The Recording Industry Association of American announced that Michael Jackson's "Thriller" has become the first album to be certified 30-times multi-platinum in the U.S sales with more than 30 million sales.
"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 in a statement according to a report by The Hollywood Reporter.
"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."
Jackson is the best-selling artists of all time, with over 100 million in sales worldwide for the album "Thriller." He also has one billion in total sales to his credit.
"100 million albums and counting; there has never been a phenomenon like 'Thriller,'" John Branca and John McClain, co-executors of the Estate of Michael Jackson, said.
"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."
Michael Jackson's "Thriller" album was certified platinum just after two months it was released on Nov 30, 1982. On Oct 30, 1984, it was already 20-times platinum according to Variety.
In less than two months after the singer died, the album hit 29-times platinum.
At the Grammy Awards in 1984, Michael Jackson won eight title including album of the year and record of the year for "Beat It."
Michael Jackson's "Thriller" album is considered as the world's best-selling album of all time according to Guinness World Records.
