One Direction named 2013's Global Recording Artists

One Direction have been named the Global Recording Artists of 2013.

The Story Of My Life hitmakers continued their huge success thanks to millions in record sales and their online presence, and bosses at the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) have named them the most prominent act of last year (13).

After hearing the news, bandmember Niall Horan says, "Incredible news. It's great to have a chart that includes everything from iTunes and record stores, to YouTube and Spotify.

"Again a huge thank you to all of our fans for such an amazing 2013."

Rap superstar Eminem came in at number two following release of his hit album The Marshall Mathers LP 2 in November (13). The top five was rounded out by Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars and Katy Perry.