LOS ANGELES— Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” is still scaring up sales and giving the King of Pop’s legacy a new milestone.
The album has sold 30 million copies in the United States, making Jackson the first artist to attain 30-time platinum status, the Recording Industry Association of America and Jackson’s estate announced Wednesday.
The album has proved even more popular overseas, with a total of 100 million copies sold worldwide since its 1982 release. It includes some of Jackson’s most recognizable hits, including “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin”‘ and the title track, which inspired one of the most famous music videos of all time.
“‘Thriller’ continues to be the yardstick against which all other albums are measured,” said John Branca, co-executor of Jackson’s estate.
“What an exceptional achievement and testament to ‘Thriller’s’ enduring spot in our hearts and musical history,” RIAA chairman and CEO Cary Sherman wrote in a statement.
A greatest-hits collection of songs by the Eagles is Jackson’s closest competitor, with 29 million albums sold.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
Success. Please wait for the page to reload. If the page does not reload within 5 seconds, please refresh the page.
Enter your email and password to access comments.
Hi, to comment on stories you must . This profile is in addition to your subscription and website login.
Already have a commenting profile? .
Invalid username/password.
Please check your email to confirm and complete your registration.
Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.
Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.