SoundScan

SoundScan (now part of Luminate, formerly Nielsen SoundScan) is the data tracking system that measures music sales — physical albums, digital downloads, and streaming equivalents — used to compile the Billboard charts. For touring acts, SoundScan data matters because chart positions drive ticket sales, booking leverage, and industry credibility.

How SoundScan connects to touring

Strong SoundScan numbers during a tour (especially if the act is selling physical merch copies at shows) can bump chart positions and generate press. Some merch teams ensure that venue merch sales of physical albums are properly reported to SoundScan. SoundScan data also informs booking agents and promoters about an artist's market strength.