Queen Bee Lil Kim may have seen her latest effort, ‘9,’ royally ignored by music lovers, but it certainly doesn’t mean all is lost.

As we reported here, industry analysts predicted the set would shift less than 1,000 copies upon the conclusion of its inaugural sales tracking week.  Later confirmed via Billboard’s most recent update of its main album chart (October 22), the project’s first 7 days of sales failed to garner a figure high enough to be included among the tally’s top 200 sellers of the week.

However, where the LP may have not performed in the grand scheme, it certainly held its own categorically. See what we mean inside:

‘9’ – Kim’s first project since 2005’s ‘The Naked Truth’ – is her first project to go to chart battle without a Hot 100 top 40 single preceding it (a feat that added to the grim outlook on its sales tally).  Acting as the first installment of a reported 2-part offering (click here to read more), some are wondering if its reported numbers will be enough to support the release of a follow-up.

While there is no ignoring the LP’s overall performance, there are noteworthy aspects.  Despite missing the Billboard 200, ‘9’ did manage to meet the top 10 mark on a number of sales charts including R&B/Hip-Hop and Rap (as seen below).  Further, it made an impact on Digital Albums, Independent, and Album Sales charts.

Here’s hoping the sales performance outside the Billboard 200 acts as a catalyst for Kim and team to create a more aggressive promo strategy for part 2.

There’s proof the public is interested.

Your thoughts?