One Direction's 'What Makes You Beautiful' breaks pre-order sales record

One Direction have already broken a sales record with their upcoming debut single.

The X Factor finalists have achieved the highest ever amount of pre-orders for a Sony Music label act in the company's history with their new single 'What Makes You Beautiful', reports The Sun.

Simon Cowell's right-hand man Sonny Takhar confirmed the high sales, which have been recorded three weeks ahead of the single's official release on September 11.

Takhar also described the boyband's upcoming debut album as one of the best pop records to be made by the label.

Sony Music is the home of international superstars Michael Jackson, Beyoncé and Christina Aguilera.

One Direction have worked with a range of writers for their new album including Britney Spears collaborator Savan Kotecha, 'The A Team' star Ed Sheeran and Good Charlotte producer Matt Squire.

The 'What Makes You Beautiful' music video is due to premiere later today. The singers have been posting teasers for the promo online throughout the week.

Listen to One Direction's debut single 'What Makes You Beautiful' below: