Shattering standards

Susan Boyle has come a long way, establishing herself as the breakout star of the year with the release of her new album "I Dreamed A Dream." Released on Nov. 23, Boyle's record to date has sold three million copies globally, according to her record label Columbia Records.

Boyle rose over typical megastars like Eminem, who once held the position for "Best Album Open" with his album "Release." In fact, "I Dreamed A Dream" is the biggest debut album in nearly two decades by any one artist; Snoop Doog's 'Doggstyle' held the claim since 1993. What further demonstrates Boyle's success is the fashion in which people bought her record - through good old CDs. Fans and newcomers alike headed to stores to purchase her album, and only about six percent of sales of Boyle's record were from digital downloads, according to the New York Times.

"I Dreamed A Dream," the hit rendition Boyle performed for her first audition on "Britain's Got Talent," has garnered nearly 80 million hits on YouTube. The actual album of the same title is also a resonating testament to Boyle's talents. Her music is not only relatable, but also has the ability to reach over many different groups of people. Several of her songs are especially notable, including her versions of the hymns "Amazing Grace" and "How Great Thou Art." Her versatility even expands to popular songs from the likes of Madonna and the Rolling Stones. The diversity of styles covered has caused her album to soar on all major music charts. In the U.S., Boyle sold a record-breaking 701,000 copies, which happens to be the greatest opening-week sales for any album in 2009, according to Nielsen SoundScan, an information system that tracks music sales.

It's interesting to see how far Boyle has come. The initial reaction of the "Britain's Got Talent" crowd to her first performance was comprised of more snickering than cheering. Nobody seemed to have faith in Susan Boyle except Boyle, but after she belted her first note the audience and judges were shocked at her soaring pipes. By the end of the performance, Boyle earned outstanding applause and adoration. Although Boyle did not win the competition, she won a loyal fan base across Europe and overseas.

Although she is considered a celebrity, Boyle is as humble as ever. What separates Boyle from wannabe stars is her background. She has an authentic story that is so genuine, it inspires and moves people. Boyle was a Scottish singer living with her cat in a quiet neighborhood. Now, she is a star, who shot into fame through hard work and dedication. Though an unlikely singer, Susan Boyle's amazing journey to stardom shows that real, honest talent is still a way to success. There is never one perfect route to fame.