Michael Jackson Moves Multiple Albums Higher in Billboard 200 Rankings
Michael Jackson's iconic album, *Thriller*, and the comprehensive compilation, *The Essential Michael Jackson*, have once again made a significant impact on the Billboard 200 chart this week.
*Thriller*, the tenth longest-running project on the Billboard 200 with 685 weeks, climbed five spaces north to No. 136. This week, it also appeared on five Billboard charts, maintaining its relevance decades after release. The album's enduring cultural significance, massive historical sales, and ongoing influence in the music world continue to drive strong streaming numbers and physical sales.
*Thriller* remains the best-selling album of all time worldwide, with estimated sales exceeding 70 million copies and 34× platinum certification in the US alone. Its groundbreaking music, iconic videos, and innovative promotional strategies set industry standards that continue to resonate with audiences.
The album's historical and cultural impact is profound. It broke racial barriers in popular music, secured Michael Jackson unprecedented cultural significance, and has been recognised by institutions like the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Recording Registry for its lasting importance.
Meanwhile, *The Essential Michael Jackson* climbed one space on the Top R&B Albums chart to No. 7 and one space on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart to No. 19. The album, which has been on the Billboard 200 for over a decade, is found on only a trio of tallies this week. Its consistent charting activity can be attributed to its accessibility, appealing to both long-time fans and new listeners.
Last week, the consumption of *Thriller* in the U.S. was approximately 10,800 equivalent units, marking a week-over-week increase of more than 6%. Similarly, *The Essential Michael Jackson* saw an approximate 3% week-over-week increase in consumption, with last week's consumption figures at approximately 13,200 equivalent units.
It's rare for any late superstar to snag more than one space on the Billboard 200, but Michael Jackson is one of the few artists no longer with us who can regularly score multiple top performers on the chart. His music continues to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on the music industry.
Entertainment continues to be dominated by the impactful presence of Michael Jackson, with both his iconic album Thriller and the comprehensive compilation The Essential Michael Jackson making waves on the Billboard 200 this week. Celebrities like Jackson have a unique ability to transcend pop-culture boundaries, and Thriller's ongoing chart run, remarkable longevity, and posthumous success are a testament to this. Thriller's sales, chart records, and unwavering influence in the music world are appealing to various listeners, spanning multiple generations and music tastes. It's evident that Michael Jackson's music maintains a significant role in entertainment and the music industry, no matter the passage of time.
