Top 20 Michael Jackson Songs: His Best Of The 80s

Hey music lovers! Let's dive into a thrilling journey back to the 1980s, a decade dominated by the one and only King of Pop, Michael Jackson. This was an era where his music transcended boundaries, his dance moves revolutionized the world, and his videos redefined the music industry. We’re counting down the top 20 Michael Jackson songs from the 80s that continue to captivate and inspire generations. Get ready to moonwalk down memory lane!

1. Billie Jean

"Billie Jean", released in 1983, isn't just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon. Grabbing the top spot on our list, this track showcases Jackson's genius in blending funk, pop, and a touch of mystery. The infectious bassline, coupled with Jackson's signature vocal delivery, creates an atmosphere that's both thrilling and deeply personal. The lyrics, inspired by real-life experiences with obsessed fans, tell a cautionary tale wrapped in a danceable beat. But what truly elevated "Billie Jean" was its groundbreaking music video, which cemented Jackson's status as a visual artist. Remember the illuminated tiles under his feet? Iconic! Beyond its commercial success, "Billie Jean" earned critical acclaim, winning Jackson a Grammy Award and solidifying his place in music history. Its influence can still be heard in contemporary music, a testament to its timeless appeal. The song's impact extends beyond music, influencing fashion, dance, and visual arts. The red leather jacket, the single glove, the moonwalk – all became symbols of a generation inspired by Jackson's artistry. "Billie Jean" remains a staple on playlists and dance floors worldwide, proving that some songs truly are forever. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual listener, "Billie Jean" is a must-have in any music collection, a shining example of Jackson's unparalleled talent and creative vision. The song continues to resonate with audiences because it taps into universal themes of love, obsession, and identity, making it a timeless masterpiece.

2. Beat It

"Beat It", released in 1983 as part of the Thriller album, explodes onto our list with its electrifying energy and powerful message. This hard rock-infused anthem stands out for its collaboration with guitar legend Eddie Van Halen, whose iconic guitar solo elevated the song to another level. "Beat It" tackles the serious issue of gang violence, urging listeners to find peaceful solutions instead of resorting to fighting. The music video, featuring real-life gang members, amplified this message, promoting unity and understanding. The song's catchy chorus and driving beat made it an instant hit, appealing to a wide audience and transcending genre boundaries. "Beat It" earned Jackson a Grammy Award for Record of the Year and further solidified his status as a musical innovator. Beyond its commercial success, "Beat It" is celebrated for its positive message and its ability to bring people together. It remains a popular choice for sporting events and dance competitions, a testament to its enduring appeal. The song's impact can still be felt today, inspiring artists to use their music to address social issues and promote peace. "Beat It" is more than just a song; it's a call to action, a reminder that we can all make a difference in the world by choosing love and understanding over violence and hate. So crank up the volume and let the message of "Beat It" inspire you to create a more peaceful and harmonious world.

3. Thriller

"Thriller", the title track from the best-selling album of all time, shimmies its way to number three on our list. Released in 1984, this spooky, synth-laden masterpiece combines elements of pop, funk, and horror, creating a truly unique and unforgettable listening experience. The song tells a chilling tale of a date gone wrong, complete with Vincent Price's iconic narration and sound effects that will send shivers down your spine. Of course, no discussion of "Thriller" is complete without mentioning its groundbreaking music video. Directed by John Landis, the 13-minute mini-movie redefined the genre, setting a new standard for music videos as cinematic art. The zombie choreography, the werewolf transformation, the sheer spectacle of it all – it was unlike anything the world had ever seen. "Thriller" won multiple MTV Video Music Awards and a Grammy Award, cementing its place in pop culture history. The song's impact extends far beyond the music industry, influencing film, television, and even fashion. The red jacket, the zombie makeup, the dance moves – all became instantly recognizable symbols of the "Thriller" phenomenon. To this day, "Thriller" remains a Halloween staple, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at parties and events. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Jackson's genius in blending music, visuals, and storytelling to create a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. So dim the lights, turn up the volume, and prepare to be thrilled by the one and only "Thriller."

4. Man in the Mirror

"Man in the Mirror", released in 1988, shines brightly as a beacon of hope and self-reflection. This powerful ballad deviates from Jackson's typical dance-oriented tracks, focusing instead on a message of personal change and social responsibility. The song urges listeners to look within themselves and make a positive change in the world, starting with their own actions. The lyrics are simple yet profound, resonating with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. "Man in the Mirror" became an instant anthem for social activism, inspiring countless individuals to get involved in their communities and make a difference. The music video, featuring images of historical events and social injustices, amplified this message, urging viewers to confront the challenges facing our world. The song's emotional depth and powerful message earned it critical acclaim and commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries. "Man in the Mirror" remains a popular choice for charity events and social causes, a testament to its enduring message of hope and change. Its impact can still be felt today, inspiring artists to use their music to promote social justice and encourage personal responsibility. So take a moment to look in the mirror and ask yourself: what can I do to make the world a better place? "Man in the Mirror" is a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can have a ripple effect, creating positive change that extends far beyond ourselves.

5. Smooth Criminal

"Smooth Criminal", released in 1988 as part of the Bad album, struts onto our list with its sleek, sophisticated style and unforgettable music video. This song is a masterclass in suspense, telling the story of a mysterious attack in a speakeasy, all set to a driving beat and Jackson's signature vocals. The lyrics are cryptic and intriguing, leaving listeners to piece together the events of the crime. But what truly sets "Smooth Criminal" apart is its innovative music video. The iconic lean, the synchronized dance moves, the film noir aesthetic – it was a visual feast that captivated audiences worldwide. The video showcased Jackson's unparalleled dance skills and his ability to create a cinematic experience within the confines of a music video. "Smooth Criminal" became a staple on MTV, earning numerous awards and solidifying Jackson's status as a visual innovator. The song's impact extends beyond the music industry, influencing dance, fashion, and even science (the "Smooth Criminal lean" inspired scientific studies on human biomechanics). To this day, "Smooth Criminal" remains a popular choice for dance competitions and performances, a testament to its enduring appeal. Its sleek style and suspenseful narrative continue to captivate audiences, proving that some songs are truly timeless. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the smooth sounds of "Smooth Criminal."

Top 20 List Breakdown

Here is a breakdown of the remaining top 20 Michael Jackson songs from the 1980s:

6. "Bad"
7. "The Way You Make Me Feel"
8. "Dirty Diana"
9. "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough"
10. "Rock with You"
11. "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'"
12. "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)"
13. "Remember the Time"
14. "Another Part of Me"
15. "Human Nature"
16. "Liberian Girl"
17. "Say Say Say" (with Paul McCartney)
18. "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" (with Siedah Garrett)
19. "Leave Me Alone"
20. "Black or White"

These songs showcase Michael Jackson's incredible range and versatility as an artist, from upbeat dance anthems to heartfelt ballads. His music continues to inspire and entertain generations of fans around the world, cementing his legacy as the King of Pop.

So there you have it, the top 20 Michael Jackson songs from the 1980s! This decade was a golden era for the King of Pop, filled with groundbreaking music, iconic videos, and unforgettable performances. These songs are not just hits; they are cultural touchstones that continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. So crank up the volume and let the music of Michael Jackson transport you back to the magical 80s!