Pop Album Chart : ‘Zooropa’ Ousts ‘Back to Broadway’

To no one’s surprise, U2’s “Zooropa” massacred the competition, taking over the top spot on the pop album chart its first week--and no doubt settling in for a long stay. Barbra Streisand’s “Back to Broadway” had a much stronger second week than expected, slipping just one notch to No. 2. All that tabloid exposure during Wimbledon raised her profile and may have greater long-term effects than expected. So far Johnny Gill’s “Provocative” hasn’t lived up to expectations. After premiering last month at No. 14, it has plummeted to No. 47. UB40’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is the new No. 1 pop single.

* Though predicted to be one of the big albums of the summer, Bell Biv DeVoe’s “Hootie Mack” has been a commercial disappointment, despite some good reviews. It opened at No. 19 three weeks ago and has been slipping ever since. Now No. 44, its lack of a hit single may be the biggest reason for its slow sales.

Rank Rank 2 Weeks Last Weeks on the Week Ago Chart 1.”Zooropa,” U2 ... ... 1 2.”Back to Broadway,” 1 ... 2 Barbra Streisand 3.”janet.,” 2 1 8 Janet Jackson 4.”Sleepless in Seattle,” 9 ... 2 soundtrack 5.”It Won’t Be the Last,” 3 6 3 Billy Ray Cyrus 6.”Core,” 4 3 29 Stone Temple Pilots 7.”Unplugged ... and Seated,” 5 2 7 Rod Stewart 8.”The Chronic,” 6 5 30 Dr. Dre 9.”Last Action Hero,” 8 7 4 soundtrack 10.”Breathless,” 7 4 34 Kenny G *”Hootie Mack,” 28 19 3 Bell Biv DeVoe

SOURCE: Billboard/Soundscan