Michael Jackson is more than just a name—it’s a legacy. Known as the King of Pop, Michael revolutionized music, dance, and entertainment in a way that few artists have ever achieved. With a career spanning decades, his songs continue to resonate with fans around the globe, transcending generations and genres. From electrifying anthems to soul-stirring ballads, Jackson’s music is a timeless celebration of creativity, emotion, and innovation. His ability to blend funk, rock, R&B, disco, and pop into unforgettable tracks has earned him a permanent place in music history.
But what makes Michael Jackson’s songs so special? It’s not just the infectious beats or his signature falsetto—it’s the stories he told, the energy he brought, and the barriers he broke. Whether he was fighting for social justice, exploring love and heartbreak, or simply making us want to dance, every song was crafted with passion and precision. In this article, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular Michael Jackson Songs of All Time—tracks that defined his career, dominated the charts, and changed the world of music forever. So, get ready to moonwalk through the hits that made Michael Jackson a global icon. Which of your favorites will make the list? Let’s find out!
1. Billie Jean (1983)
“Billie Jean” is undeniably one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic songs, released as the second single from his groundbreaking Thriller album in January 1983. Its signature bassline is instantly recognizable, and the lyrics, telling the story of an obsessive fan who falsely claims Jackson is the father of her child, are as haunting as they are memorable. Jackson’s vocal performance is raw and emotive, capturing the tension of the narrative with precision. The song blends pop, funk, and R&B, creating a unique sound that pushed the boundaries of mainstream music. The music video further solidified its cultural impact, particularly with Jackson’s legendary moonwalk performance during the Motown 25 TV special. “Billie Jean” quickly became a cultural touchstone, earning Jackson numerous awards and staying at the top of charts for weeks. The track remains a timeless classic that redefined what pop music could be, showcasing Jackson’s incredible ability to innovate and dominate the music scene.
2. Thriller (1982)
“Thriller” was released in November 1982 as the seventh single from Thriller and has since become a genre-defining moment in music history. The song’s eerie, cinematic production, combined with Vincent Price’s legendary spoken word segment, made it an instant classic. The track’s haunting blend of funk, rock, and horror movie-inspired elements made it an unforgettable dance anthem. Jackson’s ability to fuse genres is on full display here, as he crafted a song that was as spooky as it was catchy. The groundbreaking music video, directed by John Landis, took it to new heights, revolutionizing the industry with its short film format, complex choreography, and iconic zombie dance sequences. “Thriller” is not just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon that cemented Jackson’s place as a creative force in music, and its influence can still be seen in music videos today. The track’s infectious energy and timeless appeal make it one of the most important songs in pop music history.
3. Beat It (1983)
Released in February 1983, “Beat It” became a hard-hitting anthem of defiance and unity. The song, featuring a fiery guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, fused rock and pop in a way that had never been done before, making it a landmark track in both genres. With its anti-violence message, Jackson urged listeners to walk away from confrontation, sending a powerful message about peace. The song’s infectious rhythm and Jackson’s commanding performance elevated it to a new level of cultural significance. The accompanying music video, featuring a tense showdown between rival gangs and high-energy choreography, further emphasized the song’s message, making it a landmark moment in both music and music video history. “Beat It” was a bold departure from Jackson’s earlier work, showcasing his ability to blend different musical styles while delivering a meaningful and impactful message. This track not only became a chart-topping hit but also solidified Jackson’s place as a global musical innovator.
4. Smooth Criminal (1988)
Released in October 1988 as part of Bad, “Smooth Criminal” stands as one of Michael Jackson’s most electrifying tracks. The song tells the tense, suspenseful story of Annie, a woman who has been attacked in her apartment, and its pulsing beat and rapid-fire lyrics draw the listener into a sense of urgency. Jackson’s vocal delivery is sharp and precise, perfectly complementing the song’s breakneck pace. The track’s driving rhythm and sleek production create a palpable sense of danger and intrigue. The song’s iconic hook—”Annie, are you okay?”—has become a pop culture staple. The accompanying music video further cemented its place in Jackson’s legacy, showcasing his signature gravity-defying lean and flawless choreography, proving once again that he was not just a singer but a master performer and storyteller. “Smooth Criminal” is a thrilling, high-energy track that captures the intensity of the narrative and showcases Jackson’s unparalleled ability to combine musical innovation with visual spectacle.
5. Man in the Mirror (1988)
“Man in the Mirror,” released in January 1988 as the fourth single from Bad, stands as one of Michael Jackson’s most profound and introspective songs. The ballad calls for self-reflection and personal responsibility, urging listeners to take action and change the world by starting with themselves. Written by Glen Ballard and Siedah Garrett, the song’s emotional depth is enhanced by the powerful gospel choir that accompanies Jackson’s heartfelt vocals. The lyrics, which speak to themes of social change and compassion, make the track an anthem for anyone looking to make a positive impact on the world. Jackson’s delivery feels deeply personal, and his raw emotion resonates with listeners, inspiring them to take a hard look at their own lives and make a difference. “Man in the Mirror” is a timeless anthem that remains relevant today, reminding us all that change starts within. It’s one of Jackson’s most celebrated songs and a testament to his ability to blend entertainment with social consciousness.
6. Bad (1987)
“Bad,” the title track from Michael Jackson’s 1987 album, marked a significant evolution in Jackson’s persona. Released in September 1987, the song radiates confidence, assertiveness, and swagger. The funky bassline and catchy rhythm set the tone for the entire Bad album, while Jackson’s powerful vocal delivery commands attention. The track is backed by an infectious beat and lyrics that boast self-assurance and strength. The accompanying music video, directed by Martin Scorsese, features intense choreography and tells the story of Jackson’s transformation into a bolder, more confident performer. Jackson’s shift from the boy-next-door to a confident, leather-clad icon was on full display, and the video’s bold visuals complemented the song’s edgy energy. “Bad” was more than just a song; it was a declaration of Jackson’s artistic evolution. Its undeniable catchiness and confident swagger helped solidify his place as a pop culture force, demonstrating his ability to constantly reinvent himself while staying true to his unique style.
7. Black or White (1991)
Released in November 1991, “Black or White” became an anthem for racial harmony and unity. As the lead single from Dangerous, the song was an exploration of social and cultural issues, particularly the need to move past racial divides. With its blend of rock, pop, and hip-hop, the song showcased Jackson’s ability to seamlessly merge different genres while delivering a powerful message. The music video, featuring cutting-edge morphing technology and a cameo from Macaulay Culkin, made a bold statement against bigotry and discrimination. Its iconic visuals and energetic beat made “Black or White” an unforgettable song, as it became a global rallying cry for unity and understanding. Jackson’s infectious energy and socially relevant message made the song not only a commercial success but also a culturally significant moment in pop music. The track’s enduring message of inclusion and equality continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
8. Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough (1979)
“Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough,” released in July 1979, marked Michael Jackson’s official emergence as a solo superstar. The track, from his Off the Wall album, is a joyous explosion of disco, funk, and soul. With its irresistible groove and Jackson’s signature falsetto vocals, the song became a staple of the late 1970s dance scene. Written by Jackson himself, the track earned him his first Grammy Award and set the stage for his remarkable solo career. The infectious energy of “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” helped define the sound of the late 70s and early 80s, and its timeless appeal continues to make it a favorite on dance floors today. The song’s upbeat vibe and smooth rhythm were unlike anything heard before, helping Jackson create a new sound that would carry him to superstardom. “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” is more than just a dance anthem; it’s a testament to Jackson’s ability to redefine music and set new trends.
9. Rock with You (1979)
“Rock with You,” released in November 1979 as the second single from Off the Wall, is one of Michael Jackson’s most beloved romantic ballads. The track, with its smooth production and Jackson’s silky, seductive vocals, invites listeners to lose themselves in the rhythm and romance of the moment. Written by Rod Temperton, “Rock with You” marked a shift in Jackson’s musical style, blending smooth disco with soulful melodies. The song became one of Jackson’s first major solo hits, showcasing his ability to capture emotional intimacy while maintaining a broad mainstream appeal. Its mellow groove and dreamy melody make it a standout track from his early career. “Rock with You” represents the perfect blend of Jackson’s ability to make music that is both emotionally rich and universally accessible, helping to establish him as one of the era’s defining artists.
10. The Way You Make Me Feel (1987)
“The Way You Make Me Feel,” released in November 1987 as the third single from Bad, is a vibrant and playful anthem of infatuation and desire. The track’s infectious rhythm and upbeat energy perfectly capture the joy of being in love, with Jackson’s impassioned vocals adding an irresistible charm. The song’s lyrics are flirtatious and fun, reflecting the excitement of a new romance. The accompanying music video, featuring Jackson energetically pursuing his love interest with dynamic choreography and magnetic charisma, helped make the song even more iconic. The video’s playful nature and Jackson’s undeniable charm elevated the song into a fan favorite, making it a quintessential example of his ability to infuse joy and passion into his music. “The Way You Make Me Feel” remains one of Jackson’s most beloved tracks, capturing the universal excitement of infatuation and love with infectious energy and exuberance.
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.
