From 1971 to 2025: Michael Jackson makes Billboard history with six-decade Top 10 streak

Los Angeles: According to the latest Billboard reports, Michael Jackson’s iconic track Thriller has climbed to No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 following the 2025 Halloween season. The achievement marks a historic milestone, making Jackson the first artist ever to score Top 10 hits in six consecutive decades — the 1970s, ’80s, ’90s, 2000s, 2010s and now the 2020s.

Rising from No. 32 to No. 10, Thriller’s resurgence sets a new record for chart longevity. In doing so, Jackson surpasses Andy Williams, who had previously held Top 10 placements across five decades.

Jackson first entered the Hot 100’s Top 10 as a solo artist in November 1971 with Got to Be There. Over his celebrated career, he went on to earn 30 Top 10 singles, including 13 No. 1 hits. Prior to this latest achievement, his last Top 10 appearance came posthumously in 2018, when he featured on Drake’s Don’t Matter to Me.

The renewed interest in Thriller comes as excitement builds for Michael, the upcoming biopic directed by Antoine Fuqua. The film, set for release on 24 April 2026, will chronicle Jackson’s life and rise to superstardom, offering fans an intimate portrayal of the artist who transformed the landscape of music and dance.

Michael stars Jaafar Jackson — Michael’s nephew — in the lead role, with Miles Teller, Larenz Tate and Laura Harrier in key supporting parts. Originally slated for release on 3 October 2025, the film’s date was moved to spring 2026, Variety reported.

Produced by Graham King, John Branca and John McClain, with a script by John Logan, Michael is billed as a cinematic tribute to the global icon whose legacy continues to inspire millions worldwide. David B. Householter serves as executive producer.