Michael Jackson, the undisputed King of Pop, left an indelible mark on the world of music with his innovative style, electrifying performances, and unparalleled talent. Throughout his career, Jackson created numerous hit songs that have stood the test of time, captivating audiences across generations. His music transcended genres, blending elements of pop, rock, soul, and R&B to create a sound that was uniquely his own. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best Michael Jackson songs of all time, each one a testament to his incredible artistry and enduring legacy.
1. Billie Jean
“Billie Jean” is a groundbreaking song that epitomizes Michael Jackson’s genius as a songwriter, performer, and innovator. Released as a single from his iconic album “Thriller,” the song features a pulsing bassline, infectious drum groove, and Jackson’s signature vocal style. The lyrics tell the story of a woman claiming that Jackson is the father of her child, showcasing his ability to craft compelling narratives through his music. The song’s memorable chorus, with its catchy “Billie Jean is not my lover” refrain, has become an indelible part of pop culture. “Billie Jean” also marked a significant moment in music history, as its accompanying music video, featuring Jackson’s mesmerizing dance moves and iconic moonwalk, revolutionized the medium and set a new standard for the industry. The song’s enduring popularity, both as a radio staple and a dancefloor favorite, is a testament to Jackson’s unparalleled ability to create music that is both timeless and innovative.
2. Thriller
“Thriller” is a masterpiece of pop music that showcases Michael Jackson’s unrivaled talent as a songwriter, performer, and visionary. The title track from his groundbreaking album of the same name, “Thriller” features a haunting, cinematic introduction, followed by a pulsing, danceable beat and Jackson’s dynamic vocal performance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a nightmarish scenario, with references to horror film tropes and the supernatural. The song’s iconic chorus, with its memorable “Thriller night” refrain and Vincent Price’s chilling narration, has become a staple of Halloween celebrations worldwide. “Thriller” also boasts one of the most famous music videos of all time, a 14-minute short film that showcased Jackson’s incredible dance skills and revolutionized the music video industry. The video’s zombie dance sequence has been endlessly imitated and parodied, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. “Thriller” remains a testament to Jackson’s boundless creativity and his ability to push the boundaries of what was possible in popular music.
3. Man in the Mirror
“Man in the Mirror” is a powerful, socially conscious ballad that showcases Michael Jackson’s ability to use his music as a force for change and inspiration. Released as a single from his album “Bad,” the song features a gospel-inspired arrangement, with soaring backing vocals and a stirring melody that builds to an emotional crescendo. The lyrics encourage listeners to look within themselves and make a positive change in the world, with Jackson’s impassioned vocals driving home the message of personal responsibility and empowerment. The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated refrain of “I’m starting with the man in the mirror,” has become an anthem for social justice and self-improvement. “Man in the Mirror” also features a poignant spoken-word section, in which Jackson reflects on the state of the world and the need for compassion and understanding. The song’s enduring popularity and its message of hope and unity continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as one of Jackson’s most important and impactful works.
4. Beat It
“Beat It” is a groundbreaking fusion of rock and pop that showcases Michael Jackson’s versatility as a songwriter and performer. Released as a single from his album “Thriller,” the song features a driving, guitar-heavy arrangement, with Eddie Van Halen’s iconic guitar solo and Jackson’s powerful vocal performance. The lyrics tell the story of a young man facing pressure to join a gang, with Jackson’s defiant vocals urging him to stand up for himself and walk away from violence. The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated “Beat it” refrain, has become a staple of pop culture and a favorite of karaoke enthusiasts worldwide. “Beat It” also boasts a groundbreaking music video, featuring Jackson leading a group of dancers in a high-energy, choreographed street fight. The video’s mix of dancing and fighting has been endlessly imitated and parodied, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. “Beat It” remains a testament to Jackson’s ability to blend genres and create music that is both thrilling and socially relevant.
5. Smooth Criminal
“Smooth Criminal” is a sleek, cinematic masterpiece that showcases Michael Jackson’s unparalleled talent as a songwriter, performer, and dancer. Released as a single from his album “Bad,” the song features a pulsing, synth-heavy arrangement, with Jackson’s smooth, confident vocals and a memorable horn riff. The lyrics tell the story of a mysterious woman named Annie, who has been attacked by an unknown assailant, with Jackson’s vocals painting a vivid picture of the crime scene. The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated “Annie, are you OK?” refrain, has become a staple of pop culture and a favorite of dance enthusiasts worldwide. “Smooth Criminal” also boasts a groundbreaking music video, featuring Jackson and a group of dancers performing an intricate, highly choreographed routine in a 1930s-style speakeasy. The video’s use of special effects, including Jackson’s iconic “anti-gravity lean,” has been endlessly imitated and parodied, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. “Smooth Criminal” remains a testament to Jackson’s boundless creativity and his ability to create music that is both thrilling and visually stunning.
6. Black or White
“Black or White” is a powerful, socially conscious anthem that showcases Michael Jackson’s ability to use his music as a force for unity and racial harmony. Released as a single from his album “Dangerous,” the song features a driving, rock-inspired arrangement, with Jackson’s passionate vocals and a memorable rap verse by L.T.B. The lyrics promote a message of racial equality and acceptance, with Jackson urging listeners to look beyond superficial differences and embrace our common humanity. The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated “It don’t matter if you’re black or white” refrain, has become a rallying cry for social justice and a favorite of activists worldwide. “Black or White” also boasts a groundbreaking music video, featuring Jackson dancing with people of various cultures and races, as well as a controversial final sequence in which he smashes windows and transforms into a panther. The video’s mix of social commentary and special effects has been endlessly analyzed and debated, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. “Black or White” remains a testament to Jackson’s unwavering commitment to using his music as a force for positive change.
7. Rock with You
“Rock with You” is a smooth, infectious disco classic that showcases Michael Jackson’s unparalleled talent as a vocalist and dancer. Released as a single from his album “Off the Wall,” the song features a lush, string-laden arrangement, with Jackson’s silky vocals and a memorable guitar riff. The lyrics celebrate the joy and freedom of dance, with Jackson inviting his lover to “rock with you, all night.” The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated “I wanna rock with you” refrain, has become a staple of dance floors and a favorite of disco enthusiasts worldwide. “Rock with You” also boasts a simple yet effective music video, featuring Jackson performing the song in a sparkly jumpsuit against a starry backdrop. The video’s focus on Jackson’s dance moves and charisma has been widely praised, cementing its status as a classic of the genre. “Rock with You” remains a testament to Jackson’s ability to create music that is both timeless and irresistibly danceable.
8. The Way You Make Me Feel
“The Way You Make Me Feel” is a smooth, romantic ballad that showcases Michael Jackson’s ability to create music that is both sensual and uplifting. Released as a single from his album “Bad,” the song features a soft, understated arrangement, with Jackson’s tender vocals and a gentle, pulsing beat. The lyrics express the joy and excitement of falling in love, with Jackson singing about the transformative power of his lover’s presence. The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated “The way you make me feel” refrain, has become a staple of romantic playlists and a favorite of couples worldwide. “The Way You Make Me Feel” also boasts a charming music video, featuring Jackson pursuing a beautiful woman through the streets of a city, culminating in a joyful, impromptu dance party. The video’s mix of romance and humor has been widely praised, cementing its status as a classic of the genre. “The Way You Make Me Feel” remains a testament to Jackson’s ability to create music that is both intimate and universally relatable.
9. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is a funky, infectious disco classic that showcases Michael Jackson’s unparalleled talent as a vocalist and dancer. Released as a single from his album “Off the Wall,” the song features a lively, string-laden arrangement, with Jackson’s energetic vocals and a memorable horn section. The lyrics celebrate the joy and freedom of dance, with Jackson urging listeners to keep moving and grooving until they’ve had their fill. The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated “Keep on with the force, don’t stop” refrain, has become a staple of dance floors and a favorite of disco enthusiasts worldwide. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” also boasts a simple yet effective music video, featuring Jackson performing the song in a shiny, black suit against a colorful backdrop. The video’s focus on Jackson’s dance moves and infectious energy has been widely praised, cementing its status as a classic of the genre. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” remains a testament to Jackson’s ability to create music that is both timeless and irresistibly danceable.
10. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’
“Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” is a funky, socially conscious anthem that showcases Michael Jackson’s ability to create music that is both danceable and thought-provoking. Released as a single from his album “Thriller,” the song features a lively, percussion-heavy arrangement, with Jackson’s energetic vocals and a memorable chant section. The lyrics address themes of gossip, rumor-mongering, and the media’s obsession with celebrity scandal, with Jackson urging listeners to focus on more important issues. The song’s memorable chorus, with its repeated “Mama-say, mama-sa, ma-ma-ko-ssa” chant, has become a cultural touchstone and a favorite of music lovers worldwide. “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” also boasts a simple yet effective music video, featuring Jackson performing the song live on stage, showcasing his incredible dance moves and magnetic stage presence. The video’s raw energy and Jackson’s undeniable charisma have been widely praised, cementing its status as a classic of the genre. “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” remains a testament to Jackson’s ability to create music that is both irresistibly catchy and socially relevant.
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.
