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Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson has left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning his moniker as the “King of Pop” through his groundbreaking artistry and unparalleled influence. With chart-topping hits and timeless performances, Jackson’s legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Join me on an exploration of the enduring impact of Michael Jackson’s music—a collection that transcends borders, seamlessly blending the energy of the club with the soulfulness of gospel and leaving an indelible mark on the listener. Whether you’re grooving to the disco beat of “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” or feeling the irresistible urge and “Wanna Be Startin’ Something”, these timeless songs invite reflection and deep appreciation.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into “Our Ten” personal Michael Jackson favorites:

NOTE: CLICK ON THE IMAGES FOR A VIDEO PERFORMANCE OF EACH SONG

10. THE WAY YOU MAKE ME FEEL (1987)

“The Way You Make Me Feel” by Michael Jackson is a timeless tune that encapsulates the essence of love and infatuation. Released in 1987, the song’s infectious rhythm and Jackson’s unmistakable vocals make it an irresistible anthem for romance. With its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, “The Way You Make Me Feel” effortlessly captures the euphoria of being in love, making it a perennial favorite for music lovers across generations. The song’s music video further complements its vivacious energy, showcasing Jackson’s signature dance moves and magnetic stage presence. In essence, “The Way You Make Me Feel” remains a quintessential example of Jackson’s unparalleled ability to craft universally beloved hits.

Peak Position in the: US #1 UK #3

9. BAD (1987)

“Bad” marked a pivotal moment in the music industry, solidifying Jackson’s status as a pop icon. The song’s infectious rhythm and powerful vocals captured the essence of rebellion and self-expression, resonating with audiences across the globe. Jackson’s bold and dynamic performance in the music video further emphasized the song’s message of confidence and defiance. This chart-topping hit not only showcased Jackson’s unparalleled artistry but also left an enduring impact on the world of music.

Peak Position in the US #1 UK #3

8. ROCK WITH YOU (1979)

“Rock with You,” is a timeless testament to Jackson’s ability to craft memorable, soulful tunes. The song’s smooth rhythm and melody effortlessly display both joy and celebration, inviting listeners to lose themselves in its irresistible groove. Interestingly, it’s worth noting that “Rock with You” was initially offered to Karen Carpenter for her solo album, a testament to the universal appeal and versatility of the song’s composition. As Jackson’s hit, it continues to captivate audiences with its charm, cementing its status as a classic in the world of music.

Peak Position in the: US #1 UK #7

7. WANNA BE STARTIN’ SOMETHIN’ (1983)

“Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” stands as an iconic single in Michael Jackson’s illustrious career, released as a part of his monumental album “Thriller”. The track displays Jackson’s ability to craft irresistible pop melodies with thought-provoking lyrics. At its core, the song delves into themes of gossip and rumors, the societal pressures of success, and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement. With its bold arrangement, “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” became an instant classic, showcasing Jackson’s transformative impact on the music industry. The song’s enduring legacy continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting Jackson’s unparalleled ability to merge catchy tunes with introspective storytelling.

Peak Position in the: US #5 UK #8

6. BLACK OR WHITE (1991)

“Black or White” was a groundbreaking single from Michael Jackson’s repertoire, released in 1991 as part of his album “Dangerous”. The song not only showcased Jackson’s unparalleled vocal prowess and dynamic performance but also delved into themes of racial harmony and unity, echoing the artist’s lifelong advocacy for social change. One notable aspect of the song is its innovative music video, directed by John Landis, which seamlessly intertwines diverse cultures and ethnicities, emphasizing the universality of the human experience. Furthermore, “Black or White” made history as the fastest song to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart since The Beatles’ “Get Back”, a testament to its immediate and widespread influence on music enthusiasts globally.

Peak Position in the: US #1 UK #1

5. BEAT IT (1983)

“Beat It” by Michael Jackson seamlessly merges rock and pop, showcasing Jackson’s unparalleled ability to transcend genre boundaries and captivate diverse audiences. Released in 1983 as part of his iconic album “Thriller,” the song’s electrifying guitar riffs and pulsating rhythm create an irresistible energy, while Jackson’s dynamic vocals infuse the track with a sense of urgency and defiance. With its message of resilience and non-conformity, “Beat It” became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring generations to embrace individuality and stand up against adversity. The song’s groundbreaking music video, featuring a mesmerizing dance sequence and a cameo by renowned guitarist Eddie Van Halen, further solidified its status as a groundbreaking masterpiece in the realms of both music and visual storytelling. Throughout the decades, “Beat It” remains an enduring testament to Michael Jackson’s unparalleled artistry and impact on popular culture.

Peak Position in the: US #1 UK #3

4. SMOOTH CRIMINAL (1988)

“Smooth Criminal” by Michael Jackson, released in 1988, stands out as a distinctive and influential track in his catalogue. The song’s sleek rhythm and Jackson’s hot vocals intertwine seamlessly, crafting a unique sonic experience for listeners. Through its minimalist yet impactful composition, “Smooth Criminal” showcases Jackson’s ability to push the boundaries of conventional pop music, cementing its status as a timeless classic. The song’s infectious energy and compelling narrative captivate audiences, solidifying its enduring legacy in the music industry.

Peak Position in the: US #23 UK #3

3. THRILLER (1983)

Released in 1983, “Thriller” stands as a timeless masterpiece in Michael Jackson’s illustrious discography. The song’s haunting melody and captivating narrative weave a spellbinding tale of terror and suspense, effortlessly transcending the traditional boundaries of pop music. Jackson’s evocative vocals, coupled with the iconic music video directed by John Landis, propelled “Thriller” into a cultural phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. This unparalleled blend of infectious rhythm, intricate storytelling, and cinematic flair cements “Thriller” as a groundbreaking achievement, solidifying Michael Jackson’s legacy as a true visionary in the realm of music and visual storytelling.

Peak Position in the: US #4 UK #10

2. DON’T STOP ‘TIL YOU GET ENOUGH (1979)

“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson pulsates with an irresistible energy that effortlessly transcends time. Released in 1979, this iconic track encapsulates the essence of infectious groove and relentless euphoria. With its seamless blend of disco rhythms and Jackson’s unmistakable vocals, the song invites listeners to surrender to its magnetic pull and dance without restraint. As the embodiment of musical transcendence, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” remains an enduring testament to Jackson’s unparalleled artistry and unyielding impact on popular culture.

Peak Position in the: US – #1 UK – #3

1. BILLIE JEAN (1983)

“Billie Jean” is the timeless masterpiece in Michael Jackson’s illustrious career with its irresistible groove and enigmatic narrative. The song’s pulsating rhythm and Jackson’s dynamic vocals create an immersive sonic experience, effortlessly transcending genre boundaries. With its mesmerizing bassline and introspective lyrics, “Billie Jean” delves into themes of suspicion and intrigue, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture and showcasing Jackson’s unparalleled artistry.

Peak Position in the: US – #1 UK – #1

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Considering this is a “casual” listener list, I’ve focused primarily on the artist’s chart-topping hits. However, I wholeheartedly agree that Michael Jackson’s discography is a treasure trove of musical gems. It’s akin to trying to choose a favorite star in the night sky – an impossible task!

In addition to the iconic tracks we’ve already covered, here’s my secondary list – a nod to those hidden treasures, the album tracks that deserved their moment in the spotlight:

1. “Man in the Mirror” – A reflective song encouraging self-improvement and social change.
2. “Dirty Diana” – A rock-influenced song about a seductive groupie.
3. “Human Nature” – A soft, introspective ballad with a soothing melody.
4. “Remember the Time” – A nostalgic track with a stunning Egyptian-themed music video.
5. “You Are Not Alone” – A heartfelt ballad about love and support, written by R. Kelly.
6. “Heal the World” – A song with a strong humanitarian message, encouraging listeners to make the world a better place.
7. “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” – A fun, upbeat track celebrating youthful beauty and love.
8. “Off the Wall” – The title track from his breakthrough solo album, blending pop and funk.
9. “Ben” – A tender ballad about a boy’s friendship with a pet rat, showcasing Jackson’s early vocal talent.
10. “Scream” – A powerful duet with his sister Janet Jackson, addressing media scrutiny.

Remember, music is subjective, and each listener discovers their own personal favorites. So, whether you’re dancing to “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” or shedding a tear to “Ben”, Michael Jackson’s artistry continues to resonate across generations. 🎶✨

Feel free to explore these tracks on my Spotify Playlist and let them weave their magic into your musical journey! 🌟🎵

So, there you have it. Our Ten. What would “Your Ten” look like? Leave your thoughts via a comment on the page!

Before you leave, please check out our previous entries in the “Our Ten” series here on Moteventure!