The UK music charts are currently experiencing a vibrant and eclectic shake-up, led by the unexpected triumph of the Netflix smash film soundtrack, KPop Demon Hunters. This animated feature’s musical accompaniment has not only captivated audiences worldwide but is now also making significant history on British soil, marking a fascinating intersection of global entertainment and local music trends. Its remarkable success is a testament to the growing influence of diverse genres in the mainstream.
Leading this charge is the track “Golden” from the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack, which has surged to the coveted number one spot on the singles chart. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first K-pop number one in the UK in an impressive thirteen years. The single, performed by the fictional animated band HUNTR/X, demonstrated remarkable momentum, climbing four places from its previous fourth-place position, solidifying the soundtrack’s immediate impact on the nation’s music landscape.
Beyond its singles chart success, the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack has also achieved a remarkable feat on the albums chart. It proudly holds a sixth consecutive week at the pinnacle of the Official Compilations Chart, according to data from the Official Charts Company. This sustained dominance underscores the soundtrack’s widespread appeal and its deep resonance with fans, proving its enduring popularity long after its April release and the film’s viral global spread.
The impact of KPop Demon Hunters extends even further, with two additional tracks from the soundtrack securing positions within the top 20. “Saja Boys, Andrew Choi and Neckwav’s Your Idol” demonstrated strong upward mobility, climbing four places to reach number 10, while “Soda Pop” also saw a significant jump, ascending six spots to land at number 11. These multiple chart entries highlight the depth of the soundtrack’s quality and the broad appeal of its diverse musical offerings.
Amidst this K-pop phenomenon, the charts also reflected other significant shifts, including US singer Tinashe securing her second top 10 hit with Disco Lines’ remix of “No Broke Boys,” which reached number eight. Furthermore, a poignant tribute to rock icon Ozzy Osbourne, who recently passed away, was evident in the resurgence of his band Black Sabbath’s discography. Tracks like “Paranoid” reaching number 20 and “Iron Man” at number 48 on the singles chart, along with Osbourne’s solo hit “Crazy Train” climbing to number 25, showcased the enduring legacy of the legendary musician.
Meanwhile, Merseyside-based indie rock outfit The K’s celebrated a significant milestone, bagging their first number one album with “Pretty On The Internet.” This album proved to be a multifaceted success, topping the charts as the best-selling vinyl of the week, the most downloaded album, and the leading seller in UK independent record shops, following their prior top five success in 2024 with “I Wonder If The World Knows?”.
The legendary Manchester band Oasis also maintained a strong presence in the UK charts, gearing up for their highly anticipated fourth and fifth performances at London’s Wembley Stadium. The Gallagher brothers’ compilation album, “Time Flies… 1994-2009,” claimed the UK’s most-streamed album of the week at number two, while classic albums like “(What’s The Story) Morning Glory?” and “Definitely Maybe” also secured respectable positions at number three and six, respectively.
Ozzy Osbourne’s continued influence was further evident on the albums chart, as his “Memoirs Of A Madman” compilation re-entered the top 40 at number 32. This marks its first return to the top 40 since its initial release in 2014, underscoring the timeless appeal of his music and the widespread respect for his contributions to rock and metal. The current UK music charts thus paint a dynamic picture of diverse genres and enduring legends coexisting and thriving.
