US singer
Noah Kahan
has secured his second UK number one album. A surge in popularity for the late
Michael Jackson
’s hits,
following his biopic’s release
, sees him with two albums in the top five and three others in the top 40.
Vermont singer-songwriter Kahan’s fourth studio album,
The Great Divide
, is also the week’s best-seller in independent UK record shops and tops the Official Vinyl Albums Chart. His 2023 offering,
Stick Season
, also reached number one and was named one of the biggest albums of 2024 and 2025.
Kahan is followed by
Foo Fighters
in second place with
Your Favorite Toy
,
their 14th UK top 10 album. Olivia Dean’s
The Art Of Loving
remains at number three. Jackson’s
Michael – Songs From The Motion Picture
and
Number Ones
complete the top five.
His 1982 album
Thriller
has re-entered the top 10 for the first time in 17 years at number eight. 1987’s
Bad
is back in the top 40 for the first time since 2014 at 13, closely followed by
Essential Michael Jackson
at 14. Paul Weller’s live recording
Weller At The BBC (Vol 2)
earns him a landmark 30th solo top 40, at 19.
Top of the Charts: A Mix of New and Old
The UK music charts have seen a mix of new and old talent dominating the top spots this week. Noah Kahan has made history by securing his second number one album, showcasing his growing influence in the music industry. His latest album, The Great Divide, not only topped the charts but also became the best-selling album in independent UK record shops. It also claimed the top spot on the Official Vinyl Albums Chart.
Kahan’s previous album, Stick Season, also reached number one and was recognized as one of the most significant releases of 2024 and 2025. This success highlights Kahan’s ability to connect with audiences and maintain relevance in an ever-changing music landscape.
Michael Jackson’s Legacy Lives On
While Kahan’s achievements are notable, the legacy of Michael Jackson continues to resonate across the UK charts. Following the release of his biopic, there has been a renewed interest in his music, leading to multiple albums from the late icon appearing in the top 5 and top 40.
Jackson’s Michael – Songs From The Motion Picture and Number Ones are among the top five albums, while his 1982 classic Thriller has re-entered the top 10 after 17 years. Similarly, Bad has returned to the top 40, marking its first appearance since 2014. Another compilation, Essential Michael Jackson, also features in the top 40.
This resurgence underscores the timeless appeal of Jackson’s music and the impact of his biopic on public interest.
Other Notable Entries
In addition to Kahan and Jackson, other artists have made their mark on the charts. The Foo Fighters’ Your Favorite Toy holds the second position, marking their 14th UK top 10 album. Olivia Dean’s The Art Of Loving remains at number three, while Paul Weller’s live recording Weller At The BBC (Vol 2) reaches a milestone by entering the top 40 for the 30th time.
Singles Chart: Stability at the Top
The singles chart has remained relatively stable, with Sam Fender and Olivia Dean’s Rein Me In holding the number one spot for its ninth non-consecutive week. The track previously held the top position before being overtaken by Olivia Rodrigo’s Drop Dead, which now sits at number two.
Justin Bieber’s Beauty And A Beat, featuring Nicki Minaj, maintains its third position following a viral performance at Coachella. Tame Impala’s Dracula is at number four, while Alex Warren’s Fever Dream completes the top five.
Michael Jackson’s Presence in the Singles Chart
Jackson’s influence extends beyond the albums chart, with three of his tracks appearing in the top 40 of the singles chart. Billie Jean (1983) is at 13, Beat It (1983) at 22, and Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough (1979) at 23. These placements highlight the enduring popularity of his work.
Kahan also has three tracks from The Great Divide in the top 20, including Doors at 12, the title track at 17, and Porch Light at 20. This demonstrates his continued presence and relevance in the music scene.
Conclusion
The UK charts reflect a dynamic mix of established legends and emerging talents. While Michael Jackson’s music continues to captivate audiences, artists like Noah Kahan are making their mark with innovative and compelling work. As the music industry evolves, these chart movements offer insight into the tastes and preferences of listeners across the country.
