Michael Jackson, the undisputed King of Pop, left a musical legacy that has endured through generations. His songs not only dominated the charts but also redefined the art of the music video and live performance. Here are the 10 greatest hits of his solo career, a collection of anthems that marked music history.
1. Billie Jean
Arguably Michael Jackson’s most iconic song, “Billie Jean” was not only a number 1 hit for seven weeks in 1983 but is also famous for its unforgettable bassline and the music video that broke racial barriers on MTV. It’s a key track on the legendary album “Thriller” and the moment Michael introduced the world to the moonwalk.
2. Beat It
With its powerful guitar riff by Eddie Van Halen, “Beat It” fused rock and pop in a way never seen before. This 1983 anti-violence anthem, also from the album “Thriller,” was number 1 for three weeks, and its video is a masterpiece of choreography that shows Michael mediating between rival gangs.
3. Rock With You
A smooth and elegant disco tune from the 1979 album “Off the Wall,” “Rock With You” was number 1 for four weeks and showcases Jackson’s more sophisticated and danceable side, cementing his status as a solo superstar. The video features Michael in a shimmering sequined suit that became his signature.
4. Man In The Mirror
A powerful anthem about personal and social change, “Man in the Mirror” became the fourth consecutive number 1 single from the album “Bad” in 1988, remaining at the top for two weeks. Its video, a compilation of historical footage of important events and humanitarian figures, is as impactful as the song itself.
5. Thriller
The music video that changed everything. “Thriller” reached number 4 on the charts in 1984, but its 14-minute short film, directed by John Landis, forever revolutionized the concept of the music video. With zombie choreography, narration by Vincent Price, and groundbreaking special effects, it is the most iconic music video of all time.
6. Bad
The title track from the 1987 album reached number 1 for two weeks. Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, the 18-minute short film showcases Michael in a more rugged, urban role. The song set a record as the fourth consecutive number 1 hit from the album “Bad.”
7. The Way You Make Me Feel
The third single from “Bad” became the album’s third consecutive number 1 hit in January 1988. The video shows Michael in his most flirtatious and streetwise role, romantically pursuing model Tatiana Thumbtzen through the night streets with spontaneous and playful choreography.
8. Smooth Criminal
Famous for the unforgettable “anti-gravity lean,” “Smooth Criminal” reached number 7 in 1989. The song was the centerpiece of the feature film “Moonwalker,” and its video features one of Michael’s most memorable dance sequences, set in a 1930s club.
9. Black or White
The first single from the 1991 album “Dangerous” was number 1 for seven weeks, tying the record set by “Billie Jean”. The video is memorable for its pioneering facial morphing technology and for featuring Macaulay Culkin. The song addresses themes of racial equality with a universal message of harmony.
10. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
Michael’s first solo single for Epic Records reached number 1 in 1979 and marked the beginning of his golden era. From the album “Off the Wall,” this disco-funk track showcases a more mature and sophisticated Michael. The video features an innovative triple-screen effect that became his visual signature.
Honorable Mentions
With The Jackson 5:
- I Want You Back (1970): The explosive debut that took the Jackson brothers to number 1, introducing the world to the incredible talent of an 11-year-old Michael.
- ABC (1970): The group’s second consecutive number 1, with its catchy chorus and infectious energy that knocked The Beatles off the top of the charts.
- I’ll Be There (1970): A poignant ballad that stayed at number 1 for five weeks, showcasing Michael’s early vocal maturity.
- Dancing Machine (1974): Notable for popularizing the “robot” dance move, it reached number 2 and is a disco-era classic.
Collaborations with Paul McCartney:
- The Girl Is Mine (1982): The first single from the album “Thriller,” this duet reached number 2 and set the stage for the phenomenon that would become “Thriller.”
- Say Say Say (1983): This collaboration reached number 1 for six weeks, showcasing the perfect chemistry between two music giants.
Other notable hits:
- Remember The Time (1992): From the album “Dangerous,” it reached number 3, and its video, starring Eddie Murphy and Magic Johnson, is a visual masterpiece set in ancient Egypt.
- Dirty Diana (1988): The fifth number 1 hit from the album “Bad,” setting a historic record of five number 1 hits from a single album.
- You Are Not Alone (1995): It made history by debuting at number 1, becoming the first song to achieve this on the Billboard Hot 100.
Michael Jackson’s legacy is immense, and his music continues to inspire artists and fans worldwide. These songs are just a glimpse into his creative genius and his enduring impact on pop culture.