The Beatles have held off artists such as Elvis Presley and Madonna to be declared the biggest selling singles act since charts began 60 years ago.

The Fab Four notched up 17 number ones during their eight-year chart domination, and split more than 40 years ago.

But performers whose careers have lasted decades longer in some cases – such as Sir Cliff Richard – have failed to outsell them, a Radio 2 chart reveals.

A countdown to be broadcast today of the all-time biggest sellers since the singles chart began in 1952 – the year the Queen took the throne – shows The Beatles are still unsurpassed.

Presley, who continued to have strong sales in the past decade thanks to a reissue campaign with tracks such as A Little Less Conversation, is ranked second.

Sir Cliff, who has had 124 top 40 hits and 14 number ones, finished in third place in the list compiled by the Official Charts Company. Madonna, who has made the top 40 more than 60 times, is ranked fourth.

There are some surprising entries with Rihanna, who charted for the first time in only 2005 in 10th place, yet The Rolling Stones – who racked up their first hit in 1963 – make it to only number 13. But while the wrinkly rockers have continued to release singles, they have failed to dent the top 10 since 1981.

Tony Blackburn will count down the chart from 2pm to 5pm which shows US rapper Eminem (placed 18th) is ahead of enduring chart stars such as Sir Tom Jones and U2.

DJ and producer David Guetta (ranked 49) manages to finish ahead of big names such as Coldplay (60) and Duran Duran (51).

Sir Paul McCartney is listed twice for his Beatles years and his solo career (number 11), and George Michael is in twice, for his own hits (21) and as a member of Wham! (43).

Blackburn, who will play each artist's biggest hit, said: "This chart offers a fascinating look at the past 60 years in music and shows the impact that modern stars like Rihanna and Katy Perry have had.

"The list is really varied and will provide something for everyone. There are definitely a few surprises in store."

Radio 2's head of music, Jeff Smith, said: "This list is intriguing. Adele is missing and we've all forgotten just how huge artists such as Shakin' Stevens, Boney M and UB40 were."