More than 15 years after his passing, Michael Jackson continues to make music history.
This week, Jackson became the first artist ever to debut new songs on the Billboard Hot 100 in every decade since the 1970s. The achievement comes thanks to the surprising resurgence of his song Chicago, which entered the Hot 100 chart at No. 30 after a strong increase in streaming activity.
Originally released on Jackson's posthumous 2014 album Xscape, "Chicago" was never one of his biggest commercial hits. Unlike classics such as Billie Jean, Beat It, or Thriller, the track received relatively little attention when it was first released.
Now, more than a decade later, the song has found a new audience through streaming platforms and social media. During the latest tracking week, "Chicago" generated approximately 10.7 million streams in the United States, helping it make its first-ever appearance on the Hot 100 chart.
The renewed interest in Jackson's music has been fueled in part by the massive success of Michael, the biographical film directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson as the legendary performer.
Since its release, the film has sparked a significant increase in streams across Jackson's catalog. Several of his iconic songs, including "Billie Jean," Human Nature, Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough, and Dirty Diana, have returned to the Billboard charts.
What makes "Chicago" particularly remarkable is that the song is not featured in the biopic, making its chart breakthrough even more unexpected. Produced by Timbaland and JRoc, the track explores a troubled relationship and highlights a darker, more dramatic side of Jackson's later recordings.
The achievement also marks Jackson's 52nd solo entry on the Billboard Hot 100. His record-breaking streak now spans the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s, a feat no other artist has accomplished.
The renewed attention surrounding Jackson's music has also coincided with fresh discussions about his life and legacy. Recent projects, including the documentary series Michael Jackson: The Verdict, have brought renewed focus to different chapters of his career and personal history.
Meanwhile, stars connected to the biopic, including Nia Long and Jaafar Jackson, have spoken about portraying the human side of the global superstar. Musician and filmmaker Questlove has also praised the film, saying it successfully captures Jackson's spirit and humanity.
With "Chicago" now making chart history, Michael Jackson's influence continues to reach new generations, proving that his music remains as impactful today as ever.
