Few artists have left a legacy as monumental as Michael Jackson, the undisputed “King of Pop.” With his unparalleled talent, groundbreaking creativity, and electrifying stage presence, Jackson redefined what it means to be a global superstar. From the moment he stepped onto the scene as a child prodigy with The Jackson 5 to his record-shattering solo career, Michael Jackson became a cultural icon whose music continues to inspire generations.
His songs were more than just chart-toppers—they were cultural phenomena, blending genres like pop, rock, R&B, and funk into timeless masterpieces. Whether he was delivering heartfelt ballads, high-energy dance anthems, or socially conscious messages, Jackson had an uncanny ability to connect with audiences on a universal level. His music videos revolutionized the art form, turning them into cinematic experiences, and his signature dance moves, like the Moonwalk, became legendary.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through the top 10 most popular Michael Jackson songs of all time. These tracks not only dominated the charts but also left an indelible mark on music history. From the disco grooves of the late ’70s to the genre-defying hits of the ’80s and ’90s, these songs showcase why Michael Jackson remains a musical icon for the ages.
1. Billie Jean (1983)
Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” is undeniably one of the most recognizable songs in music history. Released in January 1983 as part of his groundbreaking Thriller album, the song’s infectious bassline, haunting lyrics, and Jackson’s iconic vocal delivery made it an instant hit. Telling the story of a woman who falsely accuses the narrator of fathering her child, “Billie Jean” mixes personal storytelling with a universal message of caution. The song became an instant classic, shattering barriers and becoming one of the first music videos by a Black artist to be aired on MTV, helping to propel Jackson into superstardom. Its live performance at the Motown 25 special, where Jackson debuted his famous Moonwalk, solidified “Billie Jean” as more than just a song—it became a cultural phenomenon.
2. Thriller (1982)
Released in November 1982, “Thriller” transcended music to become a global event. Featuring Vincent Price’s eerie spoken-word outro and a danceable, funk-driven groove, it brilliantly combines pop and horror, turning the genre into an art form. The accompanying music video, directed by John Landis, revolutionized the music video format by combining cinematic storytelling and elaborate choreography, making it more than just a promotional tool. Its spooky, cinematic quality and unforgettable imagery made “Thriller” synonymous with Halloween for generations. Beyond the chills and thrills, “Thriller” cemented Michael Jackson’s reputation for pushing creative boundaries, helping the album of the same name become the best-selling record of all time.
3. Beat It (1983)
When Michael Jackson released “Beat It” in February 1983, it was more than just a hit—it was a powerful message against gang violence. Featuring the legendary Eddie Van Halen on guitar, the track fused rock and pop in a groundbreaking way, showing Jackson’s ability to bridge genres like no other artist. Jackson’s vocal performance is full of raw energy, delivering an empowering message about courage and standing up to violence. The music video, which famously depicts rival gangs coming together to dance, became iconic for its bold storytelling and choreography. “Beat It” earned two Grammy Awards and solidified Jackson’s role as an artist who could transcend genres and captivate both rock and pop audiences alike.
4. Smooth Criminal (1987)
“Smooth Criminal,” from Michael Jackson’s Bad album, was released in November 1987 and became one of his most thrilling songs. The track’s fast-paced rhythm, pulsating beat, and innovative synth-driven sound create a sense of urgency that perfectly complements the suspenseful narrative about a woman named Annie who is in danger. The music video, with Jackson’s famous gravity-defying lean, became an instant classic, cementing “Smooth Criminal” as a fan favorite. The sleek, futuristic production and Jackson’s magnetic storytelling abilities made it a standout track, one that would remain iconic in the pop music landscape.
5. Man in the Mirror (1988)
Released in January 1988, “Man in the Mirror” marked a deeply introspective moment in Michael Jackson’s career. Unlike his usual dance tracks, this song tackled themes of social responsibility, urging listeners to look inward and make a change for the better. Jackson’s powerful delivery, paired with a gospel-like choir that swells toward the end of the track, makes it one of his most emotionally impactful songs. The message of empathy, personal growth, and the call to act for the greater good resonates to this day. “Man in the Mirror” stands as a testament to Jackson’s legacy as an artist who not only entertained but inspired change.
6. Bad (1987)
The title track from Michael Jackson’s Bad album, released in August 1987, is an anthem of confidence and self-empowerment. Blending pop, funk, and R&B, “Bad” became an instant classic, showcasing Jackson’s evolving sound and artistic maturity. The music video, directed by Martin Scorsese, features Jackson as a street-smart leader surrounded by equally powerful imagery and iconic choreography. With its upbeat energy and swaggering tone, “Bad” is both a personal statement and a declaration to the world that Michael Jackson was not just a pop star—he was a cultural force who could redefine what it meant to be a superstar.
7. Black or White (1991)
When Michael Jackson released “Black or White” in November 1991, the song quickly became an anthem for racial unity. The track’s blend of rock guitar riffs, hip-hop beats, and Jackson’s signature vocals created a genre-crossing sound that captured the essence of his ability to innovate. The music video, directed by John Landis, broke new ground with its revolutionary morphing technology, showcasing Jackson’s commitment to pushing visual boundaries. The song’s theme of tolerance and racial equality resonated deeply with listeners around the world, and its infectious energy made it one of Jackson’s most impactful hits.
8. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough (1979)
“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” released in July 1979, was the track that catapulted Michael Jackson into solo stardom. A disco-funk masterpiece with irresistible grooves and an infectious falsetto, the song showcased Jackson’s ability to blend emotional depth with danceable rhythms. Written by Jackson himself, the track is full of joy and energy, a clear precursor to his future hits. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” earned Jackson his first Grammy Award and marked the beginning of his rise to global superstardom, cementing his position as a musical innovator.
9. The Way You Make Me Feel (1987)
Released in November 1987, “The Way You Make Me Feel” is a playful and romantic track that highlights Michael Jackson’s versatility as both a performer and a storyteller. The song’s infectious rhythm and flirtatious lyrics made it an instant favorite among fans. The music video, featuring Jackson charming his love interest with smooth dance moves and effortless charisma, became iconic. Combining pop, R&B, and funk, the track further solidified Jackson’s ability to seamlessly blend genres while creating music that was both fresh and timeless. It remains one of his most beloved songs, cherished by fans worldwide.
10. Rock with You (1979)
“Rock with You,” released in November 1979 as part of the Off the Wall album, is one of Michael Jackson’s most enduring songs. With its smooth, sultry melody and Jackson’s effortlessly smooth vocals, the track exudes intimacy while still being perfect for the dance floor. Written by Rod Temperton, it was one of Jackson’s early solo hits, showcasing his ability to blend emotional depth with rhythmic, danceable production. The song’s shimmering production and timeless groove helped make it one of his most beloved tracks, capturing the magic of late-‘70s disco while highlighting Jackson’s emerging musical genius.
Samuel Moore 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.
