Michael Jackson’s influence on the music world remains undeniable decades after his heyday, and recent Billboard charts show the King of Pop still commanding attention—particularly on the R&B rankings where many of his biggest hits have historically been placed. While the classification of some of his work can spark debate, Billboard’s designations mean Jackson continues to reappear in the upper echelons of these key music charts.

This week, both one of Jackson’s most iconic singles and a popular compilation album have returned to peak positions on their respective R&B charts, reaffirming the enduring appeal of his catalog.

“Billie Jean” Returns to Its R&B Digital Song Sales Peak

Jackson’s timeless hit “Billie Jean” is the only song currently on a U.S.-based Billboard chart, appearing on the R&B Digital Song Sales list, which tracks the top-selling R&B-only digital tracks in America. This week, the classic single climbs one spot, moving from No. 8 to No. 7, marking a return to its previously established peak nearly a year after first appearing on the tally.

The track’s global reach is also evident, as “Billie Jean” appears on both the Billboard Global 200 and the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. charts. While it slips slightly to No. 103 on the Global 200, it rises to No. 92 on the chart excluding U.S. sales, showing Jackson’s international resonance remains strong.

Number Ones Compilation Hits New Heights

Jackson’s Number Ones compilation also sees a resurgence, rising from No. 7 to No. 6 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart—its highest placement to date. The collection, which includes many of the superstar’s most celebrated tracks, continues to captivate listeners years after its release.

The album maintains a presence across multiple charts: it sits at No. 3 on the Top R&B Albums and No. 32 on the Top Streaming Albums lists. However, it experiences modest declines on other charts, including No. 13 on Vinyl Albums, No. 19 on Top Album Sales, and No. 26 on the Billboard 200.

Thriller Shares the Spotlight

Jackson’s 1982 blockbuster Thriller alternates with Number Ones in chart performance, with streams and sales shifting between the two albums depending on timing and format. This week, Number Ones edges ahead, while Thriller sees slight drops on the Vinyl Albums (No. 12) and Top Album Sales (No. 25) charts. Despite these minor declines, both albums remain central to the pop and R&B conversation, demonstrating Jackson’s sustained cultural and commercial influence.

Even decades after their release, Michael Jackson’s music continues to climb, chart, and remind fans worldwide why he earned the title of the King of Pop.