The Atlanta-based rock band, The Paradox, achieved a groundbreaking milestone recently by scoring their first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Alternative chart with their single “Get the Message.” This achievement made history as the quartet of musicians, consisting of Eric Dangerfield (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Christopher “Xelan” Bernard (lead guitar, backing vocals), Donald Bryant (bass), and Percy “PC3” Crews (drums), became the first all-Black band in the genre to reach the top spot. “Get the Message” claimed the top spot on the Billboard chart on Jan. 24, 2026, while also holding the ninth spot on the Rock & Alternative Airplay chart with 3.4 million audience impressions in the week ending Jan. 15.
The Paradox initially gained recognition when a video of them performing their track “Do Me Like That” in a backyard went viral on TikTok, garnering almost 10 million views. Their rise to fame continued with their latest hit, “Get the Message,” which is currently holding strong at No. 5 on the Alternative Airplay chart for the week of Feb. 21, 2026. The track follows sombr’s “12 To 12” at No. 4, Mumford & Sons & Hozier’s “Rubber Band Man” in third, Tame Impala’s “Dracula,” and YUNGBLUD’s “Zombie” in the top spot.
In their song “Get the Message,” The Paradox pays homage to the legendary rock band Blink-182, with whom they collaborated on their 2025-released EP, NSFW. The shoutout to Blink-182 in the opening line of the song acknowledges the band’s five Alternative Airplay No. 1 hits between 1999 and 2024. Drummer Travis Barker from Blink-182 also features on The Paradox’s release “Bender” and contributed to the production of the track.
Formed in June 2024, The Paradox has already garnered praise from industry giants like Green Day, whom they opened for at their Truist Park stadium show, as well as Jack White from The White Stripes. Their unique sound and undeniable talent have solidified their place in the music industry, making them a force to be reckoned with.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.