Every generation has its biggest superstar and for anyone who grew up in the 80s, Michael Jackson proved himself to be the greatest entertainer of the decade. His music, performances, and influence led to him being labeled as the King of Pop. There have been artists since who have gotten compared to the icon, including Usher, Beyoncรฉ, Bruno Mars, and Chris Brown. Now, Drake fans are debating whether or not the Certified Lover Boy has reached Jackson’s status.ย
With the release of Drake’s sixth album, he broke not just record sale numbers, but he also made history with streaming numbers. The album had 744 million streams within its first week. It did well on the Billboard charts also. Nine of the songs from the album stood in the Top 10 on the Billboard 100, the most ever Top 10 singles from one album of any artist. Jackson held the previous record with seven for his 1982 album Thriller. The success extended throughout the Jackson family with Jackson’s younger sister Janet having similar success with her 1989 album Rhythm Nation 1814.ย
Videos by PopCulture.com
Now, Drake stans are comparing his record-breaking moment to that of Jackson’s. However, not everyone agrees and the commentary on social media is brutal.ย
MJ is the King
This Twitter user gives a rundown of things synonymous with MJ’s star power. He doesn’t list any for Drake.
MJ is simply untouchable
This Twitter user says Drake doesn’t have enough star power to even be put in the same category as MJ. MJ famously told one interviewer that he stopped frequenting clubs because he couldn’t enjoy the scene due to his popularity amongst patrons.ย
Drake’s got it easier
One Twitter user says an artist’s success cannot solely be measured in record sales since the music industry has changed so much. Drake and MJ are from two different eras where many believe artists from MJ’s time had to do much more work.
Stop with the jokes
This Twitter user says the debate is pointless. MJ has in the past been compared to a god-like figure or a unicorn.
Drake doesn’t even come close
One Twitter user points out Jackson’s iconic Super Bowl performance where MJ’s introduction garnered continuous cheering. Drake on the other hand has been booed before.ย
Are there drugs involved?
A BOSSIP staffer says someone must be on drugs to compare Drake to Jackson. The staffer also notes that Drake fans haven’t done their homework on MJ.ย