Every Michael Jackson Album Ranked and Reviewed
Michael Jackson’s music needs no introduction. With numerous hits and millions of albums sold, the king of pop remains one of the most well-known and adored artists. However, his discography has been largely overlooked. Aside from his hugely successful run of albums as a solo artist, his albums as a member of the Jackson 5 and Jacksons have remained known by only hardcore fans. This list is a comprehensive look at every album he ever released (including Jackson 5 and Jacksons releases). This list is also my very own opinion, I would love to hear differing views on many of these projects.
25. Music & Me (1973)
Released during a point of tumultuousness between the Jacksons and Motown (…the album cover shows this in full display…), Music & Me is a painfully average release. Michael’s miraculous vocal ability is on full display, but the songs are not noteworthy. The album fails to capture the energy listeners would (and should) expect from a Michael Jackson record.
The LP is defined by ballads and covers. From Nat King Cole’s “Too Young” to “Happy” a track built around an instrumental from the Diana Ross film Lady Sings the Blues, the album is mellow, slow, and very uninteresting. Even when the album tries to raise the tempo (“Euphoria,” “Johnny Raven”) the tracks are uninspired and feel like half-baked attempts to recapture the magic of earlier hits. Nothing on the album is bad or awful, the tracks just don’t leave a lasting impact.
Highlights: “With a Child’s Heart,” “Morning Glow,” and the title track.
24. Skywriter (1973)
Released a few months before Music & Me (featuring a cover that also shows the solemn feelings of the group), Skywriter finds the Jackson 5 at a crossroads. Not still a group of young children but also not yet adults, the album finds Motown struggling to find footing for the brothers.
Some of the album follows in the footsteps of prior records. The title-track, “Corner of the Sky,” and “World of Sunshine” sound like what was expected from the group. However, the album also attempts to show maturity. “Touch” is an example of this, featuring a then 14-year old Michael singing about a sensual touch. While a really great cover, it’s hard not to hear why this song in particular generated controversy. As a result, the album feels uneven. A release the serves primarily as a bridge between 1972’s Lookin’ Through the Windows and 1973’s other release Get It Together.
Highlights: the title track, “Hallelujah Day” and “Touch.”
23. Moving Violation (1975)
Moving Violation marks the end of the Jackson 5. After years of begging for creative control, the group ended relations with Motown after this album’s release (Jermaine, who was married to Motown founder Berry Gordy’s daughter, stayed). The most interesting thing about this album is its backstory.
While a fine listen, the album suffers from similar issues of other late Jackson 5 albums. The songs are great, their cover of “Forever Came Today” is amazing, but the album is nothing groundbreaking. It’s obvious this was a release made when the group was ready to move on.
Highlights: “Forever Came Today,” the title track, “(You Were Made) Especially for Me” and “All I Do is Think of You.”
22. Forever, Michael (1975)
The final of four solo albums Michael released at Motown, Forever, Michael is a wonderful return-to-form after Music & Me. This album in particular has some of my personal favorite Motown era tracks.
“We’re Almost There,” “Take Me Back,” and “Just a Little Bit of You” capture a more up-tempo side of the album while ballads “One Day in Your Life,” “You Are There,” and album-closer “I’ll Come Home to You” give the album an emotional core. The album has its fair share of duds (“Cinderella Stay Awhile,” “Dear Michael”), but as a whole the album feels rewarding to listen to. The best moments on Forever, Michael are some of the strongest of this period.
Highlights: “One Day in Your Life,” “We’re Almost There,” “Just a Little Bit of You,” and “You Are There.”
21. Lookin’ Through the Windows (1972)
After four albums that included non-stop hits (not to mention the dizzying amount of hits from both Michael and Jermaine’s solo releases), Lookin’ Through the Windows is the start of a transitional period for the Jackson 5.
Featuring a cover of “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” starting the album, the 11 tracks show the group exploring similar ground as before. The songs are strong and prove why the early output of the group is well remembered. The tracks also show why this album is very often overlooked. None of the tracks are an immediate surefire hit. The closest the album has is the Corporation penned “Don’t Let Your Baby Catch You,” a high energy track that feels like it could’ve been released on ABC or the Third Album, and the title-track which was released and peaked in the top 20 of the pop charts.
The album is still worth checking out however, there are many gems lurking through this release. “To Know,” “If I Have to Move a Mountain,” and “E-Ne-Me-Ne-Mi-Ne-Moe (The Choice is Yours to Pull)” are only a small batch of what specular moments can be heard.
Highlights: the title track, “Don’t Let Your Baby Catch You,” “E-Ne-Me-Ne-Mi-Ne-Moe…” and “If I Have to Move a Mountain.”
20. Diana Ross Presents the Jackson 5 (1969)
The album that started it all. The album that began the career of the legend.
This album is most known for featuring the group-defining hit “I Want You Back,” the first number one of the group and “Who’s Loving You,” a song which has become more known as a Jackson 5 hit than as a Smoky Robinson original. While amazing, this success has overshadowed the rest of the album.
The album is one that shows the group finding its sound. The album is very covers heavy (of the 12 tracks, 9 are covers), but features great renditions. The aforementioned “Who’s Loving You,” “Stand!” and “Standing in the Shadows of Love” showcase the brothers’ ability to sing beloved songs well. For original tracks both “I Want You Back,” and “Nobody” show the talents of the songwriting team at Motown and their abilities to write surefire hits!
While the release features not enough originals, the album proves why the group became successful. Michael Jackson’s unbelievable talent is on full display, even at the age of 11!
Highlights: “I Want You Back,” “Who’s Loving You,” “Nobody,” and “Stand!”
19. Goin’ Places (1977)
The Jacksons had proved their capabilities with the release of The Jacksons in 1976. Featuring the first released tracks written by any of the brothers, the project featured two hits. However the follow-up, Goin’ Places, failed to reach the same success.
With Gamble & Huff mainly producing again, the release continues the sonic sound of the prior release. The album isn’t a retread though… far from it. This album features more funky sounding tracks (“Music’s Takin’ Over”) and even some socially-conscious numbers (“Man of War”). The album also features two spectacular Jacksons penned tracks like “Different Kind of Lady” which showcase the brothers talents as songwriters. “Find Me a Girl” ends the album showcasing Michael at his most romantic to this point. As a whole the album is surprisingly great. The only real dud on the album is the slow, uninspired “Heaven Knows I Love You, Girl.” Had the track not been included, I would probably have ranked this album higher.
Highlights: “Music’s Takin’ Over,” “Different Kind of Lady,” “Even Though You’re Gone,” and “Find Me a Girl.”
18. The Jacksons (1976)
When making the move from Motown to Epic, the Jackson 5 was met with unbelievable news. The name of the group was owned by Motown, meaning they could no longer use it for new releases. Their new name, “The Jacksons,” would unintentionally become a signifier for a new era of the group.
Produced by mainly Gamble & Huff, this album showed a more sophisticated side of the group not shown at Motown. Michael Jackson’s writing is showcased for the first time on the melancholy “Blues Away.” Hits “Enjoy Yourself” and “Show You the Way to Go” prove the group could have hits on their own without Motown’s help. The album is a very fun, positive album. If there ever was a pick-me-up album… it’s this one.
Highlights: “Enjoy Yourself,” “Keep on Dancing,” “Show You the Way to Go,” and “Strength of One Man.”
17. Maybe Tomorrow (1971)
Hot off the success of their first three albums, Maybe Tomorrow continues the momentum while evolving the group’s sound.
With “Petals” and “The Wall” following the sound the Jackson 5 was known for, it would seem like the obvious choices for singles. However, the album’s promotional cycle began with the mid-tempo masterpiece “Never Can Say Goodbye.” While not as beloved as “I Want You Back” or “I’ll Be There,” the song remains a classic in the group’s catalog. The rest of the album is no different.
Featuring underrated deep cuts (“It’s Great to Be Here,” “My Little Baby”) to great covers (“Honey Chile”), the album is hard hitter after hard hitter. Nothing on the album is what I would consider filler. The only song I’m personally not big on is the Jermaine led “Sixteen Candles.” The rest of the album though is amazing, proof that when the group was given amazing material it could soar!
Highlights: “Maybe Tomorrow,” “Never Can Say Goodbye,” “Petals,” and “It’s Great to Be Here.”
16. Ben (1972)
Michael Jackson had already proven he could stand alone with the release of Got to Be There. The next release showed he could even overshadow his brothers…
Giving Michael’s his first solo number one hit, Ben proves that it was inevitable he would lead a successful solo career. The title track however isn’t a completely accurate image of the record itself. The album continues the sound of his first solo album (…even outright stealing one of its tracks “In Our Small Way”…) but, the project has amazing moments. From the socially-conscious “People Make the World Go ‘Round” to the surprisingly great cover of “My Girl,” it doesn’t break new ground but proves that it doesn’t to. A classic example of “if it isn’t broke don’t fix it.”
Highlights: the title track, “People Make the World Go ‘Round,” “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool,” and “My Girl.”
15. Victory (1984)
Time sure makes a difference…
From the release of 1980’s Triumph to Victory, changes had occurred in the Jackson family. Michael Jackson’s star had risen considerably after the massive success of his 1982 release… Thriller. The album became not just his most successful release but the biggest selling album ever. Any album that followed it would have massive expectations to reach. Victory does not reach the heights of Thriller or even Triumph, nor does it try to.
Featuring eight songs, the album is mainly a showcase of the individual brothers talents. The only ‘normal’ song is album-opener “Torture,” which features Jermaine sharing vocals with Michael. Most of the songs are great, “Wait” and “The Hurt” in particular are great deep cuts that prove other members of the family could carry a great dance number. Randy in particular has a beautiful ballad with “One More Chance.” This song is a true highlight.
Michael’s contributions are very distinct from one another. “Be Not Always” is a guitar-driven ballad that showcases his concern for the planet years before “Man in the Mirror” or “Earth Song.” “State of Shock,” on the other hand, is a rock song featuring Mick Jagger sharing vocals. Both songs are interesting looks into Michael’s creative headspace between Thriller and Bad.
The album as a whole is great… but far from a classic Jacksons album. The highlights showcase the talents of the brothers but the release feels very divided. It lacks the unification that made other albums so special. Still, the album is worth checking out.
Highlights: “Torture,” “Wait,” “One More Chance,” “State of Shock,” and “The Hurt”
14. Got to Be There (1972)
After three years of constant releases, you would think the Jackson 5 would have a natural slowing down of material. However, right before 1971’s end, Motown released what would become Michael Jackson’s first solo single… “Got to Be There.”
Featuring one of Michael’s greatest vocal performances to date, the song is an fantastic example of his unbelievable talent. The song is also one of many amazing moments found on his solo debut.
From the high energy fun of “Rockin’ Robin” to the heartbreaking emotions of “Ain’t No Sunshine,” the album proves Michael’s range as a performer. The album is filled with great songs. There is no dull moments.
I don’t have much to say about this release aside from it being a strong album. Of all his early solo output, Got to Be There is the one I recommend the most.
Highlights include; the title-track, “I Wanna Be Where You Are,” “Ain’t No Sunshine,” and “Rockin’ Robin”
13. Dancing Machine (1973)
“Dancing Machine” is one of the Jackson 5’s best known later-day hits. The song gave the brothers their first major hit in years. This success is what led Motown to take the song off of Get It Together and make it the title track for their follow up.
Even though this sounds like a prime example of a label pumping out material to cash in, the album is one of the group’s best!
Dancing Machine is an album that takes the foundation laid by Get It Together and continues it. From the extremely underrated tracks “What You Don’t Know” and “The Life of the Party” to the unexpected seven-minute epic “I Am Love,” this album shows the group in a creative rejuvenation. A group that has begun to shed it’s bubblegum pop image and mature.
This album is one that I wish had more attention. Dancing Machine proves that the group could still make amazing music late into their career.
Highlights: “I Am Love,” “Dancing Machine,” “The Life of the Party,” and “If I Don’t Love You this Way”
12. Third Album (1970)
Even though the album has one of the least creative titles, the project is one of the best examples of the Jackson 5’s greatness.
What can be said about album opener, “I’ll Be There?” The song is arguably the group’s best ballad. Featuring amazing vocals from both Michael and Jermaine, the song is an enduring classic.
While the rest of the album doesn’t reach the heights of “I’ll Be There,” there are still amazing moments. The covers on this album range from the :’ “Ready or Not” to surprisingly enough Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” There’s also of course fun originals like the well-beloved “Goin’ Back to Indiana” and “Mama’s Pearl.”
The album is another great project from the group, another example of the group at its peak!
Highlights: “I’ll Be There,” “Can I See You in the Morning,” “Goin’ Back to Indiana” and “Mama’s Pearl”
11. Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix (1997)
Is it cheating to include a glorified EP with remixes attached?
Michael Jackson’s Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix is one of the most eccentric releases from his catalog. Famously an artist who rarely released B-sides and would commonly promote albums upwards of three to four years, this release is a rare detour.
It’s very common for fans to criticize the remixes on this project. I would argue that some are pretty decent. The Jam & Lewis remix for “Scream” enhances the funky sample of “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin).” The Refugee Mix for “2 Bad” takes a song layered in sound and and strips it back to a mellow dance track. The “HIStory” remix also somehow takes an emotional, sample-heavy song and turns it into an extremely ‘90s club mix.
There are moments that don’t work to be fair. The “Stranger in Moscow” remix is very unnecessary. But as a whole, it’s a pretty decent set of remixes. However, the most interesting part of this project is the five originals…
Dark, experimental, and retrospectively tragic, these songs showcase a side of Michael Jackson that had never been seen before or after.
From songs about lust and sexual promiscuity (“Superfly Sister”), drug dependency (“Morphine”), and murder (the title track), Michael does not shy-away from tackling heavy themes. “Morphine” in particular is one of his most interesting songs. It features production and lyrics with an extremely aggressive, over-whelming feel which can be compared to the emotions and feelings of someone struggling with drug addiction. Not to mention, the haunting middle section which features Michael’s voice front and center with a piano. It’s one of his most under appreciated gems.
Michael also tackles his public image with both “Ghosts” and “Is It Scary.” The latter has to be one of my favorites for the lyrics alone.
Am I amusing you or just confusing you?
Am I the beast you visualized?
And if you want to to see eccentricities
I’ll be grotesque before your eyesI’m gonna be exactly what you came to see
So did you come to me to see your fantasies
Performed before your very eyes?
But if you came to see, the truth, the purity
It’s here inside a lonely heart
So let the performance start
The project as a whole feels very uneven. Including dance remixes alongside a collection of dark, experimental tracks is a choice that does the album no favors. With that being said, the project features some of Michael’s best. It’s worth checking out for the five non-remixes alone.
Highlights: the title-track, “Morphine,” “Ghosts,” “Is It Scary,” and “Scream Louder (Flyte Tyme Remix)”
10. ABC (1970)
Arguably the best of the Jackson 5’s early albums, ABC is the best example of why the group worked!
While most Jackson 5 releases feature really great singles and decent or fine deep cuts, ABC features a bunch of songs that easily could’ve been hits.
Everyone knows the title track and “The Love You Save.” Both of these were number one hits and remain staples of the group. However, deep cuts like “2–4–6–8,” “One More Chance,” “I’ll Bet You,” are just as worthy of attention.
The album is one of the most solid collections from the group, an album that rightfully established the group as a phenomenon.
Highlights: the title track, “ The Love You Save,” “One More Chance,” “I’ll Bet You,” and “The Young Folks”
9. Get It Together (1973)
After the extremely weak, poorly received Skywriter and Music & Me, the Jackson 5 finally came back with one of their most interesting (and my personal favorite) albums.
At just eight tracks, Get It Together is front-to-back bangers. No longer is this a group of young kids, the five boys have become young adults.
From the fun title track to the funky “Hum Along and Dance.” The album has moments for everyone. The album helped propel the group back to success, in no small part due to final track “Dancing Machine.”
If there’s one album the deserves more attention on this list… it’s this one.
Highlights: the title track, “Hum Along and Dance,” “It’s Too Late to Change the Time,” and “Dancing Machine.”
8. Invincible (2001)
Michael Jackson’s final album has become infamous for the drama surrounding it rather than the material itself. From label disputes, personal scandals, and a world-altering tragedy, Invincible faced many challenges. It didn’t help that many critics were more intrigued by the persona and public image of Michael Jackson rather than the album itself.
Which is a shame really, because the album is a strong albeit flawed masterpiece!
Featuring soulful ballads and futuristic upbeat tracks, Invincible is Michael’s return to a more R&B heavy sound. “Butterflies,” “Heaven Can Wait,” and “Break of Dawn” are prime examples of this. Michael Jackson had not recorded romantic ballads like this probably since “The Lady in My Life.”
However, there are still moments that prove he could pack a dance floor. “Heartbreaker,” “Unbreakable,” and lead single “You Rock My World” all show that Michael still had an ear for what was contemporary. “Heartbreaker” and album closer “Threatened” also prove that he was ahead of the time with both featuring an electronic sound that feels a decade too early.
If there’s one issue with the project, its the length. Michael Jackson is no stranger to long albums (Dangerous and HIStory are both around the 80 min. mark each), however Invincible has many moments that easily could have been removed. “Don’t Walk Away,” “2000 Watts,” and “Cry” are all fine enough songs, they just don’t feel as interesting or as strong as other moments on the album. Had the album been cut down to maybe 12 tracks, This album would rank higher on this list.
As it stands, Invincible, while Michael’s weakest album as an adult solo artist is still worthy of listeners attention. Michael Jackson even thirty-plus years into his career was still capable of putting out amazing projects.
Highlights: “Unbreakable,” “Break of Dawn,” “You Rock My World,” “Butterflies,” “Whatever Happens,” and “Threatened”
7. Triumph (1980)
Michael Jackson was on a roll creatively between 1978 and 1982. From the release of Destiny to Thriller, Michael was in one of the most prolfic periods of his carrer. He was releasing amazing albums both as a solo artist and a member of the Jacksons.
Triumph, in particular, is one album that finds Michael Jackson continuing to evolve. Both as a singer and songwriter.
From the moment the album starts with “Can You Feel It,” the project takes listeners on an exciting ride. From the high energy of “Lovely One” to the emotional masterpiece “Time Waits for No One,” the LP is one that shows the group at arguably it’s peak. Every song is amazing.
“This Place Hotel (a/k/a Heartbreak Hotel)” is the album’s best moment. Dramatic, dark, and featuring a tale of deception, the song lays the path for “Thriller” and “Smooth Criminal.” Not to mention the creativity found in songs like “Walk Right Now” and “Give It Up.”
Triumph is an album that provides a look at Michael’s evolution between Off the Wall and Thriller. The album deserves to be recognized alongside his solo accomplishments.
Highlights: “Can You Feel It,” “Lovely One,” “This Place Hotel (a/k/a Heartbreak Hotel),” “Walk Right Now,” “Give It Up”
6. Off the Wall (1979)
Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones… need I say more?
What can be said about Michael Jackson’s first solo album as an adult? The album is one of the best examples of a star finding his footing. Countless albums released since have used what this album accomplished as an example. Not to mention the groundbreaking achievements!
Number one hit “Don’t Stop ‘til You Get Enough” is a prime example of what makes this album so special. From the legendary falsetto singing, the beautiful production, and the hooks, the song sets the tone for the rest of the record.
Most of Off the Wall focuses on themes of partying and love. Michael Jackson is shown in a more outgoing light. This album features Michael at his most accessible.
From the funk of “Workin’ Day and Night” to the mid tempo groove of “Rock with You,” the album is almost entirely upbeat. The album does slow down a bit for side two. “She’s Out of My Life” remains one of Michael’s most infamous because of the emotional vulnerability on display.
The album features a pretty extensive cast of songwriters. Aside from Michael himself, Rod Temperton, Stevie Wonder, and Paul McCartney all have credits writing songs. One of my favorites is the Stevie penned “I Can’t Help It.” The song is sensual, beautiful, and unbelievably catchy.
All in all, Off the Wall earned its reputation as one of the best records not only in Michael Jackson’s catalog but of all of music. Some have even argued it’s his best. I disagree but I understand why. It’s probably his most upbeat album as an adult. The energy is infectious.
Highlights: “Don’t Stop ‘til You Get Enough,” “Rock with You,” “Workin’ Day and Night,” “Off the Wall,” “She’s Out of My Life,” and “I Can’t Help It”
5. Destiny (1978)
Here it is… the final non-solo album on this list and in my opinion the Jacksons’ finest collection, Destiny.
This album is the first collection to be majority written and produced by the Jacksons. After years of working for full creative control, this album is the group proving themselves as completely capable. The song writing in particular is one of my favorite aspects. Never before had the group shown so much emotion and depth.
“Bless His Soul” is a true standout and one of my favorites from Michael in general. The lyrics and melody absolutely are beautiful and surprisingly prophetic.
I try to do what’s right for me
But no one sees the way I see
And then I try to please them so
But, how far can this pleasing go?Sometimes I cry ’cause I’m confused
Is this a fact of being used?
There is no life for me at all
’Cause I give myself at beck and call
It also helps that the rest of the album is as strong as ever.
From “Blame It on the Boogie” to “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” and “Things I Do for You” the album is filled with moments that are ready made for dance floors. However, the album knows when to slow the tempo down. Album closer “That’s What You Get (For Being Polite)” and “Push Me Away” are both strong slower tracks.
As a whole, this album is one of my favorites. It’s a really huge shame that this album rarely comes up in conversation regarding his musical output. It deserves so much more attention.
Highlights: “Blame It on the Boogie,” “Things I Do for You,” “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground),” “Bless His Soul”
4. Thriller (1982)
To say Thriller was successful would be a major understatement.
Selling over 66 million copies worldwide, winning eight Grammys and eight American Music Awards, and breaking multiple records, Thriller is without question the most successful record to be released ever.
This success makes it easy to overlook how amazing the album really is…
Michael Jackson’s work on Destiny, Off the Wall, and Triumph, his decade of industry success, alongside his unbelievable knack for studying the greats of yesteryear, lead him to create an unprecedented masterpiece of pop, R&B, rock, and dance music.
The moment “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” starts, the album immediately shows a natural progression from his previous albums while also showcasing a evolution in songwriting themes.
Rumors, gang violence, love-triangles, and groupies, are what is covered in Michael’s four penned tracks. A major difference from what was found in his previous works.
“Billie Jean” is a standout on a project full of them. The drama, the beat… the song is one of his best known for a reason. I can’t say anything that hasn’t been said before. It’s a masterpiece that is the best example of what made Michael Jackson such a great artist.
“Beat It” and title track “Thriller” (alongside “Billie Jean”) are hard to separate from the revolutionary short films. It’s hard not to imagine zombies and ware-cats when hearing the infectious groove of the title track. “Beat It” also proves the versatility of Michael. Never before had there been a rock-centric moment in his catalog.
Other moments such as “Human Nature” and “The Lady in My Life” also show a softer, even sensual side. “Human Nature” is one of my all-time favorites. It never fails to stick with me after listening.
Deep cut “Baby Be Mine” and “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” round the album with their funky edge. Duet “The Girl is Mine” is also a nice, easygoing track with Paul McCartney.
At only nine tracks, Thriller packs a punch. No two songs feel similar to one another on this release. Every moment has a purpose, a reason to be included. There are very few records as tight as this release. It’s no wonder this album threw Michael Jackson into the stratosphere.
Highlights: “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” “Thriller,” “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” “Human Nature”
3. Bad (1987)
How do you top a monster of an album like Thriller? You take what made that record work and build on it.
To say Bad is just Thriller but improved would not be completely accurate. While the promotional cycle took some cues from the prior, the album itself stands on its own two feet.
Michael Jackson wrote and produced the majority of this album, showing a growing independence as both artist and songwriter. Most of the tracks written for Bad were pretty much complete prior to Quincy Jones’ production. Michael Jackson, John Barnes, and Bill Bottrell (a.k.a. the “B-Team” as Quincy called them) experimented with sounds and ideas that were completely unique.
Bad feels completely different from any record released prior. Never before had the songs been so intense, emotional, and powerful. From the tight groove of “Bad” and “The Way You Make Me Feel” and the futuristic funk of “Another Part of Me” and “Speed Demon,” the high energy moments sound completely singular.
Ballads “Liberian Girl” and “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” show Michael’s undeniable talent for writing gorgeous songs. Both songs are some of the most lush, beautiful tracks in his catalog.
Michael Jackson’s knack for writing songs with a story is on full display as well. “Dirty Diana” tells the tale of a groupie taking advantage of Michael and destroying his relationships. The song is powerful. Michael sings the song with so much intensity, you feel every word said. It’s a masterpiece.
“Smooth Criminal” is of-course a song that needs no introduction. The tale of a woman named Annie being “struck-down” has become one of Michael’s most beloved. The song is very repetitive but finds a way to remain interesting for it’s entire runtime. From the layers of vocals on the hook, the dramatic breakdown, and the amazing ad-libs throughout, the song is genius.
One of the few tracks not written by Michael, “Man in the Mirror,” is one that became a defining hit for him. The song is the first time in his solo output his humanitarian side was on display. This song also features a prominent gospel choir, a choice not seen before in his music. The song is one of his greatest, its message is one that still resonates.
All in all, Bad is one of Michael’s greatest albums. It features Michael’s skills as a singer, songwriter, and producer on full display. The songs are some of his most defining as an artist and some of the best songs ever. A definite must listen.
Highlights: the title track, “The Way You Make Me Feel,” “Liberian Girl,” “Man in the Mirror,” “Dirty Diana,” “Smooth Criminal,” and “Leave Me Alone”
2. HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995)
Michael Jackson was pissed, to put it lightly.
After years of speculation regarding his personal life, from his sexuality, his surgeries, and his changing skin color, Michael Jackson’s reputation faced its biggest threat when in 1993 he was accused of child molestation and faced months of relentless coverage and invasive investigation. The charges were eventually dropped after a highly controversial “settlement,” but the fallout affected Michael Jackson’s career.
After such a huge scandal, many wondered how he would address it or if he would at all. Michael Jackson not only addressed it, he made the most personal album of his entire discography.
Part greatest hits album, part new studio album, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I is Michael Jackson’s most reveling project, an exploration of his feelings during this difficult time.
Lead single “Scream” with sister Janet Jackson, immediately sets the tone. Beginning with Michael screaming and glass breaking, the track is a takedown of the media and critics.
Tired of injustice, I’m tired of the schemes
Kinda disgusted, So what does it mean (damn it)
Kickin’ me down, I got to get up
As jacked as it sounds, the whole system sucks (damn it!)
Michael Jackson had called attention to the media’s fascination with him prior to “Scream,” but he had never sounded so vindictive! The song is amazing and sets the stage for an album that is defined by aggression.
“Tabloid Junkie” and “2 Bad” continues the exploration of the media’s obsession. Michael sings about the “hounding media in hysteria” in the former and gives the ever important message of not believing everything you hear. “2 Bad” has an insanely produced instrumental and even features (believe it or not) Shaquille O’Neal! Both songs are some of my favorites.
Most of HIStory deals with Michael’s emotions regarding the case of 1993. Songs like “This Time Around” and “Money” have lyrics pointed directly at the accuser’s family, showing Michael’s perspective that it was all done for financial benefit. “D.S.” is one of the most infamous tracks from the release. With the pseudonym “Dom Sheldon” used, the song is a direct attack at district attorney Tom Sneddon, the attorney who led the case against Michael. Considering Michael’s persona of being a kind, sweet, sensitive man, this song shows him at his most unexpected and unforgiving. It’s definitely shocking to hear!
“Stranger in Moscow” is a true standout. Michael uses Moscow to describe the complete isolation he felt during the midst of the allegations. Imagery of the Soviet Union and the KGB are used to express his experience of being antagonized and vilified. It’s a beautiful, haunting masterpiece that ranks high as one of my favorites of his entire discography.
“They Don’t Care About Us” is one of the most politically charged songs of Michael’s career. It’s militant production and easy to sing chorus makes it one of his most memorable. The same can be said for the powerful epic “Earth Song,” a song that continues to remain topical. Both songs are a testament to Michael’s ability to unite people with music and his awareness of global issues.
The most well-known song (and arguably most controversial) is the R. Kelly penned “You Are Not Alone.” The song is best known for being the first song to debut at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is definitely the most radio-friendly track from the project. It’s easy to see why the song took off.
If there’s one track that I feel gets severely overlooked, it’s “Childhood.” This song is one of the most theatrical productions of his career. It feels like it came straight out of a film. Lyrically it’s Michael’s explanation of his unusual upbringing and his “fate to compensate” for his lost childhood. It’s beautiful and heartbreaking. A true standout.
The album concludes in a surprisingly intimate way. As a huge fan of Charlie Chaplin, Michael’s favorite song was “Smile,” which was built from the theme in Chaplin’s film Modern Times. After an album filled with intense emotions, this song provides a hopeful close to not just the album but this entire chapter of his life. It’s a beautiful ending to the rollercoaster these 15 tracks take listeners.
All in all, HIStory is one of the most interesting projects Michael ever released. No other album has moments this emotional and angry while still having amazing songs that are single-ready. If anyone thought Michael was done, they were hugely mistaken. HIStory proves he wasn’t done making history…
Highlights: “Scream,” “They Don’t Care About Us,” “Stranger in Moscow,” “Earth Song,” “Childhood,” “Tabloid Junkie”
1. Dangerous (1991)
In my subjective opinion, Dangerous is Michael Jackson’s magnum-opus.
By this point in his career, Michael was at the peak of his powers. His last three studio albums all generated massive hits, his Bad tour was one of the highest grossing tours at the time, and he was winning awards repeatedly at various events. If Michael Jackson had stagnated and continued to use the well established formula of Thriller and Bad, most people would have been happy. Michael, however, wanted a change.
In between the release of Bad and Dangerous, the sound of music was changing. Hip hop and new jack swing were dominating charts, artists like Bobby Brown, Guy, and sister Janet Jackson were having huge hits with this sonic style. Michael Jackson took notice.
Dangerous is notable for being the first solo album since Forever, Michael to not feature production from Quincy Jones. Michael was the executive producer for Dangerous, he had a hand in every song to some extent. Teddy Riley (who produced for Bobby Brown and his own group Guy), was brought in late to produce seven of the fourteen tracks.
With the opener, “Jam,” the album immediately drags listeners into six non-stop new jack swing dance tracks. First two tracks (“Jam” and “Why You Wanna Trip on Me”) showcase Michael’s concern for humanity. The latter has him asking why the world’s so focused on his eccentricities when so many issues are far more important. Both songs are great, it immediately sets the tone for the rest of the album.
Romance and sex play a big role in the four next songs. “In the Closet” and “She Drives Me Wild” are two of the most provocative moments. “In the Closet” has very exciting production and a surprising amount of gasps and moans. It’s an unexpected track that is one of my favorites!
“Remember the Time” is one of the most beloved songs from Dangerous. Aside from it featuring one of Michael’s most iconic ad-libs throughout the ending, the song is one of the more inviting moments from this project. It’s a very simple, yet catchy song that leaves an impact.
After the very underrated “Can’t Let Her Get Away,” the album switches tones. If the first half is defined by danceable, new jack swing tracks, the second half is defined by exploration.
“Heal the World” provides a nice continuation of Michael’s past humanitarian anthems. The song was written to be easily sung by anybody which I think the song accomplishes nicely. It’s one of the sweetest, most hopeful songs of Michael Jackson’s entire catalog.
A pop, rock, rap hybrid track, “Black or White” continues the global unity message of “Heal the World.” I can’t think of many songs that sound like this. No other artist was/is making pop songs that explore so many sonic ideas!
The album takes a darker tone with the extremely overlooked “Who Is It.” The song feels like a progression of “Billie Jean,” both songs have very similar sonic ideas. “Who Is It” also has some of his most detailed and poetic lyrics…
I am the damned, I am the dead
I am the agony inside a dying head
This is injustice, woe unto thee
I pray this punishment would have mercy on me
Amazing song that I wished received more attention…
“Give In to Me” also deserves a mention. Being the lone rock-centric track, the song features Slash from Guns “N” Roses. The song is also surprisingly mature. Most of the lyrics are defined by asking and begging for sex. (“Quench my desire… give it when I want it”). The song is also probably my favorite rock track he released.
After the darkness comes light with the ambitious “Will You Be There.” If I had to pick my favorite Michael Jackson ballad, this would be my pick. It’s a very simple, gospel tinged song featuring lyrics that can be interpreted many ways. It’s a prime example of his genius.
“Keep the Faith” and “Gone Too Soon” are also both great songs that end the album on an emotional note. “Keep the Faith” takes notes from “Man in the Mirror” and continues the inspirational messaging. “Gone Too Soon” was recorded in honor of AIDS activist Ryan White. The song is beautiful, one of his most heartbreaking performances.
The final track, which I would considered an encore, is the title track. It ends the album on a similar note as it began… hard hitting new jack swing production that makes you want to get up and dance. It ends the album on a high note.
If there’s one word to describe Dangerous, it’s ambitious. Compared to what he had released prior, the album is less focused on being single ready. Dangerous was an album that showed the various feelings and emotions of the star. No other album feels like this release. It’s a unique project that no one other than Michael could’ve created.
Highlights: “Jam,” “In the Closet,” “Remember the Time,” “Black or White,” “Who Is It,” “Give In to Me,” “Will You Be There”
This project was worked on on and off for a little over a year. My inspiration for making this was to bring attention to not just Michael Jackson’s amazing work, but the great, yet severely overlooked, albums he made with the Jacksons and Jackson 5.
I hope you enjoyed this list. Thank you for reading.
