Michael Jackson is one of the few artists whose entire discography transcends generations and demographics. People of all ages and backgrounds are drawn to his eclectic sound, spanning pop, rock, R&B, and even hip-hop. From his iconic music videos to his dazzling wardrobe, the king is unforgettable.
The biopic Michael was released on April 24. Thus, we decided to start some discourse. Here is an objective, fact-checked ranking of Michael Jackson’s top 10 songs.
Ranking Michael Jackson’s Top 10 Songs
These picks span four decades and prove why Jackson stayed at the top of pop music for so long.
10. “Man in the Mirror” (1988)
Produced by Michael Jackson and partner-in-crime Quincy Jones, this single put gospel back on mainstream radio. Siedah Garrett wrote the existential lyrics while Glen Ballard wrote the churchlike music. The song was nominated for Record of the Year at the Grammy Awards and is still getting played on the radio.
9. “Human Nature” (1983)
One of the more understated singles from the cultural behemoth that is the Thriller album, “Human Nature,” makes Jackson the most relatable person on the planet. After all, he was only human. The lyrics embrace the human tendency to love and to want to be loved in return. Jackson was no different from us in that respect. The song was written by Steve Porcaro (Toto) and the multitalented John Bettis and features Porcaro on vocals as well.
8. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” (1979)
This single is arguably the best off his groundbreaking album, Off the Wall. It’s one of the first projects Jackson had full creative control over, from the writing to the production. It’s most recognizable by his incredible falsetto throughout the dance track. It’s an old disco song that somehow has people still dancing. Next time you’re at a lame party, tell the DJ to play this. See what happens.
7. “Beat It” (1982)
Yet another timeless classic from the Thriller album, “Beat It” is fun rock n’ roll for the whole family. The basic chord progressions and drum beat make this song wickedly accessible for musicians of all levels to learn, but Eddie Van Halen’s iconic guitar solo is not one to be mimicked. Rather, it’s a solo you admire from a distance as a noble fan. Look, don’t touch. The song was written by Jackson and co-produced with Quincy Jones.
6. “The Way You Make Me Feel” (1987)
Few people know this, but Jackson wrote this song for me specifically. Written by Jackson and co-produced with Quincy Jones, the song celebrates the thrill of a first love. It’s a percussion and bass-centered groove that sticks with you long after the song is over. Though it was a single off his album Bad, this track echoes the sonic themes of Off the Wall.
Michael Jackson’s Best Songs From the Thriller Era and Beyond
The next five Michael Jackson top songs come from his peak era as a pop and culture icon.
5. “Black or White” (1991)
Written by Jackson and Bill Bottrell, the eclectic “Black or White” became the #1 rock song in 1991. The song has it all: a guitar intro by Slash, a keyboard-heavy breakdown, and a rap by Bottrell himself. The lyrics are as true today as they ever were. Love doesn’t care if you’re black or white because it comes in all colors and shapes.
4. “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” (1982)
Michael knew what he was doing when he made this the opening track for Thriller. Quincy Jones’s production is immaculate, and the percussion is so precise. Who knows what they’re singing in the outro; all that matters is that it sounds good. Jackson’s songwriting is arguably at its peak here with the layered horns and vocal arrangements. It’s cohesive and intentional, a perfect summary of the rest of the record to come.
3. “Billie Jean” (1983)
The neat thing about Thriller is that each song is a perfect standalone single, but they team up to create one of the best records of the 20th century. There’s something about “Billie Jean” that speaks to the soul, whether it be the smug lyrics or the undeniable rhythm section. The iconic bassline and the smooth drums produce a landscape where even the most mediocre dancer can make magic.
2. “Smooth Criminal” (1988)
“Smooth Criminal” is another Michael Jackson phenomenon where he takes a peculiar scenario and turns it into an anthem. The bassline is punchy, and the hysterical chorus will have everybody wondering if this Annie girl is truly alright. Written by Jackson himself, the lyrics paint a picture of a bloody crime scene, and the music echoes this with its crescendos and aggressive snare. Another very coverable song, the main riff can easily be picked up by any beginner musician, but copying Quincy Jones’s production would mean lightning striking twice in one spot.
1. “Thriller” (1983)
As many would have expected, this is objectively the best song. This is Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson, both at their prime. The lyrics are as atmospheric as the production. When Jackson sings of horror, the production complements him by putting thunder or a howling wolf in the background. If that’s not impressive enough, they even got horror icon Vincent Price on the outro verse! If you close your eyes and listen to it, you’ll hear something new each time: a sound effect, a harmony, or even a new instrument altogether. The song is the gift that keeps giving. Though it’s mostly saved for Halloween, the groove is for all seasons.
Michael is in theaters now!
With Michael Jackson’s top 10 songs in mind, see the King of Pop’s life on the big screen in the new biopic from Lionsgate.