looks to be a tough one, I'm putting my pocket change on Boyle for the win.