As Michael Jackson’s iconic hits make a resurgence on the Billboard Hot 100 chart nearly five decades after their original release, the King of Pop continues to captivate audiences with his timeless music. This week, four of Jackson’s songs have made their way back onto the charts, with “Billie Jean” leading the pack at No. 17, followed by “Human Nature” at No. 29, “Beat It” at No. 32, and “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” at No. 42.
The sudden climb of Jackson’s songs on the charts can be attributed to the success of the new biopic, “Michael,” which chronicles his journey from child star to global superstar. The film has reignited interest in Jackson’s music, prompting a surge in streaming and pushing multiple classics back onto the charts simultaneously.
Jackson’s chart resurgence extends beyond the Hot 100 singles chart, as his compilation album, “Number Ones,” has climbed to No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart. This achievement marks a top 10 album in every decade since the 1970s, placing Jackson in a select group of artists who have achieved this milestone.
The renewed interest in the “Michael” biopic has also propelled Jackson’s legendary album, “Thriller,” back into the top five for the first time since 1984. This resurgence is a testament to the enduring commercial power of Jackson’s catalog, solidifying his place in music history.
Among the resurging singles, “Billie Jean” remains a standout performer, having spent seven weeks at No. 1 in 1983 and becoming a defining song of the MTV era. The track continues to garner significant streaming gains as listeners revisit Jackson’s “Thriller” era.
“Human Nature,” with its dreamy synth-pop sound, has climbed back to No. 29 on the chart. Originally peaking at No. 7 in 1983, the song has stood the test of time and remains one of Jackson’s most acclaimed tracks.
Meanwhile, “Beat It,” known for its fusion of rock and pop, re-enters the chart at No. 32. With Eddie Van Halen’s electrifying guitar solo, the song spent three weeks at No. 1 during its original release, showcasing Jackson’s genre-defying musical prowess.
Completing the lineup is “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” at No. 42, marking over four decades since its debut as Jackson’s first solo No. 1 hit. The disco-funk smash laid the foundation for Jackson’s solo superstardom and set the tone for his later albums.
The resurgence of Jackson’s music across multiple eras is a rare feat, highlighting the timeless appeal of his catalog to listeners of all generations. With the biopic shedding new light on Jackson’s legacy, the resurgence of his hits is introducing a new audience to the influential music of the King of Pop.
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.