
10 Best Michael Jackson Songs of All Time

Table of Contents
Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Born in Gary, Indiana in 1958, Jackson began his music career as a child performer with the Jackson 5, a Motown group that included his older brothers. He went solo in the 1980s, releasing a series of groundbreaking albums that showcased his unique vocal style and innovative dance moves.
Jacksonâs music spanned a variety of genres, including pop, R&B, and rock, and he scored numerous hits with songs such as âThriller,â âBeat It,â and âBillie Jean.â His live performances were marked by his dynamic stage presence and his ability to connect with audiences, making him one of the most successful live performers in music history.
In addition to his musical achievements, Jackson was also a trailblazer in the world of music videos, producing groundbreaking videos that revolutionized the art form. He was also known for his philanthropic work, including his support for various charities and humanitarian causes.
Jacksonâs life was not without controversy, however, and he faced numerous allegations of sexual abuse throughout his career. He died in 2009 at the age of 50, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest and most influential entertainers in the history of popular music.
1. Thriller
âThrillerâ is a classic pop song by Michael Jackson, released in 1984. The song features Jacksonâs signature vocals, backed by a catchy and infectious instrumental arrangement that includes a memorable synthesizer riff and a driving bassline. The lyrics speak to themes of horror and suspense, with Jackson portraying a character who is pursued by monsters and ghouls. The songâs iconic music video, featuring Jacksonâs signature dance moves and a memorable spoken-word section by horror legend Vincent Price, has become one of the most famous and influential music videos of all time. âThrillerâ stands as a testament to Jacksonâs talent as a performer and his ability to push the boundaries of pop music.
2. Billie Jean
âBillie Jeanâ is a classic pop song by Michael Jackson, released in 1983. The track is characterized by its infectious groove, driving bassline, and Jacksonâs iconic vocal performance. The songâs lyrics tell the story of a woman claiming that Jackson fathered one of her children, with the chorus famously declaring, âBillie Jean is not my lover.â âBillie Jeanâ is widely regarded as one of Jacksonâs greatest hits, and its music video is also considered a landmark in the history of music videos. The songâs irresistible groove and Jacksonâs electrifying performance have made it a timeless classic of pop music.
3. Beat It
âBeat Itâ is a classic pop and rock song by Michael Jackson, released in 1983. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving, energetic rhythm that perfectly captures the songâs themes of rebellion and empowerment. The lyrics describe a young manâs determination to stand up for himself and fight back against his adversaries, urging others to join in and âbeat it.â The trackâs iconic music video, featuring a choreographed dance sequence and appearances by street gangs, became a cultural phenomenon and helped establish Jackson as a pioneer of the music video form. âBeat Itâ remains one of Jacksonâs most popular and enduring songs, and a testament to his ability to create music that is both fun and socially relevant.
4. Bad
âBadâ is a classic pop song by Michael Jackson, released in 1987. The song features a distinctive and aggressive beat, with Jacksonâs vocals delivering lyrics that speak to themes of rebellion, individuality, and standing up for oneself. The accompanying music video, directed by Martin Scorsese, features a narrative of a young man from the inner city who confronts and challenges a group of tough street kids. âBadâ has become one of Jacksonâs most iconic songs, and stands as a testament to his ability to create memorable and impactful music that transcends genre and era.
5. Smooth Criminal
âSmooth Criminalâ is a classic pop song by Michael Jackson, released in 1988. The track is characterized by its pulsing beat, catchy melody, and Jacksonâs dynamic vocal performance. The songâs lyrics tell the story of a woman named Annie who has been attacked in her apartment, with Jackson playing the role of a vigilante seeking justice for her. âSmooth Criminalâ is known for its distinctive âhee-heeâ vocalization and its iconic music video featuring Jacksonâs signature dance moves. The songâs combination of catchy hooks and electrifying performance have made it a beloved classic of Jacksonâs catalog and an enduring hit in pop music.
6. Rock With You
âRock With Youâ is a classic R&B and disco song by Michael Jackson, released in 1979. The song features a smooth, funk-infused groove and a catchy melody that make it a dancefloor favorite. The lyrics describe the joy of dancing and the power of music to bring people together. Jacksonâs smooth and soulful vocals are complemented by a lush orchestration that creates a luxurious and upbeat sound. âRock With Youâ remains one of Jacksonâs most beloved and enduring songs, and a testament to his ability to create music that is both fun and emotionally resonant.
7. Off The Wall
âOff the Wallâ is a classic disco-funk song by Michael Jackson, released in 1979. The song features a funky bassline, driving beat, and Jacksonâs signature vocals, which are both soulful and energetic. The lyrics of the song speak to the idea of breaking free from convention and letting loose on the dance floor. âOff the Wallâ was a major hit for Jackson, and has become one of his most beloved and enduring songs. The song stands as a testament to Jacksonâs ability to combine elements of pop, soul, and funk to create music that transcends genre and era.
8. Donât Stop âTil You Get Enough
âDonât Stop âTil You Get Enoughâ is a classic disco-funk song by Michael Jackson, released in 1979. The track is characterized by its upbeat tempo, infectious rhythm guitar, and Jacksonâs exuberant vocal performance. The songâs lyrics encourage the listener to keep dancing and enjoying the music, with the chorus declaring, âDonât stop âtil you get enough.â âDonât Stop âTil You Get Enoughâ was a major hit upon its release, becoming Jacksonâs first solo number one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its combination of irresistible groove and Jacksonâs dynamic performance have made it a timeless classic of disco and pop music.
9. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)
âP.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)â is a classic R&B and pop song by Michael Jackson, released in 1983. The song features a funky, uptempo beat and a catchy chorus that make it a dancefloor favorite. The lyrics describe Jacksonâs admiration for a beautiful and confident young woman, and his desire to spend time with her. The trackâs infectious groove and Jacksonâs energetic vocals create a fun and vibrant sound that perfectly captures the exuberance of young love. âP.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)â remains one of Jacksonâs most beloved and iconic songs, and a testament to his ability to create music that is both catchy and emotionally resonant.
10. Black Or White
âBlack or Whiteâ is a hit single by Michael Jackson released in 1991. It features a memorable guitar riff, a driving beat and a blend of rock, pop, and hip-hop styles. The lyrics speak to the themes of racial harmony and equality, as well as social issues of the time such as police brutality and media sensationalism. The music video for the song, directed by John Landis, features a groundbreaking special effects sequence that morphs faces and cultures. âBlack or Whiteâ remains one of Jacksonâs most iconic and influential songs, showcasing his ability to create powerful and socially conscious music that resonates with audiences around the world.