Candis R. McLean
1. PYT
The top track on this will be highly problematic for some. I can already hear the shivering echoes of “Are you crazy?” The song is the musical pinnacle. From the revered chorus, to call-and-response bridge, to dances it inspires, it’s brilliant. The song has been sampled, covered, and remixed by several artists spanning decades. However, no attempt can compare to this bar-setting work.
2.Thriller
Whether it’s just Michael Jackson’s electrifying vocals, the opening pulsating bass, or Vincent Price’s haunting phrases, “Thriller” is iconic in its own right. The one-word spectacle of a track evokes signature dance moves and legendary images of the most classic, memorable, and spooky dance-offs ever seen in a music video. You only have to say the word “Thriller” and you’re immediately transported to another world.
3.Billie Jean
Here Michael goes full storytelling mode with this paternity themed track that’s musically strung together with echoing guitar riffs and high ranging keys. I dare you to play this song on any dance floor around the world and find one mouth not shouting the lyrics.
4.Beat It
This song had people wearing the iconic leather jacket in the summer time. This perfect marriage between theatrics and sound is on full display here. Michael’s true originality shines in this battleground and personal strength anthem. The timeless and absorbing pace of tempo is iconic.
5.Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
Transcendent disco comes to my mind for this track from the Off The Wall album. This is a song from Michael’s emerging years as a solo act. Balancing the weight of his previous success, Jackson launched on to the scene with this energetic and feel good song.
6.Rock with You
This is Michael’s first heartthrob track, breaking him from the mold of the boyish charm that he cultivated through his chart-topping years with the Jackson 5. The song embraces and inspires a never ending party. It’s is a sure play at any summer bar-b-q or friendly gathering.
7.Remember the Time
When this song came out, Michael was already a legend. Ears embraced the musical genius, which was par for the course for Michael’s impeccable sound. The all-gold and star-studded video, engrained with Egyptian overtures and choreography is incendiary. The song is an ultimate powerhouse jam of sound and tempo.
8.Man in the Mirror
The global musical humanitarian self-reflection track is one of the shimmering beacons on this list. The worldwide and transcendent track incorporated a heartfelt message, a chorus that can be chanted throughout arenas, and an elevating sound.
9.Smooth Criminal
Classic Michael is on full parade in this song. With the reverberating waves of “Annie are you ok?” Michael hits all the signature hard counts on the track. When the opening rhythm comes on, nobody can resist pulling out their best moonwalk impersonations.
10.Human Nature
This is one of Michael Jackson’s smoothest songs. When the harmonious tones signal the opening the track, smiles are soon to follow. Just like other Michael Jackson staples, the track has a chorus that well known throughout the globe and has a finger-snapping vibe that can’t be duplicated.
Here’s a playlist to celebrate the King of Pop:
Feel free to make your own Top 10 list and tell me how wrong I am below.