Michael Jackson, the undisputed King of Pop, revolutionized the music world with his electrifying performances, groundbreaking music videos, and timeless songs that continue to captivate audiences decades later. With a career spanning over four decades, Jackson’s influence on pop culture is unparalleled, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, artistry, and unforgettable music. From the infectious grooves of Off the Wall to the groundbreaking hits of Thriller and Bad, his catalog is filled with tracks that have shaped the sound of pop, R&B, and beyond.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Michael Jackson songs of all time—tracks that not only dominated the charts but also became cultural phenomena. These songs defined generations, broke records, and showcased Michael’s unparalleled talent for blending genres, crafting iconic melodies, and delivering unmatched performances. Whether it’s the hypnotic bassline of “Billie Jean,” the spine-tingling chills of “Thriller,” or the heartfelt message of “Man in the Mirror,” these songs represent the very best of a musical genius. Join us as we celebrate Michael Jackson’s greatest hits—songs that still ignite dance floors, inspire countless artists, and remind us why he will forever be the King of Pop. Get ready to relive the magic!
1. Billie Jean (1983)
Released on January 2, 1983, “Billie Jean” quickly became one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic songs. As the second single from his legendary Thriller album, it combined a compelling story with an unforgettable beat. The song tells the suspenseful tale of a woman who claims that Jackson is the father of her child, a claim he denied but one that reflected the intense adoration of his fans. The track’s groove is built around a driving bassline and a crisp drum machine, which gave it an irresistible rhythm. Jackson’s distinctive vocals and emotionally charged delivery added another layer of intrigue. “Billie Jean” became a global hit, topping charts around the world, and its impact was further cemented when Jackson debuted the moonwalk during a live performance at the Motown 25 special. This moment forever linked the song with Jackson’s dance innovations. More than just a hit, “Billie Jean” marked a defining moment in pop music history and remains a timeless classic, continuing to captivate listeners with its suspenseful lyrics and unforgettable rhythm.
2. Thriller (1982)
When Michael Jackson released “Thriller” on November 30, 1982, he didn’t just release a song, he set a new standard for music videos. With its catchy beat, eerie sound effects, and Vincent Price’s chilling narration, “Thriller” became an instant classic. The song was groundbreaking not just musically, but visually as well, thanks to its 14-minute music video directed by John Landis. The video combined horror with music in a way never seen before, introducing iconic dance moves like the “Thriller” zombies. Jackson’s energetic performance and theatrical delivery turned the song into a Halloween anthem for generations to come. The video’s story of transformation, complete with its undead dance sequences, became a cultural milestone, and the song itself remained one of his most beloved tracks. “Thriller” went on to become the title track of the best-selling album of all time, cementing Jackson’s place as a global music icon. The song’s legacy lives on, not only as a Halloween favorite but also as a testament to Jackson’s ability to merge music and visual art seamlessly.
3. Beat It (1983)
Released on February 14, 1983, “Beat It” is a powerful blend of rock and pop that showcased Michael Jackson’s versatility as an artist. With an electrifying guitar solo from the legendary Eddie Van Halen, the song straddled the line between rock and pop, capturing the attention of fans across genres. Jackson’s vocals add an urgency to the track, which conveys a strong anti-violence message. The song’s rock-infused sound was a departure from Jackson’s earlier work, proving that he could dominate not just pop but also rock music. The music video, which depicted a confrontation between rival gangs that was ultimately resolved through dance, became an iconic moment in pop culture. “Beat It” won multiple Grammy Awards and reinforced Jackson’s ability to transcend musical boundaries. With its electrifying guitar riffs, memorable lyrics, and unforgettable video, “Beat It” became a cultural phenomenon that remains one of Jackson’s most impactful songs.
4. Smooth Criminal (1988)
Released on October 21, 1988, “Smooth Criminal” is one of Michael Jackson’s most electrifying and intense tracks. Featuring a pulsating bassline and a syncopated rhythm that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats, the song tells a dramatic story about a mysterious attack on a woman named Annie. The music is as dramatic as the lyrics, with Jackson’s energetic delivery heightening the sense of urgency and suspense. “Smooth Criminal” introduced the world to Jackson’s legendary anti-gravity lean, a move that defied the laws of physics and became one of his signature dance steps. Featured as part of his Moonwalker movie, the short film for “Smooth Criminal” is as captivating as the song itself, with its intense action and stunning choreography. The track has since become a fan favorite, loved for its infectious beat, its high-energy performance, and its unforgettable dance moves. “Smooth Criminal” remains one of Jackson’s most iconic songs and a standout from his Bad album.
5. Black or White (1991)
“Black or White,” released on November 11, 1991, is more than just a song—it’s a bold anthem of unity and racial harmony. Part of the Dangerous album, the track blends rock, pop, and hip-hop into a powerful message of inclusion. Featuring a guitar riff from Slash of Guns N’ Roses, the song addresses issues of racism and prejudice, urging listeners to see beyond skin color. Its groundbreaking music video, directed by John Landis, introduced the world to innovative morphing technology, which allowed faces to transform from one race to another. The video’s global message of celebrating diversity and unity resonated with audiences worldwide. With its powerful lyrics, infectious rhythm, and striking visuals, “Black or White” became an international hit and cemented Michael Jackson’s role as an advocate for positive social change. It remains a timeless anthem that reminds us all of the importance of acceptance and equality.
6. Man in the Mirror (1988)
“Man in the Mirror,” released on January 16, 1988, is perhaps Michael Jackson’s most powerful and introspective song. With its gospel-like choir, heartfelt lyrics, and Jackson’s emotionally charged vocals, the song delivers a call to action for anyone seeking to make the world a better place. It encourages self-reflection and urges individuals to start with themselves when thinking about change. Written by Glen Ballard and Siedah Garrett, the song became a rallying cry for personal and social transformation. Jackson’s passionate performance during live shows, especially on his Bad tour, often left audiences moved to tears. The song became a powerful anthem for those who believe that small personal changes can lead to a better world. Its timeless message of hope and compassion continues to inspire generations. “Man in the Mirror” remains one of Michael Jackson’s most profound songs, demonstrating the depth of his artistry and his commitment to social change.
7. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough (1979)
Released on July 28, 1979, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” was the song that marked the beginning of Michael Jackson’s solo superstardom. As the lead single from his Off the Wall album, the song blended disco, funk, and pop into an irresistible groove. Written by Jackson himself, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is a celebration of love, life, and dance. The song’s pulsating rhythm, soaring horns, and Jackson’s falsetto vocals made it a defining sound of the late 1970s. With its infectious energy, it became a dance-floor favorite and earned Jackson his first Grammy Award. The track was a breakthrough moment for Jackson, showcasing his ability to create music that not only filled dance floors but also set new trends in popular music. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” remains one of his most beloved songs, a timeless anthem that still gets people moving every time it plays.
8. Rock with You (1979)
Released on November 3, 1979, “Rock with You” is one of Michael Jackson’s smoothest and most seductive tracks. The song, written by Rod Temperton and featured on Off the Wall, mixes disco and R&B into a warm, lush groove. Jackson’s silky, intimate vocals glide effortlessly over the mellow rhythm, creating a relaxed yet electrifying vibe that made it a favorite for romantic moments and dance floors alike. The understated yet stylish music video, featuring Jackson in a sequined jumpsuit, perfectly captured the song’s elegant, smooth feel. “Rock with You” became one of Jackson’s first major solo hits, reaching audiences worldwide with its irresistible charm. It remains one of his most iconic songs and is a perfect example of his ability to create music that connects with both the heart and the body.
9. Bad (1987)
Released on August 31, 1987, “Bad” was a bold statement from Michael Jackson, showcasing a tougher, more assertive side of the King of Pop. The song’s high-energy rhythm and catchy chorus, combined with Jackson’s confident delivery, turned it into a worldwide anthem of self-assurance. The music video, directed by Martin Scorsese, featured Jackson leading a group of dancers in a gritty subway station, bringing the song’s message of strength and resilience to life. The iconic choreography, combined with Jackson’s signature swagger, made “Bad” a cultural touchstone that defined the late 1980s. The track proved Jackson’s ability to evolve and experiment with different musical styles while still retaining his unique artistic voice. “Bad” became an anthem of empowerment and remains one of Jackson’s most iconic hits.
10. The Way You Make Me Feel (1987)
Released on November 9, 1987, “The Way You Make Me Feel” is one of Michael Jackson’s most playful and flirtatious tracks. With its funky rhythm, catchy melody, and Jackson’s irresistible charm, the song is a joyous celebration of love and romance. The accompanying music video, in which Jackson pursues a love interest through a series of energetic dance moves, became iconic for its lively energy and chemistry. The infectious groove and Jackson’s dynamic performance make “The Way You Make Me Feel” a timeless favorite, capturing the thrill and excitement of a new romance. Whether on the dance floor or in the heart, this song remains a classic, showing off Jackson’s range as both a performer and a romantic.
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.
