The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has already passed on to the next world but it seems this world is still not ready to let go of him completely. His hit album, Thriller, has created a platinum award that is the first of its kind. RIAA confirmed the "Thriller" is the first 30x-multiplatinum album in the world. In layman's term, it is the bestselling album of all time.
"We are honored to celebrate the unique status of Thriller in Gold & Platinum history," RIAA chief Cary Sherman announces in a statement, "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."
The hit album was co-produced legendary producer Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson himself. Even after its success in securing its place on top of the list of the bestselling albums of all time, the album also produced three of the most influential music videos that changed the music video scene after their release. "Thriller", "Beat It" and "Billie Jean" transformed the whole music video scene by shifting the medium's focus from the artist to the story.
Jackson was not threatened by other famous artists but instead he collaborated with them. New York Posts says, "Getting Paul McCartney, Vincent Price and Eddie Van Halen on the same album ushered in the era of superstar collaborations."
Beyond Jackson's accomplishments as an artist, he also did well as a businessman using his fame to generate more income for himself. A Forbes article even commended Michael Jackson for creating a "blueprint for the cross-promotional stars of today." As he launched his footwear and clothing line, while diving into film as well. In one instance, Jackson even attempted to buy Marvel before Disney even thought about it.
Even up to this day years after his death, Michael Jackson's paycheck from publishing royalties and record sales could still match the annual paychecks of famous living artists of today.