Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, left an indelible mark on music history with his unparalleled talent, innovative dance moves, and timeless songs. From his early days with the Jackson 5 to his solo career, Jackson’s influence on popular music is undeniable. In this article, we delve into the top 10 best songs that showcase Jackson’s musical genius and cultural impact. Each song on this list not only topped the charts but also resonated deeply with listeners around the globe, cementing Jackson’s status as a music icon. From iconic dance anthems like “Billie Jean” and “Thriller” to heartfelt ballads such as “Human Nature” and “Man in the Mirror,” Jackson’s repertoire spans genres and emotions. His ability to blend catchy melodies with profound lyrics made him a beloved figure in the hearts of millions. Join us as we celebrate the legacy of Michael Jackson through his most popular and enduring musical masterpieces, each a testament to his unparalleled artistry and lasting influence on the world of music.

1. Billie Jean

“Billie Jean,” a pinnacle of Michael Jackson’s career, epitomizes his iconic blend of pop, R&B, and dance. Released in 1982 on the album “Thriller,” it showcases Jackson’s dynamic vocals, intricate production, and groundbreaking music video. The song’s infectious bassline, crafted by Quincy Jones and Jackson, became instantly recognizable. Lyrically, “Billie Jean” narrates a cautionary tale of a woman’s false claim of Jackson fathering her child, adding depth to its irresistible melody. Its success was monumental, topping charts worldwide and earning Jackson two Grammy Awards. The accompanying music video, featuring Jackson’s mesmerizing dance moves, revolutionized music visuals, setting new standards for the industry. “Billie Jean” remains a cultural touchstone, influencing artists across genres and generations. Its legacy extends beyond music, reflecting Jackson’s impact as a global pop icon and cementing “Thriller” as one of the best-selling albums of all time.

2. Thriller

“Thriller,” the title track from Michael Jackson’s 1982 album, is an enduring masterpiece that redefined music videos and pop culture. Produced by Quincy Jones and written by Rod Temperton, its cinematic horror-inspired narrative captivates listeners with its eerie atmosphere and infectious groove. Jackson’s vocal prowess shines through the song’s dynamic range, complemented by Vincent Price’s chilling narration. The iconic music video, directed by John Landis, features Jackson’s signature dance moves and elaborate choreography, transforming him into a werewolf amidst a zombie dance troupe. “Thriller” became a global phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim. Its impact on pop music was monumental, influencing artists and setting new benchmarks for creativity in music videos. The album “Thriller” remains the best-selling album of all time, solidifying Jackson’s status as the King of Pop. The song’s legacy endures, annually resurfacing during Halloween and continuing to thrill audiences with its timeless blend of horror, funk, and pop sensibilities.

3. Beat It

“Beat It,” a standout track from Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking album “Thriller” (1982), showcases his versatility and impact on pop and rock music. Produced by Quincy Jones and featuring a guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, the song blends Jackson’s signature pop style with hard-hitting rock elements. “Beat It” delivers a powerful anti-violence message through its lyrics, urging listeners to avoid street conflicts and find peaceful resolutions. Jackson’s vocal performance is energetic and compelling, supported by a driving rhythm section and Van Halen’s electrifying guitar work. The song’s music video, directed by Bob Giraldi, features Jackson’s iconic dance moves and an ensemble of diverse dancers, further solidifying its cultural significance. “Beat It” achieved widespread acclaim, topping charts internationally and winning two Grammy Awards. It continues to resonate as a timeless anthem of unity and resilience, transcending genres and generations. Jackson’s ability to fuse pop, rock, and socially conscious themes in “Beat It” cements its place as one of his most iconic and influential songs.

4. Man in the Mirror

“Man in the Mirror,” from Michael Jackson’s 1987 album “Bad,” is a soul-stirring ballad that embodies his commitment to social change and personal introspection. Written by Siedah Garrett and Glen Ballard, the song reflects Jackson’s desire to inspire positive transformation in the world. With its gospel-infused melody and Jackson’s emotive vocals, “Man in the Mirror” resonates deeply, urging listeners to reflect on their actions and strive for meaningful change. The song’s poignant lyrics emphasize themes of self-improvement and social responsibility, delivering a message of hope and empowerment. Jackson’s heartfelt delivery, backed by a stirring choir, creates a powerful emotional impact that has touched millions worldwide. “Man in the Mirror” became a chart-topping hit, earning critical acclaim and multiple award nominations. Its enduring popularity and universal message continue to inspire generations, cementing it as one of Michael Jackson’s most profound and influential songs.

5. Smooth Criminal

“Smooth Criminal,” featured on Michael Jackson’s 1987 album “Bad,” is a captivating blend of pop, rock, and Jackson’s signature dance-pop style. Written by Jackson himself, the song showcases his vocal agility and storytelling prowess. With its pulsating beat, catchy hooks, and iconic lyrics, “Smooth Criminal” narrates a suspenseful tale of a woman named Annie who is attacked in her apartment. Jackson’s dynamic performance is complemented by innovative instrumentation, including the distinctive “hee-hee” vocal ad-libs and the powerful bassline. The song’s music video, renowned for its mesmerizing choreography and Jackson’s gravity-defying lean, further solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon. “Smooth Criminal” achieved commercial success, topping charts in several countries and becoming a fan favorite. Its impact on pop culture is undeniable, influencing music, fashion, and dance. Jackson’s ability to fuse storytelling with electrifying performance in “Smooth Criminal” continues to captivate audiences, making it one of his most iconic and enduring songs.

6. Black or White

“Black or White,” released in 1991 as part of Michael Jackson’s “Dangerous” album, stands as a powerful anthem promoting racial harmony and unity. With its infectious blend of pop, rock, and hip-hop elements, the song showcases Jackson’s vocal versatility and social consciousness. Written by Jackson himself, “Black or White” addresses themes of equality and cultural diversity through its inclusive lyrics and upbeat tempo. The song’s innovative music video, directed by John Landis, features groundbreaking special effects, morphing faces of people from various ethnicities, and Jackson’s electrifying dance sequences. It became one of the most-watched videos in MTV history, emphasizing Jackson’s influence as a global pop icon and advocate for social change. “Black or White” topped charts worldwide, underscoring its universal appeal and resonating message. Beyond its commercial success, the song’s impact on pop culture endures, inspiring generations to embrace tolerance and celebrate cultural differences. Jackson’s legacy lives on through “Black or White,” a testament to his artistic vision and commitment to promoting unity through music.

7. The Way You Make Me Feel

“The Way You Make Me Feel,” from Michael Jackson’s 1987 album “Bad,” is a vibrant love song that showcases Jackson’s infectious energy and charisma. Written and composed by Jackson himself, the song is a celebration of romantic attraction and infatuation. With its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and soulful vocals, “The Way You Make Me Feel” captivates listeners with its joyful and carefree spirit. Jackson’s vocal performance is both playful and passionate, conveying the excitement of newfound love. The song’s music video, directed by Joe Pytka, features Jackson’s iconic dance moves and flirtatious interactions with a female protagonist, further enhancing its charm and appeal. “The Way You Make Me Feel” achieved commercial success, topping charts internationally and becoming a fan favorite. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Jackson’s ability to blend pop, R&B, and dance elements into a timeless hit. With its infectious groove and heartfelt lyrics, “The Way You Make Me Feel” remains a beloved classic in Jackson’s repertoire, continuing to resonate with audiences worldwide.

8. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough

“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” released in 1979 on Michael Jackson’s album “Off the Wall,” marked a pivotal moment in his career as a solo artist. Written by Jackson himself, the song is a vibrant disco-funk anthem that showcases his evolving musical style and infectious energy. With its pulsating beat, catchy hooks, and Jackson’s dynamic vocals, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” exudes joy and exuberance, inviting listeners to dance and celebrate. The song’s production, characterized by its layered instrumentation and intricate rhythm arrangement, set a new standard for contemporary pop music. Jackson’s vocal performance is electrifying, effortlessly blending soulful delivery with falsetto flourishes. The accompanying music video, featuring Jackson’s iconic dance moves and vibrant visuals, further solidified his status as a charismatic performer and innovator. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” became a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim. Its impact on disco and pop music was profound, influencing artists and shaping dance music trends for years to come. As one of Jackson’s early solo hits, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” remains a timeless classic, embodying his artistic creativity and musical prowess.

9. Rock with You

“Rock with You,” released in 1979 on Michael Jackson’s album “Off the Wall,” is a soulful disco classic that showcases Jackson’s smooth vocals and infectious groove. Written by Rod Temperton, the song is known for its laid-back tempo, catchy melody, and shimmering production. Jackson’s performance is captivating, blending effortless charm with emotive delivery as he sings about the joy of dancing and being close to someone special. The song’s instrumentation, characterized by its funky bassline and rhythmic guitar licks, creates an irresistible atmosphere that invites listeners to hit the dance floor. “Rock with You” topped charts internationally, becoming one of Jackson’s early solo successes and a staple of disco-era playlists. Its timeless appeal transcends generations, continuing to be celebrated for its feel-good vibes and Jackson’s ability to connect with audiences through his music. The song’s enduring popularity underscores its status as a classic in Jackson’s illustrious career, symbolizing his influence on pop and dance music.

10. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’

“Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” featured on Michael Jackson’s 1982 album “Thriller,” is a dynamic and energetic anthem that blends elements of funk, pop, and African rhythms. Written and composed by Jackson himself, the song’s infectious beat and spirited vocal performance make it a standout track on the album. Lyrically, “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” addresses themes of gossip and personal empowerment, encouraging listeners to rise above negativity and challenges. The song’s production, helmed by Quincy Jones, incorporates layered instrumentation and a driving percussion section, creating a vibrant and danceable groove. Jackson’s vocal delivery ranges from soulful crooning to powerful ad-libs, showcasing his versatility and expressive range. The song’s memorable refrain and rhythmic intensity contributed to its commercial success, reaching the top of charts worldwide. Its impact on pop music is evident in its influence on subsequent artists and its inclusion in Jackson’s legendary catalog of hits. “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its infectious energy and Jackson’s iconic performance style.