THE PARADOX MAKES BILLBOARD HISTORY FIRST ALL BLACK NO 1 HIT — Quick Facts
The Paradox became the first all-Black band to hit number 1 on Billboard's Alternative Airplay chart on January 24, 2026, breaking a decades-long barrier in rock radio. Formed in Atlanta in June 2024, the quartet built momentum through viral TikTok success and endorsements from Travis Barker, Green Day, and Lil Nas X, signaling a structural shift in how alternative rock gatekeepers recognize and promote Black artists.
Key Data Points
- The Paradox hit number 1 on Billboard Alternative Airplay on January 24, 2026, becoming the first all-Black band to top the chart in the genre's history.
- Their viral TikTok performance of 'Do Me Like That' accumulated nearly 10 million views, launching them from formation in June 2024 to mainstream recognition by early 2026.
- Travis Barker featured on and produced 'Bender'; Green Day invited them to headline Truist Park; Jack White and Lil Nas X endorsed them, creating a rare convergence of alternative-rock and hip-hop gatekeepers.
- 'Get the Message' generated 3.4 million audience impressions on Rock & Alternative Airplay while charting at number 9, demonstrating cross-genre radio penetration.
- The band attributes success to 'doing a genre that not a lot of people are doing right now, especially people who look like us,' directly addressing the gatekeeping problem in alternative rock.
Frequently Asked
- When did The Paradox hit number 1 on Alternative Airplay?
- The Paradox reached number 1 on Billboard's Alternative Airplay chart on January 24, 2026. Their track 'Get the Message' remains at number 5 as of February 21, 2026.
- How did The Paradox build their initial fanbase?
- A backyard performance of 'Do Me Like That' went viral on TikTok, accumulating nearly 10 million views. The track peaked at number 4 on Alternative Digital Song Sales, and the band reached number 47 on Emerging Artists before securing major co-signs.
- Who are the members of The Paradox?
- The Atlanta-based quartet consists of Eric Dangerfield, Donald Bryant, Christopher 'Xelan' Bernard, and Percy 'PC3' Crews. They formed in June 2024.
- What major artists have supported The Paradox?
- Travis Barker of Blink-182 featured on and produced their track 'Bender.' Green Day invited them to open at Truist Park in their hometown. Jack White and Lil Nas X have also publicly endorsed the band.
- Where can I find The Paradox's music?
- Their six-song EP NSFW was released in September 2025 via Hundred Days Records. 'Do Me Like That' has accumulated 10 million Spotify streams and appears on SiriusXM's alternative-rock charts.