Michael Jackson: The Ultimate Pop Star

Introduction:

We all know Michael Jackson. Pop icon, show stopper, the man who invented the “moon walk” dance. But how did a young man from Gary, Indiana become one of the highest selling artists of all time? Over the course of his solo career, (1972-2001) Jackson released several chart topping studio albums. Today, we’ll be diving in to some of his most famous records ever released, and learning why the whole world unanimously named him “The King Of Pop”. 

Off The Wall (1980)

Off The Wall won Michael Jackson his first ever Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance on February 27th, 1980. The album initially released in 1972, and stayed in the Billboard Top LP and Tape Chart’s top 10 for over 8 months. The album is filled with 10, undeniably funky disco tracks, several going on to win awards of their own. With performance features from Patti Austin, writing from Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, Tom Bahler, David Foster, Rod Temperton, and production from Quincy Jones, this record is nothing short of spectacular, and marked a new age for disco, soul, and funk music. Tracks such as “Off The Wall”, “Rock With You”, and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” showcase this never before heard level of energy. 

Thriller (1982)

Arguably the most famous release from Jackson, “Thriller” was a breakout hit among the masses, establishing the title of the highest selling record of all time. Produced by none other than Quincy Jones, the album is filled with funky, soulful, and heartfelt sounds, as well as Jackson’s extraordinary tenor tone. Additionally, the track “The Girl Is Mine” features the legendary Paul McCartney, a fun track that has Jackson and McCartney fighting for the love of a mysterious woman. Standout tracks include all-time classics such as “Thriller”, “Beat It”, “Human Nature”, and “Billie Jean”. The album also gifted listeners the iconic music video for “Thriller”, one that shows Jackson as a nightmarish monster dancing alongside others in a unique display of funk and fright. 

Bad (1987)

Michael Jackson’s 1987 “Bad” finds the pop sensation tapping into his mischievous, more villainous-like persona. Leaning into a more rock star look, Jackson utilized more synthesizers, edgier lyrics, and rock influenced sounds, giving this album a signature feel compared to his previous work. Tracks such as “Bad”, “Dirty Diana”, and “Smooth Criminal” truly display this newly embraced aesthetic. Contrarily, tracks such as “Man In The Mirror”, and “The Way You Make Me Feel”, are far more light hearted, softer, and soulful. 

Dangerous (1991)

Michael’s eighth studio album, “Dangerous” once again has the singer reinventing his sound, incorporating several new styles into his music. Tracks such as “Remember The Time”, “Why You Wanna Trip On Me”, and “She Drives Me Wild” showcase New Jack Swing/Hip-Hop sounds, which Jackson had never before utilized. Despite this change, the exciting and powerful vocals that we know the icon for remain here to stay. This record is much more notably conscious, with Jackson singing about many different societal issues. 

Number Ones (2003)

Finally, Michael’s “Number Ones” compilation album was released on November 18th, 2003. What made this compilation record different from previously released ones was Sony’s decision to include radio edits, new edits, single versions, and an unreleased track called “One More Chance”, which became Jackson’s final hit single before his death in 2009. The album includes all of Jackson’s number one hit singles from several of his albums, including but not limited to: 

Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough
Rock With You
Billie Jean
Beat It
The Way You Make Me Feel

Scream (2017)

“Scream” was a posthumous compilation album released in 2017, that centered around a Halloween theme. The album includes tracks previously released by Jackson such as “Dirty Diana”, “Leave Me Alone”, and “Thriller”, as well as tracks from his time with The Jacksons, and a title track featuring Janet Jackson. While stated to be a Halloween themed record, there were some songs included that do not necessarily fit in this category, but are still legendary parts of Jackson’s catalogue. 

Conclusion

Michael’s life was filled with many controversies, events, and accolades. Indubitably, the impact of not only his personality, but his music cannot accurately be measured. Many artists from different generations, genres, and professions have stated to have been inspired by his work. People all over the world know his name, try to replicate the “moon walk”, and cover his music (cause it’s THAT good!!!). If you’re looking to find a physical copy of the records listed, you’re in luck! Here at Hollow Bone Records, we have these select titles for sale, just waiting for you to spin and dance to. Come check em’ out!