Diamond Milestone: Sean Paul's Chart-Topping Collaboration with Sia Achieves Diamond Certification
Dancehall sensation Sean Paul has achieved a significant milestone in his career, receiving his first-ever Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for his hit collaboration with Sia, "Cheap Thrills." The song has been certified 11X Platinum, surpassing the 10-million-unit threshold required for Diamond status. This achievement marks a new high for Sean Paul, who has previously earned multiple Platinum certifications for his chart-topping singles.
Sean Paul's impressive catalog of hits includes Platinum-certified tracks like "Bailando" with Enrique Iglesias, "Temperature," "Rockabye" with Clean Bandit, and "Do You Remember" with Jay Sean and Lil John. While he has enjoyed success with these songs, "Cheap Thrills" stands out as his first single to reach Diamond status in the U.S. For Sia, this marks her second Diamond certification, following her solo hit "Chandelier."
Originally written for Rihanna's Anti album, "Cheap Thrills" found its home on Sia's album This Is Acting after being turned down. The collaboration with Sean Paul added a unique Jamaican flair to the synth-pop track, propelling it to the top of the charts. The song became Sia's first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 and Sean Paul's fourth chart-topper, marking a significant milestone for both artists.
Despite their global success with "Cheap Thrills," Sean Paul and Sia have never met in person. Their remote collaboration on the single "Dynamite" for Paul's Scorcha album in 2021 further showcased their musical chemistry. The song's enduring popularity and critical acclaim have solidified their places in music history.
In the competitive music industry, achieving Diamond certification is a rare feat, especially for Jamaican-connected acts. Major Lazer, with their hit "Lean On," and reggae legend Bob Marley, with his compilation album "Legend: The Best Of Bob Marley and the Wailers," have also reached Diamond status in the U.S. market. While Shaggy has yet to receive a Diamond certification, his album "Hot Shot" has achieved impressive sales figures, highlighting the enduring appeal of Jamaican music on the global stage.
The success of "Cheap Thrills" not only showcases Sean Paul and Sia's talent but also underscores the power of collaboration in creating chart-topping hits. As they continue to make music that resonates with audiences worldwide, their legacy in the music industry is sure to endure for years to come.