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What is the best-selling album of all time?

Published in Best-Selling Music Album 2 mins read

The best-selling album of all time is Michael Jackson's Thriller, released in 1982. This iconic album has sold more than 120 million copies worldwide, solidifying its place in music history.

The Unmatched Success of Thriller

Released during a pivotal era for pop music, Michael Jackson's Thriller quickly captivated audiences globally with its innovative sound, groundbreaking music videos, and a string of chart-topping hits. The album transcended musical genres, blending pop, rock, and R&B, which appealed to a vast and diverse audience.

Key Details of Thriller

Feature Detail
Artist Michael Jackson
Release Year 1982
Estimated Sales Over 120 million copies worldwide
Significance Best-selling album of all time, indelible place in music history

Iconic Tracks and Cultural Impact

Thriller spawned multiple hit singles, many of which are instantly recognizable and have left an indelible mark on popular culture. The album showcased Jackson's unparalleled talent as a vocalist, songwriter, and performer, cementing his status as the "King of Pop."

Some of the monster hits featured on the album include:

  • "Beat It"
  • "Billie Jean"
  • "Thriller" (the title track)
  • "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)"
  • "Human Nature"
  • "The Girl Is Mine" (with Paul McCartney)
  • "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'"

The album's accompanying music videos, particularly for "Thriller," "Billie Jean," and "Beat It," were revolutionary, transforming the medium and establishing MTV as a cultural force. The "Thriller" short film, with its cinematic quality and innovative choreography, remains one of the most famous and influential music videos ever created. The album's commercial success and critical acclaim set new benchmarks for the music industry, making Thriller a true global phenomenon and a timeless classic.