Now That?s What I Call Music! (1983 - present) is the biggest selling compilation series?ever! It is also the longest selling branded compilation album in the UK.

The first Now! Album, boasted an impressive 11 number one singles and was a collection of thirty tracks from that year, released on double vinyl LP and cassette. The repertoire was entirely original and unlike some of it?s competitors none of the music was edited to fit the running time - hence the need to spread the album over two discs.

The idea for the phenomenon that is the Now That?s What I Call Music! series was born in the Virgin Records offices of Richard Branson in Vernon Yard, just off Portobello Road.

A collection that would include original versions and none of the watered down edits that were rife on their competitor albums.

The idea was taken to Simon Draper (Managing Director Virgin Records) and the launch plans got underway. Virgin teamed up with EMI and the then Managing Director, Peter Jamieson (MD of EMI Records 1983-1986)

Jamieson had had similar plans for EMI to launch such a compilation but was so impressed with Virgin?s ideas, music and enthusiasm that he immediately agreed to the partnership. The deal was negotiated and finalised on Richard Branson?s boat moored in Little Venice.