When it comes to pop music, one name towers above the rest: Michael Jackson—the one and only King of Pop. With his legendary dance moves, groundbreaking music videos, and a voice that could electrify stadiums or whisper right into your soul, Michael redefined what it meant to be a global superstar. From child prodigy with The Jackson 5 to solo sensation, he didn’t just make hits—he created moments that changed music history forever. Whether he was moonwalking across the stage or delivering a socially-conscious anthem, every note, beat, and lyric felt larger than life.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Michael Jackson songs of all time—the tracks that made fans scream, set records, and solidified his place in pop culture like no other artist before or since. These songs aren’t just iconic; they’re timeless masterpieces that continue to inspire new generations of fans around the globe. From dance-floor anthems to emotional ballads, this list is a celebration of Michael’s unparalleled genius and the magic he brought to every performance. So grab your glove, strike a pose, and get ready to groove—because when it comes to musical greatness, Michael Jackson is forever.
1. Bad (1987)
“Bad” signaled a dramatic evolution in Michael Jackson’s persona — edgy, bold, and unapologetically confident. Released in 1987 as the title track and second single from his blockbuster album Bad, the song finds Jackson trading his earlier boy-next-door image for something tougher and more assertive. Co-written by Jackson and produced by Quincy Jones, “Bad” bursts with aggressive synthesizers, driving beats, and sharp vocal phrasing. The lyrics playfully assert dominance and self-worth, turning the phrase “Who’s bad?” into a catchy and defiant mantra. Originally conceived as a duet with Prince, the track ultimately became a solo showcase for Jackson’s new, edgier image. The Martin Scorsese-directed music video — essentially a short film — features dynamic choreography and a gritty subway setting, creating a dramatic backdrop for Jackson’s transformation. The track topped the Billboard Hot 100 and helped propel Bad into record-breaking territory. More than just a hit, “Bad” was a turning point in Jackson’s career — a declaration that he was no longer content with being just a pop star. He wanted to be remembered as a game-changing icon, and “Bad” was his battle cry.
2. Rock With You (1979)
“Rock With You” is the sound of Michael Jackson at his smoothest — a warm, elegant slow-jam that defines the sound of late ’70s pop. Released in 1979 as the second single from Off the Wall, the song was written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones. With its silky strings, soft rhythm guitar, and shimmering production, “Rock With You” stands apart from the high-energy disco that dominated the era. Instead, it invites listeners into a more intimate, romantic atmosphere. Jackson’s vocals are velvety and controlled, effortlessly gliding over the groove with a sense of ease and soul. The song’s sensual lyrics, combined with its slow-burn rhythm, make it a classic for the dance floor or a quiet night in. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1980, cementing Jackson’s transition from child star to adult icon. “Rock With You” proved that Jackson didn’t need flashy production or spectacle to make a hit — just a great melody, impeccable timing, and a voice full of feeling. It remains one of his most enduring and beloved songs, cherished for its timeless charm and emotional warmth.
3. Man in the Mirror (1988)
“Man in the Mirror,” released in 1988, stands out as one of Michael Jackson’s most powerful and heartfelt songs. While much of Jackson’s music was known for infectious grooves and captivating visuals, this track took a different path — one of introspection and social conscience. Written by Siedah Garrett and Glen Ballard, the song begins gently with piano and builds into a full gospel-powered crescendo, complete with a passionate choir. Its core message is one of self-reflection and personal responsibility: real change starts from within. Jackson delivers the lyrics with sincerity and emotional force, his voice growing in intensity with each verse. “If you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change,” he sings — a line that has inspired millions around the world. Although Jackson didn’t pen the lyrics, he poured his soul into the performance, making it feel deeply personal. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of his most acclaimed pieces. “Man in the Mirror” is a shining example of Jackson’s ability to inspire, uplift, and use his platform to promote compassion and change.
4. Black or White (1991)
“Black or White” burst onto the scene in 1991 with the power and urgency of a global anthem. As the lead single from Dangerous, the track was Michael Jackson’s emphatic call for racial harmony, wrapped in a genre-blending package of rock, pop, and hip-hop. It opens with a searing guitar riff—thanks to Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash—and segues into verses that are part rap, part pop sermon. The lyrics make a clear statement: it doesn’t matter what race you are, love and unity should come first. Jackson’s vocals are assertive and passionate, matching the song’s message of defiance against prejudice. The track’s music video, featuring face-morphing technology and a culturally diverse cast, was groundbreaking for its time. The final dance sequence sparked controversy but also showcased Jackson’s artistic boldness. “Black or White” topped charts around the world and spent seven weeks at No. 1 in the U.S., proving Jackson still had his finger on the pulse of pop culture. More than just a hit song, it was a rallying cry, using music as a force for change. Jackson’s message was clear: the color of your skin should never define your worth.
5. Beat It (1983)
“Beat It” crashed onto the scene in 1983 with a bold message and a genre-defying sound that shook the foundations of pop music. Blending hard rock guitar with Jackson’s signature pop sensibility, the track was a daring departure from expectations. At the heart of the song is a fierce guitar solo by none other than Eddie Van Halen, who brought blistering energy to an already electric track. Lyrically, “Beat It” delivers a powerful anti-violence message, flipping the macho narrative and encouraging strength through non-confrontation. Jackson’s voice is urgent and commanding, while Quincy Jones’ production is crisp and hard-hitting, layering rock edge with danceable grooves. The song’s music video — featuring rival gangs who resolve their conflict through dance — combined gritty street realism with theatrical choreography, making it an MTV staple. “Beat It” rocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned two Grammy Awards, showcasing Jackson’s ability to transcend genre and culture. It wasn’t just a hit; it was a declaration of artistic freedom. “Beat It” broke boundaries, proving that pop could rock — and it still rocks as hard today as it did over 40 years ago.
6. Smooth Criminal (1988)
“Smooth Criminal” is Michael Jackson at his most intense and cinematic. Released in 1988 as part of the Bad album, the track explodes with energy from the opening heartbeat-like rhythm. With a relentless tempo and staccato bassline, the song creates an immediate sense of urgency. Lyrically, it weaves a chilling tale of a woman named Annie who’s been violently attacked in her apartment — a story told through Jackson’s rapid-fire delivery and haunting refrain, “Annie, are you OK?” The production is tight and edgy, blending elements of funk, rock, and new jack swing to create a high-voltage sonic experience. But “Smooth Criminal” is just as famous for its visuals as its sound. The iconic music video, set in a stylish speakeasy, features Jackson in a white suit performing gravity-defying dance moves — most famously, the anti-gravity lean. While the song didn’t top the U.S. charts, it became an international favorite and a fan obsession. It’s a shining example of Jackson’s innovation — both musically and visually — and showcases his ability to turn a dark narrative into pop gold. “Smooth Criminal” remains one of his most electrifying and enduring works.
7. The Way You Make Me Feel (1987)
Released in 1987 as the third single from Bad, “The Way You Make Me Feel” offered a more flirtatious and romantic side of Michael Jackson. Built on a laid-back groove with a funky R&B heartbeat, the song showcases Jackson’s knack for blending smooth vocal delivery with irresistible rhythm. It opens with finger snaps and a slow-burning beat that builds into a confident declaration of affection. The lyrics are playful and passionate, with Jackson pursuing his love interest not with words alone, but with charm and swagger. His vocal performance is both relaxed and emotionally charged, creating a seductive balance of cool and sincerity. The music video became iconic in its own right, portraying Jackson dancing through city streets to win over a woman — a narrative that emphasized courtship through performance. “The Way You Make Me Feel” soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidified Jackson’s ability to blend streetwise style with pop polish. More than just a love song, it’s a celebration of chemistry, charisma, and the electrifying power of music to express desire. It remains one of Jackson’s most beloved and danceable tracks.
8. Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough (1979)
“Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” was Michael Jackson’s solo breakthrough—a dazzling explosion of disco, funk, and pure joy. Released in 1979 as the lead single from Off the Wall, the track was Jackson’s first No. 1 hit as an adult and marked the beginning of a new era in his career. Produced by Quincy Jones and written by Jackson himself, the song pulses with energy from the very first note. A shimmering blend of strings, tight guitar licks, and a relentless groove form the foundation, while Jackson’s falsetto glides over the top with playful charm and rhythmic hiccups. The lyrics are simple, but the message is clear: give in to the rhythm, and don’t let go. This wasn’t just another dance track — it was a declaration that Jackson was stepping out of the Jackson 5’s shadow and into his own spotlight. The song earned him his first solo Grammy and became a staple on dance floors across the world. “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” captures the magic of Jackson’s musical instincts — vibrant, bold, and irresistibly contagious.
9. Billie Jean (1983)
“Billie Jean” isn’t just a song — it’s a moment in music history. Released in 1983 as the second single from Thriller, it cemented Michael Jackson’s legacy as a pop innovator. From the first pulsing bassline, the track pulls you into a world of suspicion, denial, and fame-fueled paranoia. The story follows a woman who claims Jackson is the father of her child, a claim he repeatedly denies. But it’s not just the drama that makes the song iconic — it’s the atmosphere. Sparse yet magnetic production by Quincy Jones combines tight drum machine loops, a hypnotic groove, and Jackson’s intense vocal delivery to build tension with every beat. The track quickly climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its impact only deepened when Jackson introduced the moonwalk during his Motown 25 performance — a moment now etched into pop culture forever. “Billie Jean” proved that pop music could be cinematic and mysterious while still dominating the dance floor. It’s a masterclass in storytelling, production, and star power. More than four decades later, its signature beat and unforgettable hook continue to influence artists and entrance listeners across the globe.
10. Thriller (1982)
When Michael Jackson released “Thriller” in 1982, he didn’t just release a hit song — he created a cultural milestone. The title track from his legendary Thriller album is a genre-blending spectacle, mixing pop, funk, and cinematic horror into something completely new. With producer Quincy Jones at the helm and an unforgettable narration by horror icon Vincent Price, the song became an audio movie of sorts, complete with sound effects like creaking doors, howling wolves, and thunder. Musically, it’s bold and dynamic, gradually building tension before unleashing a thrilling climax. But what truly immortalized the song was its 14-minute music video, which revolutionized how the world viewed music videos. Directed like a short horror film, it showcased Jackson’s love of performance and storytelling, turning a song into a full-blown experience. Despite peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Thriller” is arguably one of Jackson’s most recognizable songs, especially around Halloween. Its fusion of music, visuals, and pop culture made it more than a track — it became a movement. Today, “Thriller” remains one of the most celebrated and enduring songs of all time, and a testament to Jackson’s fearless creativity.
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.
