In a groundbreaking achievement, SZA has officially surpassed Michael Jackson in the Billboard record books, as her sophomore album, “SOS,” has now spent more weeks in the Billboard 200’s Top 10 than any album by a Black artist in chart history. This accomplishment dethrones Jackson’s iconic album “Thriller,” which held the record for nearly three years.
The historic milestone was reached on March 12, 2025, when “SOS” matched “Thriller’s” impressive 79 nonconsecutive weeks in the Top 10. Just days later, SZA claimed the record outright, solidifying her place in music history. Chart Data confirmed this remarkable feat, sending waves of celebration throughout the music community.
Terrence Henderson, president of Top Dawg Entertainment and SZA’s manager, recognized the significance of this achievement, noting that much of “SOS” was recorded at Westlake Studios—the same legendary location where Jackson created “Thriller.” This connection adds a layer of symbolism to SZA’s success, linking two eras of musical brilliance.
Released in December 2022, “SOS” made an immediate impact by debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and holding that position for 10 nonconsecutive weeks. The album has not fallen below the Top 20 since its release, a rare feat in today’s rapidly changing music landscape, which is marked by streaming dominance. Its commercial resilience was further affirmed when it ranked No. 6 on Billboard’s year-end Albums chart for 2024, showcasing its enduring relevance.
Several factors have contributed to the unprecedented longevity of “SOS.” The album features a blend of contemporary R&B with experimental production techniques, creating a timeless sound that resonates with listeners. SZA’s exploration of themes such as vulnerability, self-acceptance, and personal growth lends emotional weight to the album, allowing it to transcend fleeting trends. The strategic release of singles has also sustained public interest, with tracks continuing to find new audiences through social media long after their initial drop. Positive critical reception has validated the album’s artistic merit, encouraging new listeners to discover it well beyond its release window, while “SOS” has become a cultural touchstone, referenced across various media and influencing fashion and broader pop culture conversations.
SZA’s achievement is particularly notable given the stark contrast between today’s music landscape and the era in which Jackson set his record. “Thriller” thrived during a time of physical album sales and limited entertainment options, while “SOS” has maintained its presence amidst a flood of new releases and shorter attention spans.
As “SOS” continues its historic run, SZA is also poised to expand her influence in the industry by joining Kendrick Lamar for their much-anticipated GNX Tour, starting April 19 in Minneapolis. The duo previously collaborated during Kendrick’s Super Bowl halftime performance in February, earning widespread acclaim for their performance of “All the Stars” and “Luther.”
For SZA, surpassing Jackson’s record represents a defining moment in her career. The ongoing success of “SOS” serves as a testament to the power of authentic artistry in an industry often driven by fleeting trends. SZA’s historic achievement stands as an inspiration to artists everywhere, particularly within the African American music community, demonstrating that creative integrity and dedication can lead to extraordinary, record-breaking success.
