The self-proclaimed King of Pop died on June 25, 2009 at the age of 50. Say what you will about MJ, but he left behind quite a music legacy.
We've all heard it time and again from today's popular artists: how they grew up listening to Michael's music, and that they wouldn't be here today if it weren't for him. That's quite an impact.
From his early days with The Jackson 5 to his incredibly successful solo career, you will be hard-pressed to find a person today who doesn't know at least one of his songs.
We here at RPA are certainly no exception, and so with that, we present our top five Michael Jackson songs (in no particular order, and we don't care whether or not you agree, so there).
- Scream (w/ baby sister Janet)
This is just a cool song. Yeah, the lyrics are quite depressing, and it's really more of "bugger off and leave me alone" kind of message, but hey, those are some kicky vocals coming out of those Jackson kids! - Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
We love disco. That's right, we said it. Disco music makes us so freakin' happy that we can't help but boogie on down when we hear it. This song was released just around the demise of disco, but it still has that disco flava that we do so enjoy. Also, his high voice makes us giggle a little as we try to sing along in the car. - Black or White
Avoiding the obvious jokes regarding this song's title, we just really like the message behind it. Truly, can't we all just get along, kids? Come on. "It's all about equality". Give it a try. (Besides, Norm was in the video. That's just a whole lot of awesome right there. Seriously, he got off the bar stool, people!! We need to celebrate that!) - Will You Be There
We love the tune of this song and the way MJ's voice works with the background vocals. It's almost hauntingly beautiful - the only thing that keeps it from being truly haunting is the (for once) positive lyrics. Dude just wanted some love. We can ALL identify with that. - Thriller
Okay, you may say, "Of COURSE this blogging divinity chose this song for the list. It's so cliche." To that, we say four words: "Terrifying video. Vincent Price." That's enough right there to make this song memorable/nightmare-inducing. Now, THESE are some disturbing lyrics. "You hear the door slam and realize there's nowhere left to run". WTF, dude? And the video is like a train wreck that you can't look away from.
Best pop culture reference: when Jennifer Garner and gang do the Thriller zombie dance at her ad agency's party in 13 Going on 30. Love!
Other honorable mentions (because we're nice guys here at RPA):
- Somebody's Watching Me: Yes, this song is actually by Rockwell and MJ just sings the chorus, but his voice is perfectly suited here. Two thumbs up.
- Bad and Beat It: We are aware of the iconic status of both of these songs, but when all you can think of are Weird Al's cover versions every time you hear them, they just can't make a top five list. (P.S. We love Weird Al, too. Don't care what you say, dude's a genius.)
- Smooth Criminal: MJ's original version - good song. Alien Ant Farm's cover - priceless (and awesome).
- We Are The World: Again, another bit part, but still noteworthy.
- Wanna Be Startin' Somethin': Lyric repetition also makes for catchy tunes for us simple folk.
- Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground): The Jacksons (later version of The Jackson 5) actually recorded this catchy ditty, again in the disco era, and it is a rockin' good time. Let's dance. Let's shout.
- Leave Me Alone: This is just a cool video with some freaky effects. Bonus points for a cameo appearance from Bubbles the chimp and the Elephant Man's dance segment.
Now, there will undoubtedly be rioting in the streets after reading our list of faves, but we invite you to share your own favourites. Don't worry, we don't wanna be startin' somethin', nor do we want to pick a fight with the man in the mirror or Dirty Diana or anything like that. Truly, let us know what you think.
Don't keep it in the closet.
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