Michael Jackson, the “King of Pop,” was a global music phenomenon and one of the most influential entertainers in history. Born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, Jackson began his musical career as a child with the Jackson 5 alongside his siblings. His exceptional talent and dynamic stage presence set the stage for an extraordinary solo career.
In the early 1980s, Jackson released a series of groundbreaking albums, including “Off the Wall” and “Thriller.” The latter remains the best-selling album of all time, earning Jackson multiple Grammy Awards and setting new standards for music videos with iconic releases like “Billie Jean” and the title track “Thriller.”
Known for his unparalleled dance moves, including the moonwalk, and his innovative music videos, Michael Jackson transformed the landscape of popular music. His influence extended beyond entertainment, as he was a philanthropist and humanitarian, supporting various charitable causes throughout his life.
Despite controversies in his later years, Jackson’s impact on the music industry and popular culture is enduring. His contributions to pop, R&B, and dance music, along with his unparalleled showmanship, make him an indelible figure in the history of music. Michael Jackson’s legacy lives on through his timeless music and the countless artists he inspired worldwide.
1. Beat It
“Beat It” is one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic and successful songs, released on February 14, 1983, as a single from his sixth studio album, “Thriller.” The song, written and composed by Michael Jackson, features a memorable guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen and showcases Jackson’s ability to seamlessly blend rock and pop elements.
“Beat It” addresses the theme of gang violence and the importance of avoiding unnecessary conflict. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who is advised to “beat it” rather than engage in a street fight, promoting a message of peace and nonviolence.
The song’s musical arrangement is noteworthy for its fusion of rock and R&B, with Eddie Van Halen’s guitar solo being a standout element. The distinctive riff and Van Halen’s virtuoso performance added a rock edge to the track, expanding Michael Jackson’s appeal to a broader audience.
“Beat It” was a commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its music video, directed by Bob Giraldi, became equally iconic. Featuring a memorable dance sequence and a gang confrontation, the video showcased Jackson’s signature choreography and storytelling prowess.
Over the years, “Beat It” has remained a staple in Michael Jackson’s catalog and a symbol of his ability to transcend musical genres. It continues to be celebrated for its cultural impact, musical innovation, and the powerful message it conveys.
2. I’ll Be There
“I’ll Be There” is a classic soul ballad recorded by The Jackson 5, released on August 28, 1970. Written by Berry Gordy, Jr. and Bob West, with the lyrics penned by Hal Davis and Willie Hutch, the song showcases the vocal talents of a young Michael Jackson, who was the lead singer of the group.
The song is a heartfelt expression of love and commitment, with lyrics that convey reassurance and support. Michael Jackson’s emotive delivery, along with the harmonies provided by his brothers, adds a soulful and touching dimension to the track. The Jackson 5’s performance of “I’ll Be There” is often praised for its sincerity and emotional resonance.
“I’ll Be There” quickly became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it the fourth consecutive number-one single for The Jackson 5. The success of the song solidified the group’s status as Motown superstars and showcased Michael Jackson’s vocal range and maturity at a young age.
The enduring popularity of “I’ll Be There” is a testament to its timeless appeal. It remains one of The Jackson 5’s most beloved songs and is considered a classic in the soul and pop music genres. The song’s influence is also evident in its numerous covers and the continued admiration it receives from fans and music enthusiasts around the world.
3. Rock With You
“Rock with You” is a smooth and soulful R&B track by Michael Jackson, released on November 3, 1979. It was one of the singles from his fifth studio album, “Off the Wall.” The song marked a transition in Jackson’s musical style as he moved from the funk-driven sound of his earlier work to a more polished, adult-oriented contemporary R&B sound.
Written by British songwriter Rod Temperton, “Rock with You” features a laid-back groove and an infectious melody. The song’s lyrics express a desire for a romantic connection and an invitation to share a dance together. Michael Jackson’s silky vocals, combined with the polished production, contribute to the song’s overall sensual and feel-good vibe.
“Rock with You” became a major success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its success played a pivotal role in establishing Michael Jackson as a solo artist with widespread appeal. The song’s accompanying music video, featuring Jackson in a glittery outfit against a cosmic backdrop, complemented the dreamy and enchanting atmosphere of the track.
Decades after its release, “Rock with You” remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its smooth melodies and Jackson’s effortless vocal delivery. The song has endured as a favorite among fans and is often regarded as one of the standout tracks in Michael Jackson’s illustrious career.
4. Smooth Criminal
“Smooth Criminal” is a signature song by Michael Jackson, released on October 24, 1988, as the seventh single from his seventh studio album, “Bad.” Written and composed by Michael Jackson himself, the song is notable for its distinctive bassline, catchy melody, and the iconic “hee-hee” vocalization that became synonymous with Jackson’s style.
The lyrics of “Smooth Criminal” tell the story of a woman named Annie who has been violently attacked in her apartment by a “smooth” assailant. The song’s music video features Jackson’s famous anti-gravity lean, achieved through a specially designed shoe and a harness, and showcases his trademark precision in dance choreography.
Musically, “Smooth Criminal” incorporates a fusion of pop, rock, and funk elements, highlighted by the prominent bassline played by Jerry Hey. The song’s rhythm and infectious beat contribute to its danceable quality, making it a favorite on dance floors around the world.
“Smooth Criminal” received critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song’s popularity was further boosted by its inclusion in the 1988 film “Moonwalker,” a feature film starring Michael Jackson. The enduring appeal of “Smooth Criminal” is evident in its continued presence in popular culture and its status as one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic and recognizable songs.
5. Thriller
“Thriller” is the title track and one of the most iconic songs from Michael Jackson’s sixth studio album, released on November 30, 1982. The album, also titled “Thriller,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest and best-selling albums of all time. The song “Thriller” was written by Rod Temperton and features narration by actor Vincent Price.
The “Thriller” music video, directed by John Landis, is especially notable for its elaborate dance routines, special effects, and narrative that draws inspiration from horror films. The iconic dance sequence featuring the zombie dance, choreographed by Michael Jackson and Michael Peters, became one of the most famous and imitated routines in music history.
Released as a single on January 23, 1984, the song “Thriller” became a cultural phenomenon. Its distinctive sound, a blend of pop, funk, and rock, contributed to its widespread appeal. The song’s chilling lyrics and atmospheric production, combined with Jackson’s dynamic vocal performance, added to its allure.
The “Thriller” album and its titular track broke numerous records, including becoming the best-selling album of all time. The music video, with its groundbreaking special effects, played a crucial role in elevating the status of music videos as an art form.
Decades after its release, “Thriller” remains a Halloween staple and a pop culture touchstone. The album and its title track continue to influence and inspire generations of musicians, and the iconic dance remains a symbol of Michael Jackson’s enduring impact on the music industry.
6. Dirty Diana
“Dirty Diana” is a rock-influenced song by Michael Jackson, released as the fifth single from his seventh studio album, “Bad,” in 1988. Written and composed by Michael Jackson himself, the song stands out for its powerful guitar riffs and a more aggressive sound compared to some of Jackson’s previous works.
The lyrics of “Dirty Diana” tell the story of a groupie who is determined to seduce and be close to a rock star, referred to as “Dirty Diana.” The song explores themes of fame, desire, and the challenges that come with being in the spotlight. The driving force of the song is the prominent guitar work, featuring a memorable solo by Steve Stevens.
“Dirty Diana” was well-received, and its rock-oriented sound showcased a different side of Michael Jackson’s musical versatility. The song performed well on the charts, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Despite its success, “Dirty Diana” also generated some controversy, as the subject matter and the rock sound marked a departure from Jackson’s more pop-oriented hits.
The song remains a notable part of Michael Jackson’s discography, adding a rock edge to his repertoire and showcasing his ability to experiment with various musical styles. “Dirty Diana” stands as a testament to Jackson’s artistic evolution and his willingness to push boundaries in his music.
7. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is a funky and infectious disco song by Michael Jackson, released as the first single from his fifth studio album, “Off the Wall,” in 1979. The song, written and composed by Michael Jackson himself, marks a pivotal moment in his career as it signaled his departure from the Jackson 5 and Motown and showcased his emergence as a solo force in the music industry.
“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is characterized by its danceable groove, energetic tempo, and Jackson’s trademark falsetto vocals. The song is a celebration of the joy of music and dancing, and its title encapsulates the spirit of the disco era.
The song was a commercial success, topping the charts and earning Michael Jackson his first Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. Its success helped set the stage for the even greater achievements of his subsequent album, “Thriller.”
The music video for “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” features Michael Jackson showcasing his dance moves, including his signature spins and footwork. The song’s combination of infectious rhythm and Jackson’s dynamic performance style contributed to its lasting popularity and status as a classic in the disco and pop genres.
8. Billie Jean
“Billie Jean” is one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic and successful songs, released on January 2, 1983, as the second single from his sixth studio album, “Thriller.” Written and composed by Michael Jackson, the song features a distinctive bassline and a captivating melody that helped define the sound of the early 1980s.
The lyrics of “Billie Jean” tell the story of a woman named Billie Jean who claims that the narrator is the father of her son. Jackson’s smooth and emotive vocals, combined with the song’s compelling narrative, create a sense of drama and intrigue.
One of the most notable elements of “Billie Jean” is its groundbreaking music video, directed by Steve Barron. The video features Jackson’s signature dance moves, including the iconic moonwalk, and innovative visual effects. The success of the “Billie Jean” video played a crucial role in establishing music videos as an essential aspect of an artist’s work.
The song was a massive commercial success, topping the charts around the world and earning Michael Jackson two Grammy Awards. The bassline, played by Louis Johnson, became instantly recognizable, and the song’s impact on popular culture is enduring.
“Billie Jean” remains a classic and is often cited as one of the greatest pop songs of all time. Its influence extends beyond music, with its cultural impact and the groundbreaking nature of its music video contributing to Michael Jackson’s legacy as the “King of Pop.”
9. I Want You Back
“I Want You Back” is a classic Motown song and the debut single by The Jackson 5, released on October 7, 1969. The song marked the beginning of the Jackson 5’s career and introduced the world to the youthful and dynamic voice of a young Michael Jackson.
Written and produced by The Corporation, a team of Motown songwriters and producers, “I Want You Back” is a lively and infectious track that captures the exuberance of young love. The song’s catchy melody, energetic arrangement, and Michael Jackson’s soulful lead vocals helped it become an instant hit.
“I Want You Back” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in early 1970. It was the first of four consecutive number-one hits for The Jackson 5. The song’s success catapulted the group to international stardom and established Michael Jackson as a charismatic frontman with a remarkable vocal range.
Decades after its release, “I Want You Back” remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its joyful and youthful energy. The song is a staple in pop and Motown music history, showcasing the extraordinary talent of the Jackson 5 and setting the stage for Michael Jackson’s later solo success.
10. Black Or White
“Black or White” is a rock-infused pop song by Michael Jackson, released as the lead single from his eighth studio album, “Dangerous,” on November 11, 1991. The song was written and composed by Michael Jackson and co-produced with Bill Bottrell.
“Black or White” addresses themes of racial harmony and unity, with lyrics that emphasize the importance of looking beyond skin color. The song features a powerful and anthemic chorus, reflecting Jackson’s message of love and equality. The track blends various musical styles, including rock, pop, and hip-hop elements, showcasing Jackson’s ability to experiment with different genres.
The accompanying music video for “Black or White” was notable for its innovative use of morphing technology, seamlessly transforming faces of people from different ethnicities. The video also featured a diverse array of cultural references and performances by guitarist Slash of Guns N’ Roses. Premiering simultaneously in 27 countries, the video attracted a massive global audience.
“Black or White” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in many countries, including the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. The song’s positive message and infectious sound contributed to its widespread popularity. Despite some controversy surrounding the video’s final scenes, “Black or White” remains an important part of Michael Jackson’s legacy, reflecting his commitment to breaking down racial barriers through the universal language of music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
