Beauty and the Increase

Wedding pretty woman Julia Roberts has certainly boosted Lyle Lovett's commercial appeal — not to mention his sex appeal. After the couple's June 27 nuptials, Lovett's Joshua Judges Ruth sold approximately 6,500 copies in one week, putting the 1992 album back on the Billboard charts. ''In the last week there's been a twofold increase in sales,'' says Stuart Fleming, a manager at one of New York City's HMV music stores. ''He's a really talented songwriter, but what all the guys can't stop talking about is how he landed Julia.'' The union may also have jump-started Lovett's current tour. Promoter Sue McLean notes Lovett's Minneapolis gig was a near sell-out show after the marriage. Just a coincidence? ''Lyle's a favorite here,'' she says. ''Julia's getting a good deal.''