10 Best Michael Jackson Songs of All Time

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, remains an iconic figure in the music world, known for his groundbreaking contributions to pop music and his unparalleled stage presence. Over his illustrious career, Jackson produced a series of unforgettable tracks that have left an indelible mark on the industry. His ability to blend genres, innovate with new sounds, and captivate audiences with his mesmerizing dance moves set him apart as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. From the infectious grooves of “Billie Jean” to the epic anthem “Thriller,” Jackson’s music transcends generations and continues to resonate with fans worldwide. This article will delve into the top ten best Michael Jackson songs, exploring the artistry and influence behind each track. These selections not only showcase his exceptional vocal talent and groundbreaking production but also highlight his impact on pop culture. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, these songs represent the essence of Michael Jackson’s legacy and his profound influence on the world of music. Join us as we celebrate the best of the King of Pop and revisit the timeless classics that have defined his remarkable career.

Table of Contents
1. Rock With You
2. Off The Wall
3. Thriller
4. Beat It
5. Billie Jean
6. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)
7. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
8. Black Or White
9. Smooth Criminal
10. Bad
1. Rock With You

“Rock With You” is one of Michael Jackson’s quintessential hits, embodying the smooth, infectious rhythm that defined his early solo career. Released in 1979 as part of the “Off the Wall” album, this track showcases Jackson’s incredible ability to blend pop, funk, and disco into a seamless, danceable groove. Written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones, the song features a memorable melody, lush orchestration, and a groove that’s impossible to resist.

The track’s appeal lies in its effortless sophistication. Jackson’s vocal performance is both smooth and commanding, effortlessly conveying the song’s romantic and celebratory spirit. The production, with its shimmering strings and steady, pulsating rhythm, creates a perfect backdrop for Jackson’s vocal finesse. “Rock With You” became a staple of the late 70s dance scene, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning acclaim for its innovative sound.

The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Jackson’s remarkable talent and the song’s timeless quality. Its influence is evident in the way it continues to inspire artists and captivate audiences decades after its release.

“Off the Wall” is one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic songs, and the title track from his groundbreaking 1979 album. This song marks a pivotal moment in Jackson’s career, showcasing his transition from the Motown sound of his earlier work to a more sophisticated blend of pop, funk, and disco. Written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones, “Off the Wall” is a high-energy anthem that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of late 70s dance music.

The track’s upbeat tempo, funky rhythm, and infectious melody make it a standout hit. Jackson’s dynamic vocal performance, combined with the song’s intricate instrumentation and groovy bassline, creates an irresistible dancefloor magnet. The song’s production features a rich array of elements, from its vibrant brass section to the layered backing vocals, all of which contribute to its energetic and celebratory feel.

“Off the Wall” was a commercial success, reaching No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Jackson’s place as a leading force in pop music. Its influence extends beyond its chart performance, as it continues to be a beloved classic that highlights Jackson’s innovative approach to music and his exceptional artistry.

3. Thriller

“Thriller” is arguably Michael Jackson’s most famous and enduring song, and it represents a monumental moment in the history of music. Released in 1982 as the title track from his best-selling album “Thriller”, the song is renowned for its groundbreaking music video and its fusion of pop, rock, and funk elements. Written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones, “Thriller” is a masterclass in musical innovation and showmanship.

The track is instantly recognizable for its spooky, atmospheric intro and its iconic, bass-driven groove. Jackson’s vocal performance is dynamic and commanding, perfectly matching the song’s eerie and theatrical vibe. The accompanying music video, directed by John Landis, features elaborate dance routines, including the legendary zombie dance sequence, and has become a cultural touchstone in its own right. It helped set new standards for music videos, turning them into a critical component of an artist’s success.

“Thriller” achieved unprecedented commercial success, topping charts worldwide and becoming the best-selling single of all time. Its impact on music, pop culture, and the music video industry is profound, and it continues to be celebrated as a timeless classic.

4. Beat It

“Beat It” is a groundbreaking track from Michael Jackson’s 1982 album “Thriller” and stands out as one of his most influential songs. Written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones, the song merges rock and pop in a way that was revolutionary at the time. Its high-energy beat, driven by a powerful guitar riff and a commanding rhythm, makes it a quintessential anthem of the 80s.

The song is notable for its distinctive blend of genres, featuring a hard-hitting guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, which added a rock edge to Jackson’s pop sound. This collaboration was a bold move that helped bridge the gap between rock and pop, and it played a significant role in expanding Jackson’s appeal to a broader audience.

Jackson’s vocal performance is both gritty and dynamic, delivering a message of anti-violence and resilience. The accompanying music video, directed by Bob Giraldi, showcases Jackson’s impressive dance moves and choreographed street fights, further cementing his reputation as a trailblazer in both music and dance.

“Beat It” achieved massive commercial success, topping charts around the world and earning numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards. Its impact on music and pop culture remains profound, solidifying Jackson’s status as a groundbreaking artist.

5. Billie Jean

“Billie Jean” is one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic and influential songs, and a standout track from his 1982 album “Thriller”. Written and produced by Jackson and Quincy Jones, the song is celebrated for its innovative production, infectious beat, and compelling narrative.

The track features a distinctive bassline that drives the song’s groove and a mesmerizing, minimalist beat that became a hallmark of Jackson’s sound. Jackson’s vocal delivery is both urgent and emotionally charged, perfectly capturing the song’s story of a woman who claims that the singer is the father of her child. The song’s lyrics and delivery create a dramatic tension that draws listeners in.

The accompanying music video, directed by Steve Barron, is equally legendary. It features Jackson’s groundbreaking dance moves, including the iconic moonwalk, and is credited with redefining the music video format. The video’s visual style and choreography have had a lasting impact on the industry.

“Billie Jean” achieved massive commercial success, topping charts globally and becoming one of Jackson’s signature hits. Its influence on pop music, dance, and music videos endures, making it a timeless classic and a defining moment in Jackson’s illustrious career.

6. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)

“P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” is a vibrant and catchy track from Michael Jackson’s 1982 album “Thriller”. Written and produced by James Ingram and Quincy Jones, the song exudes a playful and upbeat energy that showcases Jackson’s versatility and charisma.

The track features a bouncy, danceable rhythm and an infectious melody, combining elements of pop, funk, and R&B. Jackson’s vocal performance is exuberant and filled with charm, delivering the song’s lighthearted lyrics about affection and admiration. The production is characterized by its lively beat, smooth synthesizers, and upbeat brass section, all of which contribute to its feel-good vibe.

The accompanying music video, directed by Steve Barron, complements the song’s joyful spirit with colorful visuals and energetic dance sequences. Although not as iconic as some of Jackson’s other videos, it highlights his dynamic performance style and his ability to engage audiences with his charisma.

“P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Jackson’s reputation as a leading force in pop music. Its enduring appeal lies in its infectious energy and its role in making “Thriller” one of the most celebrated albums of all time.

7. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough

“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is a seminal track in Michael Jackson’s career, marking his emergence as a solo superstar. Released in 1979 as the lead single from his album “Off the Wall”, the song was both a commercial and critical triumph, showcasing Jackson’s transition into a more sophisticated sound.

Written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones, the track is renowned for its infectious groove and vibrant energy. The song features a pulsating rhythm, dynamic horn arrangements, and an unforgettable vocal performance by Jackson. His high-pitched, exuberant delivery adds a layer of excitement and urgency to the track, making it an irresistible dance anthem.

The accompanying music video, directed by Nick Saxton, emphasizes Jackson’s captivating dance moves and charismatic stage presence, further establishing him as a dynamic performer. The song’s success was significant, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Jackson his first Grammy Award.

“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is celebrated for its innovative sound and its role in defining Jackson’s career as a leading pop and dance artist. Its legacy endures as a timeless classic, embodying the infectious spirit and creativity that characterized Jackson’s groundbreaking work.

8. Black Or White

“Black or White” is a powerful and socially conscious track from Michael Jackson’s 1991 album “Dangerous”. Written and produced by Jackson and Bill Bottrell, the song addresses themes of racial harmony and unity, reflecting Jackson’s commitment to social justice.

The track opens with a memorable guitar riff and builds into an upbeat, rhythmic anthem that combines pop, rock, and dance elements. Jackson’s vocal performance is energetic and passionate, conveying a message of inclusivity and equality. The song’s lyrics challenge racial prejudices and emphasize the importance of seeing beyond skin color.

The accompanying music video, directed by John Landis, is equally notable for its groundbreaking use of visual effects and its memorable morphing sequence, where faces from different ethnic backgrounds blend into one another. This visual innovation reinforced the song’s message of racial unity and became a defining moment in the history of music videos.

“Black or White” was a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and receiving critical acclaim for its bold message and innovative production. Its impact extends beyond its music, resonating as a timeless call for harmony and understanding in a diverse world.

9. Smooth Criminal

“Smooth Criminal” is one of Michael Jackson’s most electrifying tracks, featured on his 1987 album “Bad”. Written and produced by Jackson, the song is renowned for its driving beat, haunting melody, and cinematic storytelling.

The track’s signature element is its relentless, staccato bassline, which drives the song’s intense rhythm. Jackson’s vocal performance is both urgent and dramatic, delivering a narrative about a woman who has been violently attacked and left in a state of distress. The song’s lyrics and Jackson’s delivery create a palpable sense of tension and urgency, drawing listeners into the story.

The music video, directed by Colin Chilvers, is equally iconic, featuring a memorable storyline with Jackson performing intricate dance routines and dramatic choreography. The video’s centerpiece is the gravity-defying lean, where Jackson and his dancers perform a visually stunning move that appears to defy the laws of physics.

“Smooth Criminal” was a commercial hit, reaching the top 10 on charts around the world and earning acclaim for its innovative production and memorable visuals. Its legacy endures as one of Jackson’s defining tracks, showcasing his unparalleled talent in music and dance.

10. Bad

“Bad” is a defining track in Michael Jackson’s illustrious career, serving as the title song for his 1987 album of the same name. Written and produced by Jackson, the song represents a bold declaration of his artistic evolution and assertive style.

The track features a punchy, driving beat with a funk-infused rhythm and a catchy hook that underscores Jackson’s confident vocal performance. The lyrics convey a message of empowerment and self-assuredness, with Jackson asserting his dominance and independence. The song’s energy and attitude reflect the rebellious spirit of the era, making it a standout anthem of the late 80s.

The accompanying music video, directed by Steve Barron, is notable for its gritty urban setting and its elaborate choreography. The video features Jackson and a group of dancers performing complex routines in a subway station, showcasing his innovative dance style and dynamic stage presence. The iconic “bad” dance moves and visual storytelling helped cement the song’s status as a cultural touchstone.

“Bad” achieved significant commercial success, topping charts worldwide and receiving widespread acclaim. Its impact on pop music and culture is profound, illustrating Jackson’s ability to blend music and visual artistry into a compelling and influential statement.