Jack Black’s ‘Minecraft’ Single Isn’t Just A Hit, It’s A Historic Win

Jack Black has scored a truly unexpected win thanks to A Minecraft Movie. The film features the tune “Steve’s Lava Chicken,” which has been rising in popularity for a few weeks, but it’s no longer just a hit among those who adore the largely animated film. It’s quickly spreading beyond its original fanbase and as of this week, has landed a spot on the most competitive ranking in the United States.

“Steve’s Lava Chicken” Reaches the Hot 100

“Steve’s Lava Chicken” starts its run on the Hot 100 at No. 77. It reaches the all-genre ranking largely thanks to a massive surge in streams, as fans have flocked to hear the quirky track outside of the movie theater. The tune’s arrival marks a special –and historic – win for Black.

The Shortest Song Ever to Hit the Hot 100

Clocking in at a mere 34 seconds, “Steve’s Lava Chicken” now holds the record as the shortest song to ever appear on the Hot 100, according to Billboard. It narrowly beats the previous record holder, by just three seconds. Kid Cudi’s “Beautiful Trip,” which runs 37 seconds, peaked at No. 100 in late 2020.

One of Three Under-One-Minute Hits

“Steve’s Lava Chicken” joins an extremely exclusive club as it hits the tally. It’s now one of just three songs that clock in at under a minute long to ever reach the Hot 100. In addition to Kid Cudi’s “Beautiful Trip,” there’s also “PPAP (Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen)” by Pikotaro. That viral novelty hit, which arrived in 2016, is just 45 seconds long.

Interestingly, “PPAP” also peaked at No. 77, the same starting point for “Steve’s Lava Chicken.” That coincidence may not hold for long, as Black’s cut could climb even higher in the coming frames.

Jack Black Has Now Landed Two Hot 100 Solo Smashes

While Black is primarily known for his work as part of the comedic rock duo Tenacious D, he’s slowly building a Hot 100 career under his own name. “Steve’s Lava Chicken” marks his second solo appearance on the tally. His first came courtesy of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, when “Peaches” — performed by Black as Bowser — became something of a surprise smash.

“Peaches” rose as high as No. 56 in April 2023, giving Black a genuine charting hit tied to the animated feature. Now, with A Minecraft Movie’s “Steve’s Lava Chicken” climbing as well, it seems he’s found a winning formula: an animated blockbuster, a comedic musical number, and undeniable chart success.

ForbesJack Black’s ‘Minecraft’ Single Debuts Inside The Top 10By Hugh McIntyre