The King of Pop’s impact on music and popular culture is still felt today, and his music videos played a significant role in shaping his legacy. With a career spanning decades, Michael Jackson created numerous iconic music videos that continue to inspire and influence artists to this day. Here, we’ll examine five of his most iconic music videos, exploring what makes them stand out and their lasting impact on the music industry.
“Thriller” (1983)
Regarded by many as one of the greatest music videos of all time, “Thriller” revolutionized the medium and cemented Jackson’s status as a global superstar. Directed by John Landis, the 14-minute short film was a game-changer in terms of production quality, storytelling, and choreography. The video’s groundbreaking special effects, memorable dance sequences, and horror-themed narrative have made it a cultural touchstone. The “Thriller” music video has been inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, a testament to its enduring influence.
“Billie Jean” (1983)
The “Billie Jean” music video, directed by Steve Barron, was a key component of Jackson’s “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever” performance, where he first debuted his iconic moonwalk. The video’s sleek, black-and-white aesthetic and innovative use of camera angles and lighting helped to establish Jackson as a visual artist. The video’s influence can be seen in many subsequent music videos, and its impact on popular culture is still felt today.
“Black or White” (1991)
The “Black or White” music video, directed by John Landis, was a major production that tackled issues of racial harmony and featured a diverse cast. The video’s message of unity and its use of morphing technology to blend different faces and cultures were both groundbreaking and thought-provoking. The video’s impact was felt not only in the music industry but also in popular culture, sparking conversations about racism and social justice.
| Music Video | Release Year | Director |
|---|---|---|
| Thriller | 1983 | John Landis |
| Billie Jean | 1983 | Steve Barron |
| Black or White | 1991 | John Landis |
| Beat It | 1983 | Bob Giraldi |
| Bad | 1987 | Martin Scorsese |
“Beat It” (1983)
The “Beat It” music video, directed by Bob Giraldi, was a key component of Jackson’s “Thriller” album and featured a memorable dance sequence between rival gangs. The video’s influence can be seen in many subsequent music videos and films, and its impact on popular culture is still felt today. The video’s message of non-violence and its use of dance to resolve conflict have made it a timeless classic.
“Bad” (1987)
The “Bad” music video, directed by Martin Scorsese, was a cinematic masterpiece that showcased Jackson’s acting and dancing abilities. The 18-minute short film was a complex and nuanced exploration of themes such as crime, punishment, and redemption. The video’s influence can be seen in many subsequent music videos and films, and its impact on popular culture is still felt today.
What was the first Michael Jackson music video to be aired on MTV?
+The first Michael Jackson music video to be aired on MTV was "Rock with You" in 1979, although it was not a major hit. However, it was "Billie Jean" that really broke through on the channel in 1983.
How did Michael Jackson's music videos influence the music industry?
+Michael Jackson's music videos raised the bar for production quality, storytelling, and choreography, influencing a generation of artists and music video directors. His videos also helped to establish music television as a major platform for artists to showcase their work.
What is the most expensive Michael Jackson music video ever made?
+The most expensive Michael Jackson music video ever made was "Scream," a duet with his sister Janet Jackson, with a budget of around $7 million.
How did Michael Jackson's music videos contribute to his global popularity?
+Michael Jackson's music videos played a significant role in his global popularity by providing a visual platform for his music and showcasing his unique blend of music, dance, and visual style. His videos helped to establish him as a global superstar and continue to influence artists to this day.
In conclusion, Michael Jackson’s iconic music videos continue to be celebrated for their innovative storytelling, choreography, and visual style. These five music videos – “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” “Black or White,” “Beat It,” and “Bad” – showcase Jackson’s boundless creativity and his enduring influence on popular culture. As a testament to his legacy, his music videos remain a vital part of his enduring appeal, continuing to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.
