Stray Kids have achieved a remarkable feat in the music industry, solidifying their status as a global phenomenon. Their latest album, "This & That", has not only topped the Billboard 200 chart but also shattered sales records, marking a significant milestone in their career.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is the sheer volume of sales. With 369,000 equivalent album units, and a staggering 357,000 traditional album sales, "This & That" has become their ninth No. 1 on the Billboard 200. This places them in an exclusive club, tying them with the legendary Rolling Stones for the second-most No. 1s among groups in the chart's history, just behind the iconic Beatles. The fact that they achieved this in just two years since their first No. 1 is a testament to their rapid rise to stardom and the unwavering support of their dedicated fan base.
The impact of "This & That" extends beyond the charts. It has become the sixth-largest week for an album in 2026 and the second-largest by traditional album sales, following the debut of BTS' "Arirang" in March. This indicates a strong demand for physical albums, a trend that has been somewhat overshadowed by the digital music era. It's a reminder that the traditional album sales model still holds significant value and can drive substantial commercial success.
Stray Kids' success is not a fluke. Their ability to consistently deliver chart-topping albums and maintain a dedicated fan base is a result of their exceptional talent, hard work, and a deep connection with their audience. The group's previous album, "Oddinary", also achieved a No. 1 spot, and their follow-up, "Hop", debuted with six entries at the top spot. This consistent performance has solidified their place in the K-pop landscape and beyond.
The competition in the music industry is fierce, with other artists making their mark. Ariana Grande's "Petal" dropped from No. 1 to 2 in its second week, earning 82,000 equivalent album units. Olivia Rodrigo's "You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love" held steady at No. 3, while Ella Langley's "Dandelion" and Morgan Wallen's "I'm the Problem" rounded out the top 5. Noah Kahan's "The Great Divide" and Pooh Shiesty's "All Eyes on Shiest" made their debut at No. 7 and 8, respectively. Karol G's "No Me Arrepiento de Sentir Tanto" bowed at No. 8, and Drake's "Iceman" slid from No. 6 to 9. Role Model's "Chuck Timely & the Hourglass" bowed at No. 10 with 38,500 equivalent album units.
Stray Kids' success story is a testament to the power of hard work, talent, and a genuine connection with fans. Their ability to consistently deliver chart-topping albums and maintain a dedicated fan base is a rare and admirable achievement in the music industry. As they continue to break records and captivate audiences worldwide, one can only anticipate even greater success and a lasting impact on the global music scene.
