Rage Against The Machine Top iTunes Chart As X Factor Christmas Race Begins

Rage Against The Machine's 'Killing In The Name' is number one on the iTunes download chart after 24 hours of sales.

The Rage Against The Machine For Christmas No.1 Facebook group, which now has 717,000 members, has been urging fans to buy the 1992 rock anthem since one minute past midnight on Sunday.

The campaign was set up by Tracy and Jon Morter in protest at The X Factor's stronghold on the Christmas number one.

The Rage track had a 22 hour advantage over X Factor winner Joe McElderry's cover of Miley Cyrus' 'The Climb' which went on sale as a download after last night's final – viewed by 19million people.

The physical version of the X Factor single goes on sale on Wednesday.

Importantly, supporters of the Rage campaign have already generously donated £20,000 to the homeless charity Shelter. You can make a pledge to shelter HERE.

The iTunes chart is separate from the Official Chart Company chart, but serves as a good indicator of download sales.

(by Scott Colothan)

 Kate Nash: 'I Don't Respect The X Factor' (25.01.2011)

 Jamiroquai Reignites X Factor Feud With Cheryl Cole And Dannii Minogue (24.01.2011)

 Marilyn Manson To Judge The X Factor (18.01.2011)

 Biffy Clyro Break Silence Over Matt Cardle's 'Funny' X Factor Cover (15.12.2010)

 The Prodigy Back Campaign To Stop X Factor's Matt Cardle Getting Christmas Number One (15.12.2010)

 Matt Cardle To Cover Biffy Clyro's 'Many Of Horror' On X Factor Final (10.12.2010)

 Eminem To Join X-Factor Contestant Cher Lloyd In Final (09.12.2010)

 X Factor Finalists And Take That Dominate UK Charts (05.12.2010)

 X Factor Finalists, Take That Maintain Control Of UK Charts (01.12.2010)

 Black Eyed Peas Will Perform On X Factor Semi-Final (29.11.2010)

 Radiohead-Covering Wagner Tipped For Post X Factor Number One (29.11.2010)