Michael Jackson was one of the greatest and most influential musicians of all time. Known as the “King of Pop,” he dominated the music industry for decades, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain people around the world. With countless hits and a signature style that blended elements of pop, rock, funk, and soul, Michael Jackson’s music transcended genres and generations.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the 10 best Michael Jackson songs of all time. From his early years as a member of The Jackson 5 to his later solo career, we will explore the songs that define Michael Jackson’s incredible legacy. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering his music for the first time, these iconic tracks are sure to get you dancing and singing along. So, get ready to moonwalk down memory lane as we countdown the 10 best Michael Jackson songs of all time.
1. Thriller
“Thriller” is one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic and memorable songs, released in 1983 as the title track for his sixth studio album. The song was produced by Quincy Jones and co-written by Jackson and Rod Temperton. It features a catchy beat, haunting lyrics, and an iconic music video that revolutionized the music industry. The video, directed by John Landis, featured groundbreaking special effects and a memorable dance sequence, cementing Jackson’s status as a pop culture icon. “Thriller” was a massive commercial success, spending 37 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and winning multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. Even today, “Thriller” remains a beloved and recognizable classic, and is considered one of the greatest music videos of all time.
2. Billie Jean
“Billie Jean” is a classic Michael Jackson song released in 1983, also from his sixth studio album, “Thriller”. The song, which Jackson wrote and produced, tells the story of a woman who claims that Jackson fathered one of her twins. It features an unforgettable bassline and Jackson’s signature vocal style, with lyrics that explore themes of love, deception, and fame. The song was a massive commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries and winning two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year. The music video, which featured Jackson’s iconic moonwalk dance, was also a hit and cemented his status as a pop culture icon. “Billie Jean” remains one of Jackson’s most recognizable and beloved songs, and is considered a classic in the history of pop music.
3. I Want You Back
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P94j6jgm8Do
“I Want You Back” is a timeless classic from Michael Jackson’s early career as a member of The Jackson 5. Released in 1969, the song was the group’s debut single and became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song, which was written by The Corporation, features a catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and Jackson’s signature high-pitched vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a young man trying to win back the love of a girl who has left him. “I Want You Back” is considered a defining moment in Jackson’s career, showcasing his incredible talent and charisma as a performer. Today, the song remains a beloved classic and is widely regarded as one of the greatest pop songs of all time.
4. Rock With You
“Rock With You” is a funky and infectious dance hit from Michael Jackson’s fifth studio album, “Off the Wall”. The song, which was released in 1979, was written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones. It features a smooth and groovy beat, with Jackson’s soulful vocals and catchy lyrics that encourage listeners to let loose and dance. “Rock With You” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Jackson his first Grammy nomination. The music video, which featured Jackson showcasing his signature dance moves, was also a hit and further solidified his status as a pop culture icon. Today, “Rock With You” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Jackson’s incredible talent and influence as a musician.
5. Beat It
“Beat It” is a classic Michael Jackson song released in 1983, also from his “Thriller” album. The song, which was written by Jackson and produced by Quincy Jones, features a catchy guitar riff and an infectious beat that encourages listeners to dance. The lyrics explore themes of inner-city violence and gang culture, urging listeners to “beat it” and stay away from trouble. “Beat It” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and winning two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year. The music video, directed by Bob Giraldi, was also a hit and featured an iconic dance sequence and a cameo from Eddie Van Halen. Today, “Beat It” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Jackson’s incredible talent and influence as a musician.
6. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is a funk-infused disco hit from Michael Jackson’s fifth studio album, “Off the Wall”. Released in 1979, the song was written and produced by Jackson himself and features his signature high-pitched vocals and groovy bassline. The lyrics encourage listeners to keep dancing and having fun, reflecting the upbeat and infectious tone of the song. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Jackson his first solo Grammy Award. The music video, directed by Nick Saxton, was also a hit and featured Jackson showcasing his signature dance moves. Today, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Jackson’s incredible talent and influence as a musician.
7. Black Or White
“Black or White” is a powerful and socially conscious song from Michael Jackson’s eighth studio album, “Dangerous”. Released in 1991, the song was written and produced by Jackson and Bill Bottrell and features a rock-inspired sound with elements of hip-hop and R&B. The lyrics explore themes of racial harmony and equality, urging listeners to look beyond skin color and embrace diversity. The music video, which was directed by John Landis, was also a hit and featured groundbreaking visual effects and a diverse cast of performers. “Black or White” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Jackson a Grammy nomination. Today, the song remains a relevant and poignant message of unity and acceptance.
8. Dirty Diana
“Dirty Diana” is a rock-infused ballad from Michael Jackson’s seventh studio album, “Bad”. Released in 1988, the song was written and produced by Jackson and features his signature vocal style and a powerful guitar riff. The lyrics tell the story of a seductive woman named Diana who tries to tempt Jackson away from his relationship. The song features raw and emotional vocals from Jackson, showcasing his range and versatility as a performer. “Dirty Diana” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim for its bold and provocative sound. The music video, directed by Joe Pytka, was also a hit and featured a dramatic and intense storyline. Today, “Dirty Diana” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Jackson’s incredible talent and influence as a musician.
9. I’ll Be There
“I’ll Be There” is a classic ballad from Michael Jackson’s early career as a member of The Jackson 5. Released in 1970, the song was written by Berry Gordy, Hal Davis, Bob West, and Willie Hutch, and features Jackson’s soulful and emotional vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a man pledging his love and support to his partner, promising to always be there for them. “I’ll Be There” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of The Jackson 5’s signature hits. The song showcases Jackson’s incredible range and maturity as a performer, with powerful and soulful vocals that have stood the test of time. Today, “I’ll Be There” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Jackson’s incredible talent and influence as a musician.
10. Smooth Criminal
“Smooth Criminal” is an iconic song from Michael Jackson’s seventh studio album, “Bad”. Released in 1988, the song was written and produced by Jackson, and features a catchy beat, memorable lyrics, and a signature cello riff. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman named Annie who has been attacked in her home, and the subsequent investigation into the crime. The music video, directed by Colin Chilvers, was also a hit and featured Jackson’s signature dance moves, including the famous “anti-gravity lean”. “Smooth Criminal” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and winning multiple awards. Today, the song remains a beloved classic and a testament to Jackson’s incredible talent and influence as a musician and dancer.
Darren Jamison 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.
