Number 91: Thriller by Michael Jackson
Release: November 29th, 1982
Genre: Pop
Favorite Tracks: Wanna Be Startin' Somethin', Beat It, P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)
Where I heard it:
Being born in the late 90's, my perception of Michael Jackson was skewed toward what was reported in the tabloids. He was the subject of joke and ridicule for his strange antics and streaks of litigation throughout the 2000's. My opinion on Michael's musical career was pretty much null and void up until his death in June 2009 and the ensuing tidal wave of tribute for his loss. I remember exactly where I was when I heard Michael Jackson died: I was at a gas station down the block from my house buying Hot Cheetos and a Mountain Dew. I didn't understand the cultural impact of his death at the time, but the world seemed to stop for a few days to process what had happened. I remember watching MTV's 24-hour video tribute on my bedroom TV in the wee morning hours, wondering to myself if I was missing something here. Was the music of Michael Jackson that influential? I think Dave Chappelle puts it best.
Lift your head up high and scream out to the world
"I know I am someone", and let the truth unfurl
No one can hurt you now because you know what's true
Yes, I believe in me, so you believe in you
~ Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
What to expect:
If you haven't heard at least one song off of Thriller, you're living under a rock. This album might as well be a best-of compilation with the amount of hits it has. Seven of its nine tracks were radio singles. That was the entire goal Michael had in mind with Thriller: every track had to stand alone on its own merit, not just ride the coattails of one hit single. He accomplishes this goal by covering a wide array of musical styles across every track: pop, funk, R&B, rock, you name it. There's even a couple strategic musical features from Paul McCartney and Eddie Van Halen that further immerse the listener thematically. Each style is infused with Michael Jackson's soulful disco roots, creating a combination of genres that was unprecedented for the early 80's. In fact, Thriller established many of the conventions that makes pop music popular. If modern pop music is formulaic, Michael Jackson is Archimedes. While the majority of the album's pace is toe-tapping and dance-inducing, even the slower ballads captivate your attention with cutting-edge synthesizer technology and buttery smooth vocals from Michael. Ultimately, everything about Thriller pales in comparison to the monolithic talent of Michael Jackson. Even when the lyrical content can get sappy or campy, Michael's flawless voice paired with his meticulous production value excuses just about every artistic direction Thriller takes. No matter your preference, I guarantee there's at least one song you'll find yourself really enjoying on this album. It's the best-selling album of all time for a reason.
The foulest stench is in the air
The funk of forty thousand years
And grisly ghouls from every tomb
Are closing in to seal your doom
~ Thriller
Why it's my favorite:
Thriller has transcended its popularity over time, establishing itself as a cultural landmark and inspiring countless musicians to emulate the signature sounds of pop music. Chuck Berry did for rock and roll what Michael Jackson did for pop: each constructed the foundation for an entire genre by introducing concepts from two different styles of music. There's a certain magnitude felt when listening to Thriller that heightens my appreciation for the album. Its legacy is still felt 40 years on; just ask any modern pop artist about their musical upbringing. While appreciation alone won't earn a spot on this list, Thriller earns a nod from me for perfecting the pop music formula. Pop music as a whole owes a derivative of its staying power to the incredible talents and remarkable efforts of Michael Jackson. Most if not all of his music holds up over the airwaves today. Thriller isn't a part of history from my perspective; it's a living, breathing entity that continues to make ripples on the music industry long after the last stone has been cast.
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