10 Essential Michael Jackson Songs
Here are then of the greatest songs by the King of Pop.
Michael Jackson, affectionately known as The King of Pop, transformed popular music with his electrifying songs and genre-defying sound, always in step with his latest trends, yet constantly pushing pop music forward. And of course, his legendary dance moves were just as impactful! Here's a selection of ten of his most timeless, iconic, and influential tracks. (Note: The list focuses on his solo work.)
10. "Ghosts"
from Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix (1997, Epic)
Theatrical and high-energy. Revisiting "Thriller" ambience while fully embracing a new jack swing direction, this is Michael Jackson at his most cinematic and "horrorific."
9. "Another Part of Me"
from Bad (1987, Epic)
A funky, feel-good groove with undeniable bounce. While beloved by fans, "Another Part of Me" remains somewhat of a hidden gem within the Jackson repertoire of his golden period.
8. "Human Nature"
from Thriller (1982, Epic)
Originally written by Toto keyboardist Steve Porcaro, "Human Nature" is a dreamy and delicate ballad featuring one of Michael Jackson's most tender performances, filled with vulnerability and wonder.
7. "Remember the Time"
from Dangerous (1991, Epic)
A seductive blend of R&B and new jack swing. Smooth, stylish, and one of the strongest tunes from the Dangerous days.
6. "Man in the Mirror"
from Bad (1987, Epic)
Jackson delivers one of his most powerful messages on this soul-stirring, universally resonant anthem of change and self-reflection.
5. "Wanna De Startin' Somethin'"
from Thriller (1982, Epic)
An electrifying opener to his best-selling record, packed with rhythm, energy, and that unforgettable "mama-say mama-sa" hook.
4. "Smooth Criminal"
from Bad (1987, Epic)
A funk-fueled groover packed with sinister ambience and danger. Driven by beat precision, "Smooth Criminal" was also accompanied by one of Jackson's most iconic videos, including iconic choreography.
3. "Don't Stop 'til You Get Enough"
from Off the Wall (1979, Epic)
A disco-funk masterpiece driven by falsetto and groove. Pure joy and movement, this song is considered by many to epitomise Jackson's collaboration with the legendary Quincy Jones.
2. "Rock With You"
from Off the Wall (1979, Epic)
A smooth, romantic classic radiating warmth and effortless cool. Here, Jackson is at his silkiest and most soulful, anticipating his imminent superstardom.
1. "Billie Jean"
from Thriller (1982, Epic)
The crown jewel. A hypnotic bassline, a mysterious tale, and a moonwalk that changed music forever. Doesn't get much better and bigger than this; simply untouchable.