Michael Jackson Hits No. 1 For The First Time On One Major Chart

BusinessHollywood & EntertainmentMichael Jackson Hits No. 1 For The First Time On One Major ChartByHugh McIntyre,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Hugh McIntyre covers music, with a focus on the global charts.Follow AuthorMay 13, 2026, 01:14pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Michael Jackson hits No. 1 for the first time on the U.K.'s Official Albums Streaming chart as The Essential rockets from outside the top 10 to the summit. American singer Michael Jackson (1958 - 2009) performing at Wembley Stadium, London, on his 'Dangerous' World Tour, 30th July 1992. (Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images)Getty ImagesMichael Jackson spent much of his time in the spotlight known as one of the bestselling musicians of all time. He has continued to hold that distinction in the years following his death, but his music has not been consumed solely by those who head to record stores or iTunes. In the past decade-plus, Jackson has also become a force on streaming platforms, proving that no matter how the music industry changes, the King of Pop's work will always be among the best-performing. The impact of Jackson's self-titled biopic Michael continues to be felt on charts all around the world, and in the U.K., the late superstar finally climbs to No. 1 on a tally he's never ruled before.Michael Jackson Scores His First Streaming ChampionJackson scores his first champion on the Official Albums Streaming chart, the U.K.'s look at the most-played collections of any genre or length on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and others. The Essential, one of multiple compilations by Jackson, dances from No. 12 to No. 1, 205 weeks into its time on the roster.Michael Jackson’s Five Top 10 Streaming WinsJackson reaches the summit on the Official Albums Streaming chart for the first time in his career, with one of his...