The Inception of 80s Pop (1982)

Still riding the success from his 1979 album titled Off the Wall, Michael Jackson would have a powerful introduction into the 1980s. After almost seven months of recording, Michael Jackson would shock the world with the release of Thriller in 1982. With the large amount of material Jackson produced during the 1970s-80s, I have to say my favorite record is Thriller. A wide variety of themes ranging from pop, rock, funk, and disco are featured on this masterpiece. Following its release, seven out of nine of the album's songs would become singles. Prominent singles include "Beat It," "Billie Jean," and "Thriller."

After the release of his popular Off the Wall, Michael believed the album was not his best work. After years of improving himself and making managerial changes, Jackson set out to redeem himself in early-1982. During the recording process with a budget of only $750,000, Michael was still determined to make an album where every song served a purpose--and indeed he did. Every song with its superb composition provides the listener with a memorable experience. The ballads are very soft and peaceful while the rock songs are aggressive and hit hard.

The record begins with Jackson's famous "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'." The upbeat pop-based song features a very electronic beat accompanied by powerful background vocals, horns, and a short, funky guitar solo. A hint of disco can also be heard throughout the song which was based off of his previous album. To start off one of the best pop-albums in history, Michael picked the right track.

When I first listened to Thriller years ago, I was intrigued to see that Paul McCartney contributed to its production. "The Girl Is Mine" is a perfect example of a soft, peaceful ballad that is significant to the album. The airy-synthesizers, simple guitar riff, and the iconic vocal-duo between Jackson and McCartney is beautiful. The track is one of my favorite ballads on the LP due to it being so calm and smooth. Besides, who would not want to hear two of the best vocalists ever collaborate with each other?

With Halloween occurring at the end of the month, it ties in perfectly with the fourth track on the album, "Thriller." I remember being freaked out by this song when I first heard it many years ago. The creaking doors, howling dogs, organ, and creepy vocals really make the song a magnificent theme of horror. I also heavily enjoy the funky bass track throughout the song. Each time I listen to this spooky song, it gets better with age. Music lovers and I will continue to hear this song played every Halloween at haunted houses until our time comes.

Michael Jackson provides his rock 'n' roll fans with an incredible guitar-heavy track titled "Beat It." Jackson's determined, energetic vocals combined with Eddie Van Halen's memorable guitar solo define the sound of 80s rock. I cannot forget to mention the satisfying bass guitar track that nicely follows the solo. As a guitarist myself, I have never been able to cover Eddie's solo. The tapping, sliding, and harmonics are just too complicated.

Jackson's track "Billie Jean" contributed to Thriller becoming one of the best-selling albums ever.  The song has an interesting theme as it describes a pregnant woman named "Billie Jean" who had a one-night stand the narrator. However, the context of the song may lead listeners to think that Jackson may be the father. I love how the song is very bass-track heavy and how the synth gives it an almost "sinister" feeling.

To conclude one of the best-pop albums in history, Jackson takes a more ballad-heavy approach (minus the very upbeat "P.Y.T."). I believe that this more calm approach is justified due to the shocking listening experience throughout the entire album. The album would sit on the number one spot in multiple countries, become platinum-certified thirty-three times, and become the best-selling album until it was topped by the Eagles in August 2018. The King of Pop's hard-work and devotion into Thriller has changed the music world forever and will continue to be popular for many years to come. Michael, you are dearly missed by me and all of your fans. Thank you for the amazing music over the years.

Michael Jackson in 'Thriller"