More than four decades after revolutionizing pop music, Michael Jackson made history again in 2026, as his iconic song “Billie Jean” reached the number one spot on the Billboard Global 200, officially becoming the most played song on the planet this week, an impressive achievement considering the track was originally released in 1982.
The song’s return to the top of the charts coincides with the enormous impact generated by the Michael biopic, a production that has once again boosted global interest in the music of the so-called “King of Pop”.
“Billie Jean” achieves an all-time Billboard chart record
According to official figures from Billboard and Luminate, Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” registered 51.5 million global plays between May 8 and May 14.
In addition to thousands of digital downloads around the world.
The song climbed from the 65th spot just three weeks ago to reach the top spot on the Billboard Global 200.
One of the most important music charts on the planet.
With this promotion, Michael Jackson achieves something never seen before in this ranking:
Reach No. 1 after 144 weeks on the chart, setting the record for the longest rise to the top since the global ranking was created in 2020.
In addition, “Billie Jean” became the oldest song to reach the top spot on the Billboard Global 200.
Michael” movie boosts global phenomenon
Michael Jackson’s renewed success is directly related to the worldwide release of Michael, the biopic based on the artist’s life.
The film has generated enormous conversation on social networks.
Especially among new generations who are discovering the American singer’s musical catalog for the first time.
Digital platforms and social networks have once again boosted classic Michael Jackson songs such as “Billie Jean” and “Beat It”, both from the legendary Thriller album.
An impressive achievement
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“Thriller” still dominates more than 40 years later.
Released in November 1982, Thriller is considered one of the most important and best-selling albums of all time.
“Billie Jean” originally dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for seven consecutive weeks in 1983.
Now it is once again marking a new era in global streaming.
Another classic from the same album, “Beat It,” also made a strong comeback on the international charts.
It is currently among the most listened to songs in the world.
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