Jack Black has made history in the UK music charts with his latest single, "Steve’s Lava Chicken," from the blockbuster film A Minecraft Movie. The song, which clocks in at a mere 34 seconds, has officially become the shortest song ever to enter the UK Top 40, surpassing the previous record held by Jonny Trunk and Wisbey's "The Ladies’ Bras," which lasted 36 seconds. This record-breaking achievement was announced on April 18, 2025, as the track climbed to number 21 on the charts.
The whimsical nature of "Steve’s Lava Chicken" has resonated with fans, particularly those of the film, which has already made waves at the box office. A Minecraft Movie has grossed an impressive $570 million globally, making it the highest-grossing film of 2025 so far. The film has not only captivated audiences but also sparked a unique trend in cinemas where fans have been known to react vocally and energetically to certain lines, such as ‘chicken jockey.’
Jack Black, who voices the character Steve in the movie, expressed his excitement about the song’s success. He stated, “I just heard that Steve’s Lava Chicken has cracked the UK Top 40. I want to send big love to all the Minecraft fans for getting us up there – it’s insane! Love you!” His enthusiasm reflects the overwhelming support from the fanbase, which has propelled the song to its historic position.
Prior to this achievement, the record for the shortest song to chart was held by Jonny Trunk and Wisbey's "The Ladies’ Bras," which peaked at number 27 in 2007. The quirky track features a catchy chorus that humorously repeats the phrase about ladies’ undergarments. Now, with "Steve’s Lava Chicken" reaching number 21, Black has not only broken the record but has also secured his highest charting solo song to date, surpassing his previous hit "Peaches" from 2023’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which peaked at number 27.
In addition to his solo endeavors, Black has previously found success with his band Tenacious D, with tracks like "POD" reaching number 24 and "Wonderboy" hitting number 34. However, "Steve’s Lava Chicken" marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to connect with the audience through humor and catchy tunes.
The success of A Minecraft Movie has been nothing short of phenomenal. During its opening weekend, the film raked in $301 million worldwide, exceeding all expectations. In the United States alone, it earned $157 million, while international markets contributed an additional $144 million. The film follows a group of misfits who are transported into the Overworld, a fantastical realm filled with adventure and creativity, and features Black’s character singing about the joys of cooking chicken with lava.
Despite some critics expressing confusion over the film’s appeal, it has become a cultural sensation among fans of the game. The film has been filled with references that resonate with the gaming community, including nods to beloved characters and elements from the Minecraft universe. This connection has resulted in packed theaters and enthusiastic audiences, although some cinemas have had to issue warnings about unruly behavior, including fans throwing popcorn and shouting during screenings.
In the broader music landscape, the charts have seen notable movements this week. Alex Warren’s song "Ordinary" has become the longest-running number one single of 2025, maintaining its position at the top for five consecutive weeks. Meanwhile, Welsh rock band Those Damn Crows have achieved their first UK number one album with "God Shaped Hole," marking a significant milestone in their career.
As the music charts continue to evolve, Jack Black’s "Steve’s Lava Chicken" stands out not only for its brevity but also for its infectious spirit and connection to a beloved franchise. The song’s success is a testament to the power of pop culture and its ability to transcend traditional boundaries, bringing together fans of music and gaming in a unique celebration of creativity.
With the ongoing popularity of A Minecraft Movie, it remains to be seen how long the hype will last, but for now, Jack Black has solidified his place in music history with this record-breaking track. As audiences continue to flock to theaters and stream the catchy tune, Black’s playful approach to music and film is sure to leave a lasting impression.
