Michael Jackson's 1982 hit "Thriller" has made history by becoming the first album to sell 30 million copies domestically. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) announced the achievement along with Jackson's estate and record labels on Wednesday, according to The Associated Press.
The album, which includes some of Jackson's famous hits like "Beat It" and "Billie Jean," has also enjoyed success internationally, with a total of 100 million copies sold globally since its release.
"RIAA has awarded Gold & Platinum records on behalf of the music business for nearly 60 years, but this is the first time an artist has crossed the 30X multi-Platinum plateau," RIAA chairman and CEO Cary Sherman said, according to Billboard. "We are honored to celebrate the unique status of Thriller in Gold & Platinum history. What an exceptional achievement and testament to Thriller's enduring spot in our hearts and musical history."
This milestone adds to the long list of achievements earned by the album since it dropped on Nov. 30, 1982. "Thriller" received its first platinum certification two months later on Jan. 31, 1982 and went on to win a record-setting eight Grammy awards with nominations in 12 categories.
"It is crystal clear that Michael Jackson is simply the greatest, and biggest artist of all time," L.A. Reid, chairman and CEO of Epic Records, said. "Not only are his charts, hits and sales stats staggering, but his pure musicality was otherworldly. 'Thriller' was groundbreaking and electrifying ... it was perfection."
"One hundred million albums and counting; there has never been a phenomenon like Thriller," John Branca and John McClain, co-executors of MJ's Estate said, according to Rolling Stone.
"Michael opened the floodgates of his creativity, explored emotional depths and pushed the boundaries of sonic innovation. In the process, he breached destructive barriers in the music industry and literally united the world through his music: there isn't a place on this planet that hasn't been exhilarated by the music of Michael Jackson. Thirty years after its release, Thriller continues to be a revelation," they added.
