Michael Jackson's 'Billie Jean' reigns supreme, dethroning Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj's 'Beauty and a Beat' from the top spot on the Billboard Global 200 chart. This iconic song, released over 43 years ago, has surged in popularity, driven by the success of the biopic 'Michael' and its impact on the box office. With 51.5 million streams and 3,000 sales worldwide in the past week, 'Billie Jean' claims the number one position, marking a historic achievement for the late King of Pop. Jackson's legacy is further solidified as 'Billie Jean' becomes the longest-rising song to the top, breaking records and captivating audiences worldwide.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the song's longevity. 'Billie Jean' is the oldest song to ever reach the top of the Global 200, released in November 1982 on the album 'Thriller'. Its dominance on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, where it ruled for seven weeks in March-April 1983, only adds to its enduring appeal. The song's timeless quality and Jackson's unparalleled artistry have ensured its place in music history.
The biopic's influence on the song's resurgence cannot be overstated. The film's release has sparked renewed interest in Jackson's music, attracting new fans and reigniting the passion of existing ones. This symbiotic relationship between film and music is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to transcend time, resonating with audiences across generations.
In contrast, 'Swim' by BTS continues its reign on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart, holding the number two position for a sixth week. The song's popularity remains strong, with 46.9 million streams and 3,000 sales outside the U.S. in the past week. However, the competition is fierce, as 'Beauty and a Beat' by Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj, a recent number one hit, remains in the top five.
The Billboard Global 200 and Global Excl. U.S. charts provide a comprehensive view of global music trends, ranking songs based on streaming and sales activity from over 200 territories. The charts' methodology, which includes official streams, download sales, and a thorough data review by Luminate, ensures accuracy and fairness in the rankings.
As the music industry continues to evolve, the enduring success of 'Billie Jean' serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of classic music. Jackson's artistic genius and the song's universal themes have transcended time, captivating audiences worldwide. This achievement not only cements Jackson's legacy but also inspires future generations of artists, demonstrating the power of music to unite and inspire across generations and cultures.
