Stray Kids' 'This & That' Dominates Billboard's New Music Poll: A Triumph of Fan Power
In a landslide victory, Stray Kids' latest mini album, 'This & That', has emerged as the clear favorite among music enthusiasts, capturing an impressive 85% of the votes in Billboard's recent poll. This achievement is all the more remarkable considering the week's diverse musical offerings, including releases from Karol G, Madonna, and FLO. The poll, conducted from August 7th to 9th, 2026, showcases the power of fan engagement and the impact it can have on an artist's success.
What makes 'This & That' stand out is its catchy and anthemic title track, which has already garnered over 62 million views on YouTube. The album's opening track, 'RUN IT', sets the tone for the rest of the collection, with the self-assured 'This & That' following suit. The song's memorable refrain, 'this & that, this & that', is sure to linger in listeners' minds long after they've heard it. The album's other tracks, including 'After You', 'FARMING', 'I Do', 'Way Out', and 'Back Then', further contribute to its appeal, offering a diverse range of sounds and themes.
Stray Kids' success on the Billboard charts is not new. Their previous albums, 'ODDINARY' and 'DO IT', both debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 in 2022 and 2025, respectively. This consistent performance highlights the group's ability to connect with their fans and create music that resonates with a wide audience. The poll's results, however, also underscore the importance of fan engagement and the power of social media in shaping musical trends.
The poll's second place was taken by Karol G's 'No Me Arrepiento de Sentir Tanto', followed by Madonna and Kylie Minogue's 'Love Sensation' remix. These results demonstrate that while fan support is crucial, the quality and originality of the music itself also play a significant role in determining an artist's success. As Stray Kids continues to dominate the charts and captivate audiences worldwide, it will be fascinating to see how their fan base continues to grow and influence the music industry.
In my opinion, the success of 'This & That' is a testament to the power of fan-artist connection. It's not just about the music; it's about the community and the shared experience that fans create. As an artist, it's essential to recognize and nurture this relationship, as it can lead to long-lasting success and a dedicated fan base. The music industry is ever-evolving, and the role of fans in shaping its trajectory is undeniable. Stray Kids' triumph is a reminder that, in the end, it's the fans who truly make the music industry tick.
