Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, redefined music, dance, and entertainment like no artist before or since. With a career spanning decades, his genius transcended genres, blending pop, rock, funk, and soul into a sound uniquely his own. From moonwalking across global stages to delivering socially conscious anthems, Jackson’s artistry left an indelible mark on the world. But what truly set him apart were his songs—timeless masterpieces that continue to resonate with listeners of every generation.
In this article, we dive into the Top 10 Most Popular Michael Jackson Songs of All Time, celebrating the tracks that shaped his legacy and defined pop culture. These aren’t just songs; they’re moments in music history—chart-topping hits that broke records, sparked trends, and inspired millions. From the infectious groove of “Billie Jean” to the socially transformative power of “Man in the Mirror,” each track tells a story of innovation, passion, and genius. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer discovering his magic, this list will take you on a journey through some of the most iconic songs ever created. Get ready to relive the magic, the rhythm, and the unforgettable legacy of Michael Jackson’s greatest hits!
1. Billie Jean (1983)
Released on January 2, 1983, “Billie Jean” stands as one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic and timeless tracks. A cornerstone of the Thriller album, the song captivates with its unforgettable bassline, eerie synths, and Jackson’s emotionally raw vocals. It tells a gripping tale of a woman who claims Jackson fathered her child, a narrative laced with themes of betrayal and denial. Inspired partly by Jackson’s encounters with obsessive fans, the song resonates universally, striking a chord with listeners worldwide. Beyond its musical brilliance, “Billie Jean” broke boundaries, topping charts globally and shaping the course of pop music. Its music video, with Jackson’s electrifying dance moves—including his signature moonwalk—and the now-legendary illuminated sidewalk, revolutionized MTV and cemented Jackson’s legacy as the King of Pop. A cultural milestone, “Billie Jean” remains an enduring masterpiece.
2. Thriller (1982)
Released on November 30, 1982, “Thriller” isn’t just a song—it’s a cultural phenomenon that forever changed the music landscape. As the title track of Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking album, “Thriller” melds funk, disco, and a spine-chilling narrative inspired by classic horror films. From its suspenseful opening synths to Vincent Price’s eerie spoken-word outro, the track exudes creativity and theatricality. The accompanying 14-minute music video, a short film complete with a zombie dance sequence, set a new standard for music videos and remains an essential Halloween classic. Decades later, “Thriller” is still synonymous with Jackson’s unmatched artistry and innovation. As one of the best-selling songs of all time, it’s a testament to his ability to fuse music, storytelling, and visuals into a cultural juggernaut.
3. Beat It (1983)
“Beat It,” released on February 14, 1983, is a genre-defying anthem that fused rock and pop with a powerful message against violence. Michael Jackson envisioned a track that would resonate with rock fans while promoting peace, and the result was nothing short of iconic. Featuring Eddie Van Halen’s electrifying guitar solo and Jackson’s impassioned vocals, the song became a rallying cry for unity. Its gripping music video, showcasing a dramatic dance-off between rival gangs, added a cinematic edge and captivated audiences worldwide. “Beat It” earned two Grammy Awards, critical acclaim, and a lasting legacy as one of Jackson’s most ambitious creations. It remains a cornerstone of his career and a symbol of his ability to bridge musical genres with a unifying message.
4. Smooth Criminal (1988)
Released on October 21, 1988, “Smooth Criminal” is a masterclass in rhythm, storytelling, and innovation. From the Bad album, the song showcases Michael Jackson’s knack for cinematic narratives, telling the gripping tale of Annie, a woman who has fallen victim to a mysterious attack. With its infectious bassline, rapid-fire lyrics, and dramatic tension, the track is a sonic thrill ride. The music video, set in a 1930s-inspired nightclub, introduced the world to Jackson’s gravity-defying “anti-gravity lean,” a move that left fans and dancers alike in awe. “Smooth Criminal” remains one of Jackson’s most innovative tracks, blending funk, pop, and intrigue with unparalleled finesse. It’s a testament to his creativity and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
5. Man in the Mirror (1988)
Released on January 9, 1988, “Man in the Mirror” is an emotional anthem that calls for self-reflection and social change. Co-written by Siedah Garrett and Glen Ballard, the song is built on a gospel-inspired arrangement, with soaring vocals and a stirring choir that intensify its powerful message. Michael Jackson’s impassioned delivery emphasizes the central theme: true change starts from within. The track’s heartfelt lyrics and uplifting composition struck a chord with listeners, propelling it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and earning it widespread critical acclaim. More than a song, “Man in the Mirror” is a call to action that continues to inspire audiences to strive for a better world.
6. Bad (1987)
“Bad,” released on August 31, 1987, is a bold anthem of empowerment and independence. As the title track of Michael Jackson’s Bad album, it captures his evolving sound and fearless persona. The song’s punchy bassline, catchy hooks, and commanding vocals make it instantly memorable. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the cinematic music video features a gritty narrative of street confrontation, complete with high-energy choreography that highlights Jackson’s unparalleled charisma. “Bad” topped charts worldwide, cementing Jackson’s dominance during the late 1980s. With its unapologetic confidence and dynamic energy, the song remains a quintessential Jackson anthem and a powerful declaration of self-assurance.
7. Black or White (1991)
Released on November 11, 1991, “Black or White” is a genre-blending anthem that celebrates racial harmony and unity. The lead single from Michael Jackson’s Dangerous album, the song fuses rock, pop, and hip-hop elements, reflecting Jackson’s versatility and forward-thinking artistry. The accompanying music video, featuring groundbreaking morphing technology and a bold message of inclusivity, sparked conversations and left a lasting impact. With its infectious energy and universal appeal, “Black or White” topped charts in over 20 countries and became one of Jackson’s most commercially successful tracks. Decades later, its message of unity remains as relevant as ever.
8. Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough (1979)
“Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough,” released on July 28, 1979, marked Michael Jackson’s evolution into a solo superstar. As the lead single from his Off the Wall album, the song radiates pure disco-funk energy, driven by an irresistible groove and Jackson’s vibrant falsetto. Co-written and co-produced by Jackson himself, the track showcased his newfound artistic independence and creative vision. Its infectious rhythm and celebratory lyrics quickly captured the hearts of fans, earning Jackson his first Grammy Award and cementing his place in music history. The song remains a joyous celebration of life and a defining moment in Jackson’s career.
9. Rock with You (1979)
Released on November 3, 1979, “Rock with You” is a velvety disco classic that highlights Michael Jackson’s vocal elegance and rhythmic prowess. The second single from Off the Wall, the song features lush production by Quincy Jones and a smooth groove that dominated late 1970s dance floors. Jackson’s soulful delivery and the romantic undertone of the track made it an instant hit, propelling it to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Decades later, “Rock with You” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Jackson’s ability to craft timeless, feel-good music.
10. The Way You Make Me Feel (1987)
Released on November 9, 1987, “The Way You Make Me Feel” is a jubilant ode to love and attraction from Michael Jackson’s Bad album. The song’s infectious rhythm, dynamic vocal delivery, and playful lyrics showcase Jackson’s flirtatious and lighthearted side. The accompanying music video, which features Jackson wooing his love interest through captivating dance moves, added a cinematic flair that made the song even more memorable. A chart-topping success, “The Way You Make Me Feel” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Jackson’s ability to blend romance, rhythm, and charm into a timeless pop classic.
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.
