Sixteen years after his passing, Michael Jackson remains an enduring symbol of musical excellence and cultural impact. The legacy he left behind continues to resonate, proving that the title “King of Pop” still holds a profound significance in today’s music landscape.
One of the most notable indicators of Jackson’s timeless appeal is his groundbreaking 1982 hit, “Thriller.” This iconic track has once again made its mark by climbing back into the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 10, ascending from the 31st position to land at #10. With its blend of haunting melodies and unforgettable choreography, “Thriller” has become synonymous with the Halloween season, proving that its allure transcends generations.
According to Billboard, Michael Jackson has made history as the first artist to appear in the Top 10 of the Hot 100 across six different decades, beginning in the 1970s. This remarkable achievement further solidifies Jackson’s status as a musical pioneer, demonstrating his ability to reach audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
This year alone, “Thriller” has accumulated an impressive 14 million streams, 9.3 million radio impressions, and 3,000 pure sales during the week of October 31 to November 6. Remarkably, the track has now spent a total of 26 weeks on the Hot 100, outpacing even his other legendary hits like “Billie Jean” and “Beat It.” Before this historic moment, Jackson shared the record with Andy Williams for his classic holiday tune “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” which had kept him in the top 10 for five decades.
In addition to his charting success, Jackson has also recently broken another significant record posthumously. The teaser trailer for “Michael,” a much-anticipated biopic starring his nephew Jaafar Jackson, shattered viewership records by garnering a staggering 116.2 million views within the first 24 hours of its release. This achievement highlights not only the continued interest in Jackson’s life and music but also sets a new benchmark for music biopic trailers. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film is set to premiere in theaters on April 24, 2026, raising expectations for an in-depth exploration of Jackson’s extraordinary journey.
Ultimately, as time marches forward, Michael Jackson’s influence remains strong and palpable. His music, legacy, and ability to continually break records reflect a cultural icon whose impact is far from over. From thrilling dance floors to cinematic reels, the King of Pop has effectively carved a place in history that shows no signs of fading.