On September 2, 2025, Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking 1979 album Off the Wall was officially certified Diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), recognizing over 10 million units sold in the United States. This marks Jackson’s third Diamond-certified album, joining the legendary Thriller and Bad, and placing him among a very select group of artists to achieve such a feat.
Widely regarded as one of Jackson’s finest and most influential works, Off the Wall ushered in a new era of disco, funk, and R&B fusion. Upon its release in August 1979, the album climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart and dominated the R&B Albums chart for an impressive 16 weeks. Globally, it has sold more than 20 million copies, securing its place as one of the most celebrated albums of all time.
With this certification, Off the Wall joins Jackson’s two other Diamond triumphs:
This latest milestone elevates Jackson into an elite circle of artists with three Diamond albums. Even more notably, he now stands alongside Whitney Houston as one of the only Black artists in history to achieve this distinction.
Beyond the sales figures, this achievement highlights Jackson’s enduring influence across generations and genres. More than four decades after its release, Off the Wall continues to resonate with fans around the world—its timeless sound proof that great music never fades.
As Forbes noted, this accomplishment isn’t just about statistics—it’s a celebration of a legacy that continues to inspire. One fan summed it up perfectly on Reddit:
“If one deserves it, it sure is Off the Wall. What a groovy record.”
With Off the Wall now Diamond-certified, Michael Jackson’s catalog shines even brighter, reaffirming his place as one of the greatest and most influential artists in music history. His ability to connect with audiences—then and now—cements his legacy as a true legend.
Diamond Albums by Michael Jackson (U.S.):
Album | Certification Status |
---|---|
Thriller | 3× Diamond |
Bad | Diamond (10× Platinum) |
Off the Wall | Diamond (newly certified) |
This achievement is more than a milestone—it’s a testament to the power of music that transcends time.