Michael Jackson has made a massive impact on the music scene, lasting even after his passing. He was considered one of the most important cultural figures in the 20th century. The singer became an international icon with his unique voice, fashion style, and dance moves. However, MJ didn’t only impress his audience with his showmanship since his records also sold millions and gained chart success.
The singer’s tracks always found a high place on various charts in numerous countries. His albums had such an impact that they were talked about for years and inspired many different artists. The King of Pop’s success reached such a point that he did not leave his position on the charts to other musicians or names from various genres. Van Halen was one of these names who could not beat MJ in the charts.
Michael Jackson’s Weeks-Long Success Overshadowed Van Halen
MJ combined elements of post-disco, funk, and R&B sounds in the ‘Thriller‘ album, released on November 30, 1982. The album included many hit tracks such as ‘Beat It,’ ‘Billie Jean,’ and ‘The Girl Is Mine.’ ‘Thriller’ was the first Jackson album, becoming number one on the Billboard 200 chart. The album saved its place at number one for 37 weeks. It also became one of the best-selling albums worldwide in the United States.
Van Halen released their record entitled ‘1984‘ in the same period, which received numerous positive reviews from critics. The album included Van Halen’s most successful single named ‘Jump,’ which became number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. The album was placed right behind MJ’s ‘Thriller,’ becoming number two on the Billboard 200. However, because MJ did not leave his place to anyone at that period, Van Halen could not become number one with ‘1984’ although the album became very successful.
While his band was stuck with the second spot, Eddie Van Halen technically became number one as he contributed to Jackson’s ‘Beat It’ with a guitar solo. The song stayed at number one for three weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The track became one of the best-selling singles by selling more than seven million records internationally.
Although Van Halen couldn’t replace Michael Jackson and take the number one position, they considerably contributed to their music career by releasing ‘1984.’ Even though he could not beat Jackson with his band’s album, Eddie Van Halen managed to be in the same place as him with ‘Beat It.’
You can listen to both albums below.
