The album that not only would not only permanently define Michael Jackon’s career but also the course of pop music as we know it. “Thriller” was the musical moment of the decade not only for the songs' quality but also for Michael's overall captivating image. The moonwalking, glittering zip-up jacket-clad man wearing a single sequined glove would become a shared fever dream among all American households thanks to a new TV station, MTV and iconic music videos of this album. Arguably this is the best album Jackson ever released, with bangers all the way through, from the disco-funk into “Wanna Be Startin’ Something” to the instantly recognizable synths and drums of “Beat It” to even the gentle plucking and whispering of “P.Y.T. Pretty Young Thing.” Michael could do it all.
Elvis, The Beatles, Bowie; these greats all stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the true king of pop, Michael Jackson. Regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern music, Jackson is the best-selling artist in music history, capturing the hearts of multiple generations with smooth moves, infectious hooks and sheer charisma. He’s one of those rare individuals who’s a perfectionist but can actually pull off perfection, having released some of the best songs of the 20th century. On top of his rare abilities, his show-biz upbringing made him a perfect storm of a pop star. Still, it also profoundly traumatized the singer into Peter Pan syndrome and extreme plastic surgery, literally naming his estate “Neverland,” where he did terrible things and ultimately tarnished his legacy.
