Michael Jackson’s greatest hits continue to captivate audiences worldwide in 2025, cementing his legacy as the undisputed King of Pop. From groundbreaking music videos to revolutionary dance moves, Michael Jackson transformed the music industry with his unparalleled talent and visionary artistry. This comprehensive guide explores the 20 best Michael Jackson songs that showcase his incredible range, innovation, and lasting impact on popular music across generations.
The King of Pop’s discography spans decades of chart-topping hits, each song representing a unique chapter in music history. Whether you’re discovering his music for the first time or revisiting these timeless classics, these tracks demonstrate why Michael Jackson remains one of the most influential artists of all time. His ability to blend pop, rock, soul, and funk created a signature sound that continues to inspire musicians and delight fans around the world.
Billie Jean
Released in 1983 as part of the legendary Thriller album, “Billie Jean” stands as one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic and recognizable songs. The track features an unforgettable bassline that instantly captures listeners’ attention, combined with Jackson’s distinctive vocal delivery that tells a compelling story of fame and false accusations. This masterpiece became the first music video by a Black artist to receive heavy rotation on MTV, breaking down racial barriers and changing the music television landscape forever.
The song’s innovative production techniques, including the use of a drum machine and synthesizers, helped define the sound of 1980s pop music. Jackson’s performance of “Billie Jean” introduced the world to the moonwalk during the Motown 25 television special, creating one of the most memorable moments in entertainment history. The track spent seven weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Jackson two Grammy Awards, solidifying its place as an essential part of his musical legacy.
Thriller
The title track from the best-selling album of all time, “Thriller” revolutionized the music video medium with its groundbreaking 14-minute short film directed by John Landis. Released in 1984, this horror-themed masterpiece features Vincent Price’s iconic spoken-word segment and showcases Jackson’s theatrical storytelling abilities. The song’s production combines funk grooves with eerie sound effects, creating an atmosphere that perfectly captures the Halloween spirit while remaining irresistibly danceable.
“Thriller” transformed music videos from simple promotional tools into legitimate art forms, with its cinematic quality and choreographed zombie dance sequence becoming cultural phenomena. The song’s success helped propel the Thriller album to sell over 70 million copies worldwide, making it the best-selling album in history. Every October, “Thriller” experiences renewed popularity as its haunting melody and unforgettable dance moves continue to dominate Halloween celebrations around the globe.
Beat It
“Beat It” showcased Michael Jackson’s ability to bridge musical genres by incorporating hard rock elements into mainstream pop music, featuring a legendary guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen. Released in 1983, this anti-violence anthem delivered a powerful message about avoiding gang confrontations while maintaining incredible commercial appeal. The song’s aggressive guitar riffs combined with Jackson’s passionate vocals created a sound that appealed to both pop and rock audiences, expanding his fan base significantly.
The music video for “Beat It” featured elaborate choreography with rival gang members coming together through dance, reinforcing the song’s message of unity and non-violence. The track reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Jackson a Grammy Award for Record of the Year. This crossover success demonstrated Jackson’s versatility as an artist and his ability to collaborate with musicians from different genres to create something truly groundbreaking.
Smooth Criminal
Featured in the 1988 film Moonwalker, “Smooth Criminal” exemplifies Michael Jackson’s mastery of combining compelling narratives with infectious rhythms and innovative dance moves. The song tells the dramatic story of a woman named Annie who has been attacked in her apartment, with the famous repeated line “Annie, are you okay?” becoming instantly recognizable. Jackson’s vocal performance shifts seamlessly between urgent verses and the song’s memorable melodic hooks, showcasing his exceptional range and control.
The music video introduced audiences to Jackson’s gravity-defying lean, a move that seemed to break the laws of physics and required specially designed shoes to perform. The song’s production features a distinctive bassline and drum pattern that creates an urgent, film-noir atmosphere perfect for the narrative. “Smooth Criminal” became one of Jackson’s signature performances, and its influence can be heard in countless songs that followed, with artists continuing to sample and reference this classic track in 2025.
Man in the Mirror
Released in 1988 as part of the Bad album, “Man in the Mirror” stands as one of Michael Jackson’s most powerful and socially conscious songs, delivering a message about personal responsibility and social change. The gospel-influenced ballad features the incredible vocal talents of Siedah Garrett and the Andraé Crouch Choir, creating an uplifting and inspirational atmosphere. Jackson’s emotive vocal performance builds throughout the song, culminating in a powerful climax that encourages listeners to look within themselves to make the world a better place.
The song’s message of self-reflection and personal accountability resonated deeply with audiences, making it one of Jackson’s most beloved and frequently covered tracks. “Man in the Mirror” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been performed by countless artists as a tribute to Jackson’s humanitarian legacy. The track remains particularly relevant in 2025 as its call for positive change continues to inspire individuals to take action in their communities and reflect on their impact on the world.
Bad
The title track from Michael Jackson’s 1987 album “Bad” represented a bold and edgier direction for the artist, with its aggressive lyrics and urban aesthetic appealing to a new generation of fans. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the music video featured Jackson in leather and buckles, creating an iconic look that defined late-1980s fashion. The song’s production incorporates synthesized sounds and a driving beat that emphasizes Jackson’s confident vocal delivery and attitude.
“Bad” spawned five number-one singles from the album, making it one of the most successful albums in pop music history. The track’s choreography, featuring Jackson’s signature moves and street-dance influences, became widely imitated and parodied in popular culture. This song demonstrated Jackson’s ability to evolve his sound and image while maintaining his position as the dominant force in pop music throughout the decade.
Black or White
Released in 1991 as the lead single from the Dangerous album, “Black or White” delivered a powerful message about racial harmony and unity through an infectious rock-pop hybrid. The song features a guitar solo by Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash and incorporates diverse musical influences from around the world. Jackson’s lyrics promote equality and understanding across racial lines, making it one of his most socially significant compositions.
The groundbreaking music video utilized morphing technology to seamlessly transform faces of people from different ethnicities, creating a visual representation of the song’s message that captivated audiences worldwide. “Black or White” debuted simultaneously in 27 countries, reaching an estimated 500 million viewers and demonstrating Jackson’s global appeal. The track topped charts in 20 countries and remains a powerful anthem for diversity and inclusion that continues to resonate in 2025.
The Way You Make Me Feel
This 1987 single from the Bad album showcases Michael Jackson’s romantic side with its upbeat tempo, playful lyrics, and infectious energy that makes it impossible not to dance. The song features Jackson’s distinctive vocal hiccups and rhythmic delivery that became signature elements of his style. The production combines funk-inspired bass lines with pop sensibilities, creating a feel-good atmosphere that perfectly captures the excitement of new romance.
The music video, shot in black and white, features Jackson pursuing a woman through city streets while performing choreographed dance routines that blend spontaneity with precision. The track reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the most frequently played songs at weddings and celebrations. “The Way You Make Me Feel” exemplifies Jackson’s ability to create joyful, accessible pop music that appeals to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
Michael Jackson’s first solo number-one hit as an adult artist, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” marked the beginning of his reign as the King of Pop when it was released in 1979. The disco-influenced track from the Off the Wall album features Jackson’s falsetto vocals and an irresistible groove that defined the sound of late-1970s dance music. Jackson wrote and composed the song himself, demonstrating his growth as a songwriter and his ability to create commercially successful material independently.
The song’s production incorporates string arrangements, horn sections, and layered vocals that create a rich, sophisticated sound rarely heard in disco music of that era. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” earned Jackson his first Grammy Award as a solo artist and established him as a force to be reckoned with beyond his Jackson 5 success. The track’s energy and optimism continue to fill dance floors in 2025, proving that great music transcends time and trends.
Rock With You
Another standout from the Off the Wall album, “Rock With You” showcases Michael Jackson’s smooth vocal delivery over a sophisticated disco production created by legendary producer Quincy Jones. Released in 1979, this romantic ballad features lush string arrangements and a steady groove that invites listeners to slow dance. Jackson’s vocals glide effortlessly over the track, demonstrating the control and technique that would become hallmarks of his later work.
The song spent four weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped establish Jackson as a solo superstar separate from his brothers. The track’s timeless production and universal theme of romantic connection have made it a favorite for generations of music lovers. “Rock With You” remains a staple on classic soul and R&B playlists, and its influence can be heard in contemporary artists who continue to draw inspiration from the disco era’s sophisticated production techniques.
Human Nature
Co-written by Steve Porcaro of Toto, “Human Nature” appeared on the Thriller album and stands as one of Michael Jackson’s most introspective and melodically beautiful compositions. Released in 1983, the song features a dreamy, atmospheric production with synthesizers and soft percussion that create an ethereal soundscape. Jackson’s tender vocal performance conveys vulnerability and curiosity about human behavior and the mysteries of urban life.
The track’s sophisticated chord progressions and jazz-influenced harmonies set it apart from typical pop songs of the era, showcasing Jackson’s appreciation for musical complexity. “Human Nature” has been extensively sampled and covered by numerous artists, including SWV and Nas, demonstrating its lasting influence on R&B and hip-hop music. The song’s contemplative mood and timeless melody continue to resonate with listeners who appreciate Jackson’s more subtle, introspective work.
Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’
Opening the Thriller album with explosive energy, “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” features African-influenced rhythms and a relentless groove that makes it one of Jackson’s most danceable tracks. Released in 1983, the song incorporates elements of funk, disco, and post-disco while featuring the iconic “Mama-se, mama-sa, ma-ma-ko-ssa” chant borrowed from Manu Dibango’s “Soul Makossa.” Jackson’s urgent vocal delivery and the song’s dense production create an atmosphere of tension and excitement that builds throughout its nearly six-minute runtime.
The track addresses themes of gossip, rumors, and negativity while encouraging listeners to rise above petty conflicts and focus on positive energy. “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” reached the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a concert favorite, with Jackson often performing it as an opening or closing number. The song’s Afrobeat influences and complex production continue to inspire contemporary artists exploring similar musical fusions in 2025.
Remember the Time
From the 1991 Dangerous album, “Remember the Time” represents Michael Jackson’s exploration of new jack swing production alongside Teddy Riley, creating a more contemporary R&B sound. The song’s lyrics reminisce about a past romantic relationship, with Jackson’s nostalgic vocal delivery enhanced by modern production techniques. The track features intricate percussion, swinging rhythms, and a memorable melody that showcases Jackson’s ability to adapt to evolving musical trends while maintaining his distinctive style.
The music video, set in ancient Egypt, featured an all-star cast including Eddie Murphy, Iman, and Magic Johnson, and became one of the most expensive and elaborate videos of its time. “Remember the Time” topped the R&B charts and demonstrated Jackson’s continued relevance in the early 1990s as hip-hop and R&B began dominating popular music. The song remains a favorite among fans who appreciate Jackson’s mid-career work and his successful collaboration with the new generation of producers.
She’s Out of My Life
This emotional ballad from the Off the Wall album showcases Michael Jackson’s ability to convey deep vulnerability and heartbreak through his vocal performance. Released in 1980, the song was written by Tom Bahler and features minimal production that allows Jackson’s voice to take center stage. The track builds to an emotional climax where Jackson’s voice reportedly broke with genuine emotion during recording, a take that was kept in the final version.
“She’s Out of My Life” demonstrated that Jackson could excel in slower, more emotionally complex material beyond his up-tempo dance hits. The song reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a favorite for showcasing Jackson’s technical vocal abilities and emotional range. This heartfelt performance continues to resonate with listeners experiencing their own relationship challenges, proving that authentic emotion in music remains timeless.
P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)
Closing side one of the Thriller album, “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” delivers pure joy and youthful energy through its infectious melody and celebratory lyrics. Released in 1983, the song was co-written by James Ingram and Quincy Jones, featuring a production that incorporates synthesizers, funky bass lines, and Jackson’s multi-tracked vocals. The track’s upbeat tempo and romantic theme made it a perfect addition to the album’s diverse collection of styles and moods.
The song’s title and lyrics celebrate young love and attraction with innocent charm that exemplifies the positive energy present throughout much of Jackson’s work. “P.Y.T.” reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a popular choice for parties and celebrations due to its feel-good vibe. The track has been sampled and interpolated by numerous contemporary artists, keeping its spirit alive for new generations discovering Jackson’s catalog in 2025.
They Don’t Care About Us
Released in 1996 from the HIStory album, “They Don’t Care About Us” stands as one of Michael Jackson’s most politically charged songs, addressing issues of injustice, prejudice, and systemic oppression. The track features aggressive production with industrial influences, military-style percussion, and Jackson’s most confrontational vocal performance. Despite controversy surrounding some of the original lyrics, the song’s message about social inequality and institutional indifference resonated powerfully with audiences worldwide.
Two music videos were produced for the track, one directed by Spike Lee in a Brazilian favela and another in a prison setting, both emphasizing the song’s themes of social justice. “They Don’t Care About Us” became an anthem for various social movements and protests around the world, demonstrating music’s power to inspire action and raise awareness. The song’s relevance has only increased over time, with its message continuing to resonate during social justice movements in 2025, making it one of Jackson’s most enduring and important works.
Dirty Diana
From the Bad album, “Dirty Diana” showcases Michael Jackson’s rock influences with its heavy guitar riffs and dramatic narrative about groupie culture. Released in 1988, the song features guitar work by Steve Stevens and represents one of Jackson’s most guitar-driven tracks. The production builds intensity throughout, with Jackson’s vocals becoming increasingly passionate as he tells the story of resisting temptation on the road.
The song’s dark themes and hard rock sound appealed to a more mature audience while maintaining Jackson’s pop sensibilities and melodic strength. “Dirty Diana” became Jackson’s fifth consecutive number-one single from the Bad album, a historic achievement demonstrating his unprecedented commercial dominance. The track remains a powerful example of Jackson’s versatility and his ability to successfully incorporate rock elements into his pop framework without alienating his core audience.
You Are Not Alone
Released in 1995 from the HIStory album, “You Are Not Alone” became the first song in Billboard Hot 100 history to debut at number one. Written and produced by R. Kelly, the emotional ballad addresses themes of loneliness, support, and unconditional love. Jackson’s tender vocal performance, combined with the song’s gospel-influenced production, creates an intimate atmosphere that touched millions of listeners worldwide.
The music video featured Jackson and his then-wife Lisa Marie Presley in romantic scenes that generated significant media attention and controversy. Despite the surrounding publicity, the song’s message of companionship and emotional support resonated deeply with fans experiencing difficult times. “You Are Not Alone” remains one of Jackson’s most commercially successful ballads and continues to provide comfort to listeners dealing with isolation and loneliness, a particularly relevant theme in 2025.
Love Never Felt So Good
Originally recorded during the Off the Wall sessions in 1983 but not released until the posthumous album Xscape in 2014, “Love Never Felt So Good” introduced new generations to Michael Jackson’s unreleased material. The track was produced by Timbaland for the Xscape release, updating the sound while preserving Jackson’s original vocal performance. This disco-influenced track features an infectious melody and Jackson’s joyful vocal delivery that captures the optimism of his early solo career.
The song was released as a duet with Justin Timberlake, bridging generations of pop music and introducing Jackson’s work to younger audiences. “Love Never Felt So Good” reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Jackson’s unreleased material could still compete with contemporary hits. The track demonstrates the timeless quality of Jackson’s vocals and the enduring appeal of well-crafted pop music, regardless of when it was recorded.
A Place With No Name
Another posthumous release from the Xscape album in 2014, “A Place With No Name” showcases Michael Jackson’s ability to create atmospheric and introspective music. The track, which interpolates elements from America’s “A Horse with No Name,” features dreamy production and Jackson’s ethereal vocals creating a sense of escape and searching for peace. The song’s production by Babyface and Stargate updated the sound for modern audiences while respecting the original recording’s essence.
The music video combined archival footage of Jackson with new animation, creating a visually striking tribute to his legacy. “A Place With No Name” received positive reviews from critics who praised the production team’s respectful handling of Jackson’s unreleased material. This track, along with other Xscape songs, proved that Jackson’s vault of unreleased music contained gems worthy of public release, satisfying longtime fans while introducing his artistry to new listeners in 2025.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Michael Jackson’s most successful song?
“Billie Jean” is widely considered Michael Jackson’s most successful and iconic song, spending seven weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming the track that broke racial barriers on MTV. The song’s unforgettable bassline, innovative production, and the introduction of the moonwalk during its television performance made it a cultural phenomenon that transcended music. While “Thriller” sold more copies as a single and had a more impactful music video, “Billie Jean” represents the perfect combination of artistic innovation and commercial success that defined Jackson’s career.
Which Michael Jackson album sold the most copies?
Thriller remains the best-selling album of all time, with certified sales exceeding 70 million copies worldwide since its release in 1982. The album’s unprecedented success was driven by seven top-ten singles, groundbreaking music videos, and Jackson’s crossover appeal that attracted fans from all demographics and musical preferences. No other album in history has matched Thriller’s commercial dominance, and it continues to sell thousands of copies annually in 2025, cementing its status as a cultural landmark.
Are there any unreleased Michael Jackson songs still available?
Yes, Michael Jackson’s estate has released two posthumous albums containing previously unreleased material: Michael in 2010 and Xscape in 2014, featuring tracks like “Love Never Felt So Good” and “A Place With No Name.” While Sony Music executives stated there are no current plans for additional full posthumous albums, unreleased tracks were discovered in an abandoned storage unit in late 2024, suggesting more material may exist. However, the estate has focused more selectively on projects that enhance Jackson’s legacy rather than releasing all available unreleased recordings.
What made Michael Jackson’s music videos so revolutionary?
Michael Jackson transformed music videos from simple promotional tools into cinematic experiences through elaborate storytelling, choreographed dance sequences, and high production values that rivaled Hollywood films. Videos like “Thriller,” “Beat It,” and “Black or White” utilized cutting-edge special effects, featured celebrity cameos, and addressed social issues, setting new standards for the medium. Jackson’s music videos broke down racial barriers, with “Billie Jean” becoming the first video by a Black artist to receive heavy MTV rotation, fundamentally changing how music television programmed content.
How did Michael Jackson earn the title King of Pop?
Michael Jackson earned the title “King of Pop” through his unparalleled commercial success, innovative artistry, and cultural impact that dominated popular music from the late 1970s through the 1990s. His record-breaking album sales, revolutionary music videos, iconic dance moves, and ability to transcend racial and cultural boundaries established him as the most influential pop artist of his generation. The title was popularized by Elizabeth Taylor when she presented him with an award, and it stuck because it perfectly captured his reign over popular music during the peak of his career.
What was Michael Jackson’s vocal range?
Michael Jackson possessed an impressive vocal range spanning approximately four octaves, from bass notes in his speaking voice to his signature falsetto in songs like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.” His technical abilities included precise control over dynamics, distinctive vocal percussion, and emotional expressiveness that conveyed complex feelings through subtle inflections. Jackson’s versatility allowed him to excel in various genres including pop, rock, soul, R&B, and funk, adapting his voice to suit each song’s emotional and stylistic requirements.
Which artists have been most influenced by Michael Jackson?
Contemporary artists across multiple genres cite Michael Jackson as a primary influence, including Usher, Chris Brown, Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, and The Weeknd, who have incorporated his dance moves, vocal techniques, and performance style into their own work. Beyond pop and R&B, Jackson’s influence extends to hip-hop artists who frequently sample his music, rock musicians who appreciate his crossover approach, and international performers who adopted his global perspective on music. His impact on popular culture continues to shape new artists emerging in 2025, demonstrating the timeless nature of his artistic innovations.
What charitable work did Michael Jackson do?
Michael Jackson supported 39 different charitable organizations throughout his lifetime and holds the Guinness World Record for most charities supported by a pop star. His humanitarian efforts included the “We Are the World” co-composition for African famine relief, the Heal the World Foundation focusing on children’s welfare, and numerous hospital visits and donations to children’s organizations. Jackson’s songs often carried messages of social consciousness and environmental awareness, using his platform to raise awareness about important global issues while contributing millions of dollars to various causes.